LAS1087 - Soil and Water Management Practice for Field and Garden

MQF Level

Duration and Credits

Semester 2

4 ECTS

Mode of Study

Part-Time Evening

This unit gives an insight on how soil and water are best managed for successful gardening, and also successful and profitable agricultural production. Soil and water are the two most important resources in respect of agriculture, horticulture, landscaping and also life on the planet. Thus, their proper use and management not only leads to successful agricultural operations and gardening but also will be a means of their protection and conservation. This unit covers the basic principles of soil science and soil management. Students will first be introduced to various fundamental aspects of soil science, including soil formation and morphology, soil profile development and soil classification systems. It will also address the study of soil texture, soil structure, and the properties and characteristics of soil water. It will introduce the student to various basic aspects of soil chemistry, such as salinity, pH, organic matter and plant nutrients. The function of soil as a life supporting medium will also be covered through various aspects of soil biology. Finally, the unit will address major aspects of soil management, that include water and nutrient management, soil preparation for cultivation and also aspects of soil degradation and soil protection and preservation.

Method of Assessment

Assessment Component/s

Weighting

Essay

100%

Main Reading List

Eash, N.S., Sauer, T.J., O'Dell, D., Odoi, E. & Bratz, M.C. 2016. Soil Science Simplified, 6th Ed. Wiley and Sons. ISBN: 978-1118540695 (Available).
Ashman, M. R. & G. Puri.2002. Essential Soil Science. A Clear and Concise Introduction to Soil Science. Blackwell Sciences Ltd.

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This micro-credential is offered as part of the programme for the Liberal Arts and Sciences and will only be offered subject to a minimum number of applications received. More information can be found on the PLAS website.

Information for International applicants

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Learning Outcomes: Knowledge and Understanding

By the end of the unit the student will be able to:

Define soil and water.
Describe major soil processes and properties such as:
- Soil formation;
- Soil classification systems;
- Soil physical, chemical and biological properties;
- Soil-water-plant interactions;
- Plant nutrient dynamics in soil;
- The importance of soil and water on the planet;
- The mechanisms of soil degradation;
- The importance of organic matter in soil;
- How horticultural operations can damage the natural environment;
Provide an overview of the various practices of land preparation, such as tillage;
Provide an overview of the various methods of irrigation and fertiliser application.

Learning Outcomes: Skills

By the end of the unit the student will be able to:

Evaluate the quality and characteristics of soil;
Evaluate the quality of water intended for irrigation use;
Interpret a soil analysis report;
Carry out simple soil analyses;
Modify the soil's physical state (compaction, structure and drainage) and amend the soil with the necessary nutrients following a soil analysis;
Set up the ideal irrigation system;
Calculate the right amount of water needed for irrigation;
Calculate the amount of fertiliser required for optimum yield;
Protect the natural environment;
Carry out measures that mitigate soil deterioration and erosion.

Non EU Applicants:

EUR180

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Micro-credentials offer the possibility of providing flexible learning pathways to respond to evolving needs and new developments, thus enabling students to tailor their studies to their needs. Micro-credentials may be combined or transferred into larger credentials, such as certificates, diplomas and degrees, provided that the relevant programme requirements are met. Applicants wishing to transfer micro-credentials to a programme of study are encouraged to seek the advice of the relevant academic entity.

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