LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE (SOFTSCAPE) NC II – TESDA COURSE MODULE

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TRAINING REGULATIONS FOR LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE (SOFTSCAPE) NC II

Landscape Installation and Maintenance NC II consists of competencies that a person must achieve in installing and maintaining landscape designs for all types of development projects including residential, commercial, industrial, institutional and open space areas. It also includes competency in growing plants and trees with a goal of creating beautiful and environmentally healthy landscapes. Workers at this level will be working under the supervision of landscape supervisor / manager.

A student who has achieved this Course in LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE (SOFTSCAPE) NC II is competent to be:

  • Landscape Gardener

LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE (SOFTSCAPE) NC II – TRAINING AND REGULATION MODULE

Course Title: GRAINS PRODUCTION
Level: NC II
Nominal Training Duration : 212 Hours

This course is designed to enhance the knowledge, skills and attitudes of an individual in the field of landscaping in accordance with industry standards. It covers core competencies such as: perform site clearing and grubbing activities, perform rough grading operations, perform site preparation activities, install plants at designated locations as designed, install plant support, Trim and prune landscape plants, perform weeding and cultivation, apply fertilizer(nutrition), water plants, control and prevent plant pest and diseases, provide plant support, perform lawn-grass maintenance, perform re-planting activities and collect, dispose and utilize organic wastes.

TRAINEE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Trainees or students wishing to gain entry into this course should possess the following requirements:

  • can communicate both orally and in writing in English;
  • between ages 18 – 40 yrs
  • physically and mentally fit;
  • with good moral character; and
  • can perform basic mathematical computation.

This list does not include specific institutional requirements such as educational attainment, appropriate work experience, and others that may be required of the trainees by the school or training center delivering the TVET program.

COMPETENCIES REQUIRED IN LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE (SOFTSCAPE) NC II

This units of competency comprising this qualification include Basic, Common, Elective and Core Competencies.

To obtain this course, all units prescribed for this qualification must be achieved.

These units of competency comprising this qualification include the following:

UNIT CODE CORE COMPETENCIES (180 Hours)
AGR611371 Provide site clearing and grubbing activities
AGR611372 Perform rough grading operations
AGR611373 Perform site preparation activities
AGR611374 Install plants at designated locations as designed
AGR611375 Install plant supports
AGR611376 Trim and prune landscape plants
AGR611377 Perform weeding and cultivation
AGR611378 Apply fertilizer (Nutrition)
AGR611379 Water/Irrigate plants
AGR611380 Control and prevent plant pest and diseases
AGR611381 Provide plant support
AGR611382 Perform lawn grass maintenance
AGR611383 Perform re-planting activities
AGR611384 Collect, dispose and utilize organic waste
UNIT CODE COMMON COMPETENCIES (14 Hours)
AGR321201 Apply safety measures in farm and nursery operations
AGR321202 Use farm and nursery tools and equipment
AGR321203 Perform estimation and calculations
UNIT CODE BASIC COMPETENCIES (18 Hours)
500311105 Participate in Workplace Communication
500311106 Work in Team Environment
500311107 Practice Career Professionalism
500311108 Practice Occupational Health and Safety Procedures

CORE COMPETENCIES

This section gives the details of the contents of the core units of competency required in LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE (SOFTSCAPE) NC II

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: PERFORM SITE CLEARING AND GRUBBING ACTIVITIES
UNIT CODE : AGR611371

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to clear site and disposed wastes.

  1. Clear site
    • Unwanted vegetation and debris are removed in accordance with the instructions
    • Trees designed to be retained are protected in accordance with standards.
    • Site is cleared using prescribed tools and equipment
    • Task is performed using appropriate safety protective devices
  2. Dispose waste
    • Wastes are gathered and disposed in accordance with environmental standards
    • Task is performed using appropriate safety protective devices
  3. Perform post-clearing site and grubbing activities
    • Tools and equipment are cleaned, maintained and stored according to established standard practices
    • Maintenance of clean and safe area is undertaken throughout and on completion of work
    • Work output is reported to concerned person or authority according to industry practices

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: PERFORM ROUGH GRADING OPERATIONS
UNIT CODE : AGR611372

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to perform rough grading operations for drainage and erosion
control.

  1. Rough grade site
    • Rough site grading is performed to achieve desired elevations or slopes by cut or fill in accordance with the designed grading plans, specifications or instructions.
    • Site is graded roughly using prescribed tools and equipment in accordance with standards of rough grading practice.
    • Task is performed using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
  2. Provide surface drainage and shape or form the land
    • Site is graded to drain surface water and to shape the land in accordance with the designed grading plans and instructions
    • Tasks is performed using prescribed tools, equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE)
  3. Perform post-rough grading operations
    • Newly graded site is protected against human, animal and mechanical disturbance, and other potential hazards like inclement weather
    • Site grading tools and equipment are cleaned, maintained and stored according to established standard practices
    • Maintenance of clean and safe area is undertaken throughout and upon completion of work
    • Work output is reported to concerned person or authority according to industry practices

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: PERFORM SITE PREPARATION ACTIVITIES
UNIT CODE : AGR611373

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to perform site preparation activities for landscape construction.

