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Environmental Science & Horticulture

Horticulture Course Descriptions

HORT 102: Horticulture Plant Science

Credits: 4.0

The structure, function, classification, and ecology of vascular plants are explored in this introductory botany course, with an emphasis on cultivated and native plants of the Pacific Northwest.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify vascular plant vegetative and reproductive structures (morphology), and explain how they are influenced by genetic inheritance and adaptation.
  2. Describe the relationship between plant morphology and anatomy and physiological processes, such as water and nutrient uptake and transport, photosynthesis, respiration, growth and reproduction, and stress response.
  3. Apply the methods of plant taxonomy and botanical nomenclature through the identification, classification, and description of plants and plant groups, particularly those common to the Pacific Northwest.
  4. Discuss the significance of plant diversity to terrestrial ecosystems and human societies, including the cultivation of plants for food, fiber, fuel, and medicinal and aesthetic purposes.

HORT 106: Broadleaf Plant Identification

Credits: 5.0

Learn to recognize the principal broadleaf evergreens used in Northwest gardens along with their culture and use. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identifythe commonly used broadleaved evergreens of Pacific Northwest gardens by their scientific (Latin) name, including family affiliationand common name.
  2. List the regions of origin and cultivation requirements of the plants under study.
  3. Select appropriate plant material for use in landscapes, nurseries, and greenhouses.

HORT 107: Conifer Plant Identification

Credits: 4.0

Learn to recognize the principal coniferous trees and shrubs used in Northwest gardens along with their culture and use. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify the commonly used coniferous trees and shrubs used in the Pacific Northwest by scientific name, family affiliation, and common name.
  2. List the regions of origin and cultural requirements of plants under study.
  3. Select appropriate plant material for use in landscapes, nurseries, and greenhouses.

HORT 108: Deciduous Plant Identification

Credits: 5.0

Learn to recognize the principal deciduous, flowering trees, and shrubs used in Northwest gardens along with their culture and use. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify the commonly used deciduous, flowering trees, and shrubs of Pacific Northwest gardens by their scientific name, family affiliation, and common name.
  2. List the regions of origin and cultivation requirements of plants under study.
  3. Select appropriate plant material for use in landscapes, nurseries, and greenhouses.

HORT 109: Soil Science and Conservation

Credits: 5.0

The study of soils as living ecosystems, including their physical, chemical, and biological properties. Nutrient cycling, fertility management, soil building, and site diagnosis and classification are also examined. Field trips are an integral part of this course. Be prepared to arrive and depart from sites on your own. Recommend placement into AENGL93 or ENGLP 93 or higher; MATH 47 or higher; and HORT 102.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe soil physical, chemical, and biological properties and processes to assess soil quality while using appropriate tools, techniques, and technologies.
  2. Classify and describe soils common to the Pacific Northwest based on geology, topography, climate, organisms, and the influence of time on their formation.
  3. Describe the function and significance of biotic activity on soil development, fertility, and ecosystem conservation.
  4. Evaluate the impact of land use management practices on soil quality and quantity, and recommend plans for restoring and enhancing the productivity of degraded urban, agricultural, wetland, and forest soils.
  5. Analyze relationships between soil health, plant vigor, agricultural productivity, human nutrition, and the stability of human societies.

HORT 110: Pest Management Programming

Credits: 2.0

Introduction to the basic tenets of pest management program development, materials safety, and proper use of equipment. Recommend placement in ENGLP 93 or AENGL 93 or higher and MATH 47 or higher.

Course Level Objectives

  1. List and describe the principal components of a sustainable pest management program including strategies for pest suppression.
  2. Describe the principal types of pesticides and their general uses based on formulation, concentration, and sustainability.
  3. Accurately interpret pesticide labels and safety requirements.
  4. Calculate site area, formulation volumes, and equipment calibrations based on directions for pesticide use.

