Behind the greens
Plant and Soil Sciences’ alumni, faculty and students get to work on the golf course
Protecting turfgrass from fungal foes
UD researchers report new understandings in how microbes protect plants
Community conservation
Alumnus Brian Griffiths supports Indigenous Peruvian Amazon community goals
Helping gardens and interns grow
UD Botanic Gardens' Andrew Adams: Curator of plants and students
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.
Our Undergraduate Programs
Our graduate programs
What's New?
Featured video
Innovation at UD: Harsh Bais: youtube.com/watch?v=ZMsIF6rPcek
University of Delaware inventor Harsh Bais is a plant biologist, known for his research developing a beneficial bacterium that can help boost plant defenses, water retention and more. Here, Bais—who was named an Innovation Ambassador at UD earlier this year—shares some of what he’s learned about invention along the way.
Read the UDaily feature.
Latest news
-
From the rainforest to Rio
April 14, 2026 | Written by Molly Schafer | Photos by Olivia Frear, Emily Focht, Jackson Whitcomb and courtesy of Zach HammakerThirteen University of Delaware students had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn hands-on in the Amazon Rainforest during a UD study abroad course titled Landscape Exploration of Brazil. Zach Hammaker, assistant professor of landscape architecture, teaches the course. Hammaker says that slowing down, observing nature, and reflecting through daily journal prompts helps students connect with themselves and the world around them. Students enjoyed sharpening their observation skills while sketching in situ in the rainforest and in public gardens throughout Rio de Janeiro. -
April 24-25: UD Botanic Gardens annual spring benefit plant sale
April 06, 2026 | Article and photo by Emily MoxThe University of Delaware Botanic Gardens (UDBG) invites the public and the University community to shop at the UDBG Annual Spring Benefit Plant Sale Friday, April 24, from 3 to 6 p.m. through Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Now in its 34th year, this sale features more than 500 plant varieties, including trees, shrubs, perennials, houseplants, herbs and veggies. -
Behind the greens
April 06, 2026 | Written by Molly SchaferBefore the pros tee off at the 2026 Masters Tournament or amateurs take their first swing on their local links, an entire industry lays the groundwork for the perfect golf course. Alumni, faculty, and students in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources rely heavily on science and technology as they work behind the scenes on the green.
Upcoming events