HORTICULTURE AND LANDSCAPING

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

The Landscaping and Horticulture Career Tech program is a comprehensive, two-year course designed for 11th and 12th-grade students interested in pursuing a career in the green industry. This program provides a well-rounded education, blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience to prepare students for various career paths in landscaping and horticulture.

COURSES OFFERED:

Plant and Horticultural Science 

This first course in the pathway focuses on the knowledge and skills required to research, develop, produce and market agricultural, horticultural, and native plants and plant products. Students will apply principles of plant physiology and anatomy, plant protection and health, reproductive biology in plants, plant nutrition and disorders to the management of soils and plants. Throughout the course, students will learn communication, leadership, and business management skills reflective of the industry.

Landscape Systems Management 

Students will learn methods for establishing and managing landscapes to promote growth and balance. The classification and care of woody and herbaceous landscape plants will be learned. Students will learn to optimize growing conditions, balance nutrients, and manage pests and disease. They will apply proper planting, fertilizing, and pruning techniques while safely operating well maintained specialized equipment. Throughout the course, students will assess implications of landscape installation on the environment, and employ communication, business, and management strategies.

Landscape Design 

Students will learn skills in creating blueprints, estimates and landscaping designs. Topics include basic principles of design, engineering, drawing and drafting techniques including the use of technology such as computer-aided design. Students will incorporate principles of hardscapes and examine the use of artificial lighting, water systems, and creative features in their designs. Throughout the course, business management practices, employability skills, and safety procedures will also be emphasized. 

Landscape Hardscape 

Students will learn skills in constructing and installing hardscape features in a landscape. Topics include basic principles of building and implementing designs drawn and drafted from computer-aided designs and blueprints. Students will install artificial lighting, water systems, decks and creative concrete features on job sites. Throughout the course, business management practices, employability skills, and safety procedures will also be emphasized.