HORT 117: Pruning

Credits: 4.0

Principles of pruning including tools, techniques, timing, and special treatment of Pacific Northwest ornamentals. Field experience is stressed, including ladder use. Students must supply their own by-pass hand pruners, folding saw, and rain gear. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Analyze, synthesize, and integrate information from multiple perspectives (lecture, reading, and field practice) in order to make decisions about how to appropriately prune a variety of common landscape plants in different situations.
  2. Work effectively within a small group to analyze a set of plants, explore different pruning options, select a pruning approach, and defend the choice.
  3. Demonstrate best management pruning practices and knowledge with appropriate behaviors necessary for employability in the landscape industry.

HORT 118: Introduction to Plant Pests

Credits: 6.0

Introduction to the most common disease and insect pests of Northwest landscapes and nurseries. Focus on diagnosing pest problems and best practice solutions utilizing Plant Health Care (PHC). Recommend completion of at least one: HORT 106, HORT 107, HORT 108, as well as completion of, or concurrent enrollment in HORT 102, HORT 109 and HORT 110.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Analyze, synthesize, and integrate information about the major types of plant diseases, plant hosts, and symptoms in order to successfully diagnose a variety of biotic plant problems.
  2. Analyze, synthesize, and integrate information about the major insect orders, common insect pests, and symptoms in order to successfully diagnose a variety of biotic plant problems.
  3. Analyze plant symptoms in landscape, nursery, and greenhouse settings to determine and identify abiotic problems and biotic pest problems.
  4. Work effectively in groups and individually to evaluate plant health and common pest and disease management options.

HORT 120: Landscape Appreciation

Credits: 2.0

This basic design course explores design elements and principles and their application in landscape design, maintenance, and other fields of horticulture.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Evaluate and apply the elements and principles of design to landscaped spaces.
  2. Communicate findings and observations of creative models and processes through written and graphic means.

HORT 134: Interior Plants

Credits: 3.0

Tropical plants used in the home, office, and commercial sites. Information on the care of the most popular taxa including how to extend their life and vitality. Field trips and hands-on learning in the greenhouse and lab are important parts of the course. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Recognize a variety of tropical plants by scientific name, family affiliation, and common name.
  2. Analyze and evaluate tropical plant cultural requirements in order to diagnose and correct plant problems.
  3. Identify uses and care of tropical plants in interiorscapes and plant production.

HORT 155: Special Topics in Horticulture

Credits: Maximum of 5.0 possible

Classes, workshops or seminars of current interest in Horticulture.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate learning objectives as determined by the supervising instructor.

HORT 170: Fall Garden Practices

Credits: 3.0

Introduces students to basic landscape and garden installation, and preservation practices for fall, including fall turf and planting bed management, planting and transplanting techniques, and equipment operation. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate safe practices in selection, lifting, transport, handling, and cleanup of tools.
  2. Demonstrate and describe proper tree and shrub installation.
  3. Describe fall weed control methods and techniques.
  4. Describe fall bulb planting techniques.

HORT 172: Spring Garden Practices

Credits: 3.0

Introduction to basic landscape and garden installation, and maintenance practices for spring shrub/tree planting, staking, turf aeration/ thatching, mowing, edging, fertilizing, and more. Safe and efficient operation of equipment is stressed. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate safe practices in selection, lifting, transport, handling, and cleanup of landscape tools.
  2. Demonstrate and describe proper landscape planting techniques of groundcovers and herbaceous plants.
  3. Demonstrate and describe soil preparation and lay sod.
  4. Describe lawn maintenance techniques.

HORT 174: Horticulture Tools and Materials

Credits: 4.0

Selection, use, and sizing of materials as well as the maintenance and safe use of tools and equipment for landscaping and nursery use. Estimating quantities of materials for typical horticultural applications. Recommend placement into MATH 47 or higher.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Locate, evaluate, and apply information in order to select materials for a variety of landscape and nursery applications.
  2. Analyze landscape plans and specifications to determine materials and quantities required for landscape installation and maintenance.
  3. Exchange or present information on common materials used in the landscape and nursery industry.

