Plant Propagation Fellow
Employment Type
Internship (Full-time)Job Categories
Horticulture
Job Description
The Plant Propagation Fellowship covers the whole range of traditional plant propagation skills and production schemes. The Fellow will spend 12 months (expected duration of internship) receiving hands-on training in seed and cutting propagation, nursery and greenhouse management, organic pest control and maintenance of a unique Victorian Fernery. Emphasis is placed on the refinement of skills and developing the protocols for the propagation and care of a vast range of woody and herbaceous plants. This position is supported by the Martha J. Wallace Plant Propagation Internship Endowment.
About Us
The Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania inspires an understanding of the relationship between plants, people and place through education, research and horticultural display. Located in the Northwest section of the city, the Morris Arboretum & Gardens is a destination for plant lovers from Philadelphia and beyond. The home to a collection of more than 13,000 woody plants and host to special and educational events. Morris Arboretum & Gardens is a hub for botany, horticulture and urban forestry and a special part of Penn.
Duties & Responsibilities
Seed, division and cutting propagation, potting, watering and pruning.
Assist with the production of 5,000 container plants annually for use in the gardens and for distribution.
Data collection and inventory management.
Management of the field nursery, pest, and disease monitoring.
Scheduling weekend and holiday watering.
Complete a project under the direction of propagator.
Participate in monthly education trips as scheduled.
Supervise volunteers as required.
Perform fernery maintenance.
Perform additional duties as assigned.
Education and Experience
Degree in horticulture or related field, with course work in propagation and nursery management.
Prior experience in nursery, greenhouse and or plant science research work helpful.
Some weekend work required
Need to work independently and as part of a team in a friendly, visitor-centric environment.
Must work in all weather conditions
Must be able to lift at least 25lbs.
Requires standing, stooping and walking for long periods of time.
Additional Information
Important Note: In addition to the online application, applicants are required to provide the following supporting documents:
Cover letter/Letter of intent
One Letter of recommendation
College transcripts (unofficial acceptable)
The supporting documents may be uploaded with the online application (uploads are limited to 3 documents).
Application Instructions
Application Deadline:December 31, 2023
