Course Description
The Science of Gardening is a web-based distance education course and is part of the Master Gardener Training Program. This is an exciting way of learning, giving you the opportunity to work at a pace that is convenient to you. It will help you understand the relationship between the plants and their environment. Once you have grasped this, you will be able to modify conditions to better suit the plant and to anticipate problems based on the ecosystem. You will be much better prepared to garden sustainably.
Course Outline
This course will give you a comprehensive understanding of a plant's basic functions, its interaction with its surroundings and its responses to changes in its environment. It will lead to an understanding of the scientific basis for many of the principles and practices of gardening.
Topics include:
- Soil systems
- Plant physiology
- Plant nutrition
- Plant propagation
Marking Scheme
| Quiz 1 - The Soil System | 15 |
| Assignment 1 - Soil Texture Test | 10 |
| Quiz 2 - Plant Physiology | 15 |
| Assignment 2 - Translocation | 10 |
| Quiz 3 - Plant Nutrition | 15 |
| Assignment 3 - Nutrient Deficiency Symptoms | 10 |
| Quiz 4 - Plant Propagation | 15 |
| Assignment 4 - Seed Germination and Transplanting | 10 |
| Total | 100 |
Successful completion of the course requires a passing grade of 60% in each of the four sections. This is a combination of your grades from your tests and assignments. Students are required to complete all tests and assignments within the course.
Notes
Required Text: Botany for Gardeners by Brian Capon. There are numerous editions in print, but all will serve our purposes. You may borrow the book from your local library or buy it locally or on-line.
Technical Requirements: Internet (High Speed preferred)
Course Dates: Courses start three times a year, October 1st, November 15th, and February 1st. The registration deadline is one week prior to the start date of each course.
Number of Courses: Students are to take ONE course at a time per intake, unless otherwise approved by Extended Learning.
Refunds: Course refunds are eligible up until the registration deadline. After the registration deadline, there are no course refunds.
Prerequisites
It is recommended that the Master Gardener Program Courses be taken in the following order:
- The Science of Gardening
- Maintaining the Garden
- Plant ID and Use
- The Art of Gardening
Recommended For
Anyone who has a passion or interest in gardening in your backyard or community.
Anyone interested in working towards becoming a Master Gardener within the Master Gardener Association of Alberta.
Anyone looking to expand on their gardening knowledge.
Testimonials
"I have been gardening for years and had never put much thought into the "science" behind it. This course was very informative. I really enjoyed it but my favorite was the hands-on assessments. Good fun!"
"Colleen has a wealth of knowledge. Her email responses were always very prompt and helpful. I also enjoyed the live sessions, and the feeling of 1 on 1 during office hours. I am so happy to have had her instruction through this course and look forward to the next 3!"
Applies Towards the Following Certificates
- Master Gardener Training Program- Alberta : Required