Our two Exploring the Garden courses take you on an inspiring
tour of the world of plants, explaining the "hows" and "whys" of what
you see and do in your garden. With this information you will be better
equipped to identify problems and read plant symptoms -- and
you will communicate more effectively with fellow gardeners. For a
comprehensive look at the world of plants, we suggest you take both
courses: Plant Growth and Diversity (BOT1)
first, followed by Plant Relationships and Cycles (BOT2).
Exploring the
Garden: Plant Growth and Diversity (BOT1)
Why are some plants "thirstier" than others? Why
is it a bad idea to water my garden a little every day? Why do I have to
refrigerate my bulbs before forcing? Can plants tell time? Why won't my
poinsettia bloom? What causes the changes in seasons, making sap flow or
leaves change color?
The course begins by laying a foundation for how plants work. We start with an overview
of plant parts, from root tips to treetops. Then we zoom in on the plant cell to see how
plants manufacture their own food and perform other important functions. Next, we look at
how plants are named and classified, and survey some plant families important to
gardeners. (Did you know that broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage are all the same
species?!) Finally, we explore the amazing diversity of plant life, and the adaptations
that have allowed plants to colonize almost every corner of the earth! We emphasize proper
terminology to help gardeners everywhere communicate more effectively. Throughout the
course, you'll find pop quizzes, hyperlinks to a comprehensive glossary, and links to
related Web sites.
