The Division for External Studies of the Hebrew University s Faculty of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Quality Sciences was established in 1986. One of its aims is to expose academic graduates from abroad to post-graduate programs of special interest, which will give them insight into the achievements and research of the Faculty, and promote international cooperation in these fields. The Institute of Plant Sciences in Agriculture Within the teaching program, courses are taught in plant propogation, citriculture, pomology, viticulture, subtropical fruit culture, ornamental horticulture, landscape gardening, flower production and flowering control. Researchers are constantly confronting the challenges of subtropical and tropical crop maintenance. Current horticultural research includes investigations into new growing techniques and improvement of crops, the use of plant hormones to control flowering and yields, forestry and nursery management.
Researchers are in close contact with farmers in the field, many of whom are former students.
Two-way feedback makes their research responsive to real needs, and brings the results of this research into immediate application. Visiting and extension students receive the full benefit of this direct interaction with agricultural activity throughout the country. The weather in Israel during the fall and winter months is varied. There may be some balmy days where light clothing is appropriate. However, there will certainly be cold and rainy days where sweaters, coats and umbrellas are needed.