4-H Plant Science, Crops & Weeds Project

Silhouette of a plant against a blurred sunset background

Plant a seed and grow your knowledge in the plant science, crops, and weeds 4-H project area! Learn through experience by planting your own garden or analyzing a section of field from planting to harvest. Study the parts of a plant and the effect of weather, soil, fertilizers, water, weeds, and insects have on crop production. Get insight into South Dakota agriculture and the crops we produce.

Ages and Stages of Youth Development

Beginners

Beginners learn the parts of a plant and their function. Investigate the impact different soils or fertilizers have on plants. Identify common insects and weeds in your area. Learn through experience by planting your own garden.

Juniors

Learn to take soil samples and interpret test samples. Determine optimal growing conditions and methods to protect your plants from weeds and insects. Study genetic engineering and plant diseases.

Seniors

Study the economic impact that crops from South Dakota have on the economy. Analyze the business and financial aspects of farming and how technology has influenced crop production. Look into careers in plant science and crop production.

4-H Programming Priorities

Leadership

Attend trainings and workshops focusing on crop production or plant science. Bring the experience back to your hometown to help gardeners and farmers.

Health & Wellness

Advancements in crop production have increased the availability of plant based foods. Learn the importance of plant foods in the human diet.

Science

Learn all about plant science; explore the different types of plants, the functioning of the vascular system, and the necessary elements for plant growth.

Agriculture

Agriculture is South Dakota’s top industry, and with more than 19 million acres of cropland, crop production in necessary to our state, country, and world.

Get Involved

two green conversation bubbles

Youth Voice

  • Illustrated talk on the parts of a plant
  • Discuss ways to eliminate weeds
  • Discuss the crops produced in South Dakota
3 green outlines of hands

Community Service

  • Plant and maintain a community flower bed
  • Deliver meals to farmers during harvest
  • Teach at a farm safety camp
green puzzle pieces

Career Connections

  • Agronomist
  • Precision agriculture
  • Farmer
  • Seed sales representative
  • Plant breeder
  • Weed scientist
  • Soil scientist

Exhibit Ideas

  • Crops including corn, wheat, barley, oats, flax, rye, sunflower seed, soybeans, and sorghum grain
  • Results from an experiment on growing conditions
  • Weed specimens
  • Display showing plans to eliminate weeds
  • Poster on types of plants

Learning Resources

Related Topics

4-H Projects, 4-H Plant Science Project

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