The Official page for the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at the University of Kentucky
It runs in the family! 🌱 We’re proud to highlight Harper Ritchey, daughter of our own Dr. Edwin Ritchey, who was featured in a recent University of Kentucky press release regarding her state-wide role in 4H. It’s inspiring to see the next generation of ag leaders emerging right here in our community! Kentucky 4-H University of Kentucky Research and Education Center
06/15/2026
We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our former department manager, Suzette Walling. Suzette was a devoted and hard worker who kept our department running through every challenge. She was kind, thoughtful, and always ready to lend a hand. We are incredibly grateful for the time we had with her – she will be deeply missed.
A Memorial Service will be held Friday June 19 at noon at Redeemer Church, 371 Hill & Dale Road, Lexington, KY 40503.
06/11/2026
So great to welcome Dr. Andrew Margenot’s team from the University of Illinois to our farm! They visited to sample the Blevins long-term no-till plots as part of a USDA-NIFA-funded soil health study. Thanks to Rosa and Ariela for stopping by!
06/10/2026
We are deeply saddened to share the passing of our own Dr. Bob Pearce, who died on May 22, 2026, surrounded by his family. Bob was a kind individual, dedicated father, caring mentor, and steadfast friend to many across the agricultural community.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Georgetown First United Methodist Church (1280 Lexington Road, Georgetown, KY).
Friends and family are invited to gather from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM prior to the service. Bob’s legacy of service, leadership, and passion for agriculture will not be forgotten. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
06/04/2026
Congratulations to our HR Administrator, Emily Hill, on receiving the College’s Mentor Appreciation Award! We’re grateful for her dedication to help support new M-G CAFE employees and proud to celebrate this well-deserved honor. (no fish were harmed in this photo)
05/28/2026
Renovation to the Foundation Seed building at North Farm is underway! Improving critical infrastructure to support our breeding and variety trial programs. Foundation for new walk-in cold room and loading dock is being prepared.
05/22/2026
2026 Wheat Field Day was a hit! Our UK researchers, Kentucky farmers, crop consultants, & county agents shared research, management recommendations, & ways to navigate challenges & market conditions as we head into the 2026-27 season.
So proud of our Soil Judging Team!!
05/14/2026
Con-grad-ulations to our graduating class of 2026! 🎓✨
05/08/2026
Our inaugural Outstanding Plant and Soil Sciences Staff award winner is...
Brittany Hendrix! Her exceptional mentoring and communication skills have been vital to the Teutsch lab, the UK forage program, and the department that she has served for over 5 years now. We thank Brittany for her commitment to supporting our mission and Kentucky agriculture!
UK Master Grazer
