Cosumnes River College
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Home Catalog Programs of Study List of Programs Horticulture

Horticulture

Overview

These CRC programs offer students the opportunity to blend the disciplines of horticulture, construction, drafting and business into a unique professional opportunity. A wide variety of employment opportunities are available in the Sacramento area for students completing the associate’s degree or one of the certificate programs. The continued growth of the area and the need for specialized training are creating a demand for qualified individuals. A student majoring in a degree option program should, upon completion, be able to meet the standards imposed by local industries for proper placement within the selected job area of the student's choice. It should, however, be noted that each employment situation may require that additional standards be met.

Degrees and Certificates Offered

  • A.S. in General Agriculture
  • A.S. in Horticulture, Sustainable Landscape Technology
  • Horticulture, General Horticulture Certificate
  • Horticulture, Sustainable Irrigation and Water Management Technology Certificate
  • Horticulture, Sustainable Landscape Design Certificate
  • Horticulture, Sustainable Landscape Technology Certificate
  • Regenerative Foodways Certificate

Associate Degrees

A.S. in General Agriculture

Agriculture is a vital component of our local, state, and national economies and offers many exciting employment opportunities. In addition to the production of a wide range of valuable agricultural commodities, the Sacramento region is home to numerous multi-national agricultural corporations and statewide governmental agencies. It is also a center for international agricultural trade and commerce. This program is designed for students majoring in Agriculture while also allowing the student to select courses that fit his/her individual needs and desires.

As a General Agriculture major, you will:

*Study a general agriculture curriculum representing all of the departments of the Cosumnes River College agriculture program including: agriculture business, horticulture, welding, veterinary technology and plant science.

*Develop your leadership and communication skills.

*Identify the agricultural career you are most interested in and build a course of study to better qualify you for a profession.

HIGHLIGHTS

*As the only community college agriculture program in the Sacramento region, the CRC General Agriculture program provides an excellent opportunity for individuals who wish to pursue a career in agriculture and receive a General Agriculture Associate of Science degree.

*The faculty in this program works closely with the five California agricultural degree offering universities to provide a quality program for students interested in agriculture business, management and economics.

*The Sacramento region is fortunate to have some of the best high school agriculture programs in California. The faculty in the CRC Ag program works closely with these feeder schools to articulate coursework and facilitate the successful transition of agriculture students from high school to the university.

*Internships in agriculture are available for students interested in work experience opportunities.

NOTE TO TRANSFER STUDENTS: If you are interested in transferring to a four-year college or university to pursue a bachelor’s degree in this major, it is critical that you meet with a CRC counselor to select and plan the courses for your major. Schools vary widely in terms of the required preparation. The courses that CRC requires for an Associate’s degree in this major may be different from the requirements needed for the Bachelor’s degree.


Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
AGB 310 Agriculture Computer Applications 31
AGB 320 Agriculture Accounting 3
AGB 321 Agriculture Economics 3
AMT 306 Small Engine Repair 3
HORT 300 Introduction to Horticulture 3
PLTS 310 Soils, Soil Management, and Plant Nutrition (3) 3
   or HORT 302 Soils, Soil Management, and Plant Nutrition (3)
ANSC 300 Introduction to Animal Science 3
PLTS 300 Introduction to Plant Science 3
WELD 100 Introduction to Welding & Safety 1.5
A minimum of 2 units from the following: 2
WEXP 498 Work Experience in (Subject) (0.5 - 4)
Subtotal Units: 27.5
Agriculture Business
Course Code Course Title Units
AGB 300 Introduction to Agriculture Business 3
AGB 330 Agriculture Sales and Communication 3
AGB 331 Agriculture Marketing 3
Agriculture Business Units: 9
Total Units: 36.5
Horticulture
Course Code Course Title Units
HORT 305 Plant Identification-Fall Selections 3
HORT 312 Plant Propagation 3
Horticulture Units: 6
Total Units: 33.5
Landscape
Course Code Course Title Units
HORT 320 Sustainable Landscape Construction 3
HORT 324 Sustainable Landscape Maintenance 3
Landscape Units: 6
Total Units: 33.5
Welding
Course Code Course Title Units
WELD 110 Shielded Metal Arc Welding Procedures 4
Welding Units: 4
Total Units: 31.5

1This major requires that you complete all courses in the required program plus one area of concentration.

