Taught by professional horticulturists, the new London College of Garden Design (LCGD) Certificate in Plantsmanship course will teach the essential skills, knowledge and techniques of plantsmanship.
The course takes participants through basic plant biology and taxonomy, identification skills and role in ecosystems. It also covers seasonality and best practices for sustainable planting and more – helping students develop a deeper understanding of plants, their diversity, and an appreciation of their unique characteristics.
Running from the 25th of September – 5th of December 2025, the course will be delivered at the LCGD’s home in the Orangery at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. As well as classroom-based lectures, students will be able to step into Kew’s celebrated gardens to study their extensive plant collections, and visit other inspirational gardens. During their time at the College, students will meet some of the UK’s leading horticulturalists and plant specialists and are offered Friends of Kew membership as part of enrolment.
Nina Baxter, Director, London College of Garden Design said: “Plantsmanship is both a science and an art, blending technical horticultural knowledge with a deeper understanding of how plants grow, interact and contribute to the beauty and vitality of our gardens and wider landscape. This course offers students an in-depth appreciation of plants and an opportunity to take their horticultural expertise to the next level – whether this be simply for in their own gardens or as a foundation for going on to study garden design or planting design.”
The LCGD provides garden design training, both in person and online. The college’s main courses, including Garden Design [Diploma], Planting Design [Diploma] and Construction [Design Certificate] take place at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, whilst other short courses are delivered at other venues such as RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey.