a general guideline used to determine amount of wood that should be removed during a major pruning session.
3-cut method
pruning steps to reduce the possibility of tearing the bark when a large limb is to be removed from a tree.
abiotic factors
non-living condition or thing, such as climate or habitat, that influences or affects an ecosystem and the organisms in it
accident reports
forms completed to record details following an accident
acclimatization
physiological adaptation of a plant to changes in climate or environment, such as light or temperature
action threshold
before taking any pest control action, IPM first sets an action threshold, a point at which pest populations or environmental conditions indicate that pest control action must be taken. Sighting a single pest does not always mean control is needed. The level at which pests will either become an economic threat is critical to guide future pest control decisions.
aeration
in soil, the process by which air from the atmosphere is brought into the soil. Usually to reverse loss of macropores resulting from compaction
aerator
mechanized equipment that either punctures the soil with spikes (spike aeration) or remove cores of soil from the ground (core aeration)
aggregates
broad category of coarse particulate material used in landscape construction, including sand, gravel, crushed stone, slag, recycled concrete etc.
air layering
propagation method for woody plants that roots branches while still attached to the parent plant
air purification
removal of contaminants from air
algae
simple non-flowering plants that contain chlorophyll but lack true stems, roots, leaves, and vascular tissue. Includes seaweeds and many single-celled forms.
alternative energy systems
renewable, "free" energy sources with lower carbon emissions, compared to conventional energy sources and includes: Biomass Energy, Wind Energy, Solar Energy, Geothermal Energy, Hydro-electric Energy sources
anatomy
science of the shape and structure of organisms and their parts
anti-desiccants
compounds applied to plants to reduce dehydration and prevent drying
aquatic plants
plants that have adapted to living in saltwater or freshwater environments
bacteria
single-celled microorganisms that can exist either as independent organisms or as parasites
bacterial wilts
disease caused by bacteria that proliferate within the water-conducting xylem vessels, causing a water blockage resulting in wilting and death of leaves or the plant.
balled and burlap (B&B)
relating to a tree, shrub or other plant prepared for transplanting by allowing the roots to remain covered by a ball of soil around which burlap is tied and sometimes reinforced with a rope or a wire basket
barriers
fence or other obstacle that prevents movement or access
bedding materials
thin layer of material placed over a compacted base on which interlocking /segmental pavers will be installed
benches
mobile or fixed tables in a greenhouse or nursery
beneficial organisms
any pollinating insect, or any pest predator, parasite, pathogen or other biological control agent which functions naturally or as part of an integrated pest management program to control another pest.
beneficial insects
insects that perform valued services like pollination and pest control; a component of an Integrated Pest Management Program
biennial
flowering plant that takes two years to complete its biological lifecycle
bills of lading
serves as a receipt of shipment when goods are delivered to the predetermined destination and must be signed by an authorized representative
blight
plant diseases resulting in sudden conspicuous wilting and dying of affected parts, especially young, growing tissue and caused by bacterium, fungus, or a virus.
bio swales
landscape elements designed to remove silt and pollution from surface runoff water. They consist of a swaled drainage course with gently sloped sides and filled with vegetation, compost and/or riprap.
biodiversity
the variability among living organisms on the earth, including the variability within and between species and within and between ecosystems. Short for biological diversity.
biological
of, relating to, caused by, or affecting life or living organisms
biotic factors
living thing that influences or affects an ecosystem
blue infrastructure
an approach to water management using technology that delivers, protects, restores, or mimics the natural water cycle to support a healthy water supply
botanical nomenclature
the formal, scientific naming of plants conforming to the International Code of Nomenclature. It is related to, but distinct from taxonomy.
botany
scientific study of plants, including their physiology, structure, genetics, ecology, distribution, classification, and economic importance
broadcast spreaders
lawn care tool or implement commonly used for spreading seed, lime, fertilizer, sand, ice melt, etc.
broadleaf evergreen
broad leafed plant that keeps its leaves throughout the year.
brown field reclamation
redevelopment of abandoned, vacant, derelict or underutilized commercial and industrial properties where past actions have resulted in actual or perceived contamination
calibrate
the process of measuring products and adjusting components in order to deliver the desired volume. ( Used for sprayers and fertilizer spreaders)
callusing
the tissue that forms over the wounds of plants, protecting the inner tissues and causing healing.
Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)
regulatory agency dedicated to the safeguarding of food, animals, and plants, which enhance the health and well-being of Canada's people, environment and economy.
Canadian Standards for Nursery Stock (CSNS)
a minimum standard of quality for the production of woody ornamentals and herbaceous perennials. Nursery stock specifiers, including landscape architects and designers, developers and municipalities and other government agencies, make reference to these standards in the development of tenders and contract specifications.
canker
localized diseased or necrotic area on a trunk, branch, or twig of a woody plant, usually caused by fungi or bacteria.
canopy raising
removal of lower branches from the tree crown to provide understory clearance
capstones
one of a set of slabs on the top of a wall or structure
carbon capturing
trapping the carbon emissions and storing them away from the atmosphere to prevent global warming
carbon footprint
total amount of greenhouse gases produced and emitted during the creation of products or services.
catch basins
receptacle or reservoir that receives surface water runoff or drainage.
change orders
written order approved by a project owner directing the contractor to change contract amount, requirements, or time
a visual, and sometimes physical, inspection of a piece of equipment (e.g., truck, trailer, forklift, etc.). It involves walking all the way around the equipment to ensure there are no safety concerns.
climate control
is the process of producing particular environmental conditions to regulate the growing environment such as temperature, ventilation and humidity
climate control systems
adjustable systems installed to grow crops with optimum efficiency. They control the indoor climate including; light, temperature, air exchange, humidity and CO2 concentration in greenhouses, cold storage facilities etc.
coco fibre/coir
the husk of a coconut used as a growing medium for plants
codes
construction technologies and techniques must meet safety standards and comply with municipal, provincial and federal codes such as: electrical, building, plumbing and fire codes etc.
compaction - aggregate
elimination of voids in construction materials, as in concrete, plaster, or soil, by vibration, tamping, rolling, or some other method or combination of methods.
compaction - soil/media
breaking down soil/media particles by mechanical means, resulting in loss of soil/media macropores and leading to lack of oxygen and water in soils/media. A major cause of death of tree roots
companion planting
close planting of different plants that enhance each other's growth or protect each other from pests
composite boards
range of derivative wood products which are manufactured by binding the strands, particles, fibers, or veneers of wood, together with adhesives to form composite materials
compost
decayed organic material used as a soil conditioner, amendment or plant fertilizer.
concrete
mixture of gravel, sand, cement, and water that can be spread or formed and forms a stone-like mass upon hardening.
confined space
a space that has not been designed or constructed for continuous human occupancy, has limited access and may cause atmospheric and ventilation hazards for workers
coniferous shrubs
small to medium sized plants that bear seeds in cones and do not lose their leaves/needles at the end of their growing season. The leaves/needles stay the same color throughout the year.
coniferous trees
mostly needle-leaved or scale-leaved, chiefly evergreen, cone-bearing gymnospermous trees or shrubs of the order Coniferales, such as pines, spruces, and firs.
conservation
preservation, protection, or restoration of the natural environment, natural ecosystems, vegetation, and wildlife
conserve
protecting an environmentally important place from harm or destruction
contaminants
biological, chemical, physical, or radiological substance (normally absent in the environment) which, in sufficient concentration, can adversely affect living organisms through air, water, soil, and/or food.
contracts
an agreement between two parties to perform work or provide goods, including an agreement or order for the procurement of supplies or services.
control method
once monitoring, identification, and action thresholds indicate that pest control is required, and preventive methods are no longer effective or available, IPM programs then evaluate the proper control method both for effectiveness and risk. Effective, less risky pest controls are chosen first, including highly targeted chemicals, such as pheromones to disrupt pest mating, or mechanical control, such as trapping or weeding. If further monitoring, identifications and action thresholds indicate that less risky controls are not working, then additional pest control methods would be employed, such as targeted spraying of pesticides. Broadcast spraying of non-specific pesticides is a last resort.
conveyors
frame-mounted continuous belts that move aggregate, earth, concrete and plants.
corms
rounded underground storage organ present in plants such as crocuses, gladioli, and cyclamens, consisting of a swollen fleshy stem base covered with thin external scale leaves; corms differ from bulbs in having much more stem tissue and fewer scale leaves
critical path
a project management or planning tool that
lists all activities required to complete the project (typically categorized within a work breakdown structure),
identifies the time (duration) that each activity will take to complete,
displays the dependencies between the activities and,
sets logical end points such as milestones or deliverable items.