HORT 192: Careers Seminar

Credits: 1.0

A series of presentations and panel discussions with professionals to explore horticulture career options, work profiles, and the knowledge and skills required to be successful. Students identify career interests and resources then develop education and career goals. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe the knowledge and skills necessary to perform tasks associated with horticulture careers in greenhouse and nursery operations, landscape and restoration horticulture, or urban agriculture.
  2. Identify horticulture careers of interest, assess personal knowledge and skills, and consider complementary education and experiential options toward career goals.
  3. Locate horticulture education, experiential, and career resources, compile information gleaned from discussion with professionals, and formulate a plan and timetable to achieve goals.

HORT 196: Introduction to the Nursery and Greenhouse

Credits: 3.0

Explore greenhouse/nursery operations and basic plant production requirements in a hands-on approach to learning at our college nursery facility. Field trips to commercial operations. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field strip sites on your own. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate rudimentary skills in greenhouse/nursery facility operation, maintenance, and plant culture.
  2. Demonstrate rudimentary skills in pest monitoring and documentation.
  3. Identify the means for environmental and cultural control in the greenhouse and nursery.
  4. Demonstrate basic skills in plant propagation.
  5. Function as part of a group.

HORT 198: Individual Project in Horticulture

Credits: 1.0 to 5.0

Independent study of a student-selected project or approved experience in the field of horticulture. S/U grade option. Registration permitted first seven weeks (six in summer) as space is available.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Complete an independent project (research orexpression) on a focused area of interest or need.
  2. Develop specific concepts or materials relevant to the horticulture industry.
  3. Develop, with guidance, a comprehensive approach or activity that supplements practiced skills.
  4. Develop, implement, and complete a total project adhering to established procedures and due dates.

HORT 199: Special Project: Horticulture

Credits: Maximum of 5.0 possible

Requires research in areas not specifically covered in other coursework. Credit available with approval. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate learning objectives as determined by the supervising instructor.

HORT 207: Native Plants in the Landscape

Credits: 2.0

Identify principal native plant communities, and their indicator species, of Washington state through class work and field trips. Examine cultural requirements and garden attributes. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. List the principal flora zones of Washington state.
  2. Identify key flora as well as restorative and garden worthy representatives.
  3. Research and analyze the cultural requirements of various native plants.

HORT 210: Fine Gardening Practicum

Credits: 3.0

Hands-on experience in the development and management of intricate gardens of herbaceous, woody, and edible plants. Class may include border and bed design, installation, renovation, and all manner of garden management activities. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe and follow safe practices in selection, handling, transport, and cleanup of landscape tools.
  2. Demonstrate and describe sustainable care of shrubs, sub-shrubs, herbaceous plants, and vines.
  3. Describe and demonstrate propagation of perennials by division.
  4. Describe and demonstrate effective team skills.

HORT 211: Spring Flowering Herbaceous Plants

Credits: 3.0

Spring flowering annuals, bulbs, and perennials for Northwest gardens; learn to identify, appreciate, and utilize this season's noteworthy stars as you visit them in a variety of settings. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own. S/U grade option. Recommend completion of HORT 102.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Recognize spring flowering annuals, bulbs, and perennials common in Pacific Northwest gardens by scientific (Latin), common name, and family affiliation.
  2. Describe the cultural requirements and landscape uses of the above plants.

HORT 212: Summer Flowering Herbaceous Plants

Credits: 3.0

Summer flowering annuals, bulbs, and perennials for Northwest gardens; learn to identify, appreciate, and utilize this season's noteworthy stars as you visit them in a variety of settings. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own. S/U grade option. Recommend completion of HORT 102.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Recognize summer flowering annuals, bulbs, and perennials by scientific (Latin), common name and family affiliation.
  2. List the cultural requirements and landscape uses of the above plants.

HORT 224: Landscape Design I

Credits: 3.0

Provides background training in the creation of a professional plot plan. Topics include scales, lettering, and layout for a legible plan. Learn basics of selection/elevations and perspective sketching. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Use appropriate tools, techniques, and technologies to create landscape plans, section/elevation, one-point perspectives, and quick perspective sketches.
  2. Communicate results of creative and analytical thought through conventional landscape graphics.

