Course Goals:
Clinical studies of plant diseases through lectures and laboratories which are directly related to crops observed during field trips to major crop-producing areas. Critical evaluation of disease initiation, development, control measures, and diagnosis are made in the field and in the laboratory with help of specialists, including University and USDA staff in plant pathology, UC Cooperative Extension Service, and agricultural consultants.
Course Format:
- Class meets for two to three lectures, plus one indoor laboratory, and one all-day trip per week during spring quarter. One three-day field trip occurs during the summer session.
- Brief oral presentations on a crop and a research technique is required.
- A short commodity-level grant proposal is required.
- Grades based on bi-weekly quizzes, one identification quiz, oral presentations on crop and research technique, and a final examination.
Subject Outline:
Students will learn clinical methods involved in diagnosis of plant diseases, epidemiological factors important in disease development, and the current control measures used in a wide range of crops grown under various environmental conditions.