cropping schedules
schedule to grow plants to marketable size at the right time of year
crown balancing
primary consideration is given to the visual form and/or structural balance of the tree’s crown by removing eccentric growth
cultivars
a plant variety that has been produced in cultivation by selective breeding
cultivating
preparing and using land for crops or gardening
cultivation
the planting, tending, improving, or harvesting of crops or plants; or the preparation of ground to promote plant growth
cultivator
mechanical tool/implement for loosening the soil and uprooting weeds
cut and fill excavation practices
the process of constructing a railway, road or canal whereby the amount of material from cuts roughly matches the amount of fill needed to make nearby embankments, so minimizing the amount of construction labour.
cuttings
plant cutting, also known as striking or cloning, is a technique for vegetatively (asexually) propagating plants in which a piece of the stem or root of the source plant is placed in a suitable medium to grow
daily time sheets
a mechanism used to record the hours that are worked daily
deadhead
remove spent flower heads from a plant to encourage further blooming
deciduous
trees, shrubs, and herbaceous perennials that shed their leaves for part of the year due to climate changes not conducive to growth.
defoliation
to strip (a tree, bush, etc.) of leaves
desiccation
drying out of a living organism, such as when plants are exposed to sunlight or drought
design principles
include the component principles of repetition, variety, balance, emphasis, sequence (rhythm) and scale as they are applied to the quality of a design.
dethatch
mechanical removal from a lawn of the layer of dead turfgrass tissue known as "thatch."
discing
implement that is dragged across ploughed land to smooth or break up the soil, to remove weeds or cover seeds;
disease triangle
conceptual model that shows the interactions between the host, pathogen and the environment
diseases
abnormal growth or dysfunction of a plant, caused by an interruption in the normal life cycles of a plant. Disease can be caused by biotic or abiotic factors.
dormancy
period in an organism's life cycle when growth and development are temporarily stopped in part, to low temperatures that slow chemical activity
drainage
movement of water through soil/media. After a normal amount of irrigation, water should percolate through the soil within a few hours. If pools of water remain or the soil appears excessively wet to the touch, the area may be poorly drained
drainage components
the parts of a drainage system that provides an outlet for runoff and groundwater flow via gravel, pipe, geotextile, catch basins, man holes, etc.
drainage patterns
the pattern formed by streams, rivers, and lakes in a particular drainage basin
drainage swales
graded and engineered landscape feature appearing as a linear, shallow, open channel to promote the conveyance of storm water at a slower, controlled rate and acts as a filter medium removing pollutants and allowing storm water infiltration
drawings
graphic illustrations depicting the dimensions, design, and location of a project. Generally including plans, elevations, details, diagrams, schedules, and sections.
ecosystem
biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
edge restraints
outside perimeter that holds interlocking/segmental pavers together and is responsible to with-stand horizontal loads created by inherent pavement energy and traffic
edging
blocks, bricks, pavers or materials used at the edge of a pavement
edible plants
any plant that can be safely consumed, specifically by humans
efficacy
the ability for a product to produce a desired or intended result. ( Pest Control products are judged by their efficacy or their level of control and achieving the intended result.)
efflorescence
white powdery substance on the surfaces of unsealed concrete caused by migrating vapour bringing soluble salts to the surface
electrical conductivity (EC)
common measure of soil salinity and is indicative of the ability of an aqueous solution to carry an electric current. Indirect measurement that correlates very well with several soil physical and chemical properties.
electrical conduits
tubing system used for protection and routing of electrical wiring
electrical wiring
material consisting either of a single filament or of several filaments woven or twisted together and usually insulated with a dielectric material used as a conductor of electricity
elevation
vertical distance relative to a reference point
emergency response plans
mitigate the impact of an incident that threatens the safety, health and welfare of the public and the environment
a chemical or natural substance added to soil or land to increase its fertility
filtration systems
process of filtering liquids or gases, such as air, through a filter in order to remove solid particles
fire Smart practices
https://www.firesmartcanada.ca
the website provides a best practice guideline that supports enhancement of safety and stewardship aimed at prevention and mitigation of wildfires.
flood mitigation
involves the managing and control of flood water movement, such as redirecting flood run-off through the use of floodwalls and flood gates, rather than trying to prevent floods altogether
flower
seed-bearing part of a plant, consisting of reproductive organs that are typically surrounded by a brightly colored corolla and a green calyx.
