# horticulture

/ˈhɔɹtɪˌkəɫtʃɝ/ (US) · /hˈɔːtɪkˌʌltʃɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/horticulture
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. gardening science

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the science or professional activity of growing plants, flowers, and vegetables.

For teachers: the art or science of cultivating gardens, encompassing the growth of flowers, fruits, and vegetables for human use or ornament.

- After years of working in the park, she decided to study horticulture at college.
- The university's department of horticulture is currently researching sustainable methods for managing urban green spaces in arid climates.

Usage: Uncountable in its general sense; often used as a field of study or a professional industry.

### 2. small-scale agriculture

noun · CEFR C2 · Academic · Technical

growing food on a small scale, like in a garden rather than a huge farm.

For teachers: small-scale or intensive plant cultivation, distinguished from large-scale, extensive agriculture.

- The local community relies on horticulture to provide fresh vegetables for the village.
- Anthropologists distinguish between horticulture, which involves hand tools and small plots, and agriculture, which utilizes plows and draft animals.

Teaching tip: In academic contexts, this sense is used to contrast small-scale human gardening with industrial farming.

## Examples

- She decided to study horticulture to improve her garden.
- The local college offers a diploma in horticulture for those interested in professional landscaping or greenhouse management.
- Advances in urban horticulture have allowed cities to transform abandoned industrial sites into productive community gardens that mitigate heat and provide fresh produce.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.