Plants have the power to
transform landscapes, brighten communities, and inspire people of all ages, but many students don't realize there are careers dedicated to doing just that.
Through the #IAmHorticulture campaign, Seed Your Future is introducing students to real people working in the green industry every day. By sharing authentic stories, the campaign encourages young people to explore careers that combine creativity, science, and a passion for plants.
At the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, those careers come to life every day in our 17-acre gardens.
Meet Olivia Burton, Cutting Gardens Assistant at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Since joining the Dixon in 2024, Olivia has helped care for the gardens, grow flowers for arrangements throughout the museum, and create beautiful experiences for every visitor who walks our grounds. Read on to learn how she found her path in horticulture and what she loves most about working with plants.
How long have you worked in horticulture?
I started in the agriculture business and worked on a family farm doing seasonal work when I was fifteen!
What does a typical day look like for you?
I water and check all the plants in the morning, which includes the Conservatory greenhouse, the one we have in the back, and all three that we have inside, as well as just maintaining everything out here (the Cutting Garden) from weeding to planting new crops and maintaining the perennial border.
What do you enjoy most about working in horticulture?
I love my 6 AM -2:30 PM, being out in the open air and not confined to a specific space. Everything is different every day.
What advice would you give your younger self—or someone considering a career in horticulture?
I would say to put yourself out there. I was always really shy!
How has working with plants changed your outlook on life?
It makes me a lot more appreciative of my work. I realized that I wouldn't like being in a stuffy desk from 9-5.
Growing the Future
Seed Your Future's mission is to inspire more people to pursue careers working with plants while increasing awareness of the important role horticulture plays in our daily lives. Through the #IAmHorticulture campaign, professionals like Olivia are helping students imagine futures they may never have considered before.
Every story shared helps build a stronger, more diverse future for horticulture. It reminds us that caring for plants is also about caring for our communities, our environment, and future generations.