HORT 229: Plant Propagation

Credits: 3.0

Hands-on introduction to seed collecting, treatment, germination; handling, preparation, treatment and rooting of cuttings; grafting tools and the preparation of grafts; and a field trip to examine how micropropagation in tissue culture is accomplished. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Correctly identify, properly handle, and successfully process propagules to produce new plants.
  2. Recognize and solve rudimentary problems in the plant propagation process.
  3. Accurately document the plant propagation process using the vocabulary of propagation and plant nomenclature.
  4. Make appropriate use of tools, materials, substances, and environments for propagating plants.

HORT 232: Grafting

Credits: 1.0

Hands-on laboratory to prepare and graft several kinds of plants to take home. S/U grade option. Recommend completion of HORT 229.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Recognize the common types of grafts used in horticulture and be familiar with their horticultural history and purpose.
  2. Identify and use the tools and materials necessary to perform successful grafts.
  3. Successfully perform cleft, whip, and veneer grafts when required.

HORT 234: Hardwood Cuttings Lab

Credits: 1.0

Hands-on laboratory with a special focus on the handling, preparation, treatment, and rooting of hardwood cuttings with an in-depth examination of the special attributes of hardwood cutting propagation. Recommend completion of HORT 229.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify various methods for harvesting, storing, and preparing cuttings.
  2. Identify various types of cutting treatments.
  3. Describe various cutting propagation systems.
  4. Successfully prepare and set cuttings for rooting.

HORT 236: Nursery and Greenhouse Operations

Credits: 4.0

Explore the principal facets of wholesale nursery and greenhouse operation and management including spatial organization, facilities, plant production systems, and marketing. Recommend placement in AENGL 93 or ENGLP 93; completion of HORT 102 and HORT 196.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify the major segments of a production nursery and greenhouse business plan.
  2. Identify and describe the common types of greenhouses, nursery configurations, and factors impacting their siting and orientation.
  3. Identify and describe the principal biotic and abiotic factors limiting the successful growth of greenhouse and nursery crops.
  4. Describe the basic principles of crop selection, marketing, and nursery/greenhouse management.
  5. Describe the principal business practices important to successful production nursery and greenhouse operation-function as part of a group.
  6. Develop and implement a production plan for a nursery and a greenhouse crop.

HORT 241: Vegetable and Herb Production:Winter

Credits: 2.0

Design and implement a four season vegetable and herb garden, focusing on site and crop selection, garden and bed layouts, soil preparation and building, and comparative growing methods. Students sow early season crops in the greenhouse for subsequent outdoor transplanting. Field trips are an integral part of this course. Be prepared to arrive and depart from sites on your own.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Design and implement garden layouts and planting plans to maximize efficient use of site characteristics and vegetable and herb cultural requirements.
  2. Select and manage bioregionally and seasonally appropriate spring and summer crops for a variety of soil preparation, plant growing, and cover cropping methods.
  3. Create and implement polycultural intercropping and succession planting plans and schedules within crop rotation and season extension systems for four season production.
  4. Discuss the limiting factors to crop growth, such as soil conditions, pollination, pestiferous organisms, and the management practices that integrate soil building, perennial crops, and small animals.
  5. Demonstrate vegetable and herb greenhouse and cold frame propagation techniques while managing limiting factors.

HORT 242: Introduction to Arboriculture

Credits: 3.0

Covers basics of arboriculture and tree management, including tree physiology, selection, maintenance, and common landscape problems. International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) standards will be discussed. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Communicate information about the variety of career options in the field of arboriculture.
  2. Demonstrate skills and knowledge of appropriate sustainable best management practices for tree selection, installation, establishment, pruning, and management.
  3. Acquire and apply information about tree problem diagnosis and management methods.
  4. Apply knowledge of tree biology, soil science, and water issues related to tree health and management.
  5. Acquire arboricultural information needed to successfully pass the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certification exam.