  1. Cultivate land
    • Cultivate/till/dig land is performed in accordance with the designed plans, specifications or instructions.
    • Land is cultivated using prescribed tools and equipment
    • Tasks are performed using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
  2. Remove construction debris and other materials
    • Construction debris and other materials are gathered and removed from site in accordance with the designed plans, specifications or instructions.
    • Gathered construction debris are disposed at designated area
    • Tasks are performed using prescribed tools, equipment and safety protective devices
  3. Add amended soil/soil mix to cultivated land
    • Add/incorporate amended soil/soil mix to cultivated land in accordance with ANSI as well as standard general nursery specifications or instructions
    • Tasks are performed using prescribed tools and equipment and appropriate safety protective devices
  4. Fine grade and compact cultivated land
    • Cultivated land is fine graded and compacted in accordance with the design specifications as well as standard general grading and compaction specifications or instructions.
    • Pre-planting watering is performed as instructed
    • Tasks are performed using prescribed tools, equipment and appropriate safety protective devices
  5. Perform post-land preparation activities
    • Tools and equipment are cleaned, maintained and stored according to established standard practices
    • Maintenance of clean and safe area is undertaken throughout and on completion of work
    • Work output is reported to concerned person or authority according to industry practices

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: INSTALL PLANTS AT DESIGNATED LOCATIONS AS DESIGNED
UNIT CODE : AGR611374

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to perform installing plants at designated locations as shown in the planting plan or as specified.

  1. Inspect plants
    • Only specified species, variety, quality, size, etc. shall be delivered in accordance with the planting plan and plant list
    • Delivered plants are inspected in accordance with the plant list or planting plan
    • Rejected plants delivered shall be removed from the site immediately after inspection
  2. Lay-out or stake out plant
    • Exact location of the plants is marked on the ground in accordance with the planting plan, specifications and/or instructions
    • Appropriate plants is distributed and marked on the ground as indicated in the planting plan or in accordance with instructions
  3. Excavate hole/pit (Excluding lawn grass/turf, aquatic plants, orchids, etc.)
    • Excavate/dig hole/pit at designated mark in accordance with specifications or instructions
    • Tasks are performed using prescribed tools, equipment and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
  4. Install plants (Excluding large trees with 15cm or more trunk height, lawn grass/turf, aquatic plants, orchids, etc.)
    • Plants are removed from container according to prescribed instructions and techniques
    • Extra long primary roots are cut and not wound around the root ball
    •  Pre-planting watering of excavated holes is performed (thoroughly saturated) according to accepted standard techniques and procedures
    • Plant is installed in accordance with landscape specifications and standards, detailed drawings and instructions
    • Plants are set so that the soil level of plant in container shall be the same as the finish grade of the hole
    • Plants are handled to avoid breakage of root ball, trunk/stem, branches and scraping of bark
    • Plants are set plumb and held in position until sufficient soil has been firmly placed around and under the root ball
    • Lightly tamp the soil around the base of the plant to eliminate air pockets and to hold the plant firmly and plumb to the soil
  5. Apply fertilizer
    • Fertilizers are selected in conformity with the manufacturer’s guaranteed analysis, labels or as specified
    • Fertilizers and/or rooting hormones are applied to newly installed plants in accordance with the standard landscaping specifications or instructions
    • Fertilizers are applied to large trees and palms, when the planting hole/pit is half-filled with amended soil in accordance with the instructions
    • Tasks are performed using prescribed tools, equipment and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
  6. Water plants
    • Watering basin / bern is made around each plant and in accordance with instructions or specifications
    • Watering is performed after planting to thoroughly wet the root ball and surrounding ground in accordance with standard watering techniques
    • Tasks are performed using prescribed tools, equipment and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
  7. Apply / Install mulch
    • Materials for mulching is selected and prepared in accordance with the standard landscape specifications, instructions or detailed drawing
    • Area / ground where mulch will be applied is prepared in accordance with the specifications, instructions or detailed drawing
    • Mulch is applied in accordance with the specifications, instructions or detailed drawing
    • Tasks are performed using prescribed materials and tools and equipment
    • Tasks are performed using appropriate safety protective safety protective devices
    • Area is restored and cleaned as per standard operating procedure
  8. Perform post-landscape installation activities
    • Tools and equipment are cleaned, maintained and stored according to established standard practices
    • Maintenance of clean and safe area is undertaken throughout and on completion of work
    • Work output is reported to concerned person or authority according to industry practices

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: INSTALL PLANT SUPPORT
UNIT CODE : AGR611375

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to install plant support immediately after planting.

  1. Install stakes or staking
    • Materials for staking are selected and prepared in accordance with the standard landscape specifications, instructions or detailed drawing
    • Stakes are installed in accordance with the specifications, instructions or detailed drawings
    • Paints are applied to all wooden and other visible parts in accordance with the specifications, instructions or detailed drawing
    • Tasks in installing stakes are performed using appropriate safety protective devices and prescribed materials, tools and equipment.
    • Area is cleaned and restored as per industry standard operating procedures
  2. Install plant guys or guying
    • Materials for guying are selected and prepared in accordance with the standard landscape specifications, instructions or detailed drawing
    • Plant guys are installed in accordance with the specifications, instructions or detailed drawing
    • Warning signs are installed in areas where guys are placed in accordance with specifications, instructions or detailed drawing
    • Tasks in installing plant guys are performed using appropriate safety protective devices and prescribed materials, tools and equipment.
    • Area is cleaned and restored as per industry standard operating procedures asks are performed using
  3. Install plant props / braces or proping bracing
    • Materials for plant props / braces are selected and prepared in accordance with the standard landscape specifications, instructions or detailed drawing
    • Plant props / braces are installed in accordance with the specifications, instructions or detailed drawings
    • Paints are applied to all wooden and other visible parts in accordance with the specifications, instructions or detailed drawing
    • Tasks in installing plant props or braces are performed using appropriate safety protective devices and prescribed materials, tools and equipment.
    • Area is cleaned and restored as per industry standard operating procedures

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : TRIM AND PRUNE LANDSCAPE PLANTS
UNIT CODE : AGR611376

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to trim and prune landscape plant based on the purposes of such landscape maintenance activity.