flower period
time when a tree, shrub, perennial or annual plant will normally produce flowers
flush cut
pruning technique in which both branch and stem tissue are removed; generally considered poor practice.
foliage
leaves of a plant
foliar burn
browning of plant tissues, including leaf margins and tips, and yellowing or darkening of veins which may lead to eventual wilting and abscission of the leaf.
foliar discolouration
is often an indication of physiological stress, pest, or infectious disease problems.
foliar feed
feeding plants by applying liquid fertilizer directly to their leaves
foliar sample
a collection of leaves sent to a laboratory to determine deficiencies, toxicities, response to applications and changes in maintenance practices.
foliar washing
physical removal of dust, dirt or spray residue from plants using various manual and mechanical sprayers
foot baths/boot sprays
a tub or mat containing disinfectants to provide sanitation protection of the footwear of all workers/visitors entering greenhouses to prevent the introduction of soil borne pests and diseases from contaminating crops.
form
temporary structure or mold for the support of concrete while it is setting and gaining sufficient strength to be self-supporting
french drains
trench filled with gravel or rock or containing a perforated pipe that redirects surface water and groundwater away from an area
frost damage
plant tissue damage caused by cold / freezing temperatures; ground frost and air and wind frost
frost heave
the uplift of water-saturated soil or other surface deposits due to expansion caused by freezing temperatures that have penetrated into the soil.
fruit
is a part of a flowering plant that derives from specific tissues of the flower and provide the mechanism by which plants disseminate seeds.
fuels
any material, as coal, oil, gas, wood, etc., burned to supply heat or power
fungi
any of a diverse group of eukaryotic single-celled or multinucleate organisms that live by decomposing and absorbing the organic material in which they grow, comprising the mushrooms, molds, mildews, smuts, rusts, and yeasts, and classified in the kingdom Fungi
fungicide
is a specific type of pesticide that controls fungal disease by specifically inhibiting or killing the fungus causing the disease.
gall
abnormal outgrowths of plant tissues caused by many living organisms living on plants including insects, mites, fungi, parasites, and bacteria.
generator
a device used for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy
geogrids
geosynthetic material used to reinforce soils on slopes and commonly used to reinforce retaining walls, as well as sub-bases or subsoils below roads or structures
geo-membranes
synthetic membrane liner or barrier with very low permeability used with any geotechnical engineering related material to control fluid (or gas) migration in a human-made project, structure, or system
geotextile
permeable synthetic fabrics which, when used in association with soil, have the ability to separate, modify drainage, filter, reinforce, protect, or drain and serves as a weed barrier.
germination
the process by which a plant grows from a seed. Examples include the sprouting of seedlings from a seed of an angiosperm or gymnosperm and the growth of hyphae from fungal spores
global positioning system (GPS)
a space-based satellite navigation system that provides location and time information in all weather conditions, anywhere on or near the Earth where there is an unobstructed line of sight to four or more GPS satellites.
grades
reshaping of land to meet specified elevations
grading
the work of altering existing terrain, base or an elevation or slope to meet specifications for work such as a foundation, base, landscape feature or surface drainage
green field
an undeveloped or agricultural tract of land that is a potential site for industrial or urban development.
green infrastructure
are planned and managed vegetation and semi-vegetative technologies that reduce pollution and provide ecosystems that support healthy living. Green infrastructure takes many forms including but is not limited to the following: urban forests, natural areas, greenways, streams and riparian zones, meadows and agricultural lands; green roofs and green walls; parks, gardens and landscaped areas, community gardens, and other green open spaces; rain gardens, bio-swales, engineered wetlands and storm water ponds.
green parking
designed to do environmental work including reducing energy use, improving environmental quality and ensuring healthy conditions for people by incorporating permeable pavement, drainage features including rain gardens and bio-swales, and native plantings.
greenhouse structures
a structure, primarily of glass or sheets of clear plastic, in which temperature and humidity can be controlled for the cultivation or protection of plants.
green roof
an extension of an existing roof which includes a water proofing and root repellent system, a drainage system, filter cloth, a lightweight growing medium and plants that can provide building owners and municipalities with a return on investment.
grey infrastructure
traditional practices for storm water management and wastewater treatment including pipes and sewers, utilities and buildings.
ground covers
any plant that grows over an area of ground, used to provide protection from erosion and drought, and to improve its aesthetic appearance
ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)
a device that shuts off an electric circuit when it detects that current is flowing along an unintended path, possibly through water or through a person. It is used to reduce the risk of electric shock.
