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Follow the links below to find material targeted to the unit's elements, performance criteria, required skills and knowledge

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Carry out preliminary research
   • Research type of crop to be grown based on sound marketing principles
   • Research the growing requirements of the crop based on sound horticultural practices
   • Establish the associated risks of growing a particular crop based on sound horticultural practices
   • Calculate estimated yield and crop turnover time from historical data and research statistics
   • Determine quantity of the plants to be grown based on a cost benefit analysis
2. Assess the suitability of a site
   • Assess the physical characteristics of the site
   • Ascertain and assess the proximity of the site to markets
   • Identify legal requirements in relation to the site and the development of a hydroponic farm
   • Identify and consider the environmental implications of developing a hydroponic farm on the site
3. Select the required system
   • Research main types of hydroponic systems
   • Carry out analysis on each type of system for the chosen crops
   • Carry out a cost/benefit analysis on each system for each type of crop
   • Determine the type of hydroponic system to be installed
4. Design the hydroponic system
   • Select and document the water collection and storage system on the plan
   • Select the irrigation system and its components according to the required volume of water and flow rate
   • Select and document the fertigation system
   • Determine the dimensions of the controlled environment structure following full consideration of the relevant factors
   • Determine the environmental control system and document specifications on the plan
5. Prepare and document the design
   • Develop a design plan
   • Determine specifications and detailed costings with the help of experts, if required
   • Develop and document detailed production procedures and schedules
   • Present documentation to the client for final approval

Range Statement

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Performance Evidence

The candidate must be assessed on their ability to integrate and apply the performance requirements of this unit in a workplace setting. Performance must be demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.

The candidate must provide evidence that they can:

research the growing requirements, risks and returns of the proposed crop

select, design or customise a system for the site and purpose

survey the site for suitability and environmental impacts, and gain approvals

develop a design plan

present a design plan to clients

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Knowledge Evidence

The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:

principles and practices for developing a hydroponic system plan

advantages and disadvantages of the different equipment used in hydroponic systems

environmental implications of the disposal of chemicals or chemical containers and the drainage of high nutrient effluent

legislation and regulations relating to the establishment of a hydroponic system

plant growing media choices, their properties and enterprise specifications

technical requirements and operating parameters of recirculated and non-recirculated systems

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