An introduction to the major groups in the plant kingdom, their origin, classification, and economic importance. The areas of anatomy, morphology, cytology, physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, and ecology will be explored as they relate to plant sciences and agriculture.

Steve Hallett and Peter Goldsbrough

The identification by sight of plant mounts and seeds of over 200 crops and weeds is taught. The first eight weeks, which covers restricted weeds, prohibited noxious weeds, common weeds, and seed diseases, can be taken for one credit; the last eight weeks covers cereals, grass and legume forages, and legume crops. The list of species to be studied for two credits is obtained from the Intercollegiate Crops Judging Manual. The species to be covered for one credit include the above-listed weeds and additional weed specimens pertinent to the weeds contest. The use and origins of the species are discussed briefly. Suggested course in preparation for AGRY 30500 Seed Analysis and Grain Grading.

Plants are essential to environmental and human health, and the issues related to these interactions have received much public attention. This course provides the scientific basis for issue-related topics such as the impact of plants on biodiversity; how plants affect and are affected by global climate changes and pollution; the role of plants as invasive species; ways in which plants can help solve environmental problems; and the consequences of human manipulation of plants (e.g. genetic engineering, bioremediation) on plant communities and ecosystems.

Kevin Gibson

This course will provide an introduction to the broad field of plant ecology. Through lectures and lab assignments, students will gain an in-depth understanding of ecological concepts regarding the occurrence and distribution of plant species and populations. Students will also gain insights into the application of these concepts to the conservation and management of plant species and populations.

Kevin Gibson

The principles of classification of seed plants, with emphasis on methods of identification in laboratory and field. Requires class trips. Students will pay individual lodging or meal expenses when necessary.

Jody Banks

A study of the methods used to produce genetically modified organisms, primarily using gene transfer technology, and the application of these organisms in agriculture. The uses of microbes, plants, and animals in agricultural biotechnology are examined. Social, economic, and ethical issues related to biotechnology are discussed.  (HORT 35000)

Peter Goldsbrough

This course will focus on the fundamentals of plant cellular and developmental biology. Topics to be covered include: the structure and function of plant organelles and membranes; the cell cycle; DNA, RNA and protein synthesis; the secretory pathway, and the cellular basis of development and whole plant morphogenesis.

Nick Carpita

Principles and practices for diagnosing and managing diseases, insects, and abiotic disorders of woody and herbaceous ornamental plants and turf. Designed for those students in urban forestry, horticulture, and turf management who want a one-semester course on integrated plant health management.  (ENTM 44600)

Janna Beckerman

Supervised individual laboratory or field research. A written report of work accomplished will be required. May be repeated once for credit. Permission of instructor required.

Emphasizes the mode and mechanism of herbicide action and herbicide interaction with plants, and the biology and ecology of weedy plants.

Bob Pruitt

This five-week miniclass teaches students the principles and practices for identifying and controlling diseases of vegetable crops. The course is designed for students who desire an intensive study of diseases of vegetables. Primary emphasis is given to symptomatology, etiology, and disease management through in-depth study of major diseases affecting commercial vegetable crops in the Midwest. Special emphasis is placed on the application of modern approaches to disease control.

Examines the biological and pathological characteristics of major causal agents; concepts of epidemiology and disease assessment; physiology, genetics, and molecular biology of host-pathogen interactions; disease management practices; and methods of disease diagnosis.

Tesfaye Mengiste

Jin-Rong Xu

Zhixiang Chen

It is the objective of this course to introduce students to the major types of plant pathogens (plant pathogenic bacteria, viruses, nematodes, and fungi), their basic biology and examples of the types of diseases they cause.

Sue Loesch-Fries, Jin-Rong Xu, and Zhixiang Chen

The objectives of this course are to provide an orientation to the Department of Botany and Plant Pathology and to acquaint graduate students with the methods used to plan and present scientific research. Orientation will include presentations describing the research, teaching, and extension missions of the Department, as well as, an introduction to the departmental academic, administrative, and business policies and procedures.

Peter Goldsbrough and Sue Loesch-Fries

Janna Beckerman

Sue Loesch-Fries