Horticulture/Floriculture and Landscaping

A student enrolled in the agriculture program is exposed to the growing, marketing, and care of a multitude of ornamental and food crops as well as the different facets of the food, fiber, and natural resource industry. As a prospective agriculturalist, the student studies all aspects of plant science, greenhouse management, sustainable horticultural technology, landscaping, soil science, turf grass management, and forestry as it pertains to the industry. Basic mechanical skills such as carpentry, electricity, plumbing, small gas engines, masonry, and equipment operation are also taught in the agricultural program. In addition, students will learn introductory animal science as it pertains to our aquaponics system and chicken flock that we raise. A student entering the agricultural field should have a love for plants, the outdoors, and a willingness to develop their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through the Columbia-Montour A.V.T.S. FFA. The agricultural program includes an agricultural mechanics shop, potting room, two computerized greenhouses, computerized drafting & design room, landscape nursery and a regulation putting green. Floral orders such as weddings, table arrangements, proms, and alter vases are performed throughout the year as they arise. Crops such as poinsettias, lilies, various vegetables, herbs, and 32 different varieties of bedding plants are grown and sold out of the two spacious greenhouses in addition to our raised garden beds. Golf course management is taught on our 3,500 square feet regulation putting green. Because the program teaches so many aspects of agriculture, it lends itself to the student that may not know exactly which career path they would like to travel.

What Qualities Should I Have?
The prospective student should be a science-minded individual that loves working with nature. Good vision, manual dexterity, stamina, and the ability to work in various weather conditions are the primary qualifications for this occupation. The prospective student should be interested in working with plants, flowers, shrubs and learning about their growth and maintenance. The student should like to work outdoors or in greenhouses and have the ability to handle machinery necessary to create and maintain grounds and landscaping. The agricultural industry is a thriving, innovative, fast-paced field which will need many new employees to meet the challenges that face our growing society. Agriculture is the number one industry in Pennsylvania and horticulture plays an important part.

Instructor: Renee Noll (ext. 3340)
CIP 01.0601