Course Description

Lecture topics include the following:

1) the nutrient uptake process including short distance ion movement from soil into root symplasm and long distance transport from root to shoot;

2) roles and uptake forms of essential nutrients of particular current research interest including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, iron, and boron;

3) structural characteristics, modes of metal (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu) release, and commercial application of agricultural metal chelates;

4) slow-release fertilizers including their chemical make-up, category classification, factors controlling release rates, and agricultural applications; and

5) foliar fertilization with emphasis on the pathway and chemical composition of the cuticular pathway, fertilizer sources, rates, and conditions and adjuncts used to enhance uptake.

Hands-on laboratory projects include the following:

1) set-up and operation of nutriculture systems including aeroponics, hydroponics, NTF, sand culture, gravel culture, and rockwool culture for commercial as well as research uses;

2) methodology of plant tissue analysis for diagnosing nutrient status;

3) integration of visual nutrient disorder symptoms, soil test data, and plant tissue analysis results for assessing mineral status of a crop and prescribing treatment; and

4) use of radioisotopes for tracing uptake and translocation of micro quantities of nutrients in plants.

Offered - Spring 2007

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