Overview

Horticulture is plant science that includes the study of plant growth and plant interactions with the environment (soil, air, water) to improve human life through the cultivation of crops and the maintenance of a sustainable environment. Horticulture is unique as a scientific field of study in that it often utilizes artistic expression to aid the design of human landscapes and to restore natural environments. At its core it is an environmental science that recognizes that humans are dependent on their environment for sustenance and well-being that has developed as a field of study that recognizes humans are philosophically and artistically linked to nature through millions of years of human evolution.

Virginia Tech's Department of Horticulture offers graduate and undergraduate degrees in a range of applied and basic environmental plant science topics, from plant-soil interactions, biotechnology, landscape design, sustainable urban landscaping, urban forestry, crop production, and plant breeding. Our department is committed to engaging students in service and learning projects in the local community. To read more about our Engaged Department Award, http://www.hort.vt.edu/newsCSECP.html.

Landscape Contracting Major

Students learn to design, build, and manage beautiful and functional landscapes using science-based practices that improve the living environment and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Degree Requirements

The graduation requirements in effect at the time of graduation apply. When choosing the degree requirements information, always choose the year of your expected date of graduation. Requirements for graduation are referred to via university publications as "Checksheets". The number of credit hours required for degree completion varies among curricula. Students must satisfactorily complete all requirements and university obligations for degree completion.

The university reserves the right to modify requirements in a degree program. However, the university will not alter degree requirements less than two years from the expected graduation year unless there is a transition plan for students already in the degree program.

Please visit the University Registrar website at http://registrar.vt.edu/graduation-multi-brief/index1.html for degree requirements.

Environmental Horticulture Major

Experience the creativity and rewards of the many facets of horticulture. Students can specialize in producing floriculture and nursery plants, growing sustainable fruits and vegetables, landscape design and management, and other areas of plant science.

Degree Requirements

The graduation requirements in effect at the time of graduation apply. When choosing the degree requirements information, always choose the year of your expected date of graduation. Requirements for graduation are referred to via university publications as "Checksheets". The number of credit hours required for degree completion varies among curricula. Students must satisfactorily complete all requirements and university obligations for degree completion.

The university reserves the right to modify requirements in a degree program. However, the university will not alter degree requirements less than two years from the expected graduation year unless there is a transition plan for students already in the degree program.

Please visit the University Registrar website at http://registrar.vt.edu/graduation-multi-brief/index1.html for degree requirements.

Satisfactory Progress

By the end of the academic year in which the student has attempted 72 hours (including transfer, advanced placement, advanced standing and credit by exam), "satisfactory progress" toward the B.S. degree will include the following minimum criteria:

• having a grade point average of 2.0, overall and in-major
• passing at least 24 semester credits that apply to the Curriculum for Liberal Education
• passing the following:
• MATH 1014 and 1025
• CHEM 1035 and 1036
• HORT 2224, 2234 or 2244
• 6 credits additional HORT courses
• 6 credits from CSES 3114 or 3134, ENT 4254, PPWS 4104

Undergraduate Course Descriptions (HORT)

2134 (FREC 2134): PLANTS AND GREENSPACES IN URBAN COMMUNITIES
Modern concepts of sustainability changing plant use in urban settings. Fundamentals of urban plant systems in the context of urban ecosystem management. Philosophy and critical analysis of sustainability related to green infrastructure, including urban forests, green roofs, urban soils, urban wildlife, urban agriculture, and innovations merging plant and ecosystem functions with building and site engineering. Multi-disciplinary emphasis at site, regional, and global, scales. (3H,3C)

2144: INDOOR PLANTS
Basic horticultural principles, identification and cultural criteria applicable to foliage and flowering plants grown indoors. Specific plant groups discussed include ferns, cacti and succulents, and carnivorous plants, among many others. Non-majors only. (3H,3C)

