Courses

Mushroom Propagation (Community Education Course)

HORT-110: Introduction to Horticulture and Plant Science

4 units

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-112: Plant Propagation and Production: Summer and Fall

3 units, requires HORT-110 (may be taken concurrently) or equivalent

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-114: Plant Materials and Their Uses: Summer and Fall

3 units, requires HORT-110 (may be taken concurrently) or equivalent

This course introduces the identification and uses of common plants in the California landscape that are of special interest in the summer or fall. Topics include native and introduced plant identification, growth habits, cultural and environmental requirements, uses in the landscape. Plants emphasized will come from the current California Association of Nurseries & Garden Centers (CANGC) and Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) Certification Tests Plant Lists.

HORT-120: Soil Science and Management

3 units, requires HORT-110 or equivalent

This course introduces the science of soils and soil management. Biology, physics and chemistry are integrated with geological concepts to provide an overview of the "thin skin" of the planet. Topics covered include soil classification, genesis, geomorphology, and soil uses and functions. Soil management is also covered with topics including erosion, moisture retention, structure, carbon sequestration, cultivation, organic matter, regeneration, and microbiology. (This course includes a lab section.)

HORT-151: Controlled Environment Growing (CEG): Methods of Plant Production

3 units

This course presents the history, current state, and future of Controlled Environment Growing (CEG), also known as Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA). Topics include hydroponics, aquaponics, and aeroponic systems, as well as a review of basic plant anatomy and physiology. Emphasis is placed on cultural practices, plant protection (insects and diseases), pollination/fertilization and bee management, plant nutrition and disorders, irrigation systems and nutrient solutions, transplant production, structures, control systems and energy conservation, harvesting, grading and storage, marketing and economics of CEG systems.

HORT-163: Nursery and Greenhouse Practices: Summer/Fall

3 units

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 the production, staging and marketing of plants, staff management and customer care in summer and fall. Topics include office practices, business operations and management and marketing for container, hydroponics and aquaponic greenhouse systems.

HORT-170: Woody Plants: Identifications and Maintenance

4 units

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.