The General Agriculture Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus the local CRC General Education Requirement, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See CRC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PSLO 1: Demonstrate knowledge and hands‐on experience in the basic concepts of all aspects of agriculture.
  • PSLO 2: Demonstrate the ability to logically breakdown aspects of a project/problem and be able to resolve an issue in the agriculture industry.
  • PSLO 3: Demonstrate independent & group learning expressing effective communication skills, both orally & written.
  • PSLO 4: Participate in leadership opportunities to develop life‐long learning traits.

Career Information

Management; Supervision; Finance; Insurance; Government; Marketing; Distribution; International Trade; Sales and Service Nursery Management and Operations; Park Maintenance; Landscape Design, Teaching, Communication; Contracting & Maintenance; Fertilizer & Insecticide Application; Research; Retail/Wholesale; Estimator; Consultant; Government Agency employee; Welding Technician; Inspection; Welding Engineering; Sculpting; Home/Handicraft & Hobby; Construction; Trucking & Automotive Some positions, however, require a four-year degree for which CRC’s program is a good base for transfer.

A.S. in Horticulture, Sustainable Landscape Technology

A variety of professional career opportunities are available to those who wish to provide professional landscape installation and/or support services. Landscapers design, install, and maintain private and public outdoor spaces where people live, work, and play. The Sustainable Landscape Technology A.S. Degree concentrates on those courses that develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential to creating, constructing, and maintaining functional and sustainable landscapes, green spaces, and irrigation systems, as well as for careers in arboriculture, and landscape material, supply, and specialty services. The courses of this degree focus on sound horticultural science and principles, plant identification, proper soil development and management, sustainable landscape and irrigation design, water conservation, sustainable construction and landscape and turf maintenance practices, tree care, integrated pest management, licensing and certification, and horticultural business practices.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
HORT 105 Pest Control Licensing or Certification 2
HORT 300 Introduction to Horticulture 3
HORT 302 Soils, Soil Management, and Plant Nutrition (3) 3
   or PLTS 310 Soils, Soil Management, and Plant Nutrition (3)
HORT 303 Integrated Pest Management (3) 31
   or PLTS 332 Integrated Pest Management (3)
A minimum of 6 units from the following: 6
HORT 305 Plant Identification-Fall Selections (3)
HORT 306 Plant Identification-Spring Selections (3)
HORT 307 Plant Identification - Sustainable and CA Native Selections (3)
HORT 320 Sustainable Landscape Construction (3) 3
   or MAT 300 Introduction to Agriculture Mechanics (3)
HORT 324 Sustainable Landscape Maintenance (3) 3
HORT 340 Landscape and Irrigation Graphics and Design 32
HORT 350 Landscape Irrigation 3
HORT 351 Drip and Subsurface Irrigation 2
HORT 353 Sustainable Water Management 3
HORT 360 Introduction to Tree Care and Urban Forestry 3
A minimum of 2 units from the following: 2
HORT 498 Work Experience in Horticulture (0.5 - 4)
Total Units: 39

1Horticulture 100 at American River College meets the Hort 303 course requirement.

2Horticulture 322 at American River College meets the Hort 340 course requirement.

