Extension and Outreach | Department of Plant Sciences

UT Extension is a statewide educational organization, funded by federal, state, and local governments, that brings research-based information about agriculture to the people of Tennessee. With an office in each of the state’s ninety-five counties, Extension helps Tennesseans improve their quality of life.

Focus Areas

The Department of Plant Sciences has several focus areas through UT Extension. Explore them below.

Commercial horticulture encompasses the production and management of ornamental plants and turfgrass, as well as fruits and vegetables for profit.

Crop Production Systems

Crop production includes the production and management of row crops such as soybean, corn, cotton, wheat, and tobacco for profit.

Environmental Stewardship

Environmental stewardship includes protection of Tennessee’s air, water, and soil resources.

Livestock & Forage Systems

Livestock and forage systems includes multiple livestock industries and the forage resources required for their existence in the state of Tennessee.

Residential/Consumer Horticulture

Residential and consumer horticulture includes the home production of vegetables, flowers, lawns, ornamentals, and other plants in a noncommercial manner.

Educational Programs

Whether it be improving a cattle operation with better forage practices, advancing a horticulture hobby, or enhancing a green business, the Department of Plant Sciences offers a range of public educational programs. These outreach programs are for anyone!

UT Certified Lawn Care Professional Program

This introductory, online course will provide you with the education and skills needed to effectively establish and maintain turfgrasses.

Tennessee Master Beef Producer Program

The Tennessee Master Beef Producer Program provides targeted educational presentations and hands-on demonstrations for a variety of topics in beef cattle production.

Tennessee Master Gardener Program

The Tennessee Extension Master Gardener Program is a volunteer educational program that provides Tennesseans with horticulture education.

Tennessee Master Nursery Producer Program

The Tennessee Master Nursery Producer program is a professional development program for nursery crops producers.

Tennessee Master Forage Program

Enrollment begins in Spring 2025! The Tennessee Master Forage Program offers an in-depth exploration of forage-livestock systems while focusing on the soil, plants, and animal interactions.

Tennessee Master Row Crop

The Tennessee Master Row Crop Producer Program is a new educational program designed to further improve the profitability and sustainability of today’s row crop farming operations.

Dive Deeper

Looking to explore further or not quite finding what you are looking for? The Plant Sciences Department collaborates with many different centers, organizations and divisions. Find out more below.

Explore

Dr. Andy Pulte and Dr. Natalie Bumgarner developed the ten plants that shaped Tennessee. Explore the plants that influence our state here.

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