Students participate in academic classes in Steed Hall and apply laboratory experiences in the five greenhouses and the thirty-two acre Sandhills Horticultural Gardens. This hands-on training reinforces the classroom lectures on horticultural theories and techniques.
While in the Gardens, students have the opportunity to use equipment that is directly related to the landscape industry. This experience enhances students’ opportunities for employment upon completion of their degree.
The final semester of paid Co-op field work experience also increases job opportunities for the graduates.
Field trips and industry networking is a portion of this program. Students participate in field trips taken in North Carolina and other states which helps expand their education and allows them to make important contacts within the industry.
As part of the expanded academic education, students attend the national Student Career Days sponsored by Professional Landcare Network (PLANET). The Landscape Gardening program is one of only 27 schools in the United States and Canada certified by PLANET.
One of the oldest and most renowned organizations on the Sandhills Community College campus is the Sandhills Horticulture Club. The club’s primary purpose is to provide a vehicle to support outside activities and competitions in which the Landscape Gardening students participate. Annual bedding plant sales, and other creative projects support student trips, competitions, and student career days.
Faculty Advisor
Dee Johnson, Coordinator/Associate Professor
209 Steed Hall
(910) 695-3883
johnsond@sandhills.edu
While the state of North Carolina finances the major operating expense for the personnel, equipment, supplies and physical plant upkeep of the Sandhills Community College Landscape Gardening Program, private sources of revenue are pursued to enhance both the academic and practical aspects of the program.
The Sandhills Horticultural Society was created in part to support the financial needs associated with the creation and development of all the gardens within the Sandhills Horticultural Garden complex.
The society sponsors yearly garden/museum trips, educational seminars and quarterly newsletters. By becoming a member you not only support the Gardens, but you are also the first to know about events and receive reduced rates at all educational activities.
Donation boxes are on the premises; one in the G. Victor and Margaret Ball Garden Visitor’s Center and another near the entrance to Sir Walter Raleigh Garden.
Local residents and visitors to the region are welcome to enjoy the Sandhills Horticultural Gardens. Open from dawn to dusk year-round, the 32-acres were designed and are maintained by students in the Landscape Gardening program.
The site contains 14 themed gardens where you may find children playing in the Holly Maze or the whimsical Children’s Garden, a student relaxing on a bench while studying in the Fountain Courtyard, or a wedding in progress in the Ceremonial Courtyard.