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Elements and Performance Criteria

  1. Take soil samples from a number of places in the permaculture system
  2. Test soil for range of plant and structural needs
  3. Analyse soil improvement requirements
  4. Implementing soil improvement plan
  5. Maintain health of soil according to organic guidelines

Range Statement



Knowledge Evidence

The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:

permaculture principles and practices related to soil health and plant nutrition

working with natural soils rather than importing soil

soil as an ecosystem

soil as biomass and carbon capture and storage

principles of sustainable horticultural practices

how to read a laboratory soil test

soil testing techniques, such as:

jar test for soil structure

ribbon test and ball test for soil texture

infiltration or permeability test

pH testing

compaction test

non-wetting soil test

air-filled porosity test

worm count

microscopic biota in soils

plant nutrient uptake and mineral action

soil chemistry

science of composting

fungal and bacterial action and mulches appropriate to different plants

additives to improve soils, such as

compost and worm castings compost teas

biochar

green manures

organic mulch

manures/animal bedding materials

leaf mould

plantings – green manures, nurse plants

companion planting

chop and drop

nutrient trapping systems

greywater use

organically certified products

amendments that may include rock dust, gypsum, dolomite, lime, zircon, sulphur and other minerals

plant growth and development

soil life, including microscopic life

methods of waste disposal causing minimal impact on the environment

the effects of conventional agricultural chemicals on soils and soil ecosystems