There’s no time like the present to pick up a new hobby—so why not have a hand at horticulture? Whether you’re a seasoned horticulturalist looking to refine your skills or a novice gardener, the American Horticultural Society (AHS) offers Lifelong Learning Certificates to help you grow your horticultural knowledge.

The recently launched certificate programs are a flexible hybrid of self-paced study, live courses and community service and can be completed in a matter of months.

“The new certificate features in-depth horticultural learning and a flexible framework,” says Dr. Mary Hockenberry Meyer, AHS Horticultural Advisory Council Member. “It also encourages participants to apply their knowledge for the benefit of their communities.”

AHS Lifelong Learning Certificates are offered in two specialty tracks—Horticulture & the Environment and Horticultural Design & Techniques—each of which can be completed in just months. Each certificate program combines structured learning with hands-on community engagement, requiring completion of two self-paced online courses, five specialty-focused AHS LIVE programs, three programs outside the chosen specialty, and 15 hours of community service supporting local gardens.

“AHS Lifelong Learning programs are open and accessible to all,” says AHS president and CEO, Suzanne Laporte. “They are unique opportunities to learn from horticultural experts and connect with fellow plant enthusiasts within your region and across the country.”

In addition to Lifelong Learning Certificates, the AHS LIVE series offers a deep dive into the world of plants and gardening through hands-on workshops, talks led by horticultural experts, and garden tours. Topics covered in the series include orchids, garden design, topiaries, soil health and more.

For those who prefer learning at their own pace, AHS’ current lineup of self-paced courses—including Gardening in America and Ecological Gardening—runs through Feb.15, 2026. Each course features seven engaging modules filled with AHS-produced videos, texts, activities, and curated resources—all of which are accessible 24/7 for five months. The Ecological Gardening course is particularly well-suited for Arizonan gardeners interested in cultivating native plants, learning sustainable desert gardening practices and creating habitats that support local wildlife while conserving precious water resources.

About the American Horticultural Society

Founded in 1922, the nonprofit American Horticultural Society (AHS) is one of the most respected and longstanding member-based national gardening organizations in North America. The organization’s membership includes more than 20,000 aspiring, new and experienced gardeners, plant enthusiasts, and horticultural professionals—as well as numerous regional and national partner organizations. Through its educational programs, awards, and publications, AHS inspires a culture of gardening and horticultural practices that creates and sustains healthy, beautiful communities and a livable planet. Learn more at ahsgardening.org.