  1. Identify trimming and pruning requirements
    • Landscape plants and their parts that are in need of trimming and pruning are distinguished according to landscape maintenance standards (LMS)
    • Purpose and method of pruning are determined according to LMS
    • Utility services are located using site plans and in consultation with concerned persons or authority
    • Access to the site is determined in consultation with concerned persons or authority
    • Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) hazards are identified, risks assessed and reported to concerned persons or authority
  2. Prepare for trimming and pruning operations
    • Tools, supplies and equipment are prepared in accordance with the work requirements
    • Pre-operational and safety checks are carried out on tools and equipment according to manufacturer’s specifications and industry work practices
    • Prescribed safety and personal protective equipment (PPE) is selected, used and maintained
  3. Perform trimming and pruning
    • Safety and warning devices are installed around the site during and between work periods
    • Landscape plants are trimmed and pruned in accordance with work program and LMS
    • Trimming and pruning of landscape plants are done using prescribed tools and equipment
    • Sterilizing agent/compound are applied on pruning wounds in accordance with LMS
    • Tasks are conducted using appropriate PPE
  4. Perform post-trimming and pruning activities
    • Trimming and pruning wastes are collected and disposed from the site in accordance with environmental standards and LMS
    • Recommended manual handling techniques are used when lifting or moving heavy loads
    • Tools and equipment are cleaned, maintained and stored according to LMS
    • Maintenance of clean and safe area is undertaken throughout and on completion of work
    • Work outputs are recorded or reported to concerned persons or authority according to industry practices

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: PERFORM WEEDING AND CULTIVATION
UNIT CODE : AGR611377

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to conduct weeding operations and soil cultivation activities. This is purposely to minimize competition and to improve soil aeration and water absorption/retention, respectively for better growth and development of the landscape plants.

  1. Determine requirements for weeding and cultivation activity
    • Weed species and “volunteer” plants (“’invaders”) that are out-of-place and considered undesirable in the landscape are identified based on specific landscape maintenance guidelines or as per instructions.
    • Landscape areas needing weeding and cultivation are identified based on instructions or in accordance with LMS
  2. Prepare for weeding and cultivation operation
    • List of weeds and “volunteer plants” and the map of specific landscape areas are prepared and secured
    • Method and purpose of weeding are determined based on the type of weed species and out-of-place “volunteer” species
    • Tools, supplies and equipment needed are made ready and available for use according to the types of weeds and “volunteer” species that needs removal
    • Appropriate safety protective devices are prepared for use
  3. Conduct weeding and removal of “volunteer” species
    • Weeds and out-of-place “volunteer” plant species in the landscape are removed and disposed in accordance with landscape maintenance standard or as per instructions.
    • Weeds and out-of-place “volunteer” plant species are removed using prescribed tools and equipment
    • Tasks are done using appropriate safety/protective devices
  4. Determine compacted soil
    • Compacted soil or soil that is having problem with aeration, water infiltration and conditions for root development is determined as per established practice
    • Effects of compacted soil on root development and anchorage are recognized
    • Method and purpose of soil cultivation are determined based on the conditions of the soil
  5. Cultivate compacted soil
    • Compacted soil is cultivated simultaneous with weeding operations in accordance with landscape maintenance standards or as per instructions
    • Soil cultivation is done using appropriate tools and equipment
    • Task is performed using prescribed safety/protective devices
  6. Perform post- weeding and soil cultivation activities
    • Tools and equipment are cleaned, maintained and stored as per instruction of in accordance with LMS
    • Maintenance of clean and safe area is undertaken throughout and on completion of work
    • Work outputs are recorded or reported to concerned persons or authority according to industry practices

UNIIT OF COMPETENCY: APPLY FERTILIZER (NUTRITION)
UNIT CODE : AGR611378

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to recognize types of fertilizers and apply the right amount of such fertilizers at the right time to landscape plants.

  1. Identify fertilizer application requirements
    • Soil and plant samples (leaves) are collected for analysis in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs)
    • Landscape plants in need of nutrition are identified based on the results of soil and plant analyses
  2. Prepare for fertilizer application activity
    • Different types of fertilizers are selected based on nutritional guidelines and standards
    • Method of fertilizer application are determined according to LMS
    • Fertilizer application tools and equipment are selected and prepared according to application method selected
    • Soil and plants are prepared for application of fertilizer in accordance with the instructions or available standards
    • Prescribed safety and personal protective equipment (PPE) is selected.
  3. Perform fertilizer application activities
    • Frequency and dosage of fertilizer application is determined based on landscape plant requirements or nutritional guidelines/standards
    • Fertilizer is applied in accordance with recommended application method
    • Fertilizer is applied in accordance with to OHS requirements and Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) guidelines
    • Task is performed using the prescribed tools and equipment and appropriate protective/safety devices
  4. Perform post-fertilizer application activities
    • Tools and equipment are cleaned, maintained and stored according to LMS
    • Maintenance of clean and safe area is undertaken throughout and on completion of work
    • Work outputs are recorded or reported to concerned persons or authority according to industry practices

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: WATER PLANTS
UNIT CODE : AGR611379

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to maintain the health and vigor of the landscape plants through proper watering/irrigation.

