I did a postal one years and years ago when I first got interested and started gardening, quite useful, it was City and Guilds (not even sure it exists now) and I was working as a gardener at the same time for myself, but the most useful was doing the RHS Master of Horticulture course at college one day a week, which I did some 15 years later, and which covered the scientific aspects. Most of which I've now forgotten of course...
Best thing I ever did though was to read from front to back Reader's Digest Encyclopaedia of British Plants and Flowers... and anything else I could lay my hands on which was to do with gardening.

Bamboo

The Readers Digest Encyclopaedia of garden Plants and Flowers, is still one of the very best general reference books. I use it at least once weekly, more so since joining GOY.

Ah, another aficionado - I think it beats the RHS one into a cocked hat, if only they'd publish another, updated one. Don't seem to be doing any more unfortunately, and mine's looking dreadfully dog eared. Like yours, its had even heavier use since joining this site, lol.

I did one a few years ago. It was RHS General and I completed it but never took the exam. It was good but it took me much longer than anticipated as I was fitting it in around family life. Also in hindsight,I didn't really enjoy the essay aspect of it and I think I learn just as much by reading as I remember things I am interested in. Don't let that put you off though, you are probably not like me. It will further your knowledge and is satisfying when completed.

Thanks everyone. I've looked at the the RHS but it did seem a lot of work to fit in, some quite scientific stuff too which isnt me at all, and as i work full time, i think i'll give that one a miss and look for something a bit less time consuming. I have seen one that concerntrates on herbs and sensory gardens which appeals. Maybe i'll give that a bit more thought!

I read this topic with interest and was happy to see the Reader's Digest encyclopedia of garden plants and flowers recommended. I'm sure it's out of print now, but was delighted to find that used copies are available on Amazon. I ordered one at a cost of £7.07 (including post)! and it was delivered today. I found it to be in absolutely pristine condition and could recommend it to anyone else.

I dont recomend that you study the Masters of Horticulture (RHS). It would be best to finsh to Diploma level, then go to an established Univesty to study an Undergraduate course. The RHS masters is only a first degree level education. I also have heard some disturbing reports about that course from previous sudents. Intrestingly, there is very little information on people questioning the education.