HORT 244: Vegetable and Herb Production: Spring

Credits: 3.0

This course focuses on crop cultural requirements, polycultural intercropping, succession planting, crop rotation, and the management of biological competitors. Students practice techniques at the on-campus garden. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Select and manage bioregionally and seasonally appropriate summer and fall crops for a variety of soil preparation, plant growing, and cover cropping methods.
  2. Create and implement polycultural intercropping and succession planting plans and schedules within crop rotation and season extension systems for four season production.
  3. Discuss the limiting factors to crop growth, such as soil conditions, pollination, pestiferous organisms, and the management practices that integrate soil building, perennial crops, and small animals.
  4. Demonstrate vegetable and herb greenhouse propagation, transplanting and direct seeding, growing, and harvesting and storage techniques while managing limiting factors.
  5. Analyze and evaluate the crop production results and resource conservation values of diverse designs, plans, methods, techniques, and management.

HORT 245: Vegetable and Herb Production: Summer

Credits: 2.0

This course focuses on season extension, harvesting and storage, cover cropping, and an analysis of crop production results and resource conservation values. Students practice techniques at the on campus garden. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Select and manage bioregionally and seasonally appropriate fall and over winter crops for a variety of soil preparation, plant growing, and cover cropping methods.
  2. Create and implement polycultural intercropping and succession planting plans and schedules within crop rotation and season extension systems for four season production.
  3. Discuss the limiting factors to crop growth, such as soil conditions, pollination, pestiferous organisms, and the management practices that integrate soil building, perennial crops, and small animals.
  4. Demonstrate vegetable and herb greenhouse propagation, transplanting and direct seeding, growing, and harvesting and storage techniques while managing limiting factors.
  5. Analyze and evaluate the crop production results and resource conservation values of diverse designs, plans, methods, techniques, and management.

HORT 247: Fruit and Nut Production: Winter

Credits: 2.0

Tree fruit production for the urban garden to small farm,focusing on cultivar selection, cultural requirements, propagation, planting, pruning, and management, with specific attention to heritage fruit tree restoration. Students practice techniques at the on campus garden. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify and select bioregionally appropriate tree fruit cultivars and rootstock, and manage their site specific growth and cultural requirements.
  2. Discuss cultivar physiology and the limiting factors to growth, such as soil conditions, pollination, and pestiferous organisms.
  3. Demonstrate tree fruit whip grafting propagation, bare root planting, and winter pruning and training techniques while managing limiting factors.
  4. Practice pruning heritage fruit trees, and discuss the significance of fruit tree and orchard restoration within the context of sustainable food systems.
  5. Apply Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and other pest control techniques to maintain cultivar health, vigor, and productivity.

HORT 250: Introduction to Restoration Ecology

Credits: 4.0

Introduction to the basic tenets of restoration ecology with a focus on the revegetation and repair of degraded and abandoned land as well as mitigating urbanization.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Define and distinguish between the concepts of restoration ecology, ecological restoration, reclamation, and rehabilitation.
  2. Estimate the degree of degradation to an ecosystem using reference ecosystems.
  3. Define restoration thresholds.
  4. Set restoration goals and identify appropriate restoration options and tools.
  5. Measure and evaluate restoration success.
  6. Identify and analyze a variety of methods used for monitoring and maintenance of ecological restoration projects.

HORT 253: Fruit and Nut Production: Spring

Credits: 3.0

This course focuseson nut, vine, and uncommon fruit production, with specific attention to environmental change, biological competitors, and pollination patterns. Students practice techniques at thecampus garden. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify and select bioregionally appropriate nut, vine, and uncommon fruit cultivars and rootstock, and manage their site specific growth and cultural requirements.
  2. Discuss cultivar physiology and the limiting factors to growth, such as soil conditions, pollination, and pestiferous organisms.
  3. Discuss woody plant phenology and pollinator behavior and the significance of environmental change upon biological competitors, pollination patterns, and sustainable food systems.
  4. Demonstrate tree fruit top grafting propagation, diverse planting methods, and spring pruning, training, and thinning techniques while managing limiting factors.
  5. Apply Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and other pest control techniques to maintain cultivar health, vigor, and productivity.