  1. Determine requirements of watering/irrigating landscape plants
    • Importance of water to growth and development of landscape plants and the effects of water stress (less or excess water) to plants are recognized as per established practice
    • Landscape plants suffering from less or excessive watering are determined using some visually observable plant and soil conditions and/or guidelines
  2. Prepare for watering/irrigation activity
    • Amount and frequency of watering/irrigation of plants are determined in accordance with LMS or as per instructions
    • Tools, supplies and equipment needed are prepared based on the method of watering and/or irrigation to be used
    • Prescribed protective/safety devices are made ready and available for use
  3. Conduct watering/irrigation of plant
    • Watering or irrigating of plants is done in accordance with the basic principles or standard practice or as per instructions
    • Watering/irrigation is performed using the irrigation tools and equipment appropriate to the methods selected
    • Task is performed using the prescribed protective/ safety gadgets
  4. Perform post-watering/irrigation activities
    • Tools and equipment are cleaned, maintained and stored as per instruction of in accordance with LMS
    • Maintenance of clean and safe area is undertaken throughout and upon completion of work
    • Work outputs are recorded or reported to concerned persons or authority according to industry practices

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: CONTROL AND PREVENT PLANT PEST AND DISEASES
UNIT CODE : AGR611380

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to determine types of pests and diseases and their prevention and control measures

  1. Determine requirements of preventing and controlling plant pests and diseases
    • Infested and diseased landscape plants are determined based on plant conditions, symptoms and signs and other manifestation of infestation and infection
    • Pests and diseases are identified and classified using general classification guidelines
    • Life cycle or various life stages of pests from eggs, larvae, pupa and adult and their mode of attack or infestation are known
    • Life cycle or various life stages and signs and symptoms of plant diseases and their mode of attack are known
    • Access to the site is determined in consultation with concerned persons or authority
    • Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) hazards are identified, risks assessed and reported to concerned persons or authority
  2. Prepare for application of pests and disease prevention and control measures
    • Method of prevention and control is determined based on types of pests and diseases, their mode of attack and extent of infestation and infection
    • Tools, equipment, supplies and materials relevant to the method of prevention and control are prepared
    • Prescribed safety and personal protective equipment (PPE) is selected in accordance with work requirements
  3. Apply pest and disease prevention and control measures
    • Manual and biological method of prevention and control of pest and disease are applied whenever applicable
    • In case of using chemical and bio-pesticides, the frequency and dosage of application is determined based on types of pests and diseases and extent of attack and in accordance with LMS or manufacturer’s recommendation
    • Pest and disease prevention and control measures are applied in accordance with to OHS requirements and Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) guidelines
    • Task is performed using prescribed tools, supplies and appropriate protective/safety devices
  4. Perform post-prevention and control measures
    • Tools and equipment are cleaned, maintained and stored according to LMS
    • Maintenance of clean and safe area is undertaken throughout and on completion of work
    • Work outputs are recorded and reported to concerned persons or authority according to industry practices

UNIIT OF COMPETENCY: PROVIDE PLANT SUPPORT
UNIT CODE : AGR611381

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to provide support to plants including the selection, preparation (including preservation treatments), installation and maintenance of support materials.

  1. Identify requirements for installing plant support
    • Landscape plants in need of plant support are marked and counted as per instructions or in accordance with LMS
    • Purpose and method of providing plant support are determined in accordance with LMS or as per instruction
  2. Prepare for installation of plant support
    • Support materials are selected and prepared relevant to the purpose and method of proving plant support or in accordance with LMS or as per instructions.
    • Plant support materials are applied with preservatives at desired dosage and length of treatment to prolong serviceability as per instructions
    • Tools, supplies and equipment needed are prepared according to the purpose and method of providing plant support
    • Appropriate safety protective devices needed to carry out the task are also made ready and available for use
  3. Install plant support
    • Support materials are installed in accordance with purpose and method of proving plant support or in accordance with LMS or as per instructions.
    • Plant support installation is undertaken using prescribed tools and equipment
  4. Maintain plant support
    • Plant support is inspected and maintained for a period depending on the conditions of the plant or in accordance with LMS or as per instruction
    • Unserviceable plant support is replaced if necessary or as instructed
    • Plant support is removed/dismantled once it is no longer needed or has served its intended purpose or as instructed
    • Tasks are performed using prescribed tools and equipment and appropriate safety protective devices
  5. Perform post-plant support activities
    • Plant support materials that dismantled and can still be reused are kept in proper storage as per instruction
    • Tools and equipment are cleaned, maintained and stored as per instruction of in accordance with LMS
    • Maintenance of clean and safe area is undertaken throughout and on completion of work
    • Work outputs are recorded or reported to concerned persons or authority according to industry practices

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: PERFORM LAWN GRASS MAINTENANCE
UNIT CODE : AGR611382

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to maintain lawn grasses in residential and institutional landscape areas.

