Plant Science Course Descriptions
PLTS 299
Experimental Offering in Plant Science
.5-4 Units
Prerequisite: None
Hours: 18 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
PLTS 300
Introduction to Plant Science
3 Units
Prerequisite: None
General Education: AA/AS Area IV
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
This course is designed to provide the students with a working knowledge of the fundamental structures and processes of plants. Principles to be applied cover plant structures, physiology, heredity, environmental relationship to growth, adaptation, and management of crops. Techniques of research, exploration of plant growth, and identification of economical crops will be included.
PLTS 310
Soils, Soil Management, and Plant Nutrition
3 Units
Same As: HORT 302
Prerequisite: HORT 300 or PLTS 300 with a grade of "C" or better
General Education: AA/AS Area IV
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
This course provides a basic knowledge of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils. The course includes factors of: fundamental soil properties, soil and plant relationships, principles of soil formation, fertilizers and soil management, salinity, pH, erosion management, and non-agricultural uses. Field trips may be required. This course is the same as Hort 302, and only one may be taken for credit. See Cross-Listed Courses in the catalog.
PLTS 320
Viticulture (Grape and Wine Production)
3 Units
Prerequisite: None
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Production of grapes, current status of grape and wine industry; classification of grapes and wines, history and development of wine industry. Principles and practices of vineyard selection, development, establishment and other cultural practices, including training and pruning. Principles of vine physiology and morphology as related to responses of cultural practices. Wine quality will also be explored. Vineyard management, health and economics will be included. Technological study of winery equipment, location, and operation; techniques in analyzing and evaluating grapes and wine will be made.
PLTS 332
Integrated Pest Management
3 Units
Same As: HORT 303
Prerequisite: HORT 300 or PLTS 300 with a grade of "C" or better
Course Transferable to CSU
Hours: 36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
This course is a study of local plant pests including weeds, diseases, invertebrates, and vertebrates. It includes recognition of symptoms and causes, life cycle of the pests, host and habitat relationships, and the integrated pest management strategies and best management practices to achieve control. Field trips may be required. This course is the same as HORT 303, and only one may be taken for credit. See Cross-Listed Courses in the catalog.
PLTS 334
Agriculture Chemicals/Safety and Calibration
3 Units
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: PLTS 300.
Course Transferable to CSU
Hours: 36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
The purpose of this study is to train individuals in techniques of chemical application, and to provide for the proper, safe, and efficient use of pesticides essential for production of food and fiber and for the protection of public health and environment, pesticide clarification, laws and regulations, foundations, calibration of an types of equipment for ground application and effective pesticide placement. A must for students preparing for state licensing as a pest control applicator.
PLTS 336
Weeds and Weed Control
3 Units
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: PLTS 300.
Course Transferable to CSU
Hours: 36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
This course deals with the identification, life histories, and control of common, noxious and poisonous California weeds. The study will emphasize areas not included in the licensing procedures of agriculture pest control advisors and applicators. Fundamentals of chemical, biological, and physical control of weeds will be discussed.
PLTS 495
Independent Studies in Plant Science
1-3 Units
Prerequisite: None.
Course Transferable to CSU
See UC Limitations & Counselor
Hours: 54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
An independent studies project involves an individual student or small group of students in study, research, or activities beyond the scope of regularly offered courses. See the current catalog section of "Special Studies" for full details of Independent Studies.
PLTS 498
Work Experience in Plant Science
1-4 Units
Prerequisite: None.
Course Transferable to CSU
Hours: 18 hours LEC; 300 hours LAB
Provides students with the opportunities to develop or add marketable skills related to their vocational study programs.
PLTS 499
Experimental Offering in Plant Science
.5-4 Units
Prerequisite: None
Course Transferable to CSU
See UC Limitations & Counselor
Hours: 18 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB