HOR 276 Organic Gardening

Lecture Hours: 2
Lab Hours: 2
Credits: 3

Provides the basic knowledge to care for gardens and landscapes without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Compares conventional, sustainable, organic, and permaculture gardening techniques. Emphasizes soil enrichment techniques and appropriate use of organic fertilizers. Covers organic management of garden and landscape pests. Stresses hands-on application of scientific principles to create sustainable food production systems.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Describe and compare conventional, sustainable, organic, and permaculture gardening techniques.
Recommend appropriate soil enrichment techniques and organic fertilizers for specific situations.
Discuss organic weed, insect, disease, and vertebrate pest control.
Design a garden or landscape management plan based on organic enrichment, fertilization, and pest control techniques.

Content Outline

Definitions and Certification Systems
- Sustainable
- Organic
- Biodynamic
- Permaculture
- Integrated pest management
Soil Enrichment Techniques
- Organic matter
  - Cover crops
  - Mulches
  - Compost
  - Manures
- Composting
  - Yard debris
  - Manures
  - Vermicomposting
Organic Fertilization
- Primary macronutrients
- Secondary macronutrients
- Micronutrients
- pH
Organic Pest Management
- Pests
  - Weeds
  - Insects
    - Diseases
    - Vertebrate pests
- Management techniques
  - Cultural
  - Physical
  - Biological
  - Organic chemical
Sustainable Garden Design
- Ornamental landscapes
- Edible landscapes