The Horticulture, Sustainable Landscape Technology Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See CRC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PSLO 1: Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of basic horticultural principles and practices.
  • PSLO 2: Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of soils, soil development, soil building and preparation, and sustainable soil management.
  • PSLO 3: Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of plant identification, selection, use, and maintenance of plant material best suited for conventional and sustainable landscapes.
  • PSLO 4: Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of basic landscape design principles and practices.
  • PSLO 5: Demonstrate proficiency at implementing sustainable landscape construction principles and practices to install landscapes and landscape systems.
  • PSLO 6: Demonstrate proficiency at implementing sustainable tree care, landscape maintenance, and integrated pest management principles and practices to care for and maintain landscapes and green spaces.
  • PSLO 7: Demonstrate proficiency at implementing the principles and practices of irrigation design and installation to design, install, and manage water efficient irrigation systems.

Career Information

Students who complete the Sustainable Landscape Technology A.S. degree may find employment in a wide range of areas including landscape contracting, landscape construction and installation, landscape and grounds maintenance, turf management, arboriculture and tree care, parks and recreation, landscape irrigation and water management, landscape design and consulting, nurseries and garden centers, landscape pest management, horticulture materials supply and power equipment servicing, and/or in a variety of other horticultural specialties.

Certificates of Achievement

Horticulture, General Horticulture Certificate

This program provides students with the essential knowledge and skills for entry level employment in the Horticulture industry. Students gain core knowledge and skills in basic plant science, soil science, integrated pest management, and plant identification and use. Students then complete two advanced horticulture courses of their choice. This is the base certificate in a stackable series that leads to an additional certificate or degree in Horticulture.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
HORT 300 Introduction to Horticulture 3
HORT 302 Soils, Soil Management, and Plant Nutrition (3) 3
   or PLTS 310 Soils, Soil Management, and Plant Nutrition (3)
HORT 303 Integrated Pest Management (3) 31
   or PLTS 332 Integrated Pest Management (3)
A minimum of 3 units from the following: 3
HORT 305 Plant Identification-Fall Selections (3)
   or HORT 306 Plant Identification-Spring Selections (3)
   or HORT 307 Plant Identification - Sustainable and CA Native Selections (3)
A minimum of 6 units from the following: 6
HORT 105 Pest Control Licensing or Certification (2)
   or HORT 350 Landscape Irrigation (3)
   or HORT 351 Drip and Subsurface Irrigation (2)
   or HORT 498 Work Experience in Horticulture (0.5 - 4)
HORT 320 Sustainable Landscape Construction (3)
   or HORT 324 Sustainable Landscape Maintenance (3)
   or HORT 360 Introduction to Tree Care and Urban Forestry (3)
   or MAT 300 Introduction to Agriculture Mechanics (3)
Total Units: 18

1Horticulture 100 at American River College meets the Hort 303 course requirement.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PSLO 1: Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of basic horticultural principles and practices.
  • PSLO 2: Demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to sustainably manage landscape soil.
  • PSLO 3: Demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to perform basic landscape and nursery operations.
  • PSLO 4: Demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to design and implement a successful integrated pest management program.
  • PSLO 5: Demonstrate the ability to identify selected plant material and make appropriate recommendations for its use in the landscape.
  • PSLO 6: Demonstrate knowledge and skills in one or more horticulture specialties through advanced coursework, and/or a combination of courses, work experience in horticulture, or independent studies in horticulture.

Career Information

A multitude of entry-level opportunities awaits those who earn a certificate in General Horticulture. Students may find gainful employment opportunities in landscape construction and maintenance, irrigation systems installation and maintenance, landscape planning, tree care, wholesale or retail nursery sales and support, landscape materials sales and/or services, or other specialty areas in Horticulture.

Horticulture, Sustainable Irrigation and Water Management Technology Certificate

The certificate in Sustainable Irrigation and Water Management Technology concentrates on those courses that develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential to designing, installing, and managing water efficient irrigation systems that are compliant with current California state and local ordinances. The required courses are designed to develop a strong foundational understanding of basic botany and plant growth requirements, and provide advanced education and training in sound principles of soil/water relationship testing and evaluation, soil development and management, proper sprinkler and drip irrigation design, irrigation systems troubleshooting and retrofitting, and irrigation systems management for water conservation. Students will have the opportunity to become QWEL (Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper) certified through this certificate program. QWEL is an EPA WaterSense Partnership program.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
HORT 300 Introduction to Horticulture 3
HORT 302 Soils, Soil Management, and Plant Nutrition (3) 3
   or PLTS 310 Soils, Soil Management, and Plant Nutrition (3)
HORT 350 Landscape Irrigation 3
HORT 351 Drip and Subsurface Irrigation 2
HORT 353 Sustainable Water Management 3
A minimum of 2 units from the following: 2
HORT 498 Work Experience in Horticulture (0.5 - 4)
Total Units: 16

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PSLO 1: Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of basic horticultural principles and practices.
  • PSLO 2: Demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to sustainably manage landscape soils.
  • PSLO 3: Demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to perform basic tasks related to landscape irrigation systems design, installation, and maintenance.
  • PSLO 4: Demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to perform advanced tasks related to sustainable irrigation systems design, installation, retrofitting, and troubleshooting.
  • PSLO 5: Demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to perform advanced tasks related to landscape water use efficiency and sustainable water management.

Career Information

Students who complete a certificate in Sustainable Irrigation and Water Management Technology can find employment opportunities in sprinkler and surface/subsurface irrigation design, consultation, installation, maintenance and irrigation/water management. Students may be self-employed, or find employment with landscape and/or irrigation design firms, landscape contractors, landscape maintenance companies, golf courses, parks departments, water agencies, or other water/water service providers. This certificate will also prepare students for advanced training and certification through industry sponsored programs such as the Irrigation Association's (IA) Certified Irrigation Designer, Certified Irrigation Contractor, Certified Water Auditor, and Certified Water Manager programs, as well as the California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA) Water Management Certification program.

Horticulture, Sustainable Landscape Design Certificate

The certificate in Sustainable Landscape Design concentrates on those courses that develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential to creating landscape and irrigation designs that make best use of local resources including soil, water, and construction materials. The courses of this certificate focus on sound horticultural science and principles, proper soil development and management, sustainable landscape and irrigation design, water conservation, sustainable landscape construction and maintenance practices, and integrated pest management.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
HORT 300 Introduction to Horticulture 3
HORT 302 Soils, Soil Management, and Plant Nutrition (3) 3
   or PLTS 310 Soils, Soil Management, and Plant Nutrition (3)
HORT 303 Integrated Pest Management (3) 31
   or PLTS 332 Integrated Pest Management (3)
HORT 305 Plant Identification-Fall Selections (3) 3
   or HORT 306 Plant Identification-Spring Selections (3)
   or HORT 307 Plant Identification - Sustainable and CA Native Selections (3)
HORT 340 Landscape and Irrigation Graphics and Design 32
HORT 350 Landscape Irrigation 3
HORT 351 Drip and Subsurface Irrigation 2
A minimum of 2 units from the following: 2
HORT 498 Work Experience in Horticulture (0.5 - 4)
Total Units: 22

1Horticulture 100 at American River College meets the Hort 303 course requirement.

2Horticulture 322 at American River College meets the Hort 340 course requirement.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PSLO 1. Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of basic horticultural principles and practices.
  • PSLO 2. Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of soils, soil development, soil building and preparation, and sustainable soil management.
  • PLSO 3. Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of plant identification, selection, and use of plant material best suited for sustainable landscapes.
  • PSLO 4. Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of basic landscape design principles and practices.
  • PSLO 5. Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of hydraulics and irrigation design, installation, and water management principles and practices.
  • PSLO 6. Propose landscape design concepts based on sound, sustainable soil management, water conservation, construction and maintenance, and integrated pest management best practices.

