AGH 147 - Soil Fertility for Hort.

1. Evaluate plant selection based on soil characteristics. 
   1. Evaluate the soil limitations of a given location.
   2. Demonstrate use of USDA Soil Survey Maps.
   3. Determine plant selection limitations based on soil texture.
   4. Determine plant selection limitations based on soil pH, compaction, and potential for salt buildup.
2. Assess soil quality and its impact on plant growth. 
   1. Determine the texture of soil.
   2. Determine how water will flow through different soil textures and profiles.
   3. Measure soil compaction. 
   4. Determine the impact that soil compaction has on plant growth.
   5. Identify the role that microorganisms have on soil health. 
3. Summarize the use of potting media in containerized plants. 
   1. Identify potting media components.
   2. Distinguish between potting media component traits.
   3. Evaluate what factors impact water retention in potting media. 
4. Perform calculations used in the horticulture industry to determine rooting zone needs. 
   1. Calculate potting media needs and costs.
   2. Calculate soil weight and volume needs and costs. 
5. Explain the how to manage the pH and electrical conductivity in the rooting zone.
   1. Measure pH of soil samples.
   2. Use current methods to measure pH and electrical conductivity of potting media.
   3. Compare and contrast products used to change soil pH.
   4. Calculate rates of products needed to change soil pH. 
6. Critique plant nutrient deficiencies common to horticulture crops.
   1. Differentiate nutrient deficiency symptoms.
   2. Identify mobile and immobile nutrient deficiencies.
   3. Predict nutrient deficiencies based on root zone pH.
7. Summarize fertilizer use in horticulture. 
   1. Review the major fertilizers used in horticulture.
   2. Calculate fertilizer application rates by the acre and 1,000 square feet.
   3. Select fertilizers appropriate for a given situation.
8. Develop a comprehensive soil management plan for a horticulture crop.
   1. Evaluate soil sample data for a horticulture crop.
   2. Evaluate tissue sample data for a horticulture crop.
   3. Develop a fertilization and pH management plan based on cultural guidelines, soil samples and tissue samples.