Elements and Performance Criteria
- Monitor factors that influence plant health
- The plant species is identified to the lowest taxonomic level, and its region of origin stated.
- The seasonal growth stages of the plant are determined.
- Day to day cultural practices used on each horticultural species are recorded.
- Characteristics of the growing environment that affect the growth of a specific plant species are determined.
- Climatic data and environmental growing conditions are recorded.
- The presence (or numbers) of beneficial organisms is recorded according to enterprise guidelines.
- Diagnose plant health problems
- Environmental and cultural factors that predispose plants to attack by pests and diseases are identified.
- The symptoms and signs of plant health problems are identified using accepted nomenclature.
- The severity and extent of the problem in a plant species are assessed.
- Observations are compared with published data, historical records, own experience, and enterprise guidelines.
- The possible causes of the plant health problem are determined.
- Consult with specialist services in severe, complex or rapid onset cases.
- Plant or soil specimens are sampled and dispatched for specialist diagnosis or laboratory testing where required.
- Plant disorders and problems are recorded and documented in a report.
- Remedy plant health problems
- A weed, pest and disease control program is formulated according to the enterprise IPM strategy and production plan.
- Resources, tools, equipment and machinery required for work activities are identified, costs/benefits analysed, and availability confirmed with suppliers, contractors and appropriate personnel.
- Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) hazards associated with work activities are identified, risks assessed and controls implemented.
- A range of modifications to growing conditions that could be considered in a specific situation are identified.
- Modifications to growing conditions for a specific plant species are selected and implemented, having regard to cost of damage, marketing requirements and sustainable horticultural practices.
- Evaluate treatment program
- Plants are monitored during treatment.
- Appropriate data is recorded according to enterprise guidelines.
- Observations are compared to expected results.
- Modifications to the treatment program are recommended to client/management.
- Treatment program report is documented and presented to client/management.