02096 - Field Crops

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student will know the main herbaceous field crops; this will allow her/him to take operative decisions on crop husbandry with professional awareness. Moreover, she/he will be acquainted with these crops' characteristics, inherent problems and relationships with the agricultural systems, the environment and the downstream sectors of utilization, at the light of the recent market trends.

Course contents

Classification, economic relevance and diffusion of herbaceous crops. Morpho-physiological characteristics, environmental requirements, crop techniques, uses and quality of the products of the following crops: cereals (wheat, maize, rice); oil-and-protein crops (sunflower, soybean); sugar crops (sugar beet); forage crops (lawns, pastures, annual forages), with insight into main species, crop management, forage utilization and conservation.

Readings/Bibliography

Baldoni, R., Giardini, R., Coltivazioni Erbacee (3 vol.), Pàtron Editore, 2002. PDF files of the slides shown during the lessons. Notes from the lessons.

Teaching methods

The teaching comprizes front lessons, supported by the display of slides and visual presentations, and side activities including exercizing, insight lectures and field visits.

Assessment methods

Final oral examination.

Teaching tools

Blackboard, video-projector, pc.

Office hours

See the website of Lorenzo Barbanti