HORT 253 - Plant Materials I

(G only)

Identification and uses of deciduous plant material commonly used in the landscape in Maryland and surrounding states for residential and commercial plantings. Emphasis on native and non-native deciduous trees and shrubs. Plant heights, shapes, seasonal interest, flower time, colors, fruiting characteristics, and other landscape characteristics are covered. This course is intended to prepare the student to make appropriate selection of plant materials for particular landscape situations. Assessment Level(s): ELAR 980/IERW 002. Two hours lecture, two hours laboratory each week.

3 semester hours

Course Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course, a student will be able to:

Identify at least 100 species and state their common and scientific names.
Use taxonomic features such as bud shape, fruit shape, leaf shape, and twig color while identifying plant material.
State the growth rate, mature plant size, plant habit, cold hardiness, leaf retention characteristics, flowering time, and fruiting time of a given set of deciduous plants.
Describe the landscape value, ornamental characteristics, or special features including fall coloration and bark characteristics.
Identify the native habitat of a given set of deciduous plant materials.
Describe the appropriate cultural conditions for proper growth of various deciduous plant materials.
Develop an understanding of plant limitations caused by pest and disease activity.

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