Leveraging landscape architecture for conservation
Alumna Juliahna Mistretta pursues international master’s degree
Digital agriculture
Yin Bao focuses his research on creating novel technologies that make people's lives easier
Problems with rocket salad
UD research finds plants more susceptible to bacterial infections in space
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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Enlighten me: Why you should leave the leaves alone in your yard this fall
September 30, 2024 | Written by Kyle McKinnon | Delaware Public MediaUniversity of Delaware landscape horticulture professor Susan Barton is interviewed by Delaware Public Media about why it's better to leave your leaves alone rather than raking and bagging them. -
Meet our new faculty: James (JD) Zimmerman
September 27, 2024 | Written by Molly SchaferJames (JD) Zimmerman is a new assistant professor of landscape horticulture and design in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences. Merging art and science, Zimmerman will teach landscape architecture courses as well as plant science. He is a proponent of experiential learning and holds many classes outdoors where students can observe their subject matter in the field and garden. Classes meet at UD Botanic Gardens and Delaware’s many horticultural gardens and state parks. -
Leave the leaves: Why nature experts say you shouldn't rake your yard this fall
September 24, 2024 | Written by Jessica Toomer | Mental FlossUniversity of Delaware landscape horticulture professor Susan Barton is quoted in an article about how raking and bagging leaves can actually be bad for your lawn.
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