FFA Horticulture CDE General Practice Exam

Which branch of horticulture deals with the production of vegetables?

1. Pomology

2. Olericulture

3. Coultivating

4. Viticulture

The correct answer is: Olericulture

The branch of horticulture that focuses specifically on the production of vegetables is known as olericulture. This field encompasses all aspects of growing, harvesting, and marketing vegetables including plant selection, soil preparation, pest management, and crop rotation. Olericulture plays a crucial role in food sustainability and the economy, as it involves both commercial production and home gardening. In contrast, pomology is the branch of horticulture that deals with the cultivation and production of fruits. Cultivating generally refers to the practice of growing plants but is not a distinct field within horticulture. Viticulture focuses specifically on the cultivation of grapevines, primarily for winemaking. Understanding these distinctions highlights the specialized nature of each branch within horticulture, with olericulture being the designated area for vegetable production.