Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences [Department of Plant Biology and Pathology]

Plant Biology & Pathology Course Synopsis

The following undergraduate courses are administered through or taught by faculty in the Deparment of Plant Biology & Pathology. For further information please contact the course instructor or the program coordinator.

Subject Areas

Available Environmental and Biological Sciences courses:

Available Ecology and Natural Resources courses:

Available Plant Science courses:

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11:015:257 Topics: Edible and Poisonous Fungi (1 credit)

Normally Offered:

Fall Semesters: Wednesday: Period 3 (55 min.)

Instructor:

Dr. James White

Dr. Gene Varney

Dr. Joan Bennett

Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

None

Format:

One weekly lecture

Description:

To become familiar with basic information about macroscopic and other fungi of economic importance. The course is designed for all majors with an emphasis on cultural impacts of fungi.

Topics

  1. Course objectives; what are fungi
  2. Mushroom
  3. How mushrooms grow and reproduce; symbiosis
  4. Mushrooms in
  5. Medicinal and food value of mushrooms
  6. Mycophagy: The cooking and eating of wild mushrooms
  7. Cultivation: Growing your own oyster mushrooms
  8. Dyeing with mushrooms
  9. Dying from mushrooms: poisonous and hallucinogenic mushrooms
  10. How to make paper from mushrooms
  11. Early history of mycology
  12. Ethnomycology
  13. Fungal secondary metabolites of primary human importance

Examinations

1 quiz and other projects

Grading

10 point scale

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11:704:411 Plant Diversity and Evolution (formerly Vascular Plant Systematics) (4 Credits)

Normally Offered:

Fall Odd-numbered years

Instructor:

Lena Struwe

Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

General Biology

Format:

two 80-minute lectures/week, one lab/week

Course Website:

eCompanion (only available to enrolled students)

Description:

An overview of the evolution and diversity of vascular plants, from ferns to conifers and flowering plants.

Topics

Field identification, plant morphology, principles of classification and taxonomy, and basic concepts in evolutionary research, nomenclature, phylogenetics, and morphological evolution, historical and contemporary botany, basic pollination, anatomy, and biodiversity of plants. Peer-review of presentations/posters. Collecting of plants for inventories or as vouchers.

Examinations

2 major exams, lab quizzes

Other requirements:

Herbarium collection project, poster/presentation project, independent essay, lab reports. All labs required. Textbook, local flora book, and supplementary reading, lectures and all course material available on-line.

Grading

  • Theory Midterm 100 points
  • Theory Final 100 points
  • Lab and Field Trip Worksheets 120 points
  • Lab Quizzes 100 points
  • Species Project 30 points
  • Other assignments c. 50 points (each 10 points)
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    11:776:170 Plants and People (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Spring Semester; Class time: W 12:35-1:55 PM F 2:15-3:35 PM 22 Loree, SEBS George H. Cook Campus

    Instructor:

    Dr. George Wulster and Dr. Zane Helsel

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    While there are no “pre-requisites”; Courses in General Biology and Introduction to Horticulture (11:76:211) are highly recommended. The course enrollment is capped at 250 students.

    Format:

    Lecture

    Course Website:

    Materials are posted online via eCompanion.

    Description:

    This is a survey course that introduces the student to the central dependency of all animals including man upon plants. Students will learn and understand the role of plants in contributing to all aspects of human existence and well being. Students will learn how plants provide; the air we breathe, food, shelter, medicines, clothing, fuel, and countless other necessities for mankind’s survival.

    This course is appropriate for students who are curious about the biology, production and role of plants in relation to human history and culture. Students will learn which plants are produced and how they are put to use. Most of the major agronomic and horticultural crops will be covered.

    Topics

      Domestication of Plants
      Origins of Agriculture
      Plant Production in controlled Environments
      Plants and or crops discussed include:

      Grain crops, oil crops, sugar crops, tuber and root crops, fruit crops, vegetable crops, Tea, wine, coffee, chocolate, beer, distilled spirits, medicinal and drug crops, tobacco, Rubber. wood, fibers, spices, perfumes, resins, biomass and energy crops. The therapeutic role of plants in human life is also discussed.

    Examinations

    There ware SIX lecture quizzes, each with 35 multiple choice questions. Quiz questions will be formulated from the information provided during the classroom lectures.  The information (Power Point Slides and Handouts) provided on ECompanion should be considered background material and not a substitute for attending lectures where additional information will be provided.  On quiz days there is a 30 minute lecture before the quiz.  No quizzes will be dropped. If you arrive late for a quiz no extra time will be allotted to you for completion; if you are 10 minutes late you only have 20 minutes to take the quiz. If you miss a quiz you can take a makeup quiz on the last day of class only, if you have a valid excuse conforming to University rules.  You must contact us by the end of the lecture period following the missed quiz to qualify for a make up quiz on the last day of class.  If we do not hear from you by then you will receive a zero and not be allowed to take a make-up at the end of the term.  

    Other requirements:

  • There is no text book required; however students are responsible for obtaining the lecture material from the Ecompanion site. While this material is extensive it is no substitute for attending classes where additional testable information will be provided.

    • Grading

    Your final grade is an average of your quizzes, no curve. A = 90-100, etc.

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    11:776:200 Modern Crop Production (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Spring Semester each year

    Instructor:

    Dr Zane R. Helsel

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    01:119:101 General Biology OR 01:119:103 Principles of Biology. This course is not open to first-year students.

    Format:

    Two 80 min lectures per week

    Description:

    At the end of this course student should understand clearly what is an agronomic crop, how it relates to the environment, what types of agronomic crops exist, what are the production principles and problems, and their utilization. Emphasis will be placed on agronomic crops that are currently of economic significance in New Jersey or elsewhere in Northeastern United States; and the new crops that hold promise for the future in New Jersey.

    Topics

    1. Crop Importance
    2. Soil Survey/Soil Conservation
    3. Crop Classification and Morphology
    4. How Plants Develop
    5. Land Preparation/Tillage
    6. Soil Fertility
    7. Crop Variety & Seed Selection
    8. Planting Methods (date, rate, depth, spacing)
    9. Crop Protection-Weeds
    10. Crop Protection-Disease
    11. Crop Protection-Insects
    12. Irrigation-Moisture Management
    13. Harvesting
    14. Forage Quality/Harvest
    15. Crop Preservation, Storage & Utilization
    16. Organic Agriculture
    17. Energy in Agriculture/Biomass energy
    18. Service Organizations-RCE, USDA, NJDA, etc.
    19. Alternatives Uses/New Crop/Products; Minor Field Crops

    Examinations

    There will be 2 exams and a final (worth 100 points each) and problem sets (worth a total of 200 points)

    Other requirements:

  • Attendance expected
  • No textbook required but references on reserve.

    • Grading

    Based on 500 possible points

    A = 450 points
    B = 400 points
    etc.

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    11:776:202 Applied Physiology of Horticulture Crops (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Fall, every year

    Instructor:

    Dr. Edward Durner

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    01:119:101 General Biology

    Format:

    THIS COURSE IS A HYBRID COURSE WITH 85% ONLINE 15% IN CLASS.

    Description:

    An examination of plants and the physiology that allows them to survive the complexities of our environment.