2154 (SPAN 2154): SPANISH FOR THE GREEN INDUSTRY
Dialogue-based language course focusing on the vocabulary and grammatical structures pertaining to Green and Agricultural Industry jobs. Includes vocabulary and context specific to jobs and workers in greenhouse, nursery, turf and landscape environments. Spanish culture is included throughout the course along with grammar and structure. Prior study in Spanish is helpful but not required. I, II. (3H,3C)

2164: FLORAL DESIGN
Principles and methods in floral art through designs for home and public environments. (2H,3L,3C)

2184: PLANTS, PLACES, AND CULTURES IN A GLOBAL CONTEXT
Impact of worldwide production and trade in fruits, vegetables, and cut flowers (horticultural commodities) on societies, cultures, economies, politics, and environment. Case studies covering history, economics, social/cultural impacts of producing fruit, vegetables, tea, coffee, and other horticultural crops in producing and consuming countries. Case studies illustrate inextricable interactions and interconnectedness between horticultural crops and cultures. (3H,3C)

2224: HORTICULTURE SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY
Survey course of horticultural crops (fruits, vegetables, ornamentals) and enterprises. Includes plant science and business aspects of horticultural production and service industries, and introduces related issues and emerging technologies such as work force characteristics, organic production, and biotechnology. I. (2H,2C)

2234: ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS IN HORTICULTURE
Principles and practices in managing environmental factors - temperature, water, light, atmospheric gases and pollutants, and soil and minerals - that influence growth and production of horticultural plants. (3H,3C)

2244: PLANT PROPAGATION
Principles and practices of plant propagation by sexual and asexual methods. (2H,2L,3C)

2304 (BIOL 2304): PLANT BIOLOGY
Introductory botany. Form, growth, function, reproduction, and ecological adaptations of major groups of plants. Pre: BIOL 1105, BIOL 1106. (3H,3C)

2554 (FREC 2254): ARBORICULTURE FIELD SKILLS
Field observation, discussion, and practice of skills employed in the management of urban landscape trees. Hands-on experience with tree pruning, removal, pest control, fertilization, cabling/bracing, lightning protection, and climbing. Emphasis on arborist safety, professional ethics, and best management practices. Guest instruction provided in part by professionals working in the tree care industry. Pass/Fail only. (3L,1C)

2834: SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE PRACTICUM
Hands-on training in sustainable agricultural production at a student-operated vegetable and fruit farm. Participation in tasks required in managing a diversified sustainable horticulture operation, including planting, pest management, irrigation, and post-harvest handling. Discussion of soil fertility, planning, efficiency, food safety and community food systems. May be repeated with different content, for a maximum of 6 credits. (1H,6L,3C)

2964: FIELD STUDY
Variable credit course.

2974: INDEPENDENT STUDY
Variable credit course.

2984: SPECIAL STUDY
Variable credit course.

3114 (FST 3114): WINES AND VINES
Development of a working knowledge of world wine styles, wine appreciation, and sensory evaluation of wine. Emphasis on the influences of grape growing and winemaking practices on wine quality, style, economic value, and significance in global food culture. Pre: Must be at least 21 years of age. (3H,3C)

3325-3326: WOODY LANDSCAPE PLANTS
Functions, growing requirements, hardiness, problems, and methods of identification of landscape plant materials. 3325: Commonly available woody landscape plants. 3326: Native and rare woody landscape plants. (2H,3L,3C)

3345,3346: HERBACEOUS LANDSCAPE PLANTS
Identification, growing requirements, culture, landscape use, flowering and dormancy physiology, and unique propagation of native and non-native herbaceous plants for temperate environments. 3345: Summer and fall-flowering ornamental annuals and perennials; cultivated wildflower, wetland, and aquatic systems. 3346: Winter and spring-flowering species and related herbaceous foliage plants. Junior standing required. Pre: 2244. (1H,3L,2C)

3354 (FREC 3354): URBAN FORESTRY AND ARBORICULTURE
Science and practice of tree cultivation, conservation, and management in human-dominated environments along an urban to rural gradient. Holistic study of landscape tree management: planning, planting, inspection, maintenance, removal, and wood waste utilization. Examination of tree responses to urbanization and tree influences on built environments. Emphasis on sustainable, ethical stewardship of landscape trees for the benefit of people and the environment. Pre: (FOR 2314 or FREC 2314 or BIOL 2304 or HORT 2304), (FOR 2324 or FREC 2324 or HORT 3325 or HORT 3326). (3H,3C)

3444 (CSES 3444): WORLD CROPS AND SYSTEMS
An introduction to world crops, their primary regions of production, the factors that determine where they are grown, and their economic importance, and how they are used in the human diet. Describes the various factors that can be managed to improve crop yields. Examines present and potential systems of farming for improved crop production in the major climatic and soil ecosystems of the world. Provides an opportunity to taste foods made in traditional and non-traditional ways from the crops hence from field to fork. Junior standing required. (2H,3L,3C)

3454: HERBACEOUS PLANTS FOR ECOLOGICAL LANDSCAPES
Plant selection to provide ecosystem services. Site analysis, design, preparation, planting and maintenance strategies specific to cold-hardy herbaceous plants including native and non-native perennials, and ornamental grasses. Philosophy, historical perspective, and case studies of ecological planting designs. Pre: 2234 or BIOL 1105. (3H,3C)

3544: LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION
Survey of landscape construction materials and methods. Concentration on small scale and residential applications, innovative uses, and cost estimates. (1H,3L,2C)

3584: LANDSCAPE CONTRACTING PRACTICUM
The development of practical skills in landscape contracting. The course will rotate between design and installation of water gardens, landscape irrigation systems, landscape lighting or other pertinent topics on consecutive years. The course can be repeated for exposure to specific subjects to maximum of 3 credits. Junior standing required. Pass/Fail only. Pre: 2224, 2234. (3L,1C)

3664: HARDSCAPE MATERIALS AND INSTALLATION
Non-plant portions of landscape construction such as rock walls, paver floors, arbors, and water gardens. The course covers the materials, construction methods, and business aspects required for hardscape construction. Pre: 2224. (6L,2C)

4004: HORTICULTURE SEMINAR
Assessment of fundamental horticultural skills developed through academics and employment. Includes career placement preparation and problem solving through research and production project design and implementation using a team approach. Junior standing required. (1H,1C)

4064: SOIL MICROBIOLOGY
Soil microbes as determinants of plant growth, sustainable agricultural systems, and global nutrient cycles. Environmental controls of soil microbes and relationship to soil decomposition. Soil as a micro-habitat. Application to soil management and plant growth, plant-microbe mutualisms, probiotics, biocontrol, composting, ecosystem restoration, and disease suppression. Pre: BIOL 1105, (CSES 3114 or ENSC 3114 or GEOS 3614 or CSES 3134 or ENSC 3134). (3H,3C)

4205,4206: PUBLIC GARDENS MAINTENANCE AND MANAGEMENT
4205: Principles and practices of winter annuals and spring blooming bulb production and installation; water garden cultivation and systems maintenance; fall fertilization programming; vegetative waste management; information dissemination and communication methods for public outreach including education, interpretive programs, and fundraising. 4206: Principles and practices of pruning, summer annual production; soil amendment and protection; plant collections/accessions curation and database management; personnel and financial management issues unique to public gardens. Pre: Junior standing required. Pre: (3325, 3326, 3345), (3346 or 3644). (3L,1C)

4324: GREENHOUSE MANAGEMENT
For persons who intend to manage or advise those managing commercial or institutional greenhouses. Includes greenhouse construction, environmenal controls, disease/insect identification and management, control of plant growth, root-zone management, and marketing and management principles specific to greenhouse operations. Pre: Coursework or experience in plant growth and environmental management required. (3H,3C)

4504: LANDSCAPE CONTRACTING
Capstone course for students entering the landscape contracting industry. Includes contracts, site plan interpretation, cost estimation and bidding, project sequencing, business marketing, irrigation design, and current issues. Emphasis on real-world skills and problem solving. Pre: Senior Standing Required. Pre: 3264, 4004. (1H,3L,2C)

4545-4546: SMALL SCALE AND RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE DESIGN
Development of graphic skills with concentration on a variety of media and techniques. Basic theory and principles on design of small scale and residential landscapes with emphasis on spatial composition, user needs, ecology, and uses of plant materials and light construction. Pre: 3325, 3544 for 4545; 3325, 3544, 4545, 4545 for 4546. (2H,6L,4C)

4614: ORNAMENTAL PLANT PRODUCTION AND MARKETING
In-depth production and marketing of woody and herbaceous plants in wholesale nursery and floriculture/greenhouse and related retail outlets. Includes production laboratory. Pre: 2234, 2244, 4324, AAEC 2434. (2H,3L,3C)

4644: SMALL FRUIT PRODUCTION
Propagation, production, and marketing of small fruit crops for the mid-Atlantic region. Emphasis on sustainable practices, market sectors, and health and nutritional benefits. Blueberries, strawberries, brambles and other crops. Pre: 2234, 2244, AAEC 2434. (3H,3C)

4654: VITICULTURE
Overview of grapevine growth and development, factors affecting yield and grape quality, and regional industry. Vineyard financial considerations, site evaluation, varietal characteristics plus cultural practices of pruning, training, canopy management, fertilization and pest management. Pre: 2234. (3H,3C)

4744: PLANT ESTABLISHMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN
Plant establishment and environmental design process for sustainable landscapes emphasizing the relationship between design of human-constructed landscapes and ecosystems at larger scales. Site assessment, urban soils, site rehabilitation, plant response to disturbed environments, green infrastructure and other contemporary landscape forms. Plant selection, sourcing, and installation to achieve environmental design goals. Emphasis on hands-on, experiential learning to achieve sustainable landscapes. Pre: Senior Standing. Pre: 2134 or FREC 2134 or CSES 3134 or ENSC 3134 or CSES 3114 or ENSC 3114 or GEOS 36 14 or LAR 1254. (2H,3L,3C)

4764: VEGETABLE CROPS
A comprehensive study of major and minor vegetable crops of Virginia, the U.S., and world in relation to production practices, crop development, nutritional value, and quality characteristics. Pre: 2234. (3H,3C)

4784: VEGETABLE SEED PRODUCTION
The study of production agriculture or reproductive biology. Seed production, handling, identification, conditioning, enhancement, packaging, storage, testing, federal standards, and biotechnology. Pre: 4764 or 2244 or equivalent experience in vegetable crops, plant propagation, or plant growth and development. Pre: 4764 or 2244. (2H,2C)

4794: MEDICINAL PLANTS AND HERBS
Comprehensive study of medicinal plants/herbs history, production, processing, lore and documented scientific benefits. Traditional plant medicinal practices of Native Americans, Chinese, Indians, European and African cultures will be contrasted with use of contemporary herbal products. Pre: BIOL 1005 or BIOL 1105. (3H,3C)

4835-4836: ORGANIC VEGETABLE PRODUCTION
Detailed practices in organic vegetable production. Issues in starting organic production, profitability, organic transition strategies and organic certification. Pre: 2254, ALS 3404 for 4835; 4835 for 4836. (2H,2C)

4845-4846: ORGANIC VEGETABLE PRODUCTION LABORATORY
Field experiences, demonstrations, and farm tours complementing 4835 and 4836 lectures. Co: 4835 for 4845; 4836 for 4846. (3L,1C)

4964: FIELD STUDY
Variable credit course.

4974: INDEPENDENT STUDY
Variable credit course.

4984: SPECIAL STUDY
Variable credit course.

4994: UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH
Variable credit course.