  1. Mow lawn grass
    • Supplies, Materials, Tools and equipment are prepared for use in mowing lawn grass
    • Lawn grass is mowed in accordance with specifications or instructions
    • Tasks are performed using the prescribed tools and equipment and or based on established practice
    • Personal Protective Equipment and Safety procedures are observed during mowing of lawn grass
  2. Irrigate lawn
    • Supplies, Tools and equipment are prepared for use in irrigating lawn
    • Personal Protective Equipment and Safety procedures are observed in irrigating lawn
    • Lawn is irrigated based on established procedures
    • Modifications on established procedures are carried on in the event of malfunctions, climatic changes and accidents
  3. fertilize lawn
    • Supplies, Materials, Tools and equipment are prepared for use in fertilizing lawn
    • Personal Protective Equipment and Safety procedures are observed in fertilizing lawn
    • Fertilizers are applied based on manufacturer’s instructions and established procedures
  4. Control pests
    • Supplies, Materials, Tools and equipment are prepared for use in controlling weeds
    • Personal Protective Equipment and Safety procedures are observed in controlling weeds
    • Weeds are controlled using appropriate materials and procedures

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: PERFORM RE-PLANTING ACTIVITIES
UNIT CODE : AGR611383

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to remove landscape plants that are dying, dead, diseased, unsightly and to replace them with new ones either same or new species.

  1. Determine requirements for removal and replanting of landscape plants
    • Landscape plants that need to be removed/replaced are recognized in accordance with the instructions or with LMS
    • Landscape plants needing removal and replacement are marked and counted based on the size, plant conditions and purpose are done using appropriate measuring tools and equipment
  2. Prepare for removal and replacement of landscape plants
    • List of landscape plants needing removal and replacement is secured and made ready for the job
    • Tools, supplies and equipment needed are made ready and available for use according to the types and sizes of landscape plants
    • Appropriate safety protective devices are made ready and available for use
  3. Conduct removal and disposal of landscape plants
    • Subject landscape plants are removed and disposed from site in accordance with LMS or based on instructions
    • Removal and disposal are done using appropriate tools and equipment.
    • Tasks are performed using prescribed protective/safety devices
  4. Prepare land/soil for re-planting
    • Land/soil is prepared for replanting following the landscape installation/maintenance standard or based on instructions
    • Preparation of land/soil is done using appropriate tools and equipment.
    • Task is performed using prescribed protective/safety devices
  5. Select right species and size of landscape plants for replacement
    • Right species, size and quality of landscape plants to be used for re-planting are selected based on instructions or in accordance with LMS
    • Species and size of the landscape plants removed from site are considered but other species and sizes are given equal consideration depending on the purpose of replanting or as per instructions
  6. Conduct re-planting activity
    • Re-planting activity is done in accordance with LMS or as per instructions
    • Appropriate tools, supplies and equipment and prescribed protective/safety devices are used in the conduct of the activity
  7. Perform post-removal and re-planting activities
    • Tools and equipment are cleaned, maintained and stored as per instruction of in accordance with LMS
    • Maintenance of clean and safe area is undertaken throughout and on completion of work
    • Work outputs are recorded and reported to concerned persons or authority according to industry practices

UNIIT OF COMPETENCY: COLLECT, DISPOSE AND UTILIZE ORGANIC WASTE
UNIT CODE : AGR611384

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to collect, dispose and utilize organic wastes such as grass clippings, leaf litter, weeded undesirable plants, trimming and pruning debris and other plant-derived organic wastes.

  1. Determine the requirements for collection, disposal and utilization of organic waste
    • Types of plant-derived organic wastes are determined in accordance with the trimming and pruning program
    • Locations where the collected organic wastes will be disposed and/or will be segregated and processed for future utilization are identified in accordance with the trimming and pruning program
  2. Prepare for collection, segregation, disposal and utilization of organic wastes
    • Tools, supplies and equipment needed are made ready and available for use according to the types of the organic wastes and whether these wastes are to be disposed as they are or to be processed and utilized
    • Appropriate safety protective devices are made ready and available for use
  3. Gather and dispose organic wastes
    • Plant derived organic wastes are collected and disposed in accordance with instructions and/or with LMS
    • Collection and disposal are done using prescribed tools and equipment
    • Task is conducted using appropriate safety protective gadgets
  4. Segregate and process collected organic wastes
    • Organic wastes that are to be utilized for specific purposes are collected, segregated and processed, if necessary in designated area as per instructions or in accordance with LMS
    • Collection, segregation and processing (e.g., conversion of woody organic wastes into chips) are done using prescribed tools, supplies and equipment
    • Task is performed using appropriate safety protective devices
  5. Make use of organic wastes
    • Organic wastes (like palm leaves, twigs and branches of shrubs and trees) that are chipped into small materials are either mixed with grass clippings or other small organic wastes (leaf litter) for composting. Other wood chips are used as mulch.
    • Task is performed in accordance with environmental standards and using appropriate protective safety devices
  6. Perform post – disposal and utilization of organic waste
    • Tools and equipment are cleaned, maintained and stored as per instruction of in accordance with LMS
    • Maintenance of clean and safe area is undertaken throughout and on completion of work
    • Work outputs are recorded or reported to concerned persons or authority according to industry practices

COMMON COMPETENCIES

UNIT TITLE : APPLY SAFETY MEASURES IN FARM AND NURSERY OPERATIONS
UNIT CODE : AGR321201

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to perform safety measures effectively and efficiently. It includes identifying areas, equipment, tools, materials, time and place in performing safety measures.

  1. Determine areas of concern for safety measures
    • Work tasks are identified in line with farm operations
    • Place for safety measures are determined in line with farm operations
    • Time for safety measures are determined in line with farm operations
    • Appropriate tools, materials and outfits are prepared in line with job requirements
  2. Apply appropriate safety measures
    • Equipment, tools and materials are used according to specifications and procedures
    • Outfits are worn according to farm requirements
    • Effectivity/shelf life/expiration of materials are strictly observed
    • Emergency procedures are known and followed to ensure a safework requirement
    • Hazards in the workplace are identified and reported in line with farm guidelines
  3. Safekeep/dispose tools, materials and outfit
    • Used tools and outfit are cleaned after use and stored in designated areas
    • Unused materials are properly labeled and stored according to manufacturers recommendation and farm requirements
    • Waste materials are disposed according to manufacturers, government and farm requirements

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : USE FARM AND NURSERY TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
UNIT CODE : AGR321202

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to use farm and nursery tools and equipment. It includes selection, operation and preventive maintenance of farm and nursery tools and equipment.

