Elements and Performance Criteria
- Prepare for tree transplantation
- Liaise with local authorities and information services to determine location of services and utilities, local by-laws and regulations governing the transplanting and transportation of trees
- Inspect tree to ensure the appropriate transplanting operations are implemented
- Identify hazards, assess risks and implement control measures
- Select and use personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Select, prepare and use tools, equipment and machinery necessary to implement tree transplanting
- Select, prepare and use root ball and crown treatments according to the requirements of the species to ensure the tree remains viable throughout the transplanting process
- Notify local residents and authorities where necessary as part of preparing site for transplanting activities
- Confirm assets, property and vegetation related to work zone activities are protected, relocated, or secured from potential damage during transplanting
- Implement transplanting operations
- Excavate the soil around the root zone and undercut the root ball with minimum stress to the plant
- Prune roots where required to meet the appropriate Australian Standard
- Stabilise tree as the root system is undercut and apply anti-transpirants as a root soak or foliar spray to maintain viability of the plant
- Bind root ball with appropriate material to ensure adequate soil is retained and keep moist prior to transportation and installation
- Lift tree and secure for potential storage or transportation using safe lifting techniques
- Prepare and handle tree or shrub to minimise damage during transportation
- Implement appropriate drainage and soil improvements
- Re-install and stabilise the tree
- Maintain health and viability of transplanted tree
- Apply water to the transplanted tree over a sustained period to minimise leaf loss and promote new growth
- Apply anti-transpirants and provide nutritional requirements of the species
- Install tree protection devices to provide adequate support and protection
- Monitor tree condition and site to ensure the plant remains healthy
- Clean, maintain and store tools, equipment and machinery at completion of work
- Record completed transplanting program and report to management or the client