AGH 147 - Soil Fertility for Hort.

1. Demonstrate the ability to evaluate soils and rooting media.
   1. Correlate attributes that can impact plant growth and impact land use.
   2. Demonstrate use of USDA Soil Survey Maps.
   3. Assess topography and its impact on soil use.
   4. Assess the three phase system of soil and potting media on an individual site basis.
2. Evaluate construction of non-native soils and rooting media.
   1. Demonstrate construction of potting media mixes for targeted plants and production systems.
   2. Demonstrate basic knowledge of soils constructed for athletic use.
   3. Evaluate soil engineering options in disturbed soils.
3. Compare the physical properties of soil and rooting media.
   1. Identify soil separates.
   2. Determine soil texture using the ribbon test and texture triangle.
   3. Compare soil profiles.
4. Interpret soil and rooting media fertility information and develop a plan for amendment.
   1. Assess pH and the potential limitations for a crop.
   2. Calculate effectiveness and rates of materials used for pH adjustment.
   3. Interpret soil and plant tissue tests and correlate.
   4. Develop species specific nutrient management program based on soil and plant tissue tests.
   5. Calculate and compare fertilizer costs.
   6. Investigate methods of fertilizer application.
   7. Investigate impact of cation exchange capacity on nutrient and pH management.
5. Evaluate site specific soil erosion.
   1. Identify land management practices that impact erosion.
   2. Explain concept of T value.
   3. Calculate projected soil loss for a selected site and crop management system.
   4. Determine practices that can be implemented to reduce erosion for a site.
   5. Estimate economic impact of soil erosion.
6. Develop a comprehensive soil management plan.
   1. Determine water management and drainage concerns for selected site and crop.
   2. Determine water management and drainage concerns for selected site and crop.
   3. Develop a basic soil fertility plan for a specific site and crop.