    Topics

    1. Plant Structure and Function
    2. Energy, Light, Plants and Us
    3. Photoperiod
    4. Cold Hardiness
    5. Dormancy
    6. Plant Growth Regulators
    7. Water, Water Everywhere
    8. Agricultural Production Systems
    9. Quirky Crops I Have Known

    Examinations

    One quiz each week usually but not necessarily on Thursday. Quizzes will be cumulative; NO MAKEUP QUIZZES !! Cumulative Final Exam

    Other requirements:

    Library research project with a presentation

    Grading

    Quizzes & Final 66%, Project 34%

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    11:776:205 Introduction to Ethnobotany (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Given Spring Odd Years

    Instructor:

    Lena Struwe and James Simon

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    None

    Format:

    wo 80-min lectures/week

    Course Website:

    eCompanion (only available to enrolled students)

    Description:

    Overview of ethnobotany with a focus on contemporary ethnobotany in the lives of today's citizens.

    Topics

    History of ethnomedicine, global food sources and comparative diets, herbal medicine and their regulations, diversity of medicinal and crop plants, safety of herbals, development of new medicines from plants, biopiracy and intellectual property, bioprospecting in the third world, scientific evidence for folk medicine, and contemporary and historical uses of plant resources.

    Examinations

    Quizzes

    Other requirements:

    Group debates, personal projects on diet, herbals, and folk medicine, write and design poster, peer-review of posters, guest lectures

    Grading

    Based on participation in the class, project 1-4 (40%), poster (30%), and performance on quizzes (30%).

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    11:776:210 Principles of Botany (4 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Spring semester. Currently offered Summer 2009

    Instructor:

    Dr. Adolfina Koroch

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    01:119:101 General Biology OR EQUIVALENT OR PERMISSION OF INSTRUCTOR OR DEPARTMENT

    Format:

    lecture with in class laboratory

    Course Website:

    eCompanion (available to registered sutdents only)

    Description:

    This course is designed to provide students with fundamentals of plant anatomy, physiology and development and characteristics of the major groups within Fungi, Protista and Plantae Kingdoms with considerations of the evolutionary and ecological relationships. This is a Lab/lecture course that will have topics in lecture format using the required text, laboratory exercises, written and oral presentations to complement the class material.

    Topics

      The world of Plants
      Molecular composition of plant cells.
      Scientific Method and Scientific communication
      Classification of major groups of organisms Fungi
      Photosynthesis and respiration
      Topic Research Library- topic/ herbarium
      Introduction to eukaryotic cell
      Algae
      Bryophytes
      Seedless Vascular Plants
      Gymnosperms
      Conifers
      Angiosperms
      Reproductive structures
      Plant Structure
      Plant responses to hormones and environmental stimulus
      Transport in plants

    Examinations

    Other requirements:

  • Textbook: Introduction to Botany by Murray W. Nabors. 2004. Pearson Benjamin Cummings Publishers. New York. Suggested Atlas: A Photographic Atlas for the Botany Laboratory. 4th Ed. By K. M. Van De Graaff, S. R. Rushforth and J. L. Crawley. Morton Publishing Company. Colorado.

    Grading

    11:776:211 Introduction to Horticulture (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Fall, every semester

    Instructor:

    Dr. Richard Merritt

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    01:119:101 General Biology; open to sophomores, juniors and seniors only

    Format:

    One 80 minute lecture per week; One 3 hour laboratory per week.

    Description:

    The art and science of horticulture. Scientific, technological and industrial aspects of horticulture – principles and practices. Laboratory exercises apply horticultural techniques to growing plants.

    Topics

      Horticultural crops
      Classification systems
      Plant production systems
        components of system
        scientific basis
      Horticultural practices – labs and field trips

    Examinations

    Three Take-Home Examinations

    Other requirements:

  • Laboratory Excersises
  • Weekly Reports
  • Class Participation

    • Grading

    3 Take Home Exams
    45%
    Labs 2 & 3
    30%
    Lab 4
    5%
    "Weekly" Reports
    10%
    Class Participation
    10%
    Total
    100%

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    11:776:221 Principles of Organic Crop Production (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Fall Semester, yearly

    Instructor:

    Dr. Joseph Heckman

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    All majors are welcome.

    Format:

    One 160-minute lecture per week; class field trips

    Course Website:

    Description:

    Course will cover cultural practices (crop rotations, cover crops, and pest management, etc.) and biological processes (composting, soil food web, plant and animal health, etc.) that form the basis for organic production of plant and animal products (fruit, nuts, vegetables, grain, forage, pasture, milk, meat, and eggs) and land stewardship. The course will provide a overview of organic agriculture history, philosophy, and sociology in addition to organic production practices and the USDA National Organic Program.

    Topics

    1. Overview of Organic Agriculture Principles and Philosophy
      1. Soil health as the basis for organic farming
      2. Origin, history, and philosophy of organic agriculture
      3. History of science in relation to organic agriculture
      4. Recent trends in the organic market place
      5. Organic certification and the USDA-NOP
    2. Cultural Practices and Biological Processes
      1. Composting organic procedures
      2. Soil food web
      3. Nutrient cycles
      4. Crop rotations
      5. Cover Crops
    3. Organic Crop Production and Marketing
      1. Organic production systems for grain and soybean
      2. Sweet corn and SARE video
      3. Vegetables (tomato, leafy greens, cole crops, etc)
      4. Small fruit (blueberry, strawberry)
      5. Vegetable farm field trip
      6. Nut trees
      7. Forages
      8. Rotational grazing and pasture management
    4. Pest Management for Organic Producers
      1. Weed management SARE video
      2. Disease management
      3. Insect pest management
      4. Directed reading and discussion of organic literature relating to pest management
    5. Organic Livestock Production and Marketing
      1. Pastured dairy
      3. Dairy cow, goat, milk, cheese
      4. Vegetable CSA, Poultry, cattle, and hogs on pasture
      5. Animal health practices
    6. Future Trends in Organic Agriculture
      1. Traditional diets
      2. Health benefits of grass based agriculture
      3. Building consumer-farmer relationships
      4. Organic Materials Review Institute
      5. Directed reading and discussion of organic farming trends

    Examinations

    Four quizzes and one final exam.

    Other requirements:

  • Field Trips: Attendance on field trips is required. You are encouraged to take notes and photographs to be used to write field trip reports. Class field trips will visit several organic farming operating in New Jersey.
  • Homework and writing assignments.
  • Course attendance at every class period is required. Missed class time will be reflected in final course grade.
  • Selected Readings
  • Book Review

    • Grading

    Final course grade is based on a ten-point scale (A = 90-100 pts; B = 80-89 pts; etc.)

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    11:776:225 Introduction to Horticultural Therapy (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Spring semester, Even-numbered Years

    Instructor:

    Joel Flagler

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    Format:

    classroom lecture with one or two hands-on activity session; One 2.5 hour class meeting weekly

    Description:

    This is another introductory level course for degree candidates or Certificate candidates. The history and philosophy of Horticultural Therapy are explored in detail and several key populations are discussed. Students will become familiar with the nature of different disabilities and learn how Horticultural Therapy can be structured to meet stated needs and goals for incarcerated, mental health, children, aged and geriatric populations, in addition to others. Adaptive tools will also be covered. This course is accredited by the American Horticultural Therapy Association and counts toward professional registration.

    Grading

    Grading is based on hourly, midterm and final exams, plus independent project, plus classroom attendance and participation.