Career Information

The certificate in Sustainable Landscape Design provides a strong horticulture foundation, along with the specialized skills and technical knowledge to prepare students for employment opportunities in the field of sustainable landscape planning and irrigation design. Students who complete a certificate in Sustainable Landscape Design find employment in landscape and irrigation design, planning, consultation, installation management, and water systems management. Students may be self-employed, or find employment with landscape design firms, landscape contractors, landscape maintenance firms, or other related service providers. Students will have the opportunity to become QWEL (Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper) certified through this certificate program. QWEL is an EPA WaterSense Partnership program. This certificate will also prepare students for advanced training and certification through industry sponsored programs such as the Irrigation Association (IA) Certified Water Auditor and Certified Water Manager programs.

Horticulture, Sustainable Landscape Technology Certificate

A variety of professional career opportunities are available to those who wish to provide professional landscape installation and/or support services. Landscapers design, install, and maintain private and public outdoor spaces where people live, work, and play. The Sustainable Landscape Technology Certificate concentrates on those courses that develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential for entry-level careers in developing, constructing, and maintaining functional and sustainable landscapes, green spaces, and irrigation systems, as well as careers in tree care, and landscape material, supply, and specialty services. The courses in this certificate focus on sound horticultural science and principles, plant identification, proper soil development and management, sustainable landscape and irrigation design, water conservation, sustainable construction and landscape maintenance, tree care, and integrated pest management.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
HORT 300 Introduction to Horticulture 3
HORT 302 Soils, Soil Management, and Plant Nutrition (3) 3
   or PLTS 310 Soils, Soil Management, and Plant Nutrition (3)
HORT 303 Integrated Pest Management (3) 31
   or PLTS 332 Integrated Pest Management (3)
HORT 305 Plant Identification-Fall Selections (3) 3
   or HORT 306 Plant Identification-Spring Selections (3)
   or HORT 307 Plant Identification - Sustainable and CA Native Selections (3)
HORT 320 Sustainable Landscape Construction (3) 3
   or HORT 324 Sustainable Landscape Maintenance (3)
   or HORT 360 Introduction to Tree Care and Urban Forestry (3)
   or MAT 300 Introduction to Agriculture Mechanics (3)
HORT 350 Landscape Irrigation 3
A minimum of 2 units from the following: 2
HORT 498 Work Experience in Horticulture (0.5 - 4)
Total Units: 20

1Horticulture 100 at American River College meets the Hort 303 course requirement.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PSLO 1: Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of basic horticultural principles and practices.
  • PSLO 2: Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of soils, soil development, soil building and preparation, and sustainable soil management.
  • PSLO 3: Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of plant identification, selection, use, and maintenance of plant material best suited for sustainable landscapes.
  • PSLO 4: Demonstrate proficiency at implementing the principles and practices of Integrated Pest Management for sustainable landscapes.
  • PSLO 5: Demonstrate proficiency at implementing the principles and practices of sustainable landscape construction, sustainable landscape maintenance, or arboriculture to install and/or maintain sustainable landscapes.
  • PSLO 6: Demonstrate proficiency at implementing the principles and practices of irrigation design and water efficiency to design, install, and manage landscape irrigation systems.

Career Information

Students who complete a certificate in Sustainable Landscape Technology may find entry-level employment in a wide range of areas including landscape contracting, landscape construction and installation, landscape and grounds maintenance, turf management, tree care, parks and recreation, landscape irrigation, landscape design and consulting, nurseries and garden centers, landscape pest management, and horticulture materials supply and power equipment servicing.

Regenerative Foodways Certificate

The Regenerative Foodways Certificate brings the intersection of food, health, and environment into the classroom. The courses provide hands-on learning in the current fields of sustainable nutrition and regenerative agriculture. Students will explore the benefits of plant-focused eating patterns for both individuals and the planet, learn how to create nourishing meals centered around plants, and discover farming methods that promote fairness and sustainability in food production.

