Teagasc offers a 13-week floristry course in Kinsealy, Co Dublin, under the auspices of the rural development scheme. The purpose is to provide people from rural areas with the opportunity to develop an alternative source of income. There are 14 places each year and geographical spread is taken into account in allocating those places so that employment prospects are maximised. The course, which runs for two days each week, has proved very successful, according to course co-ordinator Dan Twohig. It's a very practical, hands-on course, he adds.

Graduates may find work on a part-time or full-time basis with local florists. Others work from home making products such as wreaths. Last year, unusually, three of the graduates set up their own shops immediately.

This year, for the first time, an advanced three-week course was offered to students who had completed the basic course. For more information contact your county's Teagasc officer.