RHS Level 2 Qualifications: What They Include and How to Study

Q: How long does RHS Level 2 take?

Most learners complete each half of RHS Level 2 in one academic year if studying part-time, though the exact length depends on the provider and study format. Some distance learning or evening classes may spread the course over 18 months or longer, while intensive programmes can be shorter

Looking to build stronger horticultural knowledge or move into a horticultural career?

RHS Level 2 Qualifications | Recognised across the UK | Ideal for beginners and Career Changers

Whether you’re already gardening at home or planning a new professional direction, the RHS Level 2 Qualification gives you a well-structured foundation in plant science and practical horticulture skills used in gardens, nurseries and garden retail.

A bright, welcoming greenhouse classroom where a small group of adult learners take part in a practical horticulture lesson, illustrating RHS Level 2 gardening education. At the centre, an instructor wearing a green apron demonstrates plant care by gently handling a young potted plant on a worktable. Around her, several students of mixed ages and ethnicities, also wearing gardening aprons and gloves, watch attentively and take part in hands-on learning. The table is covered with small pots, seedlings, soil, labels, and gardening tools, emphasising practical horticulture skills such as plant propagation and identification. In the background, sunlight streams through the glass greenhouse walls, with shelves of healthy green plants and a whiteboard showing handwritten notes and diagrams related to plant growth. The overall scene conveys collaborative learning, plant science education, and practical gardening training, visually representing RHS Level 2 qualifications, hands-on study, and career-focused horticultural learning.

You can choose to do an RHS Level 2 course online, through distance learning, or at an approved centre, the qualification leads to an RHS Level 2 certificate that builds knowledge in plant science and practical horticulture.

Designed as an accessible option for beginners, RHS Level 2 is suitable for home gardeners, career changers, and anyone wanting a structured route into horticulture without prior experience.

What Are the RHS Level 2 Qualifications?

RHS Level 2 qualifications cover both hands-on skills and plant science.

Practical Horticulture focuses on core craft skills: planting, pruning, propagation, turf care, and routine garden maintenance. Learners also learn to identify plants, pests, diseases, pathogens, and disorders.
Principles of Plant Growth and Development builds the theory behind the practice, covering how plants work, plant nutrition, health, adaptations, planting styles, and the role of horticulture in biodiversity and the wider industry.

Completing both certificates leads to the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles and Practices of Horticulture.

Available across the UK through approved training providers.

Who Are They For?

RHS Level 2 is for beginners
RHS Level 2 is for career changes
Anyone planning to progress to the RHS Level 3

Two Separate Qualifications

Course	Exam Format
Principles of Plant Growth (Theory)	Online written theory exam for Units 1 & 2
Practical Horticulture (Skills)	Centre-based assessments

Learners can complete one certificate at a time or work towards both as part of the broader RHS Level 2 Principles and Practices of Horticulture qualification.

RHS Level 2: What You’ll Study

Based on the official RHS Level 2 syllabus (2022+).

Plant Growth and Development (Theory)

Plant Science I
Plant Health
Plant Nutrition
Plant Specification
Plant Science II
Planting Styles
Horticulture and Society
Biodiversity

Practical Horticulture
(Skills)

Plant Identification
Plant Establishment
Plant Propagation
Plant Health
Plant Care
Plant Pruning
Garden features
Grassed Areas

This gives you a balanced understanding of science, gardening skills, and horticultural best practice.

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for RHS Level 2. Good reading comprehension and access to a computer for the online exams are recommended for distance learners.

How Long Does It Take?

Typically:

6 months (intensive)
12-24 months (part-time)

Exams are in February and June

Cost and Where to Enrol

Course fees depend on the provider
Exam registration fees set by the RHS
Study online or at RHS Approved Centres in the UK

How These Qualifications Help Your Career

Supports entry into rhs level 2 jobs
Helps progress to Level 3
Shows commitment to learning and plant science
Improves knowledge for personal gardening projects

How Garden Learners Can Support Your Study

Guided study support on key plant science topics
Practice questions that follow the RHS style
Help with planning your study
Bookable online sessions
Free 30-minute taster session included — try before you buy

We aim to give you the knowledge and skills to feel ready for assessment and confident in the garden.

📌 Free Sample
Try our free RHS Level 2 study resources to see how we support your learning.

📌 Study Support
Book a free 30-minute session to build your learning plan and ask questions.

FAQs

What is RHS Level 2?

The RHS Level 2 Certificate is one of the most widely recognised horticultural qualifications in the UK. It’s designed for anyone interested in plants and gardening, whether you’re a home gardener wanting more knowledge, someone working in horticulture, or planning a career change into the industry.

The course is split into two parts:
Plant Growth and Development (theory) – covering plant biology, nutrition, health, and cultivation.
Practical Horticulture (skills) – focusing on tasks like propagation, pruning, planting, and plant identification.

What is the RHS Level 2 equivalent to?

The RHS Level 2 Certificate is broadly considered equivalent to GCSE-level study. It’s a recognised qualification that shows a solid understanding of plant science and horticultural practice. Many learners use it as a stepping stone to the RHS Level 3 Certificate, which is closer to A-level standard.

How long does RHS Level 2 take?

Most learners complete each half of RHS Level 2 in one academic year if studying part-time, though the exact length depends on the provider and study format.

Some distance learning or evening classes may spread the course over 18 months or longer, while intensive programmes can be shorter

How much does RHS Level 2 cost?

The cost varies depending on the provider and whether you take just the theory, the practical, or both. On average, fees range from £400–£1,800. RHS Registration and assessment fees are charged separately.

Garden Learners isn’t an accredited RHS provider, but we offer affordable revision guides and tutoring to support learners who are already enrolled elsewhere.

Can I do the RHS Level 2 online?

You can study much of the theory content through online or distance learning providers. However, the practical assessments must be completed in person at an approved RHS centre, since they involve hands-on skills. If you’re studying online and need extra support with the content, Garden Learners offers digital revision resources and one-to-one tutoring to help you prepare.