First Horticulture Track at 4H Annual Conference
July 20, 2026
4H youth attend presentation at the ISU Research Station
Iowa State University Department of Horticulture proudly hosted the inaugural Horticulture Track at the Iowa 4-H Youth Conference, introducing high school students from across Iowa to the diverse and impactful world of horticulture through hands-on activities, educational demonstrations, and experiential learning opportunities.
Held over three days in late June, the program gave participants the chance to explore a variety of horticultural disciplines, including vegetable production, floral design, turfgrass management, fruit crops, shade trees, greenhouse production, and public gardens. Faculty, staff, and students from the Department of Horticulture, the Horticulture Research Station, and Extension and Outreach collaborated to develop an engaging schedule that showcased the breadth of career paths and educational opportunities available in horticulture.
4H youth conference attendees participate in sack salad activity
The conference began with a welcome from Department Chair Dr. Ajay Nair and Dr. Cynthia Haynes, who introduced students to the field of horticulture and its importance in producing food, enhancing landscapes, and improving quality of life. Students then participated in a hands-on “sack salad” activity led by Nair and Catherine Swoboda. The afternoon continued with a tour of Iowa State’s horticulture greenhouse facilities led by Julie Cory and concluded with a floral design workshop taught by Dan Brabec.
On the second day, participants traveled to the ISU Horticulture Research Station for a full day of outdoor learning. Dr. Quincy Law introduced students to the science and management of turfgrass systems, while Dr. William Graves shared insights about shade trees and the important roles they play in communities and landscapes. Nair then led a session on high tunnel crop production, demonstrating how season extension technologies can increase crop productivity.
4H attendees at the horticulture research station
The afternoon focused on hands-on crop production experiences. Chloe Henscheid, guided students through a vegetable transplanting activity, providing an opportunity to learn practical skills used in commercial and home gardening settings. The day concluded with a discussion of fruit crop production, where Henscheid and Randall Vos shared information about growing apples and grapes in Iowa.
4H conference attendees at Reiman Gardens
The final day of the conference highlighted the connection between horticulture and community engagement. Students participated in a service-learning project at Reiman Gardens under the guidance of Aaron Steil, contributing to the care and maintenance of one of Iowa State’s most beloved public gardens. The experience gave participants a firsthand look at the impact horticulture can have on public spaces.
The conference concluded with a visit to Jack Trice Stadium, where Dr. Adam Thoms discussed the role of turfgrass management in maintaining high-quality athletic fields and supporting successful sporting events.
4H youth conference attendees at Jack Trice Stadium
The Horticulture Track provided students with an opportunity to explore many facets of horticulture while connecting with Iowa State University faculty, staff, and facilities. Through immersive experiences and hands-on learning, participants gained a deeper understanding of how horticulture influences food systems, landscapes, recreation, and environmental stewardship.
The Department of Horticulture looks forward to building on the success of this first-year program and inspiring future generations of horticulture professionals through continued engagement with Iowa 4-H youth.