HPC-20306 Principles of Horticulture

Vak

Studiepunten 6.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

Basic Plant Physiology, Environmental Physiology, and Environmental Physics (for example energy properties of electromagnetic radiation, the Calvin cycle and photorespiration, cell water relationships, basic plant anatomy)

Continuation courses:

MSc spec. Greenhouse Horticulture in MPS-Plant Sciences

Contents:

The course comprises advanced plant physiology and developmental biology described in relation to the production of plants, cut flowers, fruits, etc under protected cultivation. The physiological content emphasises plant responses to the environment, such as photosynthesis, temperature stress, water relations etc. The developmental content deals with plant propagation techniques, flower induction and development, plant morphological control etc.

Aims:

At the end of the course the students should have gained an understanding of the physiological principles underlying glasshouse crop production and planning. This is intended to permit the students not only to understand existing production practices, but also to enable them to modify these practices, or devise new ones, in response to changing circumstances (eg new crops, environmental legislation, consumer demands etc).

Activities:

- lectures;
- self study;
- practicals;
- written assignment
- excursion.

Examination:

- 15% of final mark is derived from the mark of the practical reports;
- 75% of final mark is obtained from a written examination;
- 10% of final mark is derived from the mark of the assignment.

Literature:

Atwell (ed.) 2001, Plants in Action, MacMillan Publ. Australia.