Courses
Spring 2025 Horticulture Courses
HORT-110: Introduction to Horticulture and Plant Science
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fascinating topic of plant science, based on regenerative practices. Starting with plant morphology, topics include physiology, propagation, growth media, biological competitors, post-harvest technology, plant breeding and cultivation of fiber, ornamental and native plants.
HORT 110-8117
HORT 110-3644
HORT-111: Plant Propagation and Production: Winter and Spring
This course introduces plant propagation and production practices for nursery operations, with an emphasis on sexual and asexual reproduction of winter and spring plants. Topics include winter and spring planting specifications, transplanting, fertilizing, plant pest and disease control; structures and site layout; preparation and use of propagating and planting mediums; use and maintenance of common tools and equipment; regulations pertaining to plant production; and new plant introductions in the nursery industry. Students will also participate in greenhouse management, scheduling of plant production, seed-starting, vegetative propagation and marketing of winter and spring containerized nursery stock.
HORT 111-8223
HORT-113: Plant Materials and Their Uses: Winter and Spring
This course introduces the identification and landscape uses and growth requirements of plants for California that are of special interest in winter or spring. Topics include native and introduced plant identification, cultural and environmental requirements, and landscape uses. Plants emphasized are selected from the current California Association of Nurseries and Garden Centers (CANGC) and Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) Certification test plant lists.
HORT 113-8114
HORT-120: Soil Science and Management
This course covers the principles of soil science and its management in horticulture. Topics include soil formation, classification, physical and chemical properties, soil fertility, soil amendments, and sustainable soil management practices. Students learn to evaluate soil conditions and apply appropriate management techniques to improve plant growth and productivity.
HORT 120-8248
HORT-121: Soil Science and Management Laboratory
This laboratory course provides hands-on experience in soil analysis, sampling techniques, and soil management practices. Students will identify soil properties, evaluate soil fertility, and implement strategies to improve soil health, including soil amendments, composting, and erosion control measures.
HORT 121-8255
HORT-168: Nursery and Greenhouse Practices: Winter/Spring
This course develops the knowledge and skills needed to work as a manager or supervisor in the wholesale and retail plant nursery industry and provides advanced training in production, staging and marketing of plants, as well as staff management and customer care in winter and spring. Topics include office practices, business operations, and management and marketing for container, hydroponic and aquaponic greenhouse systems.
HORT 168-8190
Summer 2025 Horticulture Courses
HORT-148L: California Native Plants Laboratory
This course presents a study of California plant communities and the environments that shape them. The course focuses on the dominant and typical plant constituents of each vegetation unit, emphasizing native species that are currently used in the nursery industry. The effects of habitat, soil, and climatic factors on plant species in their natural and horticultural environment will be discussed, while also exploring possibilities for integration into residential landscapes. Local field trips to select California vegetation environments will be scheduled, with destinations based on season and term.
HORT 148L-8419
HORT-160: Plant Propagation
This course will introduce students to the principles and practices of plant propagation from seed and vegetative material to marketable nursery stock. The key concepts of physiological processes, environmental requirements, and techniques required for successful plant production will be covered.
HORT 160-8075
Fall 2025 Horticulture Courses
HORT-110: Introduction to Horticulture and Plant Science
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fascinating topic of plant science, based on regenerative practices. Starting with plant morphology, topics include physiology, propagation, growth media, biological competitors, post-harvest technology, plant breeding and cultivation of fiber, ornamental and native plants.
HORT 110-8192
HORT 110-3460
HORT-112: Plant Propagation and Production: Summer and Fall
This course introduces plant propagation and production practices for nursery operations, with a focus on summer and fall plants. Topics include seasonal planting specifications; transplanting; fertilizing; seasonal plant pest and disease control; light and temperature variables; structures and site layout; preparation and use of propagating and planting mediums; use and maintenance of common tools and equipment; regulations; and new plant introductions. Students will participate in greenhouse management, scheduling of plant production and marketing of summer and fall containerized nursery stock.
HORT 112-8490
HORT-163: Nursery and Greenhouse Practices: Summer/Fall
This course develops skills needed for managers and supervisors in the wholesale and retail plant nursery industry. It covers topics such as plant production, staging, and marketing, as well as staff management and customer care during the summer and fall seasons. Additionally, it includes office practices, business operations, and management and marketing for container, hydroponics, and aquaponic greenhouse systems.
HORT 163-3810
HORT-170: Woody Plants: Identifications and Maintenance
This course covers methods of identification of woody plants, trees, and shrubs used in local landscapes. Topics include taxonomy, growth habits, management, landscape value, and biome origin for regional species. Emphasis is placed on regenerative landscaping focusing on ecologically appropriate selections.
HORT 170-8041
HORT-179: Introduction to Tree Care and Urban Forestry
This course covers urban tree management, focusing on regional, urban, and suburban trees. Topics include tree benefits, species profiles, form and ecological functions, selection, planting and establishment, nutrition, soils, pruning, worker safety, cabling, bracing, staking, watering, pest control, and the roles played in climate mitigation and regenerative horticulture. Career opportunities in the tree health care profession will be explored. Students can prepare to become Certified Arborists through the International Society of Arboriculture.
HORT 179-8044
HORT-183: Garden Design
This basic design course is intended for employees in nursery/landscape industries and homeowners. Fundamental design principles, plant selection, hydrozoning, regional hardscape materials and planting techniques will be covered. Plants for regenerative landscaping, seasonal color, energy efficiency, carbon sequestration and water usage will be introduced. Students will create a detailed design with planting specifications for a residential garden.