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    11:776:242 Plant Science (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Spring Semester, yearly

    Instructor:

    Dr. Albert Ayeni and Dr. Harry W. Janes

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    01:119:101 (General Biology) or 01:119:103 (Principles of Biology) or equivalent. When in doubt, student must seek Instructor’s permission to register for the course.

    Format:

    Two 80-minute lectures/week, Section 01: Tuesday and Friday (9:15-10:35) and Section 02: Tuesday and Thursday (5:35-6:55)

    Course Website:

    Materials distributed via eCompanion

    Description:

    This course defines plant science as the study of the totality of the biochemical and biophysical life of plants --- from molecule to whole plant. It is designed to consolidate student understanding of plants as living organisms formed from microscopic cells/organelles and submicroscopic molecules which interact in a complex environment to perform highly complex functions that ultimately give rise to the biomass that sustains the plant and other life forms on our planet. The relevance of knowledge of various aspects of these complex organisms to the appreciation of the significance of plants in our planet is highlighted.

    Topics

    • Unique Features of Plants and Plant Cells
    • Macromolecules: Carbohydrates and Proteins
    • Macromolecules: Lipids and Nucleic Acids
    • Nucleus, Genomes, Chromosomes
    • Perpetuation of Genetic Information: DNA Replication, Mitosis, Meiosis
    • Information Flow in Cells: Gene Structure, Transcription, Translation
    • Endomembrane System in Plant Cell
    • Cytoskeleton and Cell Wall
    • Plant Development
    • Genetic Analysis of Plant Variability
    • Transgenicity in Plants – Theoretical and Experimental Consideration
    • Plant Metabolism and Energy Flow
    • Photosynthesis & Carbon Partitioning
    • Aerobic Respiration
    • Anaerobic Respiration & Biofuel Production
    • Plant Structure – Cells, Tissue Systems & Organs
    • Plant Structure – The Root & Nutrient Uptake
    • Plant Structure – Leaves, Flowers & Life Cycles
    • Plant Structure – Stems & Transport
    • Seed Germination & Plant Development
    • Plant Growth Regulation
    • Responses to Biotic & Abiotic Stress

    Examinations

    Six in-class examinations

    Other requirements:

    Textbook: Plant Biology (PB), 2nd Edition 2006 by Graham , Graham and Wilcox.

    Grading

    Grades will be based on exams. Class exams are generally a mixture of multiple choice and short answer questions. Grades will be classified based on the Rutgers approved system:  A, B, B+, C, C+, D, F etc.

    Teaching methods:

    This is a lecture course. Topics will be covered using a traditional lecture format based on chapters that may be found in the recommended text. Often, power point presentations will accompany lectures to facilitate learning and understanding. Class exams will be based on what has been treated in the class. Class is highly interactive and critical thinking is expected.

    Other matters:

    Class attendance and participation are highly essential in this course! Laptops may be used to take notes, but internet surfing is not allowed! Cell phones or similar distractions are to be turned off during lecture. Students who are absent for a scheduled class period are responsible for material covered during that period.

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    11:776:301 The Grain Crops (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Fall Semester

    Instructor:

    Albert Ayeni

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    01:119:101 (General Biology) or equivalent. Course is recommended especially for juniors and seniors (and graduate students as well) with strong background in agricultural and food sciences; and interest in international perspectives in agricultural, food and biofuels issues.

    Format:

    Two 80-minute lectures/week

    Course Website:

    Description:

    Production principles of grain crops, post harvest handling for short and long term utilization, food/biofuels conflicts in the grain industry, international trade and implications for the grain crops industry in the United States; also, special topics in grain crops in the global economy, and global job opportunities in the grain crops industry for the plant science graduate.

    Topics

    1. Definition & description
    2. Historical perspectives
    3. Global & domestic significance
    4. Classification
    5. The biology of grain crops
    6. Yield limiting factors
    7. Crop improvement options
    8. Agronomy of grain crops
    9. Field management of grain crops
    10. Post harvest handling
    11. Grain crop marketing & international trade
    12. Job opportunities for the plant science graduate

    Examinations

    There are two 60-minute exams made up of a mixture of objective (multiple choice) and short answer questions. The first exam will take place during the mid-semester and the second in the final week of lectures. The mid-semester exam constitutes 20% of total course assessment while the end-of-semester exam carries 40% of total course assessment. The end-of-semester exam covers the entire course content.

    Other requirements:

    1. A term paper of a maximum of 20 pages (including the list of literature cited) is a requirement in this course and due in the last week of lectures. It carries 20% of total course assessment.
    2. A group presentation on an assigned special topic is a requirement in this course and carries 20% of total course grading. Group presentations are made in the second half of the semester.

    Grading

    1. Mid-Semester Exam 20%
    2. End-of-Semester Exam 40%
    3. Term paper 20%
    4. Group Presentation 20%>
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    11:776:302 General Plant Pathology (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Fall Semester, yearly

    Instructor:

    Ann B. Gould

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    01:119:101 General Biology OR 01:119:103 Principles of biology; Open to all majors

    Format:

    Two 80-minute lectures; No independent lab time required; Walking tour (one class period) of plant diseases on Cook/Douglass Campuses

    Course Website:

    Course materials provided through eCompanion

    Description:

    General Plant Pathology is an introductory class where the nature of plant disease and its management are discussed. Topics examined in this course include the organisms and environmental conditions that cause disease in plants, the mechanisms by which these factors induce disease, the interactions between disease agents and their hosts, disease spread, prevention, and management, and the human and environmental costs of plant diseases.

    Topics

    1. Introduction to plant pathology
    2. History of plant pathology
    3. Pathogen groups
      1. Plant pathogenic fungi
      2. Pathogenic prokaryotes
      3. Viruses
      4. Nematodes and parasitic plants
    4. Abiotic plant diseases
    5. Plant/host interactions
    6. Ecological
      1. Physiological
      2. Genetic
    7. Epidemiology
    8. Disease management
    9. Plant disease diagnostics
    10. General types of plant diseases
    11. Rusts and smuts
      1. Diseases of aerial plant parts
      2. Diseases of vascular tissues
      3. Soilborne diseases
      4. Wood decay and post-harvest diseases
      5. Diseases of fruit
    12. Fungi in food

    Examinations

    1. Three regular quizzes
    2. Two to three pop quizzes
    3. Two regular examinations
    4. Final exam (semi-comprehensive)
    5. Examinations and quizzes are composed of true-false, multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, compare-and-contrast, short answer, and essay questions

    Other requirements:

    1. Term paper with accompanying presentation (in small groups) required
    2. Text book required
    3. Supplementary readings from provided materials, materials on reserve in Chang Library, and online

    Grading

    Course grades are based on 400 points and distrubited as follows:

    Examination I: 25% (100 pts)
    Examination II: 25% (100 pts)
    Final exam (semi-comprehensive): 30% (120 pts)
    Pop and scheduled quizzes, homework: 10% (40 pts)
    Written report with oral presentation: 10% (40 pts)
    Grades are based on a ten-point scale (90-100% = A; 80-89 = B; 70-79 = C; 60-69 = D). Opportunities for extra credit are provided throughout the semester

    Additional Information

    1. Majority (60%) of final examination focuses on last one-third of course material presented. The remainder of the examination is comprehensive, and students are expected to understand and answer questions concerning the broader concepts presented in class.
    2. Weekly homework is assigned.
    3. Attendance is encouraged; as a courtesy, students unable to attend should forward an e-mail to the instructor before or shortly after the missed class.
    4. Written report (appox. 10 pages) and oral presentation (10 minutes, prepared in PowerPoint) may be prepared individually or in small groups (2 to 3 students). Students may choose to prepare a fact sheet, disease lesson, or a standard term paper on a disease or relevant topic of their choice. The assignment will be evaluated on accuracy of information, presentation and grammatical quality, and clarity. Proper citation of source materials is required; plagiarism will not be tolerated.
    5. The companion, 1-credit laboratory course, 11:770:311, is not required, but a fuller understanding of the discipline is experienced by students who enroll.
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    11:776:304 Turfgrass Management (4 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Fall Semester

    Instructors:

    Dr. William Meyer and Josh Honig

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    The course has no pre-requisites; however, students will benefit by taking introductory soil, water, plant science courses.

