Structure and theory of the two and four cycle engines. Troubleshooting, storage, maintenance, and repair of the small gas engine are included. Safety of the operator is stressed along with the use and study of operator's manuals for small power equipment.

Focuses on growing cut flowers, potted plants and foliage plants in a greenhouse. Provides practical experience in growing/maintaining crops using equipment, and solving problems. Includes field trips to commercial greenhouse operations.

Students will study methods of vegetable gardening and become familiar with basic annual and perennial vegetables, herbs and edible flowers. Organic growing methods, composting, pest and disease control, and self-sustaining gardening methods will be discussed in detail. Field trips to local market gardens will be included in the course.

Continued emphasis on identification and evaluation of landscape plants with emphasis on evergreen landscape materials.

Learn how to apply pesticides safely and legally. This class prepares students to take the Wisconsin State pesticide applicator exam with the certification exam given during class. Anyone applying chemicals to someone else's property is required to obtain this certification.

This course is intended to develop analytic reasoning and the ability to solve quantitative problems. Topics to be covered may include: construction & interpretation of graphs; descriptive statistics; geometry & spatial visualizations; math of finance; functions and modeling; probability; and logic. Appropriate use of units and dimensions, estimates, mathematical notation, and available technology will be emphasized throughout the course.

Students examine the science and profession of horticulture, including its role and importance of throughout history, current trends, and careers. Learners will identify horticulture crops, crop use and interrelationships among the environment, plant growth, and plant development.

Learn to identify the different lifecycle stages of plant pests in the greenhouse and landscape and how to control them using cultural, physical and biological control methods. Learn about beneficial insects and how to use predators, parasites and pathogens to control insects and diseases of plants.

Students will study physical, chemical and biological properties of soils. Soil conservation practices, plant nutrition and composting will be discussed in detail. Labs involve soil testing and soil improvement.

Following guidelines set forth by the national Sustainable Site's Initiative students will learn how to improve the sustainability of urban landscapes. Identifying soil conditions, capturing storm water, using native plants, composting, waste and energy management are concepts learned in this class. Students have the opportunity to analyze their own property to find ways to improve sustainability while reducing chemical inputs and maintenance needs.