  1. Select and use farm tools
    • Appropriate farm tools are identified according to requirement / use
    • Farm tools are checked for faults and defective tools reported in accordance with farm procedures
    • Appropriate tools are safely used according to job requirements and manufacturers conditions
  2. Select and operate farm equipment
    • Identify appropriate farm equipment
    • Instructional manual of the farm tools and equipment are carefully read prior to operation
    • Pre-operation checkup is conducted in line with manufacturers manual
    • Faults in farm equipment are identified and reported in line with farm procedures
    • Farm equipment used according to its function
    • Safety procedures are followed.
  3. Perform preventive maintenance
    • Tools and equipment are cleaned immediately after use in line with farm procedures
    • Routine check-up and maintenance are performed
    • Tools and equipment are stored in designated areas in line with farm procedures

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PERFORM ESTIMATION AND BASIC CALCULATION
UNIT CODE : AGR321203

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to perform basic workplace calculations.

  1. Perform estimation
    • Job requirements are identified from written or oral communications
    • Quantities of materials and resources required to complete a work task are estimated
    • The time needed to complete a work activity is estimated
    • Accurate estimate for work completion are made
    • Estimate of materials and resources are reported to appropriate person
  2. Perform basic workplace calculation
    • Calculations to be made are identified according to job requirements
    • Correct method of calculation identified
    • System and units of measurement to be followed are ascertained
    • Calculation needed to complete work tasks are performed using the four basic process of addition, division, multiplication and subtraction
    • Calculate whole fraction, percentage and mixed when are used to complete the instructions
    • Number computed in self checked and completed for alignment

BASIC COMPETENCIES

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PARTICIPATE IN WORKPLACE COMMUNICATION
UNIT CODE : 500311105

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to gather, interpret and convey information in response to workplace requirements.

  1. Obtain and convey workplace information
    • Specific and relevant information is accessed from appropriate sources
    • Effective questioning, active listening and speaking skills are used together and convey information
    • Appropriate medium is used to transfer information and ideas
    • Appropriate non- verbal communication is used
    • Appropriate lines of communication with supervisors and colleagues are identified and followed
    • Defined workplace procedures for the location and storage of information are used
    • Personal interaction is carried out clearly and concisely
  2. Participate in workplace meetings and discussions
    • Team meetings are at ended on time
    • Own opinions are clear expressed and those of others are listened to without interruption
    • Meeting inputs are consistent with the meeting purpose and established protocols
    • Workplace interactions are conducted in a courteous manner
    • Questions about simple routine workplace procedures and matters concerning working conditions of employment are asked and responded to.
    • Meetings outcomes are interpreted and implemented
  3. Complete relevant work related documents
    • Range of forms relating to conditions of employment are completed accurately and legibly
    • Workplace data is recorded on standard workplace forms and documents
    • Basic mathematical processes are used for routine calculations
    • Errors in recording information on forms/documents are identified and properly acted upon
    • Reporting requirements to supervisor are completed according to organizational guidelines

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : WORK IN TEAM ENVIRONMENT
UNIT CODE : 500311106

This unit covers the skills, knowledge and attitudes to identify role and responsibility as a member of a team.

  1. Describe team role and scope
    • The role and objective of the team is identified from available sources of information
    • Team parameters, reporting relationships and responsibilities are identified from team discussions and appropriate external sources.
  2. Identify own role and responsibility within team
    • Individual role and responsibilities within the team environment are identified.
    • Roles and responsibility of other team members are identified and recognized.
    • Reporting relationships within team and external to team are identified.
  3. Work as a team member
    • Effective and appropriate forms of communications used and interactions undertaken with team members who contribute to known team activities and objectives.
    • Effective and appropriate contributions made to complement team activities and objectives, based on individual skills and competencies and workplace context.
    • Observed protocols in reporting using standard operating procedures.
    • Contribute to the development of team work plans based on an understanding of team’s role and objectives and individual competencies of the members.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PRACTICE CAREER PROFESSIONALISM
UNIT CODE : 500311107

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes in promoting career growth and advancement.

  1. Integrate personal objectives with organizational goals
    • Personal growth and work plans are pursued towards improving the qualifications set for the profession
    • Intra- and interpersonal relationships are maintained in the course of managing oneself based on performance evaluation
    • Commitment to the organization and its goal is demonstrated in the performance of duties
  2. Set and meet work priorities
    • Competing demands are prioritized to achieve personal, team and organizational goals and objectives.
    • Resources are utilized efficiently and effectively to manage work priorities and commitments
    • Practices along economic use and maintenance of equipment and facilities are followed as per established procedures
  3. Maintain professional growth and development
    • Trainings and career opportunities are identified and availed of based on job requirements
    • Recognitions are sought/received and demonstrated as proof of career advancement
    • Licenses and/or certifications relevant to job and career are obtained and renewed

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PRACTICE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURES
UNIT CODE : 500311108

This unit covers the outcomes required to comply with regulatory and organizational requirements for occupational health and
safety.

