The requirements to become an apprentice landscaper can vary by region. In some parts of the world, an undergraduate degree in landscaping or horticulture may be necessary in order to become an apprentice landscaper, while in other areas, a simple interest in landscaping will be all the necessary qualification for obtaining such a position. The first step is to research the requirements in your region, and to find out what level of education will be necessary to become certified as a professional landscaper after the apprenticeship is complete.
Landscaping does not just involve planting shrubs and cutting lawns. Math skills will be necessary for on-the-job calculations, an understanding of plants and planting seasons will be necessary to ensure the landscaper understands what can be planted in a certain space and how the planting should be done, and a specific knowledge of the geographical region will be necessary to understand planting seasons. It helps to learn some of this information before you apply to become an apprentice landscaper; taking science as well as math courses in high school is a good start, and continuing your education at a community college or degree-granting college or university will help improve your qualifications even more.
If you attend school for a landscaping or horticulture degree, you may be able to become an apprentice landscaper by visiting the academic office at your school. The department staff will usually have resources through which you can obtain such a position, or the staff will at least be able to give you some valuable information as to where to seek out an apprenticeship. In some cases, the school may even set up an apprenticeship for you, allowing you to become an apprentice landscaper with little effort.
Candidates who choose not to attend school for a degree program may be at a disadvantage, but it is not impossible for them to become apprentice landscapers. The best option is to approach local landscaping companies to find out if they offer apprenticeship programs. In some cases, the companies may not offer apprenticeships, but instead offer entry-level manual labor jobs. Taking such a job is a great way to get into the industry and learn as much as possible about landscaping. You may be able to learn all the skills you need as you work on the job, and you can eventually become a landscaper yourself as your skills develop. Remember, however, that you will be on your own if you need to earn specific certifications, which can put you at a disadvantage.
