electiveHQ

Plants have long be used by humankind for food, shelter, medicinal, cosmetic and other purposes. They have also been used in the creation of gardens and parks and in recent times sports pitches and golfcourses. This module deliverd by several lecturers, both internal and visiting,provides a broad overview of the production of foodstuffs, such as fruit, vegetables, mushrooms. The use and production of herbs for ornamental and other uses will be discussed. The horticultural industry in Ireland and its key sectors will be outlined. The production of trees and shrubs and their use in the design and management of private gardens, parks and open spaces in the past and present will be described. The social, economic and environmental benefits of plants for both those in urban and rural areas will be examined. The topic of social horticulture and its role in the development of social capital will be also be discussed. The criteria for a successful playing surface for football and golf will be described. Students will be directed to background material in the Library and the World Wide Web. As this is a Stage 1 module emphasis is placed on linking this module with other Stage 1 modules in the Agricultural Sciences Programme in particular.