381 Horticulture Building, 1575 Linden Drive, Madison, WI 53706; 608-262-1490; www.horticulture.wisc.edu
Professors (chair), Bamberg, Goldman, Havey, Jiang, McCown, Nienhuis, Palta, Simon, Spooner, Stimart, Yandell; Associate Professors Bussan, Colquhoun, Jull, Krysan, Patterson; Assistant Professors Bethke, Brunet, Jansky, Weng
Horticulture focuses on the development, production, growth, distribution, and use of fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants including trees, shrubs, flowers, and houseplants. Using molecular biology, biotechnology, genetics, plant breeding, physiology and integrated pest management, the science of horticulture strives to enrich our lives with nutritious, flavorsome foods and the beauty of ornamental plants. Horticulturists have responsibility for greenhouse and field management of flowers, fruits, vegetables, landscape plants, turf, and many other specialty crops. Often, production is integrated with distribution and sales in the operation of horticultural enterprises.
The department provides both undergraduate and graduate studies in various aspects of horticulture. An undergraduate student majoring in horticulture may obtain specialized training in floriculture, fruit production, woody ornamentals, turf, and vegetable crops through study in one of four degree programs: Natural Sciences, Natural Resources, Agricultural Sciences (with Production and Business Concentrations), or International Agriculture and Natural Resources. Each of these programs is flexible enough to provide for a student's individual needs and interests, though students interested in graduate studies are encouraged to select the Natural Sciences degree program. Details of the requirements for admission to our graduate program are listed in the Graduate School Catalog.
Each horticulture major is assigned to a faculty advisor, who will assist the student in selecting courses that will best meet the student's academic and career goals. To better prepare for horticultural careers, students are encouraged to obtain practical experience in horticultural operations. Faculty guidance and internship programs are available to help the student secure this valuable experience.
Students majoring in other subjects, but desiring some training in horticulture, will find Horticulture 120 Survey of Horticulture and 227 Propagation of Horticultural Plants of special interest.