International Gardener Training Program

The Longwood Gardens International Gardener Training Program trains horticulture students from other countries. The twelve-month training program features hands-on experience with Longwood’s expert horticultural staff. Students gain exposure to horticulture in the United States through weekly student activities such as field trips and special lectures, and optional Continuing Education courses.

The students train on a monthly rotation through various assignments in the Longwood Gardens Horticulture Department and concentrate on the following areas: greenhouse production, indoor display, research, outdoor display, groundskeeping, integrated pest management and arboriculture.

Requirements and Responsibilities

The International Training Program is for individuals with previous training and experience in horticulture. Applicants must be active and ambitious learners and are expected to strive for efficiency and a high level of quality in all tasks performed. The willingness to follow all supervisor instructions and Longwood safety procedures is essential. Proof of proficiency in English is required from all applicants, as well as a valid driver’s license written in English. Candidates must be independent-natured and able to perform repetitive tasks, operate machinery, train in adverse weather conditions, and lift 50 lbs. Some weekend and evening hours are required.

Insurance

Longwood Gardens offers a mandatory medical insurance plan (does not include dental or eye care) to International Gardener Training Program students. Students pay a monthly fee for this insurance. All International students must have health insurance coverage.

Transportation

Round trip transportation to and from the United States is the responsibility of each student. The closest airport is in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, approximately 30 miles (50 kilometers) from Longwood. The bus and train stations nearest to Longwood are 12 miles away in Wilmington, Delaware. A representative from Longwood Gardens will greet you at either location and bring you to Longwood Gardens. There is no public transportation in the Longwood area. An International Driver’s License is necessary to be accepted into the program.

Application

The 2010 International Gardener Training Program application is now available.

Contact

For more information and specific starting dates, contact The Undergraduate office, at 610-388-1000 ext. 508 or by e-mail at EDU-Studies@longwoodgardens.org

Creating Outdoor Holiday Light Displays

Sunday, December 6

Learn the techniques used to beautify and highlight outdoor spaces, and later take a walk as the sun sets to see the sparkling beauty of Longwood's outdoor display.


Find out more »

The Gardens Shop

Online or in the Visitor Center

Inspired by Longwood’s seasonal displays, the Shop is the perfect place to find stunning décor, whimsical gifts, and your favorite plants.


Shop now »

The Buds and the Bees

Pollination and the Secret Lives of Plants (through November 22)

Join us for our year-long changing exhibit, which delves into the sights, sounds and science of pollination.


Find out more »

Courses Now Available on LongwoodLive!

Professional Gardener courses and select Continuing Education courses are now available on LongwoodLIVE. Students can access instructor's presentations, resource links, assessment tools, discussion boards and more.


Login to LongwoodLIVE »