RHS Level 2 Syllabus: A Complete and Essential Guide to Units, Topics and Exam Content

This page summarises the whole RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development syllabus, including all topics in Units 1 and 2. It follows the official RHS syllabus (2022+) and is designed for learners preparing for RHS Level 2 exams.

RHS Level 2 Qualification Overview

The RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development is based on the current RHS syllabus (2022+). The qualification includes eight topics, taught across Unit 1 and Unit 2. Learners usually complete around 120 guided learning hours (GLH) to cover the full content.

Both units are assessed by a 2-hour written exam taken online or at an approved exam centre. Each paper contains 20 multiple-choice questions, followed by 8 short written responses, and 4 long answer questions, of which candidates answer 2. Marks are distributed across all three sections and are graded according to AO1 (knowledge), AO2 (application) and AO3 (analysis).

The RHS Level 2 syllabus also includes a set of qualification-wide outcomes. These run through all topics and are assessed at AO1, AO2 and AO3.

They cover four main areas: Health and Safety, including legislation and risk management; Sustainability, including reducing environmental impacts and understanding how climate change affects horticulture; Best Practice, including professional techniques and the use of named plant species; and Equality and Diversity, including respect, fairness and compliance with current legislation.

RHS Level 2 Syllabus – Plant Growth and Development

Unit 1

Topic 1: Plant Science 1

This section introduces the scientific principles behind plant growth and reproduction. From plant naming to photosynthesis, you’ll gain the foundation needed for understanding how plants function.

Common and Scientific Plant Names: Binomial classification (genus + species).
Plant Breeders’ Rights (PBRs): How PBRs protect plant innovation.
Evolution of Plant Groups: From bryophytes to angiosperms.
Lifecycle Adaptations: Ephemerals, Annuals, biennials, and perennials.
External Parts of the Plant: Roots, stems, leaves, and flowers.
Internal Parts of the Plant: Leaf anatomy, stem structure, vascular system.
Movement of Water Through the Plant: Transpiration, root pressure, cohesion-tension.
Pollination and Fertilisation: Insect and wind pollination, self-pollination avoidance.
Photosynthesis and Respiration: How plants capture and release energy.

Topic 2: Plant Health

Healthy plants depend on good environmental conditions and protection from pests and diseases. This section covers how to effectively manage and protect plant health.

Environmental Conditions: Effects of light, temperature, water, and soil.
Plant Nutrition and Plant Health: Nutrient requirements and deficiencies.
Impact of Competition on Plant Health: How weeds, neighbouring plants, and stress reduce growth.
Pests and Pathogens: Identification, symptoms, and control methods.
Maintaining Plant Health: Garden hygiene and integrated pest management (IPM).
Biosecurity and Plant Passports: Legislation and protection measures.

Topic 3: Plant Nutrition

Soil is the foundation of plant health. This section focuses on soil types, nutrients, and sustainable management of fertility.

Soil Types and Profiles: Texture, structure, and management.
pH and Nutrient Availability: How soil pH affects nutrient uptake.
Role of Nutrients: Key functions of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, etc.
Soil-Based Nutrition: Applying fertilisers and organic amendments.
Bulk Constituents for Growing Media: Compost, loam, and other mixes.

Topic 4: Plant Specification

Choosing the right plant for the right place is vital for success. This section helps you assess sites, select plants, and manage new plantings.

Site-Based Criteria: Soil, drainage, exposure, microclimate.
Plant-Based Criteria: Selecting plants for site-specific conditions.
Plant Specifications: Writing plant specifications for success.
Receiving Material On-Site: Inspecting deliveries for quality.
Planting and Post-Planting Care: Techniques for establishing healthy plants.
Maintaining New Plantings: Watering, pruning, and monitoring health.

Unit 2

Topic 1: Plant Science 2

Building on Unit 1, this section examines how plants adapt through their leaves, stems, roots, and flowers, with a clear focus on the survival strategies employed by these structures.

Leaf Adaptations: Water storage, reduced leaves, and hairs.
Stem Adaptations: Modified stems for survival and storage.
Root Adaptations: Root diversity and gravitropism.
Flower Adaptations: Shapes, arrangements, and pollination.
Seed Adaptations: Dispersal and germination strategies.
Growth Habit Adaptations: Plant forms for environmental survival.

Topic 2: Planting Styles

This section examines various garden design approaches and their ecological implications.

Historical Contexts: Garden styles, values, and influences.
Formal Planting: Structured planting, biodiversity impacts.
Informal Planting: Naturalistic and wildlife-friendly design.
Plant Associations: Using plant combinations for resilience.
Plant Uses: Shade, screening, structure, and sustainability.
Edible Landscapes: Food production and wellbeing.
Short-term Plantings: Temporary displays and environmental costs.

Topic 3: Horticulture and Society

Horticulture is more than plants; it influences wellbeing, the environment, and the economy.

Wellbeing: Temperature regulation, air quality, carbon storage.
Environment: Temperature regulation, air quality, carbon storage.
Economy: Public health savings, employment, and productivity.
Community: Social groups and horticultural projects.

Topic 4: Biodiversity

Biodiversity is central to sustainable gardens. This section covers ecosystems, climate impacts, and conservation practices.

Plants and Biodiversity: Food chains, webs, plant-animal relationships.
Impacts of Climate Change: Planting for resilience.
Creating Habitats: Designing wildlife-friendly areas.
Citizen Science and Species Surveys: Recording and applying data.
Biodiversity Action Plans: Policy, legislation, and practice.

For the most up-to-date and comprehensive details on the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development, please refer to the official RHS syllabus: RHS Level 2 Certificate Syllabus.

FAQ

What is the content of RHS Level 2?

The RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development covers eight topics, taught across Unit 1 and Unit 2. The syllabus includes plant science, plant health, plant nutrition, planting styles, biodiversity, horticulture and society, and the principles used to specify and select plants for different sites. Each topic is broken down into elements that build the scientific and horticultural knowledge needed to understand how plants grow and how to manage them in real garden or workplace settings.

Is RHS Level 2 difficult?

Most students find RHS Level 2 completely achievable with steady study and regular revision. The content is detailed, especially in areas such as plant science and plant health, but it is written for learners who may be new to formal horticulture. The exams test recall, application and analysis, so practising different types of questions helps. Many learners study alongside work or family commitments and still progress well. With structured revision and access to support, the qualification is very manageable.

What is RHS Level 2 equivalent to?

RHS Level 2 is considered comparable to a Level 2 qualification on the RQF, similar in level to a GCSE. It is a recognised entry point into horticultural education and is widely accepted by employers, garden centres, nurseries, and training providers. Many learners use RHS Level 2 as preparation for Level 3 study or for moving into the horticultural industry.

What is the pass mark for RHS Level 2?

Learners must score at least 50% in each of the two unit exams to pass the qualification. Marks from both units are combined to give a final percentage, which determines whether the learner receives a Pass (50–64%), Merit (65–79%), or Distinction (80%+).

How long does RHS Level 2 take?

The RHS Level 2 Certificate is designed for part-time study and typically takes around 120 guided learning hours (GLH), plus additional self-study. Most learners complete the course over 9–12 months, depending on the study pattern offered by their training provider and how much time they can commit each week; some providers allow upto 2 years to complete.

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