Qualifications & training

RHS Level 2 Qualifications (pre-September 2022)

Our original RHS Level 2 qualifications were designed to be studied as a route into horticulture or for personal interest. These have been reviewed and updated with substituted versions now available

This page is for candidates who are registered on our former RHS Level 2 (pre-September 2022) qualifications.  Assessment for these qualifications must be completed before the last scheduled assessment opportunity, see our ‘Changes to RHS Qualifications’ page. No new registrations are permitted on our former RHS Level 2 qualifications.

If you are just starting out on your RHS Qualifications journey, please see our revised RHS Level 2 Qualifications that are now available to enrol on.

​Please note

We have decided to hold one final exam session in October 2024 – inclusive of all Resits – for the legacy L2 Theory syllabus’ exams.
These exams will be held online only, on the dates stated below:

  • Legacy L2 Plant Growth, Propagation and Development (R2101, R2102, R2103, R2104) – Thursday 10 October 2024
  • Legacy L2 Garden Planning, Establishment and Maintenance (R2111, R2112, R2113, R2114) – Friday 11 October 2024

Please contact onlineexams@rhs.org.uk to request an application form.  The closing date for registrations is 16 September 2024.

Theory | Principles of Plant Growth, Propagation and Development

Get to grips with the scientific principles underpinning horticultural practices. Learn about the classification and naming of plants, proper management of soils, maintaining plant health and plant propagation

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Theory | Principles of Garden Planning, Establishment and Maintenance

Master basic surveying and design principles. Learn how to choose the right ornamental and edible plants and how to use greenhouses, polytunnels and other protected environments

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Theory | Certificate in the Principles of Horticulture

Learners who successfully complete all necessary units for both the principles of plant growth and principles of garden planning theory-based qualifications will be awarded the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Horticulture

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Practical | Certificate in Practical Horticulture

Develop essential horticultural skills. Grow your knowledge of ornamental and edible plant identification and propagation, soil type, preparing the ground for new plants, caring for developed plants and operating a variety of garden machinery

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Theory and practical | Diploma in the Principles and Practices of Horticulture

Learners who successfully complete all necessary units for the two theory qualifications – principles of plant growth and principles of garden planning and the practical horticulture qualification – will be awarded the RHS Level 2 Diploma in the Principles and Practices of Horticulture

Download the details

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The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.