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From Roots to Regalia: Three Horticultural Seniors Share Their Journeys

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a woman uses a pole trimmer to cut a tall plant into a mickey mouse shaped head

Jun 8, 2026

Planting Magic at Disney World

Alumna Neva Grace Brescia, who majored in agroecology and sustainable food systems, has spent the last six months sowing a bit of wonder as a plant science intern at Walt Disney World. 
Josué Alarcón Mendoza, a precision horticulture graduate researcher in horticultural science, showcases the tomato harvest from his research plots in Clinton, NC.

Jun 2, 2026

Exploring Cost-Effective Fumigation Methods for Small Growers

Graduate student Josué Alarcón Mendoza’s research in precision horticulture aims to make soil fumigation more accessible for small and medium fruit growers. 
a group of students posing for camera

May 26, 2026

2026 California Spring Trials: Expanding Industry Perspectives Through Experiential Learning

NC State horticulture students gained real-world industry practice and exposure to innovation during the 2026 California Spring Trials, connecting classroom knowledge with leading plant breeders and companies. 
Jing Zhang with smartphone in a blueberry field

May 14, 2026

From Unexpected Beginnings to the Future of Digital Agriculture

N.C. PSI faculty affiliate Jing Zhang breaks new ground using high-tech tools to gather and analyze data better and faster for improved plant breeding and crop production. 
Mary Archer next to NC State's "The Egg" sculpture

May 13, 2026

Mary Archer Joins NC State’s Horticultural Science Faculty

NC State alumna Mary Archer joins the Department of Horticultural Sciences as an assistant professor, bringing expertise in landscape design and a passion for student mentorship. 
two wolf statues made of copper weaved metal standing on a brick patio surrounded by trees

May 13, 2026

2026 William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professors Announced

Ten professors in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences have been named William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professors, which recognizes outstanding scholars, leaders, teachers and mentors. 
Jing Zhang in blueberry field

May 11, 2026

Ripe for the Picking

Jing Zhang, a horticultural science professor and N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative faculty affiliate, is working with blueberry growers to develop a more precise way to determine the best time to harvest, using computer vision and AI. 
Environmental Psychology Class.

May 10, 2026

Environmental Psychology Course Shapes How Students Experience the World

Blending psychology with agriculture, art and global perspectives, this hands-on course challenges students to examine how built and natural environments influence well-being and human behavior. 
Two adults analyzing plant on table

May 6, 2026

From “Dry Content” to “Plant Murder Mysteries”: How One DELTA Grant Reimagined Student Engagement

When Jodi Driedger, director of undergraduate programs in NC State’s Department of Horticulture Science, approached the DELTA Grants team, she had a clear problem with no simple solution.​ Students in HS 201 (The World of Horticulture: Principles and Practices) struggled to engage with the material on plant nutrition. It was dense, visual and technical –… 
graduating student standing in from of Kilgore Hall

May 5, 2026

From Roots to Regalia: Three Horticultural Seniors Share Their Journeys

Graduating seniors Rin Mauney, Allison Langston and Savannah Oliver are prepared to bring their unique skills to the horticultural workforce, helping ensure a more prosperous and innovative future for our green industries.