Horticulture Intern - Summer 2026 - Full-time / Part-time

Description

Why Cheekwood?

Working at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens offers you the opportunity to work for one of the most beautiful places in Nashville. Formerly the home of Mabel and Leslie Cheek, Cheekwood now serves the public as a botanical garden, arboretum, and museum with period rooms and art galleries. At Cheekwood, you'll have the opportunity to explore a wide range of roles tailored to your skills and interests. Whether you're passionate about horticulture, art curation, historical preservation, or one of our many other career opportunities, you would have the chance to thrive and make a meaningful impact here. Working in such a place that cherishes its rich history, vibrant art scene, and serene gardens offers a unique blend of fulfillment and inspiration. You'll find yourself in a supportive environment where every day brings new opportunities for personal and professional growth, amidst the backdrop of picturesque setting.

Internship Description 

The Cheekwood Horticulture department is offering an internship for undergraduate (Junior or Senior class standing) or current graduate-level students working towards or with a degree in or adjacent to the field of Horticulture, Agriculture or Plant Sciences Interns will work with garden staff to plan and execute various garden and horticultural projects within the garden.  

Responsibilities

Work with garden staff to plan and execute various garden and horticultural projects within the garden.  Key responsibilities include assisting garden staff with essential duties:  

• Assist in regular garden maintenance including, but not limited to weeding, mulching, watering, planting, leaf removal, and pruning.  
• Complete greenhouse tasks under the supervision of the Greenhouse Manager.   
• Collect images for upcoming Seasonal Display Guides under the direction of the Seasonal Display Manager.
• Assist Garden Supervisors with tree care and water feature maintenance. 
• Perform basic lawn care and maintenance including, but not limited to, string trimming and collecting soil samples. 
• Label, map, inventory, and collect images of the plant collections.            
• Perform irrigation repairs, utilize computerized systems, and assess water efficiency for water conservation alongside the Irrigation Technician. 

Requirements

Hours/Time Commitment 

15 hours/week for 12 weeks (June 1 - August 21, 2026)

Education 

Junior or Senior at the undergraduate level, current graduate-level student, or recent graduate from an accredited university.

Area of Study 

Horticulture, Agriculture, Botany and Plant Sciences

Part-time Benefits 

• Membership & Discounts: As an employee, you receive a Cheekwood membership, which entitles you to unlimited admission during regular Garden hours and a limited number of free tickets to special events. Members also receive discounts, classes, ticketed events, and purchases at the Gift Shop. Your Cheekwood membership also include reciprocal admission for named members to more than 300 gardens though the American Horticultural Society. 
• Reciprocal Admission: As an employee of Cheekwood you have free general admission access to various local cultural, historical, and art institutions as part of the employee admission program.  

Application Requirements 

Interested applicants should submit a letter of interest with their resume, and a list of 3 references, at least one academic. Start dates may vary based upon department needs and schedule.