Crop Science II

In this advanced course on crop science, older students are coached in agricultural leadership from an experienced instructor, the knowledge and experience of which they transmit to younger peers in a daily practical setting. Some of these basic principles include planting, transplanting, harvesting, and propagating. Students continue examining the conditions for successful plant growth as well as diagnosing stunted or malformed plants, and then working effectively with the instructor to apply the appropriate remedy. Students also continue studying the different components of soil, describing the factors that influence soil formation and examining those different soils in a lab setting. Following this examination of soil properties, students continue to implement organic and sustainable soil amendments, such as liquid spray, on multiple areas around campus, including the garden, orchard, and campus greenery. Students will expand their knowledge and practice of plant propagation from seeds, cuttings, and division of roots. Students will engage in best practices for seed saving projects. Students will also expand their knowledge and practices of integrated pest management, devising creative methods to prevent pest invasion of plants. Finally, students will execute successful long-term crop management practices that will benefit harvest sales and local marketing.