3101002 - Soils and Plant Growth
Course Description
It's important for horticulturists and gardeners to understand how soils impact plant growth.
Gain an overview of plant biology and soil science so you can better understand soil management and grow healthy plants. Learn the fundamentals of plant growth and development as well as the many different properties of soil.
A focus will be placed on the practical application of these topics to real-life horticulture scenarios and landscape design projects.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Explain how photosynthesis and respiration cycles contribute to plant growth and development.
- Describe the anatomy of a plant and explain the functions of selected plant parts.
- Explain the required nutrients for plants and recommend the best methods for fertilizing plants to promote for growth and maintenance
- Discuss the role of water in plant health and soil management
- Recall the main physical and chemical properties of soil
- Apply knowledge of soils (physical and chemical properties) and methods of soil improvement to improve plant growth
- Explain how soil properties impact site drainage
Course Topics
- Plant Structure
- Photosynthesis and Respiration
- Plant Growth
- Plant Development
- Hormones
- Reproduction
- Soil Physical Properties
- Soil Water
- Soil Life
- Soil Chemical Properties
- Plant Nutrition
- Fertility and Fertilizers
Additional Requirements
- This course is intended for adult learners who are at least 18 years of age.
- There are no prerequisites for this course.
- You can expect to spend 8 to 12 hours per week to complete the course content, readings, activities, discussions and assignments.
Soils and Plant Growth is a required course in the Horticulture Certificate/Diploma and an elective in the Landscape Design Certificate/Diploma.
Do not enrol in this course if you have successfully completed Introduction to Soils and Plant Growth (310-0004).
Assessment
| Assessment Item | Weight |
|---|---|
| Quizzes | 30% |
| Introduction | 5% |
| Article #1 | 20% |
| Article #2 | 20% |
| Discussion Topics | 10% |
| Plant Assessment | 15% |
| Total | 100% |
Please note that the course assessment is subject to change.
Applies Towards the Following Certificates
- Horticulture Certificate : Required Courses
- Horticulture Diploma : Required Courses
- Landscape Design Certificate : Choice of One
- Landscape Design Diploma : Choice of One
Technical Requirements
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*Course details are subject to change.