Horticulture Science Students Engage in STEM Hands-on Grafting Lab

Our first-year Horticulture Science students are gaining valuable experience through hands-on grafting labs, where they work collaboratively in groups to learn this vital horticultural technique. By cutting desired plant material and carefully attaching it to another plant, students explore fundamental scientific concepts, including plant anatomy and growth processes.

This activity emphasizes biology by teaching students how vascular tissues connect to support the flow of nutrients between grafted parts. Engineering skills come into play as students problem-solve to ensure successful graft unions.

Beyond STEM learning, grafting offers significant benefits in horticulture. It allows for the propagation of strong, disease-resistant plants, combines desirable traits from different plants, and can speed up fruit production. These advantages highlight the practical importance of grafting in sustainable agriculture and plant breeding.

Through this engaging lab, students not only enhance their understanding of science and technology but also appreciate the real-world applications of STEM in growing healthier, more resilient plants.