Pathway Overview
The Plant and Horticultural Sciences Pathway is a four (4) credit Pathway that encourages students to engage directly in the production of plants while developing an understanding of processes which are vital to life on Earth. Areas of focus include plant anatomy & physiology, plant propagation, integrated pest management, floral and landscape design, and greenhouse marketing and management. Students interested in Plant & Horticultural Science are typically drawn to natural settings and environments, enjoy hands on learning experiences, and are interested in science and design. Throughout the pathway, students are able to engage in real-world learning including a year-round greenhouse production program, floral design shop, as well as landscape and turf management opportunities. Internships, externships, and job shadowing are also available for students in their final year of study to enhance their learning opportunities and career/college readiness. Additionally, the development of leadership skills, responsibility, and cooperation needed to be a successful and productive citizen will be achieved through FFA Activities, Supervised Agricultural Experience Programs, and Career Development Events, following the school based agricultural education 3-component model.
Pathway Courses
AG9121
1 Credit
This course explores the plant industries and food systems of the United States in order to foster an understanding of the steps involved in growing crops for food, as well as plants for ornamental and aesthetic purposes. Students study the major characteristics of plant life, plant structures and functions, nutrient needs of plants, fundamentals of soil science, water management, cultural practices, pest management, and explore career options in the horticulture industry through classroom and laboratory instruction. Students are introduced to the foundational leadership skills, responsibility, and cooperation needed to be a successful and productive citizen through a school-based agricultural education three-component model which includes FFA activities, Supervised Agricultural Experience programs, and career and leadership development events.
AG9122
1 Credit
This course enables students to build on the knowledge and experiences gained fundamentals of plant and soil science. Students apply knowledge and concepts of plant science, soil science, water management, pest management, and various crop production characteristics through hands-on laboratory and experiential learning. PSS uses a combination of classroom and laboratory instruction that includes land labs, greenhouses, landscape beds, floral production, and hydroponics. Students develop leadership skills, increase levels of responsibility, and engage in cooperative activities through FFA activities, Supervised Agricultural Experience programs, and career and leadership development events through a school-based three-component agricultural education model.
*Prerequisite: Foundations of Plant Science
AG9123
1 Credit + 3 College Credits
This course enables students to apply principles of horticulture production and facility maintenance and design. Students learn soil conservation and land management practices, as well as concepts related to integrated pest management and how to properly use and apply pesticides, as well as principles of business management and record keeping. Students explore global economic systems, sustainability of plant life, and the multifaceted role plants play in sustaining and improving the quality of life. Students apply skills gained through Supervised Agricultural Experience programs, FFA leadership activities, and career and leadership development events to better serve the community through a school-based three-component agricultural education model.
*Prerequisite: Plant Systems Management
AG9131
1 Credit
This course applies research-based study that utilizes skills gained in the three previous levels of instruction. Students complete a comprehensive, course-long research project to further their knowledge and experience within plant science or the horticultural industry. They are expected to explore various careers within the horticultural industry and complete a minimal amount of hours of work-based experience (volunteer or paid). Students will be expected to compete in a career development event through the National FFA organization at the state level in a topic related to their completed agriscience Pathway. This is the capstone senior year course for students enrolled in the Plant and Horticultural Sciences Pathway. *Prerequisite: Plants Systems Management & Sustainability