Horticulture is the science of what?

• A. The science of growing herbaceous vegetable plants
• B. The science of garden cultivation and management
• C. The cultivation of flowers from ornamental plants for gardens and floristry
• D. The science of soil chemistry

Answer: (B)

Horticulture is the science and practice of growing and caring for plants in gardens and landscapes, including how to cultivate, propagate, and manage them. This broad scope covers edible crops, ornamental plants, and the design and maintenance of gardens and nurseries, which is why the description “the science of garden cultivation and management” fits best. The other ideas describe narrower areas: growing herbaceous vegetable plants is just one part of horticulture (vegetable crops); cultivating flowers for gardens and floristry is floriculture, a specific branch; and soil chemistry is a separate field focused on the chemistry of soils.