Horticulture Intern

As a Horticulture Intern at Naples Botanical Garden, your primary responsibilities will include general care and maintenance of plant collections, which encompasses tasks like pruning, weeding, planting, propagating, and irrigating, as well as maintaining records related to the plant collection. You will assist Garden staff and volunteers in various horticultural activities and participate in garden-wide events and exhibitions. Every day is an opportunity to nurture your skills in a vibrant public garden setting!

To qualify for the Horticulture Intern position at Naples Botanical Garden, candidates should be pursuing a degree in environmental education, horticulture, botany, biology, or have equivalent educational and practical experience. Being highly organized, motivated, and having excellent communication skills are essential. Additionally, you must be ready to work outdoors in Florida's warm climate and possess a valid U.S. driver's license.

The Horticulture Internship at Naples Botanical Garden is a full-time, 12-week program that runs from May 12, 2025, to August 1, 2025. This immersive internship offers students a wonderful opportunity to gain practical experience in horticulture within a beautiful and educational garden environment.

As a Horticulture Intern at Naples Botanical Garden, you can expect a vibrant and supportive work environment. Your tasks will require working outdoors, so be prepared for the hot and humid climate of Florida. You will collaborate with dedicated staff and volunteers, participating in educational programs and community events, all while contributing to the Garden’s mission of plant conservation and public education.

Yes, the Horticulture Internship at Naples Botanical Garden is a paid position. As an intern, you will receive compensation for your hard work and dedication over the 12-week period. This opportunity not only pays you but also enriches your understanding and appreciation of horticulture in a world-class garden setting.

When answering this question, consider discussing relevant classes, hands-on experience, or volunteer work in plant care. Highlight specific tasks you have performed, such as planting, pruning, or maintaining plant health, and share what you've learned from those experiences.

In response, explain your method for assessing tasks based on urgency and importance. Discuss techniques such as making a daily to-do list or evaluating the needs of the plants versus scheduled garden events. It's also helpful to mention your commitment to staying organized and adaptable in a dynamic environment.

When answering, refer to specific experiences in which collaboration was key. Talk about your role in the team environment, how you communicated with others, and what impact your contributions had on the outcome. This shows your ability to work well with a diverse group.

Tailor your answer to reflect your passion for horticulture and conservation. Mention specific aspects of Naples Botanical Garden, such as its mission, the variety of plant collections, or community engagement programs that resonate with you. This shows your genuine interest in being part of their team.

Discuss practical strategies such as creating checklists, setting reminders, or utilizing digital tools to keep track of your tasks. Highlight the importance of staying proactive and flexible, especially when working on time-sensitive projects in a garden setting.

Express your understanding of the challenges posed by working outdoors, especially in hot and humid conditions. Discuss how you prepare by wearing appropriate clothing, staying hydrated, and taking breaks, while maintaining a positive attitude throughout the day.

In your response, underscore the significance of plant conservation not just for biodiversity, but also for supporting ecosystems, enhancing community education, and promoting sustainable practices. This will show your alignment with the mission of Naples Botanical Garden.

Confirm your willingness and ability to lift and carry items as required, as it's vital for many tasks in horticulture. You can share your past experiences related to physical tasks, ensuring that you display readiness and comfort with the physical demands of the internship.

Discuss your career goals and how the internship at Naples Botanical Garden fits into that vision. Whether you aspire to work in conservation, education, or a specific area of horticulture, express how this experience will help you develop the skills needed to achieve those aspirations.

Always prepare some questions for the interviewer, as it shows your interest in the position. You might ask about specific projects during the internship, opportunities for growth, or how the team collaborates to meet the Garden's goals. This reinforces your engagement and proactive attitude.