Contact the CRC Nutrition and Foods and/or Horticulture, and/or Ag Counselor regarding transferable courses.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
NUTRI 303 Plant-Based Nutrition 3
NUTRI 331 Plant-Based Food Principles and Preparation 3
HORT 313 Sustainable Agriculture 3
Total Units: 9

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PSLO 1: Demonstrate independent learning and effective communication skills.
  • Demonstrate responsibility for personal action and choices.
  • Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • PSLO 2: Explain the principles of nutrition and its effect on health.
  • Relate the dietary causes of chronic diseases.
  • Evaluate the role of plant-based foods on health and the environment.
  • PSLO 3: Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of health behaviors on nutritional and health status.
  • Schematize the effects of personal food choice on health, the environment and public policy.
  • PSLO 4: Basic and advanced plant science/horticulture skills development and improvement.
  • Demonstrate and apply the theories of sustainable and organic agriculture.
  • Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of soils, soil development, soil building and preparation and sustainable soil management.
  • Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of hydraulics and irrigation design, installation, and water management principles and practices.
  • Create agriculture design concepts based on sound, sustainable soil management, water conservation, construction and maintenance, and integrated pest management best practices.
  • PSLO 5: Effectively and accurately prepare and analyze raw ingredients and prepared foods.
  • Evaluate food through sensory evaluation of texture, taste, color, presentation, smell and umami.
  • Identify optimal cooking procedures/heat transfer to maximize nutrient content as well as the quality of the ingredients and dish as a whole.
  • Analyze quality defects in cooked products and specify possible errors in techniques or ingredient selection.
  • PSLO 6: Implement proper sanitary and safety techniques.
  • Demonstrate appropriate food handling and sanitary techniques.
  • Utilize kitchen tools/equipment appropriately.

Career Information

In restaurants, food service facilities, farms, urban farms, sustainable/organic farms, school garden, health education. Some of these career options may require more than the certificate and two years of college study. Classes beyond the associate degree may be required to fulfill some career options or for preparation for transfer to a university program.

Horticulture (HORT) Courses

HORT 105 Pest Control Licensing or Certification

  • Units:2
  • Hours:36 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:HORT 300, HORT 303, PLTS 300, or PLTS 332
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers the laws, regulations, and safety requirements for individuals preparing to obtain a Qualified Applicator's Certificate (QAC) in California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CDPR) category Q or a Qualified Applicator's License (QAL) in CDPR category B. This course will also cover the requirements and process of obtaining a Maintenance Gardener Pest Control Business License. Topics include pesticide safety and application, pesticide modes of action, pesticide regulation, applicator licensing and certification, accepted standards for integrated pest management, and the methods and practices of preventing and controlling common landscape weeds, invertebrate and vertebrate pests, nematodes, and infectious and noninfectious plant diseases. Environmental concerns regarding pesticide resistance, surface and groundwater contamination, and other exposures will be covered.

HORT 299 Experimental Offering in Horticulture

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

HORT 300 Introduction to Horticulture

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L5
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

Introduction to Horticulture is a general, entry level course into environmental horticulture with an emphasis on basic plant science, plant use and care, and the landscape and nursery industries. Topics include basic botany, cultural practices, propagation, structures and layout, pest management, planting, container gardening, plant identification, turfgrass installation and care, and a survey of career opportunities.

HORT 302 Soils, Soil Management, and Plant Nutrition

  • Same As:PLTS 310
  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:HORT 300 and PLTS 300
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5A; Cal-GETC Area 5C
  • C-ID:C-ID AG - PS 128L
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course provides a basic knowledge of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils. Course content includes fundamental soil properties, soil and plant relationships, principles of soil formation, soil biology, fertilizers and soil management, salinity, pH, erosion management, and non-agricultural uses. Field trips may be required and may require a fee. This course is the same as PLTS 310, and only one may be taken for credit.

