The course will focus on understanding different plant functions (water uptake, photosynthesis, etc.), different plant organs (root system, leaves, flowers), how plants interact with their environment, in agricultural aspects. I believe that Improving our understanding of plant physiology will help us to improve food production and quality, create sustainability (by using less water, fertilizers, and pesticides) and can help protect the environment.
LESSON 1
Introduction to basic physiology and plant structure. Plant cell structure and communication. Water transport and transpiration. Stomata conductance and root pressure.
LESSON 2
Photosynthesis. C3 & C4 and CAM plants. Photorespiration. Photoreceptors and photomediated processes in the plant.
LESSON 3
Minerals in the soil. Nutrient deficiencies. Soil types. Fertilizers. Nitrogen cycle. Rhizobium and micorhyza. Crop rotation.
LESSON 4
Phytohormones and their agricultural uses.
LESSON 5
Signal transduction. Plant stresses. Stress resistances and coping mechanisms.
LESSON 6
Cell respiration and metabolism. Starch and storage organs. Secondary metabolites and their uses.
LESSON 7
Plant taxonomy. Agronomical classifications. Climactic requirements and adaptations.
LESSON 8
Plant genetics. Biotechnology, agri-tech, and GMOs.
