What evidence is required to demonstrate competence for this standard as a whole

Competence in implementing a propagation plan requires evidence that a schedule of propagation activities can be developed propagation works can be implemented and the performance and success of propagation activities can be monitored

The skills and knowledge required to implement a propagation plan must be transferable to a different work environment For example this could include different plant types propagation techniques and enterprise procedures

What specific knowledge is needed to achieve the performance criteria

Knowledge and understanding are essential to apply this standard in the workplace to transfer the skills to other contexts and to deal with unplanned events The knowledge requirements for this competency standard are listed below

OHS hazards associated with undertaking propagation activities and the controls necessary to remove or minimise risks associated with them

practical understanding of the OHS and environmental issues associated with use and disposal of propagation media

enterprise and industry hygiene standards required for propagation activities including relevant quarantine regulations

industry and enterprise quality specifications for parent plants and propagation materials

common problems that may occur while performing propagation activities in a controlled environment and preventativecorrective action that may apply

processes and techniques for preparing costing and documenting plans for and scheduling propagation activities

identification propagation and establishment techniques required for a range of plant varieties and cultivars

monitoring staff performance

Plant Breeders Rights PBR and related legislation

aftercare requirements for a range of propagated plant varieties and cultivars

testing methods applied to propagation media

preferred types of propagation media for different species

chemical cultural and biological pest weed and disease control techniques

application techniques for chemical and nonchemical intervention or treatments

What specific skills are needed to achieve the performance criteria

To achieve the performance criteria appropriate literacy and numeracy levels as well as some complementary skills are required These include the ability to

conduct literature and consultative research to obtain information about propagation requirements growth conditions and marketing implications

negotiate and document plans

write reports for the understanding of staff supervisors clients and contractors

calculate the cost spatial and logistical requirements of all aspects of the propagation works

analyse basic statistical data to monitor performance and success of propagation activities

What processes should be applied to this competency standard

There are a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life which are required in all jobs They are fundamental processes and generally transferable to other work functions Some of these are covered by the key competencies although others may be added The questions below highlight how these processes are applied in this competency standard Following each question a number in brackets indicates the level to which the key competency needs to be demonstrated where not required perform the process perform and administer the process and perform administer and design the process

How can communication of ideas and information be applied

Marketing objectives site environmental controls propagation techniques and budgetary considerations should be communicated with management orally and in writing There is likely to be negotiation between the planner of the propagation program and management to achieve objectives

How can information be collected analysed and organised

Some information will need to be researched andor obtained from test results Information addressing the specific requirements of the propagation program should be analysed and outcomes discussed with management and other members of the work team Information about the propagation program should be organised and presented as documented plans written work procedures timeline chart and schedules for propagation activities

How are activities planned and organised

The planning process should proceed in an orderly and efficient manner Timely and appropriate information needs to be available for decisionmaking The propagation plan should reflect the activities required to implement the program

How can team work be applied

Planning a propagation program may involve working with other members of a team to achieve the desired outcomes

How can the use of mathematical ideas and techniques be applied

Mathematical concepts will be required to measure quantities distances depth and calculate production records resources costs areas ratios scales planting and application rates

How can problemsolving skills be applied

Problems relating to vagaries of the growing environment poor germination or strike rate plant health propagation and aftercare techniques workplace safety tools equipment and machinery team members inclement weather hazardous situations and environmental issues may arise during the revegetation works

How can the use of technology be applied

Technology will be required to record store and communicate ideas and information It will also be used to research relevant information obtain and analyse data from soil tests and production statistics and to produce the propagation plan

Are there other competency standards that could be assessed with this one

This competency standard could be assessed on its own or in combination with other competencies relevant to the job function

There is essential information about assessing this competency standard for consistent performance and where and how it may be assessed in the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package All users of these competency standards must have access to the Assessment Guidelines Further advice may also be sought from the relevant sector booklet

What requirements may management or marketing impose on the propagation plan?

What propagation techniques might be required?

What environmental parameters may need to be considered in order to control the growing environment?

What OHS hazards may be identified as part of the plan for implementing propagation works?

What materials, equipment and machinery may be required for conducting propagation activities?

What propagation media requirements may need to be determined in order to meet plant needs?

What strategies may be employed to modify the growing environment?

What selection criteria may be applied to propagation material relevant to this unit?

What hygiene requirements are relevant to propagation activities?

What processes may be involved when propagated plants are assessed during after care?

What remedial procedures may be applied to propagated plants?