The Plant Science and Landscape Architecture department is focused on four areas of excellence in research: landscape architecture and management; plant ecology, biodiversity and conservation; plant genomics and physiology; and plant production and protection.

Landscape Architecture and Management

Landscape architecture and management encompasses landscape architecture and site planning; landscape construction and management, turf and golf course design and management; landscape preservation and recreation; landscape ecology and regional planning; urban forestry; community landscapes and environmental health; and global communities and landscape change.

Plant Ecology, Biodiversity and Conservation

Plant ecology, biodiversity and conservation encompasses genetic diversity; systemics and evolution; rare plant and crop conservation and enhancement; plant-microbe interactions; pollinator and herbivore interactions; invasive species; ecology of natural ecosystems; response to global change and land use change; and ecological restoration and phytoremediation.

Plant Genomics and Physiology

Plant genomics and physiology encompasses plant genomes; functional genomics; plant biosecurity; environmental adaptation; genetic processes and mechanisms; developmental processes; plant-microbe associations; plant biochemistry; biobased products; and biofuel feedstocks.

Plant Production and Protection

Plant production and protection encompasses management of fruit, vegetable, forage and field crops; silviculture; plant breeding; plant nutrient management; green industry management; ornamental horticulture; plant pathology; host microbe interactions; and epidemiology.