HORT 254: Fruit and Nut Production: Summer

Credits: 2.0

This course focuseson soft fruit production and harvest and storage practices, with specific attention to designing polycultural cropping plans and food forests. Students practice techniques at thecampus garden. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own. Recommendcompletion of HORT 102.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify and select bioregionally appropriate soft fruit cultivars and rootstock, and manage their site specific growth and cultural requirements.
  2. Discuss cultivar physiology and the limiting factors to growth, such as soil conditions, pollination, and pestiferous organisms.
  3. Demonstrate tree fruit bud grafting propagation, summer pruning and training techniques, and harvest and storage practices while managing limiting factors.
  4. Apply Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and other pest control techniques to maintain cultivar health, vigor, and productivity.
  5. Design polycultural cropping plans and food forest systems and discuss management practices that integrate soil building, annual crops, and small animals.

HORT 255: Special Topics in Horticulture

Credits: Maximum of 5.0 possible

Subject matter of topical interest. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate learning objectives as determined by the supervising instructor.

HORT 256: Permaculture Design

Credits: 4.0

A whole systems introduction to permaculture design that applies associated ethics, principles, and tools to urban and small farm agriculture systems. Student teams meet regularly outside of class to work on design projects. Field trips are an integral part of this course. Be prepared to arrive and depart from sites on your own.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe whole systems and permaculture design ethics, principles, processes, methods, strategies, and techniques, and apply these tools to urban and small farm agriculture systems.
  2. Examine design principles in the context of agroecosystem productivity, resiliency, diversity, and equitability.
  3. Analyze and assess site conditions, interpret user and client needs, and employ whole systems thinking to real world design challenges and opportunities.
  4. Integrate design elements of agricultural, natural, and built environments to support multiple functions for resource production and conservation.
  5. Create design products that respond to user and client needs and demonstrate a comprehensive assimilation of whole systems and permaculture design concepts.

HORT 262: Landscape Design II

Credits: 6.0

This class is for the professional with emphasis on the creative use of plants and garden making. Recommend placement in AENGL 93 or ENGLP 93 or higher and completion of HORT 120. Prerequisite(s): HORT 224.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Engage in imaginative and critical inquiry to explore concepts and perspectives in order to develop landscape designs that are site and client specific.
  2. Locate, acquire, evaluate, and apply information in order to prepare landscape basemaps, site surveys, and site analysis.
  3. Use appropriate tools, techniques, and technology to communicate effectively with clients and professionals in the landscape industry.

HORT 263: Landscape Design III

Credits: 6.0

Focus is on planting design principles from applied to residential and small commercial landscapes. Design and preparation of planting plans and schedules. Professional presentation emphasized. Recommend placement in AENGL 93 or ENGLP 93 and recommended completion of at least one of HORT 106, HORT 107 or HORT 108. Prerequisite(s): HORT 224 and HORT 262.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Analyze, synthesize, integrate, and evaluate principles of planting design theory in the context of spatial design.
  2. Engage in imaginative and critical inquiry to explore planting schemes in the field and during the planning stages using criteria of sound horticulture and aesthetics.
  3. Prepare professional level planting plans and schedules, estimating quantity and sizes of plants required.
  4. Demonstrate appropriate techniques and technologies to present and deliver oral presentations to clients.
  5. Demonstrate skills and knowledge associated with the responsible stewardship sustainability of the managed landscape through planting design.

HORT 264: CADD for Landscape

Credits: 3.0

Introduction to computer-aided drafting using professional CADD software as a tool for landscape design. Navigate CADD to generate base and planting plans, import and export to AutoCAD, and utilize a labeling program that provides plant lists and bid packages. Recommend placement in AENGL 93 or ENGLP 93 and MATH 87 as well as completion of HORT 262 or equivalent. Students should have basic proficiency in navigating a MS Windows 7/8.1/10 environment.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Develop residential landscape plans in a CADD 2-D drawing program.
  2. Evaluate and apply information from a landscape plan to develop cost estimates using commercial software.
  3. Utilize plan, elevation and section drawings completed in CADD as communication, marketing and sales tools.