  1. Identify hazards and risks
    • Safety regulations and workplace safety and hazard control practices and procedures are clarified and explained based on organization procedures
    • Hazards/risks in the workplace and their corresponding indicators are identified to minimize or eliminate risk to coworkers, workplace and environment in accordance with organization procedures
    • Contingency measures during workplace accidents, fire and other emergencies are recognized and established in accordance with organization procedures.
  2. Evaluate hazards and risks
    • Terms of maximum tolerable limits which when exceeded will result in harm or damage are identified based on threshold limit values (TLV)
    • Effects of the hazards are determined
    • OSH issues and/or concerns and identified safety hazards are reported to designated personnel in accordance with workplace requirements and relevant workplace OSH legislation
  3. Control hazards and risks
    • Occupational Health and Safety (OSH) procedures for controlling hazards/risks in workplace are consistently followed
    • Procedures for dealing with workplace accidents, fire and emergencies are followed in accordance with organization OSH policies
    • Personal protective equipment (PPE) is correctly used in accordance with organization OSH procedures and practices
    • Appropriate assistance is provided in the event of a workplace emergency in accordance with established organization protocol
  4. Maintain OSH awareness
    • Emergency-related drills and trainings are participated in as per established organization guidelines and procedures
    • OSH personal records are completed and updated in accordance with workplace requirements

DEFINITION OF TERMS

  • Acidic soils – are commonly referred to as “sour.” Acidity is the characteristic of soils that have a pH level of less than 7. Such a low pH is suited to plants that thrive in acidic soil (as opposed to alkaline or “sweet” soil), including the delightful ‘Minuet’ laurel shrubs.
  • Aesthetic – pertaining to the appreciation of beauty or good taste, “aesthetic” means visually pleasing. The noun that corresponds to “aesthetic” is “aesthetics,” which means the study of the appreciation of beauty. Landscape design is concerned both with aesthetic and functional elements of landscaping.
  • Alkalinity – is the characteristic of soils with a pH level that is greater than 7, which is suitable for plants that thrive in a “sweet” (alkaline) soil, as opposed to a “sour” or acid soil. If soil pH needs to be raised (i.e., the soil isn’t alkaline enough), apply lime.
  • Arboriculture – is the art, science, technology and business of tree care. Arboriculture is practiced by arborists. Arborists are trained to promote tree health, discern tree problems and take measures to correct them
  • Balance – refers to the consistency of visual attraction, or lack thereof. Consistent visual attraction is achieved through symmetry; if the designer’s intention is to avoid the monotony of this kind of balance, asymmetrical plans will be implemented, instead. Note that, while it may seem a contradiction in terms to novices, landscape designers do speak of “asymmetrical balance,” as well as of “symmetrical balance.”
  • Bedding plants – are plants (usually annuals) massed with others to produce the maximum in visual appeal. With an eye to the five basic elements of landscape design (color, scale, line, form and texture), a landscape designer skillfully arranges each bedding plant in relation to the accompanying annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees. By browsing the pictures in the following resource, you can learn more about how to use the five basic elements of landscape design:
  • Biodegradable – means capable of being decomposed back into the soil by biological agents, especially bacteria. “Biodegradable” is often used to refer to items that are to be disposed of. Environmentally sound landscaping and gardening often takes into account whether materials are biodegradable. For instance, plastic might be rejected as a material for mulching because it is not biodegradable.
  • Color theory – is a complex study, and I present only a sampling here, to show how it is used
    in landscape design. For instance, according to color theory, the spectrum is often divided
    into 4 categories:

