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. Fields trips may be required.
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 and Enology
3 Units
Prerequisite: None.
Advisory: HORT 300 or PLTS 300
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
The course is an introduction to viticulture and enology practices and will explore the history, principles, and practices of wine grape production and an introduction to enology. Additional topics will cover the history of wine grapes, the current status of wine grape industry, and the classification of wine grapes. The basic principles of vineyard establishment and management will be covered as well as the basic principles of enology. Field trips may be required.
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 or HORT 300, PLTS 310 or HORT 302, PLTS 332 or HORT 303
Course Transferable to CSU
Hours: 36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
This course covers the techniques of chemical pesticide application and the safe and effective use of pesticides essential for the production of food, fiber, and ornamental crops, as well as the laws, regulations, and safety requirements for individuals preparing to obtain a Qualified Applicator's Certificate (QAC) or Qualified Applicator's License (QAL) through the California Department of Pesticide Regulation. Topics include applicator and field worker safety, pesticide type, formulation, and mode of action, pesticide use, application methods and chemical placement, equipment calibration, pesticide regulation, applicator licensing and certification, pest monitoring, and accepted standards for integrated pest management. Environmental concerns regarding pesticide residue, pesticide resistance, surface and groundwater contamination, and other exposures will be covered. Field trips may be required.
PLTS 336
Weeds and Weed Management
3 Units
Prerequisite: None.
Advisory: PLTS 300 or HORT 300, PLTS 310 or HORT 302, PLTS 332 or HORT 303
Course Transferable to CSU
Hours: 36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
This course provides an introduction to weeds and the management of weed species in agricultural, horticultural, and specialty environments. Topics include weed life cycle and growth habit, weed identification, and an exploration of the ecology of weeds in natural and managed ecosystems. This course will focus on the practical aspects of weed management, including mechanical, biological and chemical approaches. The efficacy and modes of action of the major groups of herbicides are covered, along with discussions concerning herbicide resistance in crops and weeds and the environmental issues surrounding the use of herbicides. Students will gain experience in weed identification, herbicide selection and use, and practical weed management through hands-on laboratory activities and exercises. Field trips may be required.
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