Agriculture & Food

Production Nursery Grower

SOC 11-9013.00 · ESCO 6113 · OSCA 151234

REA INV ART SOC ENT CON This role See your match →

Role snapshot

Overview

Propagates and grows plants at commercial scale in a nursery setting, managing potting, irrigation, fertiliser schedules, and pest control to supply landscapers, retailers, or farms. This role involves hands-on plant care, environmental management, and ensuring optimal growth conditions for various plant species.

Ensures a consistent supply of high-quality plants for landscaping projects, retail sales, and agricultural production, contributing to environmental beautification and food security.

On the job

  • Prepare growing media, pots, and propagation materials for various plant species.
  • Implement and monitor irrigation, fertilisation, and pest management programs.
  • Operate and maintain nursery equipment such as potting machines and sprayers.
  • Monitor plant health, diagnose issues, and apply appropriate treatments.
  • Manage plant inventory, track growth, and prepare orders for dispatch.
Production Nursery Grower at work

Tools & technology

Potting machinesIrrigation systems (e.g., drip, sprinkler)pH and EC metersHand tools (pruners, shovels, hoes)Pesticide/herbicide applicators

Average salary

$50K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$35K Bottom 10%
$70K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

Certificate or diploma in horticulture, plant science, or a related agricultural field is typically required.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Production Nursery Grower
Nursery Manager

CURRENT ROLE

Production Nursery Grower

Agriculture & Food

ADJACENT MOVES

Horticultural Consultant
Nursery Assistant
Horticultural Apprentice
Farm Hand

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

E

enterprising · ERC

Individuals who enjoy practical, hands-on work with plants, managing production processes efficiently, and following established procedures to achieve commercial goals tend to thrive in this role.

Personality characteristics

Organised

Methodical in planning planting schedules, managing resources, and maintaining nursery operations.

Practical

Enjoys hands-on tasks, working with plants and equipment, and solving tangible problems in a real-world setting.

Calm Under Pressure

Maintains composure when dealing with unexpected plant diseases, pest outbreaks, or equipment malfunctions.

Conscientious

Diligent in following precise procedures for irrigation, fertilisation, and pest control to ensure optimal plant health.

Cooperative

Works effectively as part of a team, sharing tasks and supporting colleagues in day-to-day nursery operations.

Best for

  • Individuals who enjoy cultivating living organisms and seeing tangible results from their efforts.
  • People who are detail-oriented and thrive in systematic, practical work environments.
  • Those who prefer working with plants and machinery over extensive human interaction.

Watch out for

  • Requires physical stamina and tolerance for working in various outdoor or greenhouse conditions.
  • Can involve repetitive tasks and adherence to strict routines for plant health and production.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Production Nursery Grower — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Morning production brief
Potting and transplanting seedlings
Irrigation system checks and maintenance
Tue
Pest and disease scouting in greenhouses
Chemical inventory and ordering
Fertiliser application and nutrient solution preparation
Wed
Propagation (cuttings, seed trays, grafting)
Team training on new growing techniques
Nursery equipment cleaning and minor repairs
Thu
Preparing plant orders for shipment
Receiving and acclimating new plant stock
Fri
General plant health checks and pruning
Production records update and planning
End-of-week cleanup and facility inspection
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

FREE ASSESSMENT

Does Production Nursery Grower fit you?

Measure your personality and interests, then see how this career ranks against 1,300+ others — for you personally.

Take the free assessment →