Horticultural Sciences

At the Department of Horticultural Science, we lead the way in transforming agricultural practices and advancing research in horticulture. Our programmes focus on the science and technology behind pre- and post-harvest management in fruit and floriculture systems. We’ve developed predictive models for orchard yield optimisation and innovative preservation techniques that extend the shelf-life of produce and cut flowers. These achievements have directly contributed to improved quality and sustainability in the fruit and floriculture industries.

Our students gain practical expertise by managing experimental orchards, visiting working farms and engaging with top industry experts. Our work developing a climate-adaptive orchard management system has set new standards for handling variable weather conditions while preserving crop quality. Through hands-on projects and community partnerships, our department equips graduates to drive change in agricultural practices locally and internationally, making a tangible difference in food production and environmental resilience.

Contact details

+27 21 808-4900
[email protected] 

Physical address

Lombardi Building
Corner of Victoria and Neethling streets

“Our students gain practical expertise by managing experimental orchards, visiting working farms and engaging with top industry experts.”

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Undergraduate Programme

To obtain a degree in horticulture, you will follow the Crop Production stream of the BScAgric (Plant & Soil Sciences) program consisting of two majors, namely Horticulture combined with one of the following: Entomology, Plant Pathology, Genetics or Agricultural Economics...

More undergraduate information
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Postgraduate Programmes

The postgraduate track at Stellenbosch University spans three levels: a BScHons for plant science graduates to build research skills, an MScAgric requiring a two-year original research thesis, and a PhD to train advanced subject specialists via a doctoral dissertation and oral defense.

More postgraduate information

Top stories

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Agriculture and food sciences

First Lady of fruit retires

Prof Karin Theron, since 2014 the Hortgro Research Chair in Applied Pre-harvest Decidious Fruit Research in the Department of Horticultural Science, has retired...

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Agriculture and food sciences

New handbook focuses on fertilisation of citrus trees in SA

Issues such as the nutritional needs of citrus trees, the sampling and interpretation of soil, leaf and water samples, the fertilisation of bearing and non...

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Agriculture and food sciences

Postharvest fruit physiology research chair

Leaders in the South African fruit industry believe that the creation of the new Post-Harvest Physiology Research Chair in Deciduous Fruit at Stellenbosch...

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