Horticulture

The Horticulture major is a CTE pathway from the Agricultural Education career cluster. Agricultural Education is a program for middle and high school students interested in pursuing careers in natural resources and environmental and agricultural careers. The Horticulture major teaches students about plants, plant science, and how to care for them. Students will also learn about small engine repair, soils, and how to identify and control insects. The major is a hands-on program designed for students who enjoy working with plants. The major also prepares students for careers in landscaping, pest control, landscape design, and floriculture. 

Required Courses

Agricultural Science and Technology

The Agricultural Science and Technology course teaches essential concepts and understanding related to plant and animal life including biotechnology, the conservation of natural resources, and the impact of agriculture and natural resource utilization on the environment. Emphasis is placed on the role of agriculture in our society and the importance of agriculture to the welfare of the world. Basic personal and community leadership and safety and agricultural mechanical technology are included as a part of the instructional program. Each student is required to design and participate in a supervised agricultural experience. This is a required course for this major. 

Introduction to Horticulture

The Introduction to Horticulture course is designed to be an introduction to the Horticulture pathway. It is recommended as a prerequisite for all other horticulture courses. This course includes organized subject matter and practical experiences related to the culture of plants used principally for ornamental or aesthetic purposes. Instruction emphasizes knowledge and understanding of the importance of establishing, maintaining, and managing ornamental horticulture enterprises. This is a required course for this major. 

Turf and Lawn Management

The Introduction to Horticulture course is designed to be an introduction to the Horticulture pathway. It is recommended as a prerequisite for all other horticulture courses. This course includes organized subject matter and practical experiences related to the culture of plants used principally for ornamental or aesthetic purposes. Instruction emphasizes knowledge and understanding of the importance of establishing, maintaining, and managing ornamental horticulture enterprises. This is a required course for this major. 

Agricultural Mechanics and Technology

The Agricultural Mechanics and Technology course is designed as an introductory course to the Agriculture Mechanics Career Pathway. In addition, it provides development of general mechanical skills, which are required in all areas of Agricultural Education. Typical instructional activities include hands-on experiences in woodworking, metalworking, welding, small engine repair, basic farm and homestead improvements, participating in personal and community leadership development activities, planning and implementing a relevant work-based learning transition experience, and participating in Future Farmers of America (FFA) activities. This is a required course for this major.