794-001 Arboriculture

Plant Science I.

The objective of this subject is to extend participants' ability to:

• describe the anatomy of trees, the nature of branch attachment and the structure of tree root systems;

• identify the components of the compartmentalisation system that exists within the tree;

• implement proper tree management strategies;

• relate roots development to the soils in which they grow and methods of irrigation and fertilising;

• relate tree growth to plant propagation and the method of tree planting;

• climb trees safely using various rope and harness techniques and tie the necessary knots;

• use appropriate tools, including chainsaws safely, in tree maintenance both on the ground and in the tree;

• develop tree management strategies and replacement procedures for trees growing in cities;

• evaluate the monetary value of amenity trees using accepted methods, including the Burnley method;

• use the relevant laws that apply to trees growing in urban and amenity contexts;

• use the latest technology to assess the vigour, condition and soundness of trees;

• quote the costs of arboricultural procedures; and

• implement specialist arboricultural techniques.

The content includes tree anatomy, compartmentalisation, wound response, pruning techniques, trees and soils, tree selection criteria, tool safety and use, tree climbing safety in the tree, tree replacement strategies, tree selection, tree evaluation, planting and propagation, trees in cities, trees and the law, costing and contracts, tree surveys, and tree pests and diseases.

Examination of 1.5 hours (85%); practical (15%).