HORT 303 Integrated Pest Management

  • Same As:PLTS 332
  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:HORT 300 and PLTS 300
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a study of the identification and management of common plant pests encountered in horticultural and agricultural settings. The focus of this course will be on the selection and application of appropriate Integrated Pest Management strategies for weeds, infectious plant diseases, non-infectious / abiotic plant disorders, vertebrate and invertebrate pests, and other pest organisms. Topics include the recognition and diagnosis of plant problems, pest types and life cycles, host and habitat relationships, and the integrated pest management strategies and best management practices to achieve control. Field trips may be required and may require a fee. This course is the same as PLTS 332, and only one may be taken for credit.

HORT 305 Plant Identification-Fall Selections

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:HORT 300
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (HORT 305 and 306 combined: maximum transfer credit is one course)
  • C-ID:C-ID AG - EH 112L
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is the identification and study of the growth habits, cultural practices, and ornamental uses of landscape and indoor plants adapted to California climates. Plants emphasized will come from the current list(s) of recommended plants to study in preparation for industry certification exams. This course will focus on those plants best suited to the Sacramento region and observed during the fall / winter seasons. Students may be required to attend off-campus field trips.

HORT 306 Plant Identification-Spring Selections

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:HORT 300
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (HORT 305 and 306 combined: maximum transfer credit is one course)
  • C-ID:C-ID AG - EH 108L
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is the identification and study of the growth habits, cultural practices, and ornamental uses of landscape and indoor plants adapted to California climates. Plants emphasized will come from the current list(s) of recommended plants to study in preparation for industry certification exams. This course will focus on those plants best suited to the Sacramento region and observed during the spring / summer seasons. College sponsored field trips may be required.

HORT 307 Plant Identification - Sustainable and CA Native Selections

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:HORT 300
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is the identification and study of the growth habits, cultural practices, and ornamental uses of California native plants, as well as non-native plant species that are well adapted to California climates and appropriate for sustainable landscaping. Plants emphasized will come from the current list(s) of recommended plants to study in preparation for industry certification exams. College sponsored field trips may be required.

HORT 312 Plant Propagation

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:HORT 300 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • C-ID:C-ID AG - EH 116L
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a study of the fundamental principles and production practices involved in the propagation of plant species, with an emphasis on ornamental plant production for the nursery industry. Topics include propagule selection and techniques utilized to make more plants; sexual and asexual reproduction; planting, transplanting, fertilizing, and plant pest and disease control; structures and site layout; preparation and use of propagating and planting mediums; use and maintenance of common tools and equipment; marketing and sales; and regulations pertaining to plant propagation and nursery production.

HORT 313 Sustainable Agriculture

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L5
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course provides a comprehensive study of sustainable agriculture that addresses many environmental and social concerns while providing innovative and economically viable techniques for growers. It integrates the theoretical aspects of sustainable agriculture, principles and practices with field-based laboratory and participatory learning of sustainable agriculture practices. College sponsored field trips may be required.

HORT 320 Sustainable Landscape Construction

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:HORT 300
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers the fundamentals of landscape construction, including soil preparation, paving and construction materials, hand and power tool use, turf and plant installation, plan reading, estimating, and bid preparation. It will emphasize approved traditional industry construction methods, as well as sustainable alternative and techniques. Local codes and state requirements will also be covered. This course is an initial step in preparation for the California State C-27 Landscape Contractor License exam. Field trips may be required.

HORT 324 Sustainable Landscape Maintenance

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:HORT 300 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a study of landscape management practices and prepares students to evaluate and improve the function and aesthetic value of residential and commercial landscapes, parks, highways, and public buildings by applying appropriate, sustainable maintenance techniques. Topics include the safe operation and maintenance of hand tools and power equipment for the trade, basic lawn care, basic tree and shrub care, planting and transplanting, pruning, water-efficient irrigation, sustainable plant nutrition and soils management, integrated pest management, and landscape maintenance business practices. Both interior and exterior landscape maintenance will be discussed. Students may be required to attend off-campus field trips.

