Tom Cole

RHS Level 2: Plant Nutrition

Course Description

RHS Level 2 RHS Level 2: Principles of Plant Growth and Development: Plant Nutrition course look at the impact of plant nutrition on sustainability and climate change.

This course is part of the new RHS Level 2 syllabus, and is only available as part of the complete RHS Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Plant Growth and Development collection of courses.

We’ll explore the effect of soil and soil structure on plant growth, including the impact of climate change on soil.

You’ll learn about nutrients and elements for plant growth, along with soil based nutrition and soil pH impact.

We’ll also cover bulk constituents such as sand, peat, wool and grit and the environmental impact of using these in horticulture.

Course outline

  • Soil types and profiles

    We’ll learn how soil and soil structure impacts plant health and plant selection. You’ll also learn techniques to improve soil quality.

  • Role of nutrients

    In this lesson we’ll look at the function of plant nutrients, micronutrients, macronutrients, and elements needed for plant growth.

  • Soil based nutrition

    You’ll learn how nutrient cycles, soil micro-organisms, rhizosphere and natural fertiliser teas can be used for soil based nutrition for you plants. We’ll look at the sustainable use of fertilisers and best practices.

  • pH and nutrient availability

    This lesson looks at how soil pH impacts the uptake of plant nutrients and best practices for how to test and adjust pH.

  • Bulk constituents for growing media

    We’ll look at bulk constituents such as sand, coir, peat and wool and the plant growth and environmental impact of using bulk constituents.

Gardening classroom - how it works

  • Start anytime

    Watch video tutorials led by expert tutors

    Watch video tutorials led by expert tutors
  • Test yourself

    Practice what you learn with inspiring assignments

    Practice what you learn with inspiring assignments
  • Personal tuition

    Get assignment feedback from expert tutors

    Get assignment feedback from expert tutors
  • Share ideas

    Collaborate and chat directly to classmates

    Collaborate and chat directly to classmates

Meet Tom Cole

Tom Cole - Gardening
Tom has been involved in land-based education since 1991. He was a lecturer at Capel Manor College, which culminated in becoming Head of Horticulture in 1997-2009. This role involved overseeing and leading a team based at 5 sites covering the London area. During 2009, Tom moved to Writtle University College as a Curriculum Manager, overseeing Further Education covering Agriculture, Countryside and Horticulture. During 2010 he became the Head of Faculty.

More recently, Tom has spent much time delivering RHS qualifications at Capel Manor College. He is an RHS Associate and speaker, qualification writer for Pearson/ BTEC and marks RHS Level 2 exams. Tom is also currently expanding a small, but perfectly formed soft landscape and maintenance business. Aside from teaching, he regularly broadcasts on BBC Radio Essex with Ken Crowther and contributes to various garden magazines.

Frequently bought as part of this collection

  • RHS Level 2 Certificate: Principles of Plant Growth and Development

    Master the entire subject and SAVE -37% when you buy this collection

    8 Courses • 5 Expert Tutors

    NEW 2022 RHS Level 2 syllabus - everything you need to know to help you pass the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development.

    Learn more

Our community loves us

Awards & Accreditations

  • CPD Accredited (provider 50276)
  • Good Web Guide
  • Red Herring Winner
  • Education Investor Awards 2021 - Finalist
  • Royal Horticultural Society
  • Digital Education Awards 2023 Winner for Digital Health and Wellbeing Learning Product of the Year
  • Digital Education Awards 2023 Winner for Adult Home Learning Product of the Year