    Format:

    Two 80 minute lectures per week; One 3 hour laboratory per week.

    Course Website:

    www.aesop.rutgers.edu/~turfmgmt304

    Description:

    This is an introductory turfgrass management course that fulfills the elective portion of the SEBS Plant Science requirements. It is strongly suggested for those seeking career opportunities in the science and management of turf landscapes including lawns, gardens, parks, roadsides, cemeteries, athletic fields, golf courses, etc. as well as the commercial supplies industry associated with turf and landscape management.

    The course introduces students to the identification and management of grasses used for turf. The course uses lecture, hands-on field laboratory experience, and field trips to teach principles of turf establishment, renovation, and management. Emphasis is placed on genetic, cultural, physical, biological, and regulatory approaches to turf management rather than a chemical approach. The broad course outline is as follows:

    Topics

    1. Introduction to Turfgrass Management
    2. Turfgrass Identification and Uses
    3. Primary Cultural Practices (Mowing, Fertilization, and Irrigation)
    4. Supplemental Cultural Practices (Cultivation, PGRs, etc.)
    5. Turfgrass Pest Management
    6. Cultural Systems (Lawns, Athletic Fields, Golf Courses, etc.)

    Examinations

    Two hourly exams are given in lecture, plus a comprehensive final exam. One practical exam (Turfgrass ID) and a comprehensive notebook of all laboratory exercises are required in the laboratory.

    Other requirements:

    Students will be required to hand in typed answers to the questions at the end of each chapter of the textbook. Due dates for handing in these chapter questions are indicated as "QUESTIONS DUE" on the course calendar handout. These assignments are given to encourage students to read the chapters in the textbook prior to attending lecture. - In many instances the textbook will serve as backgound information to material that will be covered in greater detail during the lecture period; therefore students should be familiar with the textbook topic prior to attending class.

    Required Text: Turfgrass Management by A.J. Turgeon (8th edition) at Cook/Douglas bookstore.

    Additional reading materials may be handed out in the lecture and laboratory to supplement textbook reading. Written exercises may be given in the lecture and laboratory based on class discussion and readings.

    Attendance in both lecture and laboratory is expected. Students who miss a significant number of lecture or laboratory periods will be risking a reduction in their final grade.

    Additional Information:

    Lecture Format: Lectures are twice a week for 80-minute class periods. Lectures are based on the topics outlined on the lecture syllabus, and generally follow the format of the accompanying textbook. Please note that the textbook provides introductory background information, while lecture material (outlines, handouts, slides etc) will provide greater detail on specific subjects. Students are encouraged to read the chapters that correspond to the lecture outline prior to attending lecture periods (Textbook chapters that correspond to the lecture material are indicated on the course calendar handout).

    Laboratory Format: The laboratory section meets once a week for a 3-hour period. The laboratory section meets at Horticultural Research Farm II, in the Geiger classroom building, located off of Ryders Lane (please see campus map for directions). Additionally, all field trips will depart from Hort. Farm II. The laboratory section will be a combination of "hands-on" laboratory exercises, field trips, guest lectures and the possibility of overflow lecture material from the lecture section.

    As mentioned previously, this course is the introductory turfgrass management course. Students intending to pursue turfgrass management/science as a career should be aware that there are three additional courses offered by the Plant Science Department that deal with various aspects of turfgrass management/science in greater detail. It is strongly recommended that students interested in a career in turfgrass management/science make every effort to take 11:776:451 Fine and Sports Turf Management, 11:776:408 Turfgrass Pest Science, 11:776:404 - Soil Management for Sports Fields.

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    11:776:305 Plant Genetics (4 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Fall every year

    Instructor:

    Dr. Joseph Goffreda

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    01:119:101-102 General Biology. Open to all majors.

    Format:

    A combination of either two 80-minute lectures and one recitation or one 80 minute lecture, one recitation and one 3 hour lab

    Course Website:

    Description:

    The structure, expression, and manipulation of plant genomes are explored by applying the principles and theory of classical and contemporary genetics. The course will introduce students to various plant improvement methods, including recurrent selection, the backcross method, marker-assisted selection, and plant transformation.

    Topics

    1. Gene Mutation: Origins and Repair Processes
    2. Application of Genetic Technology to Plant Improvement
    3. The Structure of Genes and the Genome
    4. Gene Function
    5. The Transmission of DNA at Cell Division
    6. Inheritance of Single Gene Differences
    7. Genetic Recombination in Eukaryotes
    8. Genetic Recombination in Eukaryotes and Chi-square Tests
    9. Recombination in Bacteria and Viruses
    10. Recombinant DNA and Genetic Engineering
    11. Bacterial transformation
    12. Application of Recombinant DNA
    13. Isolation of Bacterial Plasmid DNA and Restriction Mapping
    14. Isolation of Plant DNA
    15. DNA analysis - Plant DNA Restrictions & Fingerprinting with RAPDs
    16. Genomics
    17. Chromosome Mutations
    18. Mutational Dissection
    19. Regulation of Gene Transcription
    20. How Genes Affect the Phenotype
    21. Population Genetics
    22. Quantitative genetics

    Examinations

    Four exams

    Other requirements:

  • Lab Supplies
  • Lab Group Work
  • Attendance
  • Textbook and supplementary readings
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    Plant Propagation (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Spring Semester

    Instructor:

    Dr. Thomas Molnar

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    01:119:101 General Biology (4)

    Format:

    one 80-minute lecture; one 3-hour laboratory

    Course Website:

    Files posted on eCompanion

    Description:

    Emphasis is placed on not only learning the techniques involved with the many aspects of modern plant propagation, but also the science behind the methods. Students will acquire hands-on experience in the art and science of grafting, budding, rooting of cuttings, seedage, layering, tissue culture/micropropagation, propagation medias, greenhouse environmental control, and general plant care and greenhouse management. By learning the science behind the methods, students will develop a better understanding of why certain propagation methods were successful and why some were not. This will allow students to be better able to solve problems that arise during the propagation and growing of plants.

