LNTP 171 - Fruit Production

An overview of fruit crops suitable for central Maryland including native fruits. Topics include proper site selection, soils, choice of varieties, pruning, cultivation, fertilization, control of common pests and diseases, and harvesting of fruit crops including native fruits, as well as economic considerations and future trends. Labs include practical hands-on experience in the classroom and the field. Four Saturday field trips required. One hour lecture, two hours laboratory each week.

2 semester hours

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

Describe appropriate sites, soil requirements, and planting methods for specific fruit crops.
List plant training and pruning practices for specific fruit crops.
Identify nutrient requirements and pollination needs of specific fruit crops.
Identify fruit crops suitable for central Maryland.
Evaluate the economic potential or limitations for each crop covered.
Describe anatomical features, physiological characteristics and climatic requirements of selected fruit plants.
Recommend modifications to soils or nutrition to enhance production and quality.
Construct a trickle irrigation system suitable for fruit production.
Solve common abiotic problems found in the culture of fruit crops.
Develop a plan to solve common pest problems using integrated pest management methods (IPM).

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