Leveraging landscape architecture for conservation
Alumna Juliahna Mistretta pursues international master’s degree
Digital agriculture
Yin Bao focuses his research on creating novel technologies that make people's lives easier
Problems with rocket salad
UD research finds plants more susceptible to bacterial infections in space
DEPARTMENT OF PLANT AND SOIL SCIENCES
We have excellent teaching, research, and outreach programs in the areas of plant biology (cellular, genetics, genomics, microbial, molecular and physiology), agronomy (including pathology, soil management and weed science), horticulture (sustainable landscapes, fruits and vegetables), landscape architecture and environmental soil sciences (biogeochemistry, hydrology and plant-soil interactions). We have a distinguished faculty, known nationally and internationally for their research and outreach, and within UD for their excellence in teaching, advising and mentoring students.
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Featured video
University of Delaware Ph.D. candidate shares her plant science knowledge with Delaware youth: youtube.com/watch?v=IR4xf18Oz0U
Description for featured video
On top of her busy schedule as a University of Delaware Ph.D. candidate, Elizabeth Smith dedicates time to underserved students alongside Wilmington-based organization Four Youth. As part of a science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) educational program, she gives Delaware elementary school kids hands-on exposure to the natural world. Smith encourages other UD students to get out into the local community to share knowledge and inspire the next generation. Learn more about the UD Department of Plant and Soil Sciences.
Latest news
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Qingwu (William) Meng honored by American Society for Horticultural Science
October 29, 2024 | Written by Molly SchaferThe University of Delaware’s Qingwu (William) Meng won second place in the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) early career competition. Meng’s research and teaching focus on the production of high-value specialty crops, including edible crops and flowers, in highly controlled environmental systems like greenhouses and indoor farming spaces. He says controlled-environment horticulture is a sustainable solution to feeding the world while protecting the planet. Meng’s new class, “Growing Plants in Space,” capitalizes on student interest in space exploration to teach plant science. Nicole Donofrio, professor of plant pathology, says Meng cares deeply about increasing the efficiency of hydroponically grown plants. -
The ecological and practical benefits of planting native species
October 24, 2024 | Written by: Gene Fox, Washington Daily NewsPlanting native species not only supports local wildlife but also helps create sustainable, low-maintenance landscapes. Gene Fox 'Dishes the Dirt' on how you can use native plants to your advantage. -
Rodrigo Vargas appointed to Department of Energy advisory committee
October 21, 2024 | Story and photo by Katie PeikesUniversity of Delaware Department of Plant and Soil Sciences’ Rodrigo Vargas was appointed to be a part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Biological and Environmental Research Advisory Committee. The federal committee advises the Department of Energy’s Director of the Office of Science on scientific and technical issues related to the Department’s biological and environmental research program.
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