growing conditions
temperature, light, water, humidity, oxygen, and mineral nutrients
growing facilities/structures
structures and systems used for the production of plant materials
growing media
the material that plants grow in and has three main functions: to supply roots with nutrients, air, and water, to support maximum root growth, and to physically support the plant.
growth habits
general appearance, form (shape) and manner of growth of a plant
guy
tensioned cable designed to add stability to a tree or free-standing structure
habitat
the natural environment in which a species or group of species lives
habitat preservation
land management practice that strives to conserve, protect and restore habitat areas for wild plants and animals to prevent extinction, fragmentation or reduction in population.
hardening-off
process of adapting a plant that has been grown under protective shelter - indoors or in a greenhouse - to full outdoor exposure
hardening-off procedures
over time, the plant is exposed to increasing intervals of time outdoors so that when it is planted in the garden it can make the transition with a minimum of transplant shock
hardiness
describes a plant’s ability to tolerate and survive adverse growing conditions such as cold, heat, drought, flooding, or wind
hardscape
components of the design and construction of any landscape project that deals with a range of materials that include brick, stone, wood, metals or other natural or fabricated materials used in construction of the built landscape including streets, walkways structures, walls, street amenities, pools and fountains, and fireplaces and fire pits etc.
hardscape materials
brick, stone, wood, metals or other natural or fabricated materials used in construction of the built landscape
hardscaping
the placement of non-plant elements such as fences, walkways, paving, and lighting in a planned outdoor area.
harrowing
to break up clods (lumps of soil) and to provide a finer finish, a good tilth or soil structure that is suitable for seedbed use. Coarser harrowing may also be used to remove weeds and to cover seed after sowing.
harvest
selecting plant materials from greenhouses, nursery fields and standing yards that are ready for sale, storage and for further grow-on activities
hazardous materials
is defined as any substance or material that could adversely affect the safety of the public, handlers or carriers during transportation.
hazards
a hazard is any source of potential damage, harm or adverse health effects to individuals, equipment, property etc. under certain conditions at work.
heading
cutting back the terminal portion of a branch to a bud. A term whose subcategories include "topping" and "pollarding."
heeling in
process taken to cover the roots of dormant plants with soil or mulch for short periods.
herbaceous
plants or plant parts that are fleshy as opposed to woody and that dies back to the ground each year
hormone treatment
chemical application by a horticulturist to regulate plant growth processes. In plant propagation, cuttings are dipped in a rooting hormone to stimulate root development. In greenhouse production, many potted flowering plants (like poinsettias and Easter lilies) may be treated with plant growth regulators to keep them short. Seedless grapes are treated with plant growth regulators to increase the size of the fruit. In special situations, turf may be treated to slow growth and mitigate the need for mowing.
ice control products
chemical (sodium chloride /rock salt) and abrasives (sand) materials used for snow and ice control that have friction or melting characteristics
insect traps
devices used to monitor or directly reduce pest populations by attracting and capturing insects using food, visual lures, chemical attractants and pheromones as bait.
insects
any animal of the class Insecta, comprising small, air-breathing arthropods having the body divided into three parts (head, thorax, and abdomen), and having three pairs of legs and usually two pairs of wings.
integrated pest management (IPM)
an approach to planning and managing pests that uses a combination of cultural, biological, mechanical and chemical methods to reduce pest populations to acceptable levels and with the least disruption to the environment starting with the least toxic control first.
integrity
a term applied to the engineering disciplines associated with the design, assurance, and verification functions that ensure a product, process, or system meets its appropriate and intended requirements for as long as the designed life of the structure.
invasive species
nonindigenous plants that have the potential to invade agricultural and natural areas
causing serious damage to Canada's economy and environment and sometimes harm to human health.
inventory management
activities employed to maintain the optimum number or amount of each inventory item.
irrigation controllers
device to operate automatic irrigation systems such as lawn sprinklers and drip irrigation systems and that have a means of setting the frequency of irrigation, the start time, and the duration of watering.
irrigation systems
Automated systems that deliver and distribute water to lawns, gardens, landscapes and horticultural crops (greenhouse and nursery), for the purpose of growing and maintaining healthy plants.. Components of these systems include sprinklers, nozzles, controllers, bubblers, drip emitters, valves, backflