An introduction to the looming world food crisis and the scientific basis governing our ability to sustainably meet it. The course explores the biological and environmental constraints on food production, the ways that agricultural science has dealt with these in the past and possible ways for the future, as well as societal and cultural issues, such as population growth, human health, education, and food definitions, that also impact food security. Intended for any student interested in these topics. Students may not receive credit for both this course and PLS 103.

This course is intended to provide a basic understanding of the natural products and processes that shape the nature of modern plants, and govern their interactions with the environment and other living organisms. We shall focus on the structural and biochemical characteristics unique to plants, and develop a basic understanding of how these plant attributes relate to organismic function. Emphasis will be placed on exploring the nature of the major plant biomes of the Earth, their community dynamics, and how member plants compete for space and other resources.

An introduction to the techniques used for plant identification based on over one hundred plants encountered in daily life. Laboratory, two hours; lecture, two hours per week.

An introduction to the techniques used for plant identification based on over one hundred plants encountered in daily life. Laboratory, two hours; lecture, two hours per week.

An introduction to the techniques used for plant identification based on over one hundred plants encountered in daily life. Laboratory, two hours; lecture, two hours per week.

The students in this class will be introduced to design theory and basic techniques of floral design. The basic mechanics necessary to follow the principles of floral design will be stressed. Students will also be exposed to the business basics that are necessary to execute a floral design, as well as the global nature of the floral design industry.

The students in this class will be introduced to design theory and basic techniques of floral design. The basic mechanics necessary to follow the principles of floral design will be stressed. Students will also be exposed to the business basics that are necessary to execute a floral design, as well as the global nature of the floral design industry.

Study of the physical, chemical and biological properties of soils and how these properties relate to plant nutrient availability and plant growth, land- use planning and management issues, and soil and water quality issues. Lecture, three hours; laboratory, three hours.

Study of the physical, chemical and biological properties of soils and how these properties relate to plant nutrient availability and plant growth, land- use planning and management issues, and soil and water quality issues. Lecture, three hours; laboratory, three hours.

Study of the physical, chemical and biological properties of soils and how these properties relate to plant nutrient availability and plant growth, land- use planning and management issues, and soil and water quality issues. Lecture, three hours; laboratory, three hours.