Students gain hands-on experience in growing plants in the department's greenhouses. Fruit Production focuses on the commercial production of apples, with stone fruits, small fruits, and berries also studied. Our orchard serves as a living laboratory where students learn pruning, variety identification, and general management practices. Our faculty have a history of leadership in pomological studies of growth regulators in fruit production and in controlled-atmosphere storage of fruit. Ornamental Horticulture prepares students for careers in the production and care of landscape plants.
Students study woody plant production, tree and shrub identification, and plant propagation.
Cultural practices and environmental effects on woody plant growth and health are also covered in detail. Career opportunities in landscape plant production, planting, and maintenance have grown in recent years as land development has made us recognize the importance of urban forestry and landscaping for our health and enjoyment in an increasingly urbanized society. Soil Science examines the role of soil in the environment, focusing on physical, biological, chemical, and morphological properties. Courses focus on the need for productive soils in plant growth, prevention of soil degradation, bioremediation, pollution transport processes, waste treatment, wetland issues, and control of water pollution by soilborne contaminants. With an emphasis on protecting valuable resources, students study soil chemistry, plant nutrition, soil physics, soil microbiology, soil and water conservation, soil classification, and the interaction of these areas while emphasizing the protection of our valuable resources.