Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources

Horticulturalists work with plants, applying their knowledge to fruits, vegetables, ornamentals, and non-food crops to maximize their health and growth. Careers include plant pathologists, farmers, biochemists, irrigation specialists, horticulture specialists, landscape designer, and turf managers to just name a few.

 

PRINCIPLES OF PLANT SCIENCE AND HYDROCULTURE

One Semester 1 credit Grade 9-12

Prerequisite: None

This course introduces students to the vast areas of the horticulture industry. Topics include leadership, greenhouse management, garden center operations, floriculture, nursery operations, landscaping, and turfgrass management. An introduction to plant and soil science is included as a necessary foundation to the success of today’s horticulturist.

 

SDC INTRO TO PLANT SCIENCE

One Semester 1 credit EPSO Grade 10-12

Prerequisite: Principles of Plant Science and Hydroculture; can count as a 3rd lab science course

This course is to prepare students with interests in higher-level, science-based plant agriculture. Students enrolled in this course will study rigorous standards related to the principles of plant growth, cell structure and functions, heredity and genetics (molecular biology), plant breeding and improvement, hormones and growth regulations, chemical nature of plant life, flower structure and function, seed formation and germination, DNA and biotechnology, and emerging technologies. Students will use scientific investigation to determine a plant problem. Today’s agriculture students are preparing to meet the needs of a growing world.

 

LANDSCAPING AND TURF MANAGEMENT

One Semester 1 credit Grade 10-12

Prerequisite: Principles of Plant Science and Hydroculture

This course includes standards to prepare students for creating beautiful environments for homes and businesses. This includes site analysis and preparation, landscape drawing, plant selection, and installation. Maintenance of healthy attractive landscapes and turf areas will be emphasized. With the increase of urban sprawl these career opportunities are increasing daily. Plant science and leadership skills taught in this class will prepare students to meet the demands of this exciting industry.

 

Last Updated: February 4, 2022