HORT 340 Landscape and Irrigation Graphics and Design

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:HORT 300 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Advisory:HORT 305, 306, or 307
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is the study of technical drafting skills and freehand graphics, including line quality, lettering, and organization of the design space as it relates to landscape and irrigation design. It includes 'hand drafting techniques', plant database software, introduction to Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) for landscape, and the use of a variety of graphics skills and media. Irrigation design for landscapes studies water hydraulics, irrigation equipment, including irrigation heads, pipes, pumps, controllers and valves, and water conservation. The course includes preparing landscape and irrigation plans, plan presentation, and reprographics. Students may be required to attend off-campus field trips.

HORT 350 Landscape Irrigation

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:HORT 300 and 340; Hort 322 from ARC with a grade of "C" or better satisfies the Hort 340 advisory.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course prepares students to design, install, and maintain water efficient landscape irrigation systems. Topics include current California State water use regulations and ordinances, water supply, basic hydraulics, component identification and terminology, system layout, pipe sizing, water application devices, valves, and controllers. Students can earn QWEL (Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper) certification by achieving a passing score on the final exam. (Minimum passing score will be announced in class). Students may be required to attend off-campus field trips.

HORT 351 Drip and Subsurface Irrigation

  • Units:2
  • Hours:27 hours LEC; 27 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:HORT 300, 340, and 350
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course prepares students to design, install and maintain water efficient, surface and subsurface drip irrigation systems. Topics include component identification and terminology, system layout, pipe sizing, water application equipment. College sponsored field trips may be required.

HORT 353 Sustainable Water Management

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:HORT 350 with a grade of "C" or better; Hort 105 from ARC with a grade of "C" or better satisfies the Hort 350 prerequisite.
  • Advisory:HORT 300
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course prepares students to maintain and manage water efficient landscape irrigation systems utilizing the latest irrigation technology including water efficient application equipment, traditional and smart controllers, and environmental sensors. Topics include the review of the current California State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance, inspection and performance assessment of irrigation systems, determining sprinkler precipitation and consumption rates, calculating water budgets, assessing soil/water relationships of the landscape, installing smart controllers and environmental sensors, controller programming, developing water schedules, and irrigation system management for efficient water use. Students can earn QWEL (Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper) certification by achieving a passing score on the final exam. (Minimum passing score will be announced in class). College sponsored field trips may be required.

HORT 360 Introduction to Tree Care and Urban Forestry

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:HORT 300 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is an introductory study and application of the principles and practices of tree care and urban forestry. This course will focus on tree biology, tree identification, plant health care, soils, plant nutrition, planting, worker safety, climbing, pruning, and the safe and effective use of tree-care tools and equipment. This course prepares the student to obtain a Certified Arborist designation through the International Society of Arboriculture. College sponsored field trips may be required.

HORT 495 Independent Studies in Horticulture

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

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.

HORT 498 Work Experience in Horticulture

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Hours:27 - 216 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Enrollment Limitation:Students must be in a paid or unpaid internship, volunteer position or job related to career goals in Horticulture.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course provides students with opportunities to develop marketable skills in preparation for employment in their major field of study or advancement within their career. It is designed for students interested in work experience and/or internships in transfer level degree occupational programs. Course content includes understanding the application of education to the workforce; completion of required forms which document the student's progress and hours spent at the work site; and developing workplace skills and competencies. Appropriate level learning objectives are established by the student and the employer. During the semester, the student is required to participate in a weekly orientation and complete 27 hours of related work experience for 0.5 unit. An additional 27 hours of related work experience is required for each additional 0.5 units. Students may take up to 16 units total across all Work Experience course offerings. This course may be taken up to four times when there are new or expanded learning objectives. Only one Work Experience course may be taken per semester.

HORT 499 Experimental Offering in Horticulture

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

Catalog