Agriculture Plant Science
10 courses · Merced College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
AGPS-01 Elements of Plant Science
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- AG-PS 106L
Introduction to plant science including structure, growth processes, propagation, physiology, growth media, biological competitors, and post-harvest factors of food, fiber, and ornamental plants. Laboratory required. (11/24)
AGPS-02 Weeds
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
This is a study of the classification, identification, and life cycle of common and poisonous weeds in California which are detrimental to cultivated crops, grasslands, animals, and man. The course covers cultural, mechanical, biological, and chemical management methods. Genetically modified crops and pesticide resistance are also covered. (10/25)
AGPS-03 Economic Entomology
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course will cover insects and mites of economic importance to agriculture. Morphology, taxonomy, identification, life cycles, hosts, habitat relationships, and control methods will be discussed. Collection and labeling of specimens will be required. (10/25)
AGPS-05 Soil Science
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- AG-PS 128L
This course provides a basic knowledge of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils and their characteristics. The course includes factors of fundamental soil properties, soil and plant relationships, principles of soil formation, fertilizers and soil management, salinity, pH, erosion management, and nonagricultural uses. (10/25)
AGPS-06 Fertilizers and Soil Amendments
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
The course will cover the composition, value, selection, and use of fertilizer materials and soil amendments. Soil, plant, and fertilizer relationships will be covered. Application practices common to area crops and soils will be discussed. (10/25)
AGPS-10 Elements of Cereal Grain Production
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
This is a study of production principles, which include botany, taxonomy, soil tillage, fertilization, variety and seed selection, pest management, harvest, processing, storage, and marketing for important fiber, food, and cereal crops in California. Covered crops will include cotton, sugar beets, wheat, rice, barley, sorghum, corn, oats, safflower, legumes for seed, and potatoes. A field trip to a major production area is required. (10/25)
AGPS-11 Forage Crops
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course will cover production, harvesting, and utilization of principal California forage crops. The importance of forage crops as a supplement to livestock enterprises will also be covered. The use of forage crops as soil amendments, and irrigated and range pastures will be discussed. (10/25)
AGPS-12 Commercial Vegetable and Garden Production
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is a study of vegetable production covering the botany, cultural production, harvesting, processing, growth characteristics, fertility, pests, and marketing of the major warm season and cool season vegetable crops in California. A field trip into a major vegetable production region is required. (10/25)
AGPS-13 Fruit Tree Maintenance
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is designed to evaluate management decisions for fruit and nut trees. Management topics will include studies of climate zones, soil selection, financing, farm organization, irrigation systems, field layout, varietal selection, nutritional needs, harvesting, labor management, marketing, and budgeting. The student will be required to prepare a budget and calendar of orchard operations. (10/25)
AGPS-14 Vineyard Production and Management
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is designed to evaluate management decisions for fruit and nut trees. Management topics will include studies of climate zones, soil selection, financing, farm organization, irrigation systems, field layout, varietal selection, nutritional needs, harvesting, labor management, marketing, and budgeting. The student will be required to prepare a budget and calendar of orchard operations. (10/25)