Introduction to insects and mites of economic importance to agriculture and human health. Introduction to the general ecology, evolution, and physiology of insects. Covers the morphology, taxonomy, life cycles, hosts, habitat relationships, and control methods of insects of economic importance. Collection, identification, and labeling of specimens will be required. Field trips required.

Design, installation and maintenance of a water-efficient landscape irrigation system. Topics include water supply, basic hydraulics, component identification and terminology, system layout, pipe sizing; types of heads, valves, controllers, and practices related to appropriate to sustainable landscapes in California. Laboratory required.

Introduction to environmental studies with a focus on sustainability. The course will concentrate on the scientific issues relating to the study of environmental science, human impact on the natural environment and the search for solutions. Topics will include human population growth, natural resource use and degradation, and sustainable solutions. Specifically, we will discuss issues centered around use and management of biodiversity, land, air, water, climate, pollution, energy sources, and waste.

Introduction to the principles of environmental horticulture with emphasis on garden practices, environment and plant growth, pruning, propagation, soils, fertilizers, and greenhouse techniques.

Principles and practices in propagating plants: cuttings, budding, grafting, layering, division, separation, and tissue culture. Seed and asexual propagation will be covered, as will contemporary commercial techniques of propagation.

Introduction to the identification, propagation, preservation, care and ornamental use of landscape and indoor plants that are native to California, or that require little water to grow (water-wise). Field-trips are required.

Management of plant materials in the greenhouse including greenhouse operations, propagation, growth and development, cultural practices, record keeping and marketing.

Elements of design, color, care and handling of floral materials. Six selected arrangements vary from fall to spring semester--projects appropriate to the florist industry. Student must provide a floral knife, wire cutter, scissors and hand towel.

Introduction to floral design including the principles and elements of design, color theory, preparation, care of flowers and foliage plants, and formation of basic floral arrangements used in industry. Includes applied art principles, cut flower care, handling practices, use of florist tools and materials, pricing of floral products, and use of current floral business technology. Construction of corsages, floral arrangements, and foliage plant items. Student must provide floral knife, wire cutter, and hand towel.