Landscape Horticulture

Landscape Horticulture

Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)

The Landscape Horticulture program offers training in landscape design and construction, greenhouse and nursery operations, irrigation systems, plant problem diagnostics, pruning, plant identification, soil science and much more. Students may choose between a certificate program, an Associate of Applied Science degree or individual courses to meet specific needs. Graduates typically find employment in landscape construction firms, pest management services, tree care companies, garden centers, wholesale nurseries, park maintenance departments and greenhouses. There are many opportunities for self-employment in this field.

Estimated Length of Completion

Degree Quarters Credits
Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) Full Time: 7
Part Time: 11 to 12
92.0

Program lengths are estimates, not guarantees. For the most current program information, please check with the program contact.

Students must meet with an advisor for entry into this program. A placement test is required to ensure language and computational skills are sufficient for program success.

Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor to discuss specific career goals and recommended coursework.


All costs are estimates and are not guarantees. For the most current program information, check with an adviser by calling 206.934.5391. There are additional costs for books and supplies. Each student is responsible for the purchase of certain supplies and required tools before the instruction begins.

Part Time Cost

Resident Non-Resident International
$11,738.28 $13,412.68 $30,187.96

Quarter Start Dates: Landscape Horticulture classes begin in Spring and Fall.

Students may still enroll in the program during other quarters to begin their related academic classes (Not required if a student has already completed these classes. Students must provide an official transcript.).

Class Times: Check the online class schedule. Students will meet during the class timeframe listed, however in order to maintain safe distances in on-site labs students will be grouped and have specified times on campus. Please check with your instructor for more information.

Other related academic classes are required that meet outside of these class times. These classes can be completed online and/or in-person depending on availability. Check with an advisor regarding when to take related academic classes.


Coursework

Course Course ID Credits Availability

Learn the principles of plant health care, integrated pest and weed management for landscape plants. Recognize common landscape weeds and invasive species. Basic information on integrated strategies for insect, disease and weed management. Covers Washington State pesticide laws, safety, and environmental concerns. Preparation for the WSDA pesticide license exam with the goal of obtaining a pesticide applicator/consultant license.

LHO 110 5.0

Using fall seasonal features of interest, knowledge of plant adaptations, structures, and growth, identify and properly use ornamental shrubs, trees, vines, and ground covers adapted to and utilized in the Pacific Northwest landscapes.

LHO 115 4.0

Explore the current science and practice of managing trees in urban landscapes. This course will help students prepare for the International Society of Arboriculture's Certified Arborist Examination.

LHO 140 4.0
Course Course ID Credits Availability

Experience plant growth and development through crop production. Manage plant health, environments and growth media from propagation to sales. An introduction to greenhouse structures and systems.

LHO 111 4.0

Using winter seasonal features of interest, knowledge of plant adaptations, structures, and growth, identify and properly use ornamental shrubs, trees, vines, and ground covers adapted to and utilized in the Pacific Northwest landscapes.

LHO 116 4.0

Learn the art and science of pruning through lecture, demonstration, and extensive field practice. Develop skill at pruning broadleaf trees and shrubs, conifers, fruit trees, vines, and roses.

LHO 155 4.0
Course Course ID Credits Availability

Using spring seasonal features of interest, knowledge of plant adaptations, structures, and growth, identify and properly use ornamental shrubs, trees, vines, and ground covers adapted to and utilized in the Pacific Northwest landscapes.

LHO 117 4.0

Covers sustainable maintenance practices, lawn management, tool and small equipment use, safety, landscape management plans, and the impact of design on maintenance requirements.

LHO 139 4.0

Students apply horticultural knowledge and skills learned throughout the LHO program directly to the local industry. Course credit can be earned through current employment or the development of opportunities found in conjunction with the WorkSource Office. Student must complete hours and submit a Training Agreement, Learning Outcomes, and a Self-Evaluation in order to pass. Prerequisite: Approval from a Faculty Mentor (Instructor) and Embedded Career Specialist.

LHO 197 2.0

Hands-on application of knowledge, and development of skills in nursery and greenhouse plant production, propagation, maintenance, marketing and retail sales. Includes Saturday Garden Center open dates. Prerequisites: LHO 111 or instructor permission.

LHO 198 3.0
Course Course ID Credits Availability

Use business math applications to work with percentages, invoices, trade and cash discounts, markups and markdowns, payroll, depreciation and other business applications. Use Excel software to create spreadsheets. 2.0 or higher required for BIT Certificates and degrees.

BUS 116 5.0

This course designed to help students from a variety of majors to master the composition skills needed for careers in business and industry. Students will learn the principles and conventions of technical writing and practice those conventions in a variety of assignments that would typically be encountered in the work place. Attention will also be paid to strengthening the surface and stylistic aspects of their writing.

ENGL 107 5.0

Course Substitute : BUS 113 - Diversity Issues in Business (3 credits)

Covers dynamics of organizations and human resources in the workplace: motivational theory, leadership, group processes, organizational theory, participatory management, conflict management and counseling. Primarily for professional-technical students.

PSYC 240 3.0
Course Course ID Credits Availability

Gain a conceptual foundation in manual drafting, design and the process for residential landscape design. Information on how to complete a landscape design from the preliminary diagram to the final conceptual planting plan including an introduction to CAD and the digital design process.

LHO 123 5.0

Gain basic principles of hydraulics, irrigation systems, fixtures and apparatus to install, maintain and trouble shoot existing systems. Application of concepts through field work.

LHO 136 5.0

Learn the art and science of plant propagation by seed, cuttings, and division. Examine the art of grafting. Hands on instruction and field trips to plant production facilities. Recommended for Success: LHO 111.

LHO 215 4.0
Course Course ID Credits Availability

Introduction to the standards and procedures of the landscape construction industry. Covers the proper and accepted methods of a multitude of landscape installations. Includes construction specifications, project sequencing and safety practices.

LHO 189 4.0

Integration of design concepts, processes, and plant knowledge to produce a landscape design. Preliminary diagram to final conceptual planting plan, including CAD and the digital design process. Emphasis on aspects of plant materials to achieve a predetermined style, theme, or user response. Increase sophistication and use of plant selection, placement, planting patterns, and structures. On-site consulting and other professional services discussed and practiced.

LHO 196 4.0

Explore edible perennial plants and the benefits of their incorporation into the landscape, community and home gardens. Examine their impact on resources and urban sustainability. Covers selection, culture, maintenance and siting of plants through field trips, site visits and in-service learning.

LHO 255 4.0
Course Course ID Credits Availability

Learn to diagnose and manage plant problems and write prescriptions for their management: insect, disease, cultural, and environmental maladies. This course will stress a total plant health care approach that utilizes cultural, biological, and chemical strategies. Pesticide recertification credits available pending WSDA approval.

LHO 210 4.0

Introduction to the organization and operation of a horticulture-related small business. Includes success and failure factors through accurate estimating, and bidding individual projects, developing annual contracts, calculating business costs, minimizing and controlling risk. Guidance in how to write a business plan. Familiarization with industry opportunities and standards.

LHO 250 5.0

The second capstone course. A start to finish experience installing the landscape project from LHO 196. From site analysis to planting, develop skills in standard trade procedures and techniques for residential landscaping. Covers care and safe use of tools used in landscape construction.

LHO 296 5.0