HORT 270: Restorative Design Solutions

Credits: 3.0

Pragmatic approach to site design emphasizing restorative approaches to a variety of disturbed landscapes. Students will complete site analysis, program development, planting plans and plant schedules for a site. Recommend completion of HORT 106, HORT 107, HORT 108 and HORT 207.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify and analyze site conditions that influence hydrology and plant communities.
  2. Develop planting plans and schedules that restore wildlife habitat, reduce surface runoff and improve water quality.
  3. Describe and illustrate the restoration principles for successful site design.
  4. Define and describe the goals of low-impact development.

HORT 272: Aquaponic Systems and Food Production

Credits: 4.0

Introduction to aquaponic systems: the integrated cultivation of food plant hydroponics and aquatic animal aquaculture in a symbiotic environment for urban and small farm agriculture. Students practice techniques at a local farm. Field trips are an integral part of this course. Be prepared to arrive and depart from sites on your own.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe specific aquaponic and hydroponic systems, compare the trade offs between these systems and soil based agriculture, and examine their relative contribution to food security.
  2. Design aquaponic system conceptual models, and construct structures when applicable while maintaining the functional components of a working system.
  3. Select, propagate, and manage the cultural requirements of aquaponic system food plants and aquatic animals, and harvest products for four season production.
  4. Identify and analyze the limiting factors to aquaponic system crop growth, such as water quality and nutrient cycling, and modify the system to optimize efficiency.
  5. Explain how aquaponic system structures, products, by-products, and energy requirements can be integrated into a whole farm management plan and business plan.

HORT 275: Garden Structures

Credits: 3.0

A survey of various types of garden structures from pergolas and trellises to fences and gates including their components and assembly techniques. Introduces basic construction techniques and construction details for these structures. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own. Recommend placement into MATH 47.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify and describe common garden structures by purpose, style, and building materials.
  2. Identify and describe common construction methods and details for garden structures.
  3. Identify and describe basic building materials including fasteners and other hardware.

HORT 276: Hardscapes: Brick, Concrete and Stone

Credits: 3.0

A survey of garden walkways, patios, and retaining walls including an analysis of common hardscape materials such as brick, concrete, and stone and the construction techniques used with these materials. Be prepared to arrive and depart from field trip sites on your own. Recommend placement into MATH 47.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify and describe common garden hardscape features and their iconic details.
  2. Identify and describe hardscape construction techniques applied to concrete, pavers, and stone.
  3. Describe the construction assets and liabilities of various hardscape materials.

HORT 278: Landscape Construction Design

Credits: 4.0

Covers the preparation of landscape construction drawings including layout, grading, and construction details. Basic drafting conventions and techniques are also taught and practiced. Recommend placement in MATH 47.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Analyze data to solve grading and slope calculations.
  2. Use plane geometry to develop site layout plans.
  3. Describe and discuss results of analytical processes for suitability of construction materials and techniques through appropriate graphic and written modes.
  4. Apply appropriate tools, techniques, and technology to facilitate sustainable practices in landscape design and installation.

HORT 280: Weed Identification and Management

Credits: 3.0

Learn to recognize weed and invasive plants and their weak points to better manage them in landscapes, nurseries, and chemical and nonchemical programs. Recommend placement into MATH 47 and completion of HORT 110.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Analyze, synthesize and integrate information about a variety of weedy plants and control options to develop weed management plans (including weed identification, control choices, and costs) for specific site situations.
  2. Work effectively in groups to evaluate a variety of sites, identify common weeds, and recommend appropriate control options (including cultural, mechanical, biological and chemical).
  3. Apply appropriate tools, techniques and technology to facilitate selection of the least toxic and most sustainable methods of weed control for a variety of landscape, nursery and natural area weed situations.

