Maine Horticulture Apprentice Training Info

2024 Course

Commercial scale hoop houses and 7 people talking in the background with flowers in the foreground

On this page:

How to Enroll

We have a limited number of slots available and enrollment will be on a first come, first serve basis. Enrollment for the 2024 training will open Monday September 23rd at noon. Please read the following course information before enrolling. The enrollment link follows the FAQs.

Course Fee
This training program is offered on a sliding scale (self-selected). We strive to make the training accessible and affordable for all Maine residents.

  • $600 (Full Price): Suggested for those who can afford the full course fee.
  • $300 (50% discount): Suggested for those who can afford 50% of the full course fee. Please use voucher code listed on the registration page.
  • $150 (75% discount): Suggested for those who can afford 25% of the full course fee. Please use voucher code listed on the registration page.
  • Pay it forward through our UMaine Extension Horticulture Fund to help keep this training accessible for all!

Please contact us if the course fee is a barrier for participation.

Refund Policy
50% refunds will be available until 15 days after the course begins.

Program Format

Part 1:

  • Online training course: An 18 week course with 4 – 5 hours per week of self-paced content on Brightspace, our online learning platform, plus live Q&A session on Zoom.
    • Course Orientation
    • Introduction to the Industry
    • Foundations of Horticulture: Ecology, Botany, Propagation, Soils and Composting
    • Food Production: Vegetable Gardening, Garden Maintenance and Food Safety, Small and Tree Fruits,
    • Garden Pests and Diseases: Prevention, Identification and Management
    • Maine Landscape and Design: Plants for the Maine Landscape, Design and Maintenance

Part 2:

  • 200-hour apprenticeship. Participants will be responsible for finding their own apprenticeship, with guidance and assistance from training staff.

Full Learning Standards Available Here. 

Certification 

image of the University of Maine System Maine Horticulture Apprenticeship microcredential
University of Maine SystemMaine Horticulture Apprentice Training microcredential

Upon completing the training and apprenticeship, participants will earn the Maine Horticulture Apprentice Training micro-credential and the title of Maine Horticulture Apprentice. Backed by the University of Maine System, this micro-credential certifies to employers that the apprentice has undergone rigorous training and acquired essential skills for a successful career in horticulture.

Learn more about UMaine’s Micro-Credentials

Program Schedule 

Online content released weekly:

  • October 21, 2024 – March 17, 2025
    • Breaks: December 16 – January 5 and March 3 – 9

Zoom Q&As, two options:

  • Watch them live: Tuesdays 6:00 – 7:30 pm
  • Watch the recordings

Technology Requirements

This is an online course. An email address, access to a reliable internet connection, the newest version of your web browser and an electronic device (i.e. laptop, desktop, iPad, or tablet) with video/audio capabilities are required to complete this course. We do not recommend using a smartphone to complete classwork.

Is online learning right for you? 
Online learning is an accessible, affordable, and flexible learning environment that allows students to work around their personal schedules to obtain quality education. If you are wondering if online learning is right for you, please visit Online Learning: What You Need to Succeed.

Do you need access to a computer or reliable internet to participate in this training?

  • To complete coursework: contact your local Extension office to schedule a time to use their WiFi during office hours (in the building) or use WiFi anytime from the parking lot.
  • Contact the National Digital Equity Center for no cost or low cost tablets for Maine Residents who are of low to moderate income.
  • Many public libraries have computers available for public use. Contact your local library for more information.
  • If you are still unable to find computer access, please contact your local Extension office.

Accommodations: If you need reasonable accommodation to participate in this course, please contact us at extension.gardening@maine.edu or 207.581.3188.

Which of our three in-depth courses is right for you? 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

Can I transfer to the Master Gardener Volunteer program if I take this training?

Answer: See the Master Gardener Volunteer transfer policy.

Check back here on September 23, 2024 at noon to enroll

In complying with the letter and spirit of applicable laws and pursuing its own goals of diversity, the University of Maine System does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability physical or mental, genetic information, or veterans or military status in employment, education, and all other programs and activities. The University provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Director of Equal Opportunity, 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5713, 207.581.1226, TTY 711 (Maine Relay System).