Horticulture ScienceASHS-Aligned Comprehensive K–12 Curriculum
Professional-grade plant science education with hands-on experiments, career exploration, and real-world applications meeting American Society for Horticultural Science standards.
ASHS Standards Aligned
This curriculum meets American Society for Horticultural Science Youth Certification Standards, preparing students for advanced study and careers in plant sciences.
K-2
Foundations
Plant parts, seeds, soil basics, sensory exploration
3-5
Intermediate
Photosynthesis, nutrients, IPM, plant identification
6-8
Advanced
Hydroponics, propagation, permaculture, careers
Core Competencies Distribution
Plant Science Foundations
30%Plant anatomyPhysiologyPhotosynthesisReproductionGenetics
Environmental Factors
20%Climate zonesSoil scienceWater managementLight requirements
Plant Health Management
20%IPMDisease identificationNutrient deficienciesOrganic methods
Production Systems
20%PropagationHydroponicsGreenhouse managementSustainable practices
Professional Development
10%Career explorationBusiness planningCommunication skills
Scientific Method Integration
- Hypothesis formation for every experiment
- Control groups in growth studies
- Data collection protocols
- Statistical analysis (Grade 6+)
Plant Identification Skills
- Major plant families (Solanaceae, Brassicaceae)
- Binomial nomenclature
- Dichotomous keys
- Native vs. exotic species
Teacher Resources
Professional Development
- • ASHS Certified Horticulturist program
- • Extension Master Gardener training
- • School Garden Workshop series
- • Online horticulture courses
Downloadable Materials
- • Plant identification guides
- • Experiment worksheets
- • Safety protocols
- • Assessment rubrics
Garden Grant Opportunities
- • Whole Kids Foundation Garden Grant - $2,000
- • Captain Planet Foundation - $500-2,500
- • Youth Garden Grant (NGA) - Up to $1,000
- • Farm to School grants - Varies by state
Garden to Table Connection
Connect your horticulture learning with nutrition education. Grow your own food and understand the complete cycle from seed to plate!
Explore Nutrition & Cooking →