Unit 3758: Horticulture Farm Attendant

1. Introduction to Horticulture Farm Attendant Role

• Overview of horticulture farm operations
• Key responsibilities and daily duties
• Plant care basics
• Maintenance tasks and general farm upkeep

2. Plant Identification and Classification

• Types of plants on horticulture farms
  • Trees
  • Shrubs
  • Flowers
  • Vegetables
• Plant characteristics for classification
  • Leaf type and arrangement
  • Flower structure
  • Growth habit
  • Root systems
• Use of identification keys and guides

3. Soil Preparation and Management

• Importance of soil health in horticulture
• Soil types and properties
• Soil testing methods
• Techniques for soil preparation
  • Tilling and aeration
  • Amending soil with organic matter and fertilizers
• Maintaining optimal soil conditions
  • pH adjustment
  • Moisture retention
  • Nutrient management

4. Watering and Irrigation Systems

• Water requirements of different plants
• Watering methods
  • Hand-watering techniques
  • Drip irrigation systems
  • Sprinkler irrigation systems
• Installation and maintenance of irrigation systems
• Water conservation strategies

5. Pest and Disease Management

• Common pests affecting horticulture plants
• Common plant diseases and symptoms
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles
  • Monitoring and identification
  • Biological control methods
  • Chemical control and safe pesticide use
• Preventative measures and sanitation

6. Pruning and Plant Maintenance

• Importance of pruning for health and aesthetics
• Types of pruning cuts and tools
• Pruning techniques for different plants
  • Trees
  • Shrubs
  • Flowers
• Routine plant maintenance tasks
  • Weeding
  • Mulching
  • Fertilizing

7. Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling

• Timing and indicators for harvesting fruits, vegetables, and flowers
• Harvesting methods and tools
• Post-harvest handling techniques
  • Cleaning and sorting
  • Storage conditions
  • Packaging
• Maintaining product quality and longevity

8. Greenhouse Operations

• Purpose and advantages of greenhouses
• Greenhouse structure and components
• Environmental control
  • Temperature regulation
  • Humidity control
  • Ventilation
• Crop production techniques in greenhouses
• Pest and disease management in greenhouse environments

9. Sustainable Farming Practices

• Principles of sustainable horticulture
• Organic farming methods
• Composting and soil fertility management
• Crop rotation and diversification
• Biodiversity conservation on the farm
• Environmental and economic benefits

10. Safety and First Aid on the Farm

• Safety protocols for farm attendants
• Safe handling and operation of tools and equipment
• Hazard recognition and risk management
• Personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Basic first aid skills and emergency procedures