Horticulture Internships 2026
Description
The U.S. National Arboretum’s mission is to enhance the economic, environmental, and aesthetic value of ornamental plants through research, conservation, and display. The Public Horticulture and Engagement Unit is seeking interns to work in multiple plant collections and gardens. Internships range from 3 months to 1 year and begin in May or June. All internships are hourly positions (approximately $20/hr). College credit may be arranged by students and is encouraged. Housing is not provided.
All interns develop an independent project to present to staff, volunteers, and Arboretum stakeholders at the conclusion of their internship. Additionally, interns participate in professional development opportunities and local educational field trips.
Qualifications
Applicants need to have either completed course work or have acquired practical experience in horticulture or a related field. Basic gardening skill, interest in plants, and the ability to work independently are essential. Applicants must be US citizens. We are unable to make exceptions.
Duties & Working Conditions
The National Arboretum is a public garden facility. Interns will assist staff in the development and maintenance of the plant germplasm collections. Duties include general gardening tasks–including but not limited to weeding, planting, watering, mowing, mulching–and assisting staff with updating plant records and labels in collections. Internships will involve heavy lifting, repetitive, and exposure to extreme heat, humidity, and/or cold.
Available Internships
- Asian Collections (1 year; opportunity to combine with another position): Plants collected from the rich floras of China, Japan, and Korea.
- Azalea Collection (3–6 months): Cultivated azaleas in a native woodland setting.
- Conifer and Dogwood Collections (3 months): Hundreds of varieties of conifers and dogwoods./li>
- Fern Valley Native Plant Collection (1 year): Plants native to the eastern United States in woodland and meadow settings.
- Friendship Garden (3 months; opportunity to combine with another position): Innovative landscapes that include woody plants, perennials, ornamental grasses, bulbs, and aquatics designed for year-round interest.
- National Herb Garden (1 year): Largest designed herb garden in the nation that includes annual, perennial, and woody herbal plants.
To Apply
Send a cover letter indicating availability and interest areas, resume, the names of three references, and transcripts (unofficial are acceptable) to USNA.Internships@usda.gov.
Questions?
Contact the internship office at USNA.Internships@usda.gov or 202-245-5093.
Application Deadline: January 19, 2026