Learning Beyond the Farm: Baton Roots Apprentices Hit the Road

This year, our Baton Roots apprentices have taken their learning beyond the classroom and into gardens, farms, nurseries, greenhouses, and landscaping businesses across Louisiana. Each field trip has offered a closer look at the many career paths, skills, and relationships that make up the horticulture industry.

Their travels have taken them to Burden Museum and Gardens, Sweet Fern Landscapes, Southern University, Beavers Abundance, Hilltop Arboretum, Cicada Calling Farm, Chris and Camille’s Family Farm, Gulf Coast Flora, and Cajun Prairie Farm. Along the way, they have learned from rose experts, landscapers, farmers, nursery owners, educators, and native plant specialists who generously shared their knowledge and experience.

These visits have introduced apprentices to everything from rose pruning, tree identification, and plant health to hydroponics, mushroom production, native habitats, landscape contracts, and sustainable growing practices. They have also had the chance to ask questions, try new skills, pot plants, explore working farms, and see firsthand how horticulture connects to business, conservation, food systems, and community.

More than anything, these trips have helped bring their coursework to life while showing just how many possibilities exist within the green industry. We are incredibly grateful to every host who welcomed our apprentices and helped inspire the next generation of horticulture leaders.