    • Primary: reds, yellows and blues,
    • Secondary: greens, violets (purples) and oranges,
    • Tertiary: Mixtures of the primary and secondary categories and
    • Neutral: White, grays and silvers.
    • The spectrum is often represented as a wheel, divided into slices that stand for the various
      hues (colors). Using color theory, landscapers may refer to this wheel to choose adjacent
      colors in the spectrum, in order to provide unity; or they may deliberately juxtapose items
      directly across from each other on the wheel to make a contrast.
  • Complete fertilizers – are so called because they contain nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, the Big 3 in fertilizer ingredients. A fertilizer listed as “10-10-10,” for instance, would be a complete fertilizer. But a fertilizer listed as “10-0-10” would not be a complete fertilizer, the middle zero indicating the absence of phosphorus in the fertilizer.
  • Cotyledon leaves – are the leaves of the embryo of a seed plant, which, upon germination, either remain in the seed or emerge, enlarge, and become green. Cotyledon leaves are also called “false leaves” or “seed leaves,” in contradistinction to the first “true leaves” which develop later.
  • Cover crops – are plants that are primarily planted not to be harvested for food but for soil erosion control, weed control and improving soil quality while the garden is otherwise dormant. A cover crop is usually ploughed or tilled under before the next food crop is planted, in which cases the “cover crop” is used as a soil amendment and is synonymous with “green manure crop.” In its capacity to control weeds it is designated a “living mulch.” From the landscape designer’s perspective, the choice between various cover crops could be influenced by aesthetics, since the cover crop is, after all, taking the place of garden plants in between growing seasons.
  • Dethatching – is the mechanical removal from a lawn of the layer of dead turf-grass tissue known as “thatch.” Raking deeply when you rake leaves in the fall is an easy step you can take towards dethatching.
  • Dry wall – is a wall of stones that is not held together by mortar. Dry-wall construction requires greater precision in the way stones are stacked than does mortared-wall construction, since proper placement alone keeps the wall intact.
  • Edging – is a line of demarcation that creates visual interest in a landscape by separating one segment from another.
  • Evergreen – means having foliage that persists and retains its color throughout the year, rather than changing color according to the seasons. The term, “evergreen” is something of a misnomer, as the color in question needn’t be green.
  • Finials – are the small, ornamental, terminal features at the top of a gable, fence post, lamp, lamppost, stone wall, etc. Finials are optional, being non-structural elements: their job is aesthetic, giving a “finished” touch to a hardscape feature
  • Forcing – is the process of causing a plant to flower before its natural season. For instance, many people eager for Old Man Winter’s exit force forsythia flowers in February or March. Forcing pussy willows is another common pastime in late winter.
  • Gazebo – is a small roofed outbuilding erected for outdoor dining and entertaining. This hardscape feature is often octagonal, with open, screened, or latticework sides. The plural form of the term, gazebo is given either as “gazebos” or “gazeboes.”
  • Grafting – is the uniting of a shoot or bud (the scion) with a plant (the rootstock) that is already established, either by insertion or by placing them in close contact. One danger of grafting is girdling. Grafting is a common procedure in the development of fruit tree stock.
  • Hardening off plants – is the process, undertaken in spring in the temperate zone, of preparing plants started indoors for the change in environmental conditions they will encounter when permanently moved outdoors. Without allowing plants to harden off, they will be negatively impacted by the sudden shock of exposure to daytime’s sunrays and nighttime’s coolness. The process of hardening off plants involves a transitional period in which plants are left outside during daylight hours only and in an area where they can be shaded and protected from wind. Having a cold frame facilitates hardening off, but it is not essential that you have a cold frame. Watering is reduced as well during the hardening off period. Gradually, the plant is allowed exposure to an increasing amount of sunlight and allowed to stay out later and later.
  • Herbaceous plants– are plants with non-woody stems. Their above-ground growth usually dies back in winter in the temperate zone, even in cases where the herbaceous plants in question are perennials. All “annual” plants are “herbaceous,” but not all herbaceous plants are annuals. An “annual” is a plant that dies altogether at the end of the growing season, both above the ground and below it. “Perennials,” by contrast, survive the winter, even if their above-ground growth dies back.
  • Hybrid plants – are plants produced by impregnating the pistil of one species with the pollen of another.
  • Integrated pest management, or IPM – is the management of pest problems that involves use of the full spectrum of control measures in a coordinated, integrated and foresighted manner. A cornerstone of IPM is the idea that taking preventive steps to preclude a pest problem is preferable to waiting for pests to arrive and then having to eradicate them.
  • Landscape architecture – is the profession that practices the art of arranging or modifying the features of a landscape, an urban area, etc., for aesthetic or practical purposes. Landscape architecture must be distinguished from landscape design. The American Society of Landscape Architects asserts that someone who makes a career of “landscape architecture,” properly speaking, possesses a higher level of skill, usually reinforced by a degree, than is possessed by a “landscape designer.” Degrees and professional status notwithstanding, it is still accurate to say that members of the landscape architecture profession do practice landscape design.
  • Landscaping – can be used grammatically either as a noun or as the present participle of a verb. In the latter case, “landscaping” either can take an object (transitive) or go without one (intransitive). For example, I can say either “I am landscaping to increase the value of my property” (intransitive) or “I am landscaping my property to increase its value (transitive). Either way, the noun, “landscaping” derives from the participial use and designates the process or result of such an action.
  • Mulch – is a covering placed around plants (or covering the ground in lieu of plants), to prevent the growth of weeds. If placed around plants, a mulch provides additional benefits, including the diminution of erosion and water loss, and the regulation of soil temperature. In addition, upon decomposition (for organic mulches), mulches serve as soil amendments. Mulch selection is usually based on appearance, as well as on all the practical considerations mentioned above.
  • Naturalized plants – are plants established as a part of the flora of a locale other than their place of origin. When a plant naturalizes in an area, this can be either a “good” or a “bad” thing, depending on your opinion of the particular naturalized plant.
  • Soil pH – is the measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a soil, numerically equal to 7 for soils with a neutral pH, increasing with rising alkalinity and falling with increasing acidity. The soil pH scale commonly in use ranges from 0 to 14. Soil pH is not fixed; you can take measures to alter soil pH. If soil pH needs to be lowered (i.e., the soil isn’t acidic enough), apply sulfur or commercial fertilizers containing ammonium-N. If soil pH needs to be raised (i.e., the soil isn’t alkaline enough), apply lime
  • Shrubs – are low woody plants, usually with multiple shoots or stems from the base (height of 15 feet or less). A planting of shrubs is called “shrubbery.
  • Softscape – comprises the animate, horticultural elements of landscape design, i.e., plants. Softscape elements are complemented by hardscape design elements, such as stone walls, tile pations and brick walkways.
  • Tendrils – are twisting, threadlike structures by which true climbers, such as grape vines or cucumber vines, grasp an object for support. Vines with tendrils will climb on their own, without being trained. In some cases, however, you will still want to tie vines to arbors, pergolas, latticework or other structures even if they do have tendrils, in order to cause the plant to climb precisely where you wish it to grow.
  • Lawn thatch – is the layer of dead turf-grass tissue between the green vegetation and the soil surface that must be removed (a process known as “dethatching“) to maintain lawn health. Lawn thatch is derived from stems, leaves, stolons, rhizomes and roots.
  • Xeriscape landscaping – is landscaping designed specifically for areas that are susceptible to drought, or for properties where water conservation is practiced. Derived from the Greek xeros meaning “dry,” the term, xeriscape means literally “dry landscape.”

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