85103 - Nursery and Greenhouse Labourers
Broad Occupation Category
8 - Natural resources, agriculture and related production occupations.
TEER
5 - Occupations usually require short-term work demonstration and no formal education.
Major Group
85 - Harvesting, landscaping and natural resources labourers.
Sub-major Group
851 - Harvesting, landscaping and natural resources labourers.
Minor Group
8510 - Agriculture, horticulture and harvesting labourers.
Main Duties
Nursery and greenhouse labourers perform some or all of the following duties:
- Plant seeds, bulbs, and cuttings; perform grafting and budding of plants
- Transplant seedlings and rooted cuttings into containers or soil beds
- Water, fertilize, and maintain plants in greenhouse or nursery environments
- Monitor plant health and identify pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies
- Operate and adjust irrigation, lighting, and climate control systems
- Apply fertilizers and pesticides following safety regulations
- Operate basic horticultural equipment such as forklifts and small tractors
- Prepare plants for sale by sorting, labeling, and packaging
- Assist customers with plant selection and care advice in retail nursery settings
Employment Requirements
These are the typical employment requirements and benefits associated with this occupation in Canada:
- No formal education is strictly required, though secondary school is preferred.
- On-the-job training is typically provided by employers.
- A provincial Pest Applicators Certificate is required for pesticide handling roles.
- First Aid and WHMIS certifications are commonly required.
- Physical stamina and ability to perform repetitive tasks in warm, humid environments are essential.
- Basic communication skills in English or French are required for safety and teamwork.
- Experience in horticulture, agriculture, or greenhouse operations is an asset.
- Employers may provide accommodation, stable year-round work, and career growth opportunities.
- Willingness to work flexible hours during peak growing seasons is required.
Nursery and Greenhouse Labourers Salary Prospects
Community/Area
Low ($/hour)
Median ($/hour)
High ($/hour)
Community/AreaCanada
Low ($/hour)16.55
Median ($/hour)19.50
High ($/hour)30.00
Community/AreaBritish Columbia
Low ($/hour)17.85
Median ($/hour)20.00
High ($/hour)29.36
Community/AreaOntario
Low ($/hour)17.20
Median ($/hour)19.00
High ($/hour)28.00
Community/AreaNova Scotia
Low ($/hour)16.50
Median ($/hour)18.50
High ($/hour)24.00
Community/AreaAlberta
Low ($/hour)15.50
Median ($/hour)17.00
High ($/hour)25.00
Powered by Jobmaze — a GTR product