    Topics

      Planting Media
      Rooting of Cuttings
      Plant Tissue Culture
      Rooting of Cuttings

      Grafting and Budding

      Layering

      Seed Germination
      Floriculture
      Bulb Propagation

    Examinations

    One Midterm; one Final exam

    Other requirements:

  • Four Quizzes
  • Laboratory notebook
  • Attendance

    • Grading

    Quizzes - 25%; Mid-term examination - 25%; Laboratory notebook and attendance - 25%; Final exam - 25%

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    11:776:311 Plant Pathology Laboratory ( 1 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Fall Semester, Fridays, 12:35-3:15 pm

    Rm194 Foran Hall

    Instructor:

    Dr. Rong Di, Rm127 Foran Hall, Biotech Center, 732-932-8165x183, di@aesop.rutgers.edu

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    11:770:301 General Plant Pathology

    Format:

    A 160-minute laboratory per week; one 160-minute field trip

    Description:

    This course increases student's knowledge about plant diseases caused by environmental factors and microorganisms. The course focuses on fundamental and applied aspects of plant pathology including disease development, environmental interactions, microbial biology and ecology, disease cycles, and disease control strategies. This laboratory course provides hands-on training in the identification and classification of representative plant diseases, including isolation and culturing techniques for plant pathogenic fungi, bacteria, nematodes and viruses.

    Topics

    1. Use of microscope
    2. Recognition of disease symptoms and keys for a pathogen identification
    3. Field trip to Giamerese Farm and Rutgers Vegetable Research Farm
    4. Isolation of pathogens
    5. Koch’s postulates I: Inoculation of tomato with Alternaria
    6. Koch’s postulates II: Inoculation of ryegrass with Pythium
    7. Characteristic of plant pathogenic fungi (part 1)
    8. Characteristic of plant pathogenic fungi (part 2)
    9. Characteristic of plant pathogenic fungi (part 3)
    10. Field trip to Plant Diagnostic Lab: diseases caused by nematodes
    11. Diseases caused by viruses: inoculation of tobacco plants with TMV
    12. Diseases caused by plant pathogenic bacteria
    13. Post-harvest diseases

    Examinations

  • One midterm and one final exams

    • Other requirements:

    1. Collection of diseased plant specimens
    2. Laboratory notebook
    3. Text book (available during the laboratory period):
      1. Agrios G.N. (2005). Plant pathology (5th ed.). Elsevier Academic Press. ISBN: 0-12-044565-4
      2. Alexopoulos C.J., Mims C.W., Blackwell M. (1996). Introductory mycology (4th ed.). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. ISBN0-471-52229-5
      3. Schumann G.L., D'Arcy C.J. (2006). Essential plant pathology. APS Press. ISBN: 0-89054-342-9
      4. Trigiano R.N., Windham M.T., Windham A.S. (2004). Plant Pathology, Concepts and Laboratory Exercises. CRC Press. ISBN: 0-8493-1037-7

    Grading

    Grading scale: A 90-100, B+ 86-89, B 80-85, C+ 76-79, C 70-75, D 60-69, F below 60

    One midterm and one final exams, 60%
    Four lab notebook gradings, 30%
    Homeworks, 5%
    Participation, 5%

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    11:776:312 Medicinal Plants (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Fall, every year

    Instructor:

    Dr. James Simon, Dr. Qing-Li Wu, and Dr. Rodolfo Juliani /p>

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    Open to all Majors

    Format:

    Two 80-minute classes/week

    Course Website:

    Via eCompanion

    Description:

    Use of plants for medicinal and other purposes; poisonous plants; cross-cultural aspects; chemistry and biological significance of natural products; natural products from higher plants in modern medicine.

    Topics

    1. Tabloid Herbals - Supermarket Medicines
    2. Bioprospecting: Searching for Plants that Cure Disease and Improve Human Health;
    3. Botany of Medicinal Plants
    4. Plants as Ancient and Modern Medicines - quinine, Digitalis steroids and the Drug Plants- Cannabis, Tobacco, Cocoa, Opium Poppy
    5. From Ancient to Modern Methods of Distillation
    6. Aromatic plants and essential oil crops
    7. Chemistry of Polyphenols, Their Health Properties including Antioxidant Activity
    8. Chemistry of Alkaloids and Pharmaceutical Applications Chemistry of Essential Oils
    9. Genetic Diversity, Biodiversity and Endangered Medicinal and Aromatic Plants
    10. Medicinal Fungi
    11. Medicinals of China, India, Korea, SNorth America, outh America, and Africa
    12. The Legislative Environment for Medicinals and Botanicals in the USA
    13. Extraction and Processing Technologies for Natural Products
    14. Nutraceuticals, Dietary Supplements and Botanical Standardization
    15. Growing Medicinals and Herbs
    16. Medicinal Plants Research and Market Status in the USA
    17. Traditional Teas and Herbal

    Student Assessment

    1. Two Quizzes
    2. Two 10-15 page research reports

    Other requirements:

    1. Attendance/Participation: Attendance is required. Lack of attendance will result in a lowering of your grade. Active class participation and contribution to class discussion may, in special circumstances, increase your grade. Laptops are welcome for note taking, but no internet surfing is permitted during class. Cell phones must be turned off in class.
    2. BOOKS OR READINGS: Readings to be assigned; no text required, but Highly recommended: (1) Tyler's book on Herbs of Choice, Haworth Press; (2) Talbott and Hughes, The Health Professional's Guide to Dietary Supplements (Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, 2007; (3) Blumenthal, The ABC Clinical Guide to Herbs, Thieme, 2003.

    Grading

    Grades will then be calculated using: A = 90-100%; B+ = 85-89%; B= 80=84%; C+ = 75-79%; C= 70-74%; D = 60-69%; F = 60% or less.

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    11:776:325 Horticultural Therapy: Techniques and Programming (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Spring semester, Odd-Numbered Years

    Instructor:

    Joel Flagler

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    Format:

    classroom lecture with one hands-on activity session; One 2.5 hour class meeting weekly

    Description:

    This is an introductory level course for those with an interest in pursuing a BS degree or Certificate in Horticultural Therapy. This course will explore a number of special-needs populations including physically disabled, substance abuse rehabilitation, and others. Also covered will be topics of starting programs from the ground up, marketing , and consulting in Horticultural Therapy. This course is accredited by the American Horticultural Therapy Association and counts toward professional registration.

    Grading

    Grading is based on hourly, midterm and final exams, an independent project, and classroom attendance and participation

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    11:776:341 Fruit Production (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Spring, Odd-numbered years

    Instructor:

    Dr. Edward Durner

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    01:119:101 General Biology

    Format:

    Two 80-minute lectures

    Description:

    The hows and whys of fruit production with an emphasis on those crops easily grown on a small scale.

    Topics

    1. Strawberries
    2. Blackberries
    3. Raspberries
    4. Grapes
    5. Blueberries
    6. Hardy Kiwi

    Examinations

    A midterm and a final.

    Grading

    Midterm and final are each 50%.

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    11:776:382 Plant Physiology (4 Credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Spring, even-numbered years

    Instructor:

    Bingru Huang

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    general biology, chemistry

    Format:

    Two eighty-minute lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week

    Description:

    This course satisfies one of the 300-level course requirements for the plant biology major. It is designed to provide students with comprehensive exposure to the subject of plant physiology. The laboratory exercises provide hands-on experiences with experiments and training in instrumental skills. The purpose of this course is to understand the fundamental concepts of plant physiology, learn physiological mechanisms of plant growth, function, and development, and learn how plants respond to their environments.

    Topics

      Organization of plants and plant cells
      Water and Mineral Nutrients
      Carbon Metabolisms
      Regulation of Plant Growth and Development
      Stress Physiology and Biotechnology

    Examinations

    There are three exams.

    Other requirements:

    1. Laboratory Reports
    2. Laboratory Performance
    3. Oral Presentation and final report
    4. Attendance is expected by all

    Grading

    Final grades are based on

    1. First Exam 20%
    2. Second Exam 20%
    3. Third Exam 30%
    4. Laboratory 30%
      1. Reports
      2. Performance
      3. Oral presentation and final report

    Additional Information

    The required textbook is Introduction to Plant Physiology by W.G. Hopkins. Additional reference books include Plant Physiology by Taitz & Zeiger and Plant Physiology by Salisbury and Ross

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    11:776:389 Applications of Irrigation, Math, and Equipment Technology in the Turfgrass Industry (2 credits)

    Instructors:

    Dr. Richard H. Hurley (Adjunct Professor, Center for Turfgrass Science) and Dr. Bruce B. Clarke (Extension Specialist in Turf Pathology). In addition, guest lectures will be invited for presentations on selected topics.

    Normally Offered:

    Fall Semester, each year

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    11:776:304 (Turfgrass Management) or permission of instructor

    Format:

    Lectures and field demonstrations are presented once a week (two back to back 55 minute lecture periods).

    Description:

    This is an applied upper level course designed for juniors and seniors interested in turf and landscape management. Fundamentals of Turfgrass Science will be a recognized elective within the Plant Science Curriculum but may be taken by non-Plant Science majors.

    Topics

    Covers subjects such as irrigation design, installation and maintenance, mower technology, and mathematics applications for the management of golf, sports, and landscape areas that are not covered extensively in other courses at the University.

    It uses lectures, hands on demonstrations, interactive discussions, a case studies project, and a field trip to teach the fundamentals of turfgrass science. This course focuses on critical thinking rather than passive learning to solve real world problems commonly confronted by turf and landscape managers in the field. Students are encouraged to share their experiences in classroom discussions.

    Other requirements:

    1. Two modestly priced textbooks (Mathematics of Turfgrass Maintenance by N. Christians and M. Agnew and Golf course Irrigation, Environmental design and Management Practices by J. Barrett).
    2. Outlines and reference materials are distributed for each lecture to assist students in organizing their notes and to provide sources for additional information.
    3. Attendance in lectures and demonstrations is expected.

    Learning Objectives:

    1. To learn the fundamental principals of irrigation design, installation and maintenance, mower technology, and mathematics applications for turf and landscape areas.
    2. To learn to think critically about issues in turf and landscape management and to understand how to develop innovative management strategies that are practical, environmentally sound and sustainable.

    Assessing Student Learning

    Quizzes are given every week and a final exam to measure student learning. In addition, an oral and written report is required as part of a special case studies project that assesses mastery of subject matter in turfgrass and landscape management. An attempt will be made to survey graduates who obtain employment in turfgrass and landscape fields to assess the usefulness of the course and to revise content as needed to maintain course relevance.

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    11:776:400 Fungi in the Environment (3 credits)

    Crosslisted as:

    11:015:423 Colloquium: Fungi Ecology

    Normally Offered:

    Fall Semesters: Tuesdays and Fridays Period 2

    Instructor:

    Dr. John Dighton

    Dr. Jim White

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    01:119:101 General Biology or equivalent

    Format:

    Two weekly lectures with labs during some lectures

    Description:

    The course objectives are to develop an understanding of the diversity and ecology of fungi and to learn some methods for studying fungi. The course is targeted at science majors, including Biology, Plant Science, Agricultural Science, Food Science, Environmental Science, Animal Science, etc.

    Course Textbooks

    • Magical Mushrooms, Mischievous Molds by Hudler
    • The Fifth Kingdom by Kendrick

    Topics

    1. Introduction-background and context
    2. Introduction: Ecosystems and fungi
    3. Fungal morphology-variation in fungi--terminology
    4. Fungal structure and properties
    5. Lab-making media, culturing fungi, isolation from soil
    6. Fungi and primary productivity - Soil formation and processes
    7. Lab-use of microscopes and identification of microscopic soil fungi
    8. Fungi and primary productivity-mycorrhizae
    9. Lab-identification of pathogenic fungi
    10. Fungi and primary productivity - mycorrhizae Lab
    11. Plant-fungus symbioses
    12. Mushroom classification and consumption
    13. Evolution of defensive mutualism
    14. Fungi and Pollution
    15. Fungal endophyte and epiphyte lab
    16. Fungi as human food
    17. Aquatic fungi Lab
    18. Indoor air quality
    19. Medicinal fungi and novel fungal products - Pharmaceuticals
    20. Medical and industrial mycology
    21. Complex life cycles-rusts, smuts, and others

    Examinations

    midterm and final

    Other requirements:

    1. Group project oral report
    2. Group project written report
    3. Five quizzes
    4. Extra points may be obtained by collecting and identifying fungi (1/4 point per specimen)

    Grading

    10 point scale

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    11:776:406 Plant Breeding (3 credits)

    Crosslisted As:

    16:765:528 Advanced Plant Breeding (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Spring every year

    Instructor:

    Dr. Stacy Bonos and Dr. Thomas Orton

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    01:119:101-102 General Biology and 11:776:305 Plant Genetics

    Format:

    Two 80-minute lectures

    Description:

    This course is intended to introduce students to the fundamentals and applications of plant breeding. The first section of the course covers terminology, fundamentals and theory behind plant breeding. The second part of the course introduces methods used in plant breeding. The third part of the course introduces applications of breeding methods used in plant breeding programs. The plant breeding programs present at the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station are highlighted in this course.

    Topics

    1. History, Important Plant Breeders
    2. Modes of Reproduction
    3. Qualitative vs. Quantitative Traits
    4. Quantitative Genetics
    5. Selection in self and cross-pollinated crops
    6. Biotechnology and Genomics
    7. Cytogenetics, Polyploidy
    8. Mutation and Somaclonal Variation
    9. Germplasm collection and preservation
    10. Breeding methods - self pollinated crops
    11. Breeding methods - cross-pollinated crops
    12. Breeding for Pest Resistance
    13. Variety Testing

    Examinations

    Two midterm exams are given during the lecture periods. The final exam given during the final exam week is comprehensive, but emphasizes the last section of the course. Graduate and undergraduate student take separate exams.

    Other requirements:

    Students are required to complete a written research paper on a particular crop and trait of interest. There are also several homework assignments.

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    11:776:408 Turfgrass Pest Science (4 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Spring, odd-numbered years

    Instructors:

    Dr. Bruce B. Clarke (Extension Specialist in Turf Pathology), Dr. Albrecht Koppenhöfer (Professor of Entomology)

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    01:119:101-102 or 103 (General Biology or Principles of Biology), and 11:550:238 (Landscape Management and Maintenance) or 11:776:304 (Turfgrass Management), or permission of instructor.

    Format:

    Lecture and laboratory. Lectures are presented twice per week (80 minutes each). The laboratory is conducted once a week for a 3-hour period. An outdoor field trip is provided at the conclusion of the course.

    Description:

    This is an upper-level course designed for juniors and seniors interested in plant pathology, entomology, integrated pest management, landscape management, and turfgrass science. Turfgrass Pest Science is a recognized elective within the Plant Science Curriculum but may also be taken by non-Plant Science majors.

    The objective of this course is to help students gain a thorough understanding of the biology, etiology, and management of major turfgrass pests including fungal, bacterial, and viral pathogens as well as insects, nematodes, vertebrates, and weeds, and to have them apply this knowledge to solve real world problems in turfgrass pest management. It uses lectures, hands-on laboratories, case studies, interactive discussions, and a field trip to teach principles of turfgrass pathology, ecology, entomology and weed science with an emphasis on integrated pest management. The course focuses on critical thinking rather than passive learning, and encourages students to share their experiences in classroom discussions.

    Please view the course syllabus for Spring 2007 and Spring 2009.

    Examinations

    Five quizzes, a mid-term exam, a term paper and a final exam.

    Other requirements:

    Outlines and reference materials are distributed for each lecture and laboratory to assist students in organizing their notes and to provide sources for additional information. Two moderately priced textbooks (the Compendium of Turfgrass Diseases and Destructive Turfgrass Insects) are required for this course. Attendance in lecture and laboratory is expected.

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    11:776:410 Plants for Bioenergy (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Fall Semester

    Instructor:

    Drs. Stacy Bonos and Zane R. Helsel

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    01:119:101 General Biology and 01:119:102 General Biology

    Format:

    2-80 minute lectures/week

    Course Website:

    Description:

    This course will introduce the topic of bioenergy and discuss various renewable energy sources from biomass.  Agronomic and bioenergy traits will be discussed for each biomass source.  Conversion technologies from different biomass sources will also be discussed.

    Topics

    1. Introduction
      1. Biofuels Overview
      2. ”Energetics”
      3. US Energy Portfolio Biomass Inventories (USDOE Billion Ton Report)
      4. NJAES Biomass Assessment
    2. Crops
      1. Sugar/Starch Crops
        1. Conversion and Use Biochemistry
        2. Sugarcane/ Sweet Sorghum
        3. Starch Grains (Corn, Wheat, Grain Sorghum)
        4. Others (Sugar Beets, Cassava, Potatoes)
      2. Grass/Fiber Crops
        1. Fiber Conversion Biochemistry
        2. Switchgrass and other Native Prairie Grasses
        3. Miscanthus/Other Herbaceous Crops
        4. Woody Crops (willow, poplar, bamboo)
      3. Oil Crops
        1. Oil Biochemistry
        2. Soybeans/Canola/Rape
        3. Canola /Rape/Camelina
        4. Hazelnuts/Sunflower, Safflower, Peanut, Camelina, others
        5. Oil Palm, Jatropha, Algae, Duckweeds
      4. Crop Residue/Waste
        1. Row Crop Residues, Moldy Hay, Bagasse
        2. Fruit/Vegetable Field & Processing Wastes
        3. Yard/Municipal Wastes
        4. Food and Oil Wastes (Restaurants, etc.)
        5. Manure Wastes
      5. Crop Improvement
        1. Traditional plant breeding
        2. Biotechnology
    3. Harvest, Storage, Handling, Processing, Quality Analyses
      1. Harvest Decisions – Methods, Moisture, Timing
      2. Transportation, Handling, Storage
      3. Processing
      4. Lab and Field Quality Analyses
    4. Conversion Technologies
      1. Processing
      2. Direct Combustion
      3. Thermo Chemical (F-T, pyrolysis)
      4. Fermentation (sugars, starches, cellulosic)
      5. Physiochemical
      6. Anaerobic
    5. Use in NJ
      1. Plainview Growers/Pequest Energy
      2. NJ Biodiesel Plant
      3. EcoComplex

    Goals

    • Students will gain appreciation of biomass/biofuels utilization and potential primarily in the U.S.
    • Students will learn about the biochemistry and production characteristics of major crops, crop types and residues.
    • Biomass conversion technologies will be examined by students for potential energy generation from plant based agriculture.

    Examinations

    8 topic quizzess

    Other requirements:

  • term paper on selected crop or process

    • Grading

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    11:776:413 Soil Quality (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Fall Semester

    Instructor:

    Dr. Stephanie Murphy, Director, Rutgers Soil Testing Laboratory

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    11:375:360, “Soils & Water” or equivalent; 01:119:101-102, “General Biology I”

    Format:

    Two 80 min lectures per week. This course would primarily have a lecture format, with demonstrations and student presentations supplementing the material. The major assignment will be customized for each student to take advantage of his/her perspective (academic major or personal experience). When feasible, guest lecturers will be invited to provide their expertise for a specific topic. Also, two “field trips” (on-campus walks) are proposed during the semester to provide realistic scenarios, problems, and possible solutions.

    Course Website:

    Description:

    This course will introduce the concept of soil quality and elaborate on the soil properties that affect soils’ functioning in the environment, including agro-ecosystems. In order to expand understanding of soil and its relationship to ecosystem processes, soil properties that are important to society for the functions that soils provide will be examined and soil types compared with regard to their relative capability to serve different roles. Each role depends on specific characteristics and/or processes, and soils with different characteristics have varying ability to perform the required functions for each role.Degradation of soil and restoration of desirable properties will be addressed. Management of our soil resource to maintain or improve soil quality and maximize ecosystem sustainability will be emphasized.

    Topics

      Introduction: definition of soil quality, relationship to water quality, air quality, and ecosystem “health”
      Roles and Functions of soil in the environment; value of ecosystem services; economics
      Capability classes (qualitative), NRCS Soil Survey, suitability or limitations for various uses
      Intrinsic (inherent) Soil Quality: Variability of soils (review of soil genesis and ecosystem succession)
      Dynamic Soil Quality: soil management & sustainability, concept of best management practices (BMPs)
      Soil Degradation and resulting “costs”; resiliency of soils/ecosystems
      Indicators of Soil Quality; dependence on role; minimum data set
      Biological Indicators: vegetative yield, health
      Biological Indicators: mesofauna & microbial biomass populations
      Soil degradation: desertification; interaction with climate

      Chemical Indicators: organic matter

      Chemical Indicators: nutrient availability

      Chemical Indicators: soil pH, buffering capacity; soluble salts
      Soil degradation: salinity & sodicity

      Soil degradation: contaminants

      Physical Indicators: soil depth, soil texture, & coarse fragments

      Soil degradation: Erosion by water or wind

      Physical Indicators: soil structure, porosity, bulk density, strength

      Physical Indicators: infiltration rate, permeability, retention; aeration

      Soil degradation: compaction and structural breakdown

      Concepts for a Soil Quality Index

      Soil properties for support of infrastructure

      Site factors superimposed on soil factors (e.g. water table, pollution, sunlight, wind, salt, elevation, latitude, climate & microclimate)

      Soil/land loss to population and infrastructure; effect on food security and other ecosystem services of soil

      Summarize soil quality and BMPs for various roles

    Examinations

    Two Examinations plus weekly quizzes

    Other requirements:

  • Class presentation: student perspective on soil
  • Reading specific selected literature, prepare for quiz on material
  • Literature research: soil quality indicators for one specific role of soil, or other relevant topic (proposed by student for approval by instructor); prepare written report and class presentation

    • Grading

    Grades will be determined by:
    weekly quizzes 20%
    exams (2) 60%
    project/presentation 20%
    participation (incl. attendance) 10%

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    11:776: 421 Vegetable Production and Marketing (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Every Spring Semester

    Instructor:

    Dr. Albert Ayeni

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    01:119:101 (General Biology) or equivalent. Course is recommended especially for juniors and seniors (and graduate students as well) with strong background in agricultural and food sciences; and interest in international perspectives in agriculture.

    Format:

    Two 80-minute lectures/week

    Description:

    Production principles of vegetable crops, post harvest handling for short and long term utilization, emerging vegetable crops, marketing of vegetable crops in NJ and the Mid-Atlantic; also, special topics in vegetable crops in changing US demographics, and global job opportunities in the vegetable crops industry.

    Topics

    1. Vegetable crops - Course Introduction
    2. Classification
    3. Adaptations
    4. Soils & Soil fertility considerations
    5. Cultural Practices
    6. Production Management
    7. Post Harvest Handling
    8. Emerging vegetable crops
    9. Germplasm Diversity, Breeding & Selection
    10. Production Economics & Marketing
    11. Developing US Markets for New Vegetable Crops
    12. Policy and Public Acceptance of New Vegetable Crops
    13. Job opportunities in the vegetable crops industry

    Examinations

    There are two 60-minute exams made up of a mixture of objective (multiple choice) and short answer questions. The first exam will take place during the mid-semester and the second in the final week of lectures. The mid-semester exam constitutes 20% of total course assessment while the end-of-semester exam carries 40% of total course assessment. The end-of-semester exam covers the entire course content.

    Other requirements:

    1. A term paper of a maximum of 20 pages (including the list of literature cited) is a requirement in this course and due in the last week of lectures. It carries 20% of total course assessment.
    2. A group presentation on an assigned special topic is a requirement in this course and carries 20% of total course grading. Group presentations are made in the second half of the semester.

    Grading

    Mid-Semester Exam 20%
    End-of-Semester Exam 40%
    Term paper 20%
    Group Presentation 20%
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    11-776-443: International Agriculture: New Crops and New Uses (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    every Fall semester

    Instructor:

    Albert Ayeni & Michael Lawton

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    None. A background in Plant Science/Agricultural Science/Environmental Science/Natural Resources is recommended

    Format:

    80 minute lecture, twice weekly

    Course Website:

    Description:

    This is a new course proposed as Core Course for the International Science and Education (ISE) initiative. Faculty across Rutgers University bring their international perspectives on the subject to the class in a highly interactive forum. This 3-credit colloquium will focus on approaches for increasing the range of crops cultivated in New Jersey and the Mid-Atlantic and their uses. Discussions will highlight crop uses that are unfamiliar to people in this region but have the potential to impact how Rutgers responds to the dynamics of demographic changes occurring in this part of the country and the nation as a whole. Opportunities for the domestication of new use crops in the US and the development of biofuels as a novel use for existing and new crop species will be examined. The cultural perspectives of crop use for food (traditional recipes), biofuels and other applications (plant uses for arts, crafts, etc.) will feature in class presentations. When feasible visiting scholars from Rutgers’ collaborating institutions in Africa, the Americas and Asia will be invited to give a guest lecture on their work and their collaboration with Rutgers.

    Topics

      Colloquium Overview/New Crops & New Uses –Intro & Opportunities
      Ethnobotany
      African Vegetable Crops
      Vegetable Crops of the Americas
      Asian Vegetable Crops
      Developing US Markets for New Crops/New Uses
      Public Acceptance of New Crops & New Uses
      Traditional Plant-Based Foods – Africa, The Americas, Asia
      Traditional Non-Food Plant Uses – Africa, The Americas, Asia
      Biofuels: History, overview and opportunities
      Biofuels Types: Ethanolic Biofuels, Cellulosic Biofuels, Oil-based Biofuels
      Biofuels in Brazil –lessons and opportunities
      Renewable, solar-based fuel production
      Climate Change, Crop Adaptations and Agricultural Productivity
      Biofuel Case Studies: Sugarcane and Corn; Sugarbeet and Cassava; Oil Palm and Jatropha; Miscanthus and Switch Grass; Sweet Sorghum; Algal Biofuels

    Source materials and student assessment

    Since no single book encompasses the contents of this broad and dynamic syllabus, the course will draw on recent reviews and articles from the scientific literature, articles from the popular and business press, as well as the wealth of experience to be shared by participating faculty, visiting scholars, and students. Course materials will be posted on the course web site. Students’ knowledge and understanding will be assessed through class tests, short take-home assignments and two class presentations (one on ethnic crops, one on biofuel crops). Class presentations will involve cooperative and group efforts designed to understand cultural and non-cultural issues that pertain to new crops and new uses. Students will present their findings, which may include practical demonstration of some crop use procedures such as food recipes, herbal concoctions, crafts, bioenergy conversions, etc.

    Internships & Field excursions:

    Students who complete this course successfully will be eligible to apply for summer research internships and field excursions to collaborating international institutions. The course coordinator with the help of faculty will select applicants for oversea internships. The number of selected applicants will depend on funds, available locales and research partnerships.

    Grading

    Class tests & take home assignments: 45%
    Two class presentations (1 Ethnic crops & 1 Biofuel crops): 45%
    Class attendance and participation: 10%

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    11:776:451 Fine and Sports Turf (3 credits)

    Normally Offered:

    Spring Semester, each year

    Instructor:

    Dr. Richard Hurley (Adjunct Professor, Center for Turfgrass Science)

    Pre-requisites and other registration restrictions:

    11:776:304 Turfgrass Management or permission of instructor

    Open to all majors

    Format:

    Lectures are presented twice a week (two 80 minute lecture periods).

    Description:

    This is a upper level course designed for juniors and seniors with an emphasis on use and selection of cool and warm season turf grasses and varieties for golf course and sports fields. Classroom discussions will be encouraged on best establishment and management practices for growth, development, and maintaining sports turf.

    Topics

    Covers subjects including C3 / C4 turf grass differences, physiological response to temperatures, shade issues, endophytes in fescues and ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescues, tall fescue, bentgrass, Poa annua, Poa trivialis, Poa vs. bent, warm season turfgrasses and winter overseeding, abiotic turf problems, native grasses, plant growth regulators, putting green speed, construction, fertility, seed and sod for sports fields, turfgrass seed production and seed certification.

    This course uses classroom power point lectures, demonstrations, and interactive discussions. Additionally, field trips will be scheduled to a baseball stadium and garden center (to observe and critique turfgrass seed offerings for commercial sale). Students are encouraged to share their experiences in classroom discussions.

    Other requirements:

    Two textbooks: Applied Turfgrass Science and Physiology by J. Fry and B. Huang and The Superintendent's Guide to Controlling Putting Green Speed by T. A. Nikolai. All power point lectures are presented to each student (their own CD). Also, outlines and additional reference materials are distributed for selected lectures to assist students in organizing notes and as a source for additional information. Attendance in lectures, field trips and demonstrations is expected.

    Learning Objectives:

    1. To learn advanced concepts of grass selection for various sports turf uses with consideration for a range of climatic conditions. To understand how mechanical, soil, climatic, shade and other variables effect turf establishment, growth and development.
    2. To learn to think critically about issues in sports turf and to learn how best to develop innovative management strategies that are practical, environmentally sound and sustainable.

    Assessing Student Learning:

    1. 10 -12 Quizzes with approximately 20 - 25 true / false, fill in the blank, multiple choice questions.
    2. In addition, a written report is required as part of a special project.
    3. Final Exam.
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