DEPARTMENT OF PLANT AND SOIL SCIENCES
We have excellent teaching, research, and outreach programs in the areas of plant biology (cellular, genetics, genomics, microbial, molecular and physiology), agronomy (including pathology, soil management and weed science), horticulture (sustainable landscapes, fruits and vegetables), landscape architecture and environmental soil sciences (biogeochemistry, hydrology and plant-soil interactions). We have a distinguished faculty, known nationally and internationally for their research and outreach, and within UD for their excellence in teaching, advising and mentoring students.
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Featured video
University of Delaware Ph.D. candidate shares her plant science knowledge with Delaware youth: youtube.com/watch?v=IR4xf18Oz0U
Description for featured video
On top of her busy schedule as a University of Delaware Ph.D. candidate, Elizabeth Smith dedicates time to underserved students alongside Wilmington-based organization Four Youth. As part of a science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) educational program, she gives Delaware elementary school kids hands-on exposure to the natural world. Smith encourages other UD students to get out into the local community to share knowledge and inspire the next generation. Learn more about the UD Department of Plant and Soil Sciences.
Latest news
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Ag in the Family
July 15, 2025 | Written by Molly SchaferDouble Dels Gregg and Stephanie (Cannon) Knutsen met 26 years ago as undergraduates at the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. The Knutsens run G&S Dairy, one of Delaware’s few remaining dairy farms. Attending the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources is now a family tradition. The Knutsens’ eldest daughter, Bethany, a member of UD’s award-winning Soils Judging Team, graduates in December. -
Adventure, curiosity and global connection
July 09, 2025 | Written by Katie Peikes | Photos by Kathy F. AtkinsonIn the University of Delaware's Townsend Hall, artwork serves as a tangible reminder that Blue Hens are adventurous, creative, globally minded and pathologically curious about the world around them. The landscape architecture sketches created during the winter Brazil study abroad program liven up an otherwise drab area but also serve as a marketing tool for future study abroad programs. -
Geochemistry pioneer
July 09, 2025 | Written by Katie PeikesOver the course of his illustrious UD career, Sparks was internationally recognized for his work regarding kinetics of geochemical processes, surface chemistry of natural materials, and how changing environmental conditions affect soils. Now retired, the founding director of the Delaware Environmental Institute and generous philanthropist continues to garner praise and accolades for the breadth of work he has done in his field.
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