HORT 284: Irrigation Design

Credits: 5.0

Wise use of water from proper system design and installation through maintenance and management. Learn the most effective way to water a landscape including head spacing, hydraulics, installation and controller scheduling. Efficient water use stressed.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Define and describe sprinkler components and their functions (including the multiple styles used today) and their general location.
  2. Design a basic irrigation system utilizing appropriate sprinkler heads, nozzles, valves and pipes.
  3. Program and troubleshoot sprinkler controllers for sustainably managed landscapes.
  4. Describe basic sprinkler system maintenance and repair procedures.
  5. Draft, to scale, a basic irrigation system.

HORT 287: Low Volume Irrigation

Credits: 2.0

Interpret, assemble, and design low-volume irrigation, including drip systems, in context with landscape design/existing gardens as a designer, installer, and maintenance professional. Recommend placement into MATH 47.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify and describe the material and tools used in the installation of low-volume irrigation systems.
  2. Identify the various kinds of low-volume irrigation systems and contrast their applications.
  3. Demonstrate installation of a complete low-volume system.

HORT 291: Internship In Horticulture

Credits: 1.0 to 4.0

Practical work experience at horticultural enterprises, including nurseries and farms, garden centers and food hubs, public gardens and parks, and restoration organizations and consultancies, that applies and builds upon the knowledge and skills derived from program coursework. Students establish learning objectives and outcomes with the internship providers. S/U grade option. Permit code required. Should be taken within last two quarters of program. Registration permitted first seven weeks (six in summer) as space is available.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Select a horticulture internship in greenhouse and nursery operations, landscape and restoration horticulture, or urban agriculture.
  2. Identify, complete, and evaluate internship learning objectives mutually agreed upon by the intern and internship provider.
  3. Demonstrate knowledge and skills acquired and practiced during the internship.

HORT 294: Research in Sustainable Horticulture

Credits: 1.0 to 2.0

Independent study and research on a topic related to sustainable horticulture, with guidance provided by a research mentor. An introduction to the scientific method, critical thinking, and technical communication for self motivated learners. Should be taken within last two quarters of program. Permit code required. Registration permitted first seven weeks (six in summer) as space is available.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Use online databases to identify, evaluate, and synthesize scientific literature related to a sustainable agriculture research topic, resulting in a properly cited literature review and bibliography.
  2. Formulate a sustainable agriculture hypothesis, as well as design and conduct an experiment to test the hypothesis.
  3. Interpret and illustrate the results of a sustainable agriculture research project, using technical writing and graphical representations, and effectively report the results in the form of a scientific poster, verbal presentation, or research paper.

HORT 295: Final Project In Horticulture

Credits: 1.0

The second year project is oriented toward career goals using training and experience in a practical demonstration of competency. The project should be taken during the last quarter of your program and arranged with your advisor. S/U grade option. Permit code required. Registration permitted first seven weeks (six in summer) as space is available.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate their ability to apply training and problem-solving techniques to realistic situations in design, landscaping or maintenance projects.
  2. Provide evidence of skills in order to convince future clients of abilities and experience.

HORT 296: Greenhouse/Nursery Practicum I

Credits: 3.0

The summary course for second year nursery/greenhouse students involving the production of crops. HORT 297 should follow. S/U grade option. Three additional lab hours per week to be arranged.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Create a crop production plan.
  2. Propagate and produce crops for sale.
  3. Document crop production activities in a comprehensive record.

HORT 297: Greenhouse/Nursery Practicum II

Credits: 3.0

Continuation of HORT 296 focusing on the continued production and growth of greenhouse and/or nursery crops. Three additional lab hours per week to be arranged. S/U grade option. Recommend completion of HORT 296.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Create a crop production plan.
  2. Propagate and produce crops for sale.
  3. Document crop production activities in a comprehensive record.

HORT 298: Individual Project in Horticulture

Credits: 1.0 to 5.0

Study of student-selected project or approved experience in the field of horticulture. S/U grade option. Registration permitted first seven weeks as space is available (six in summer).

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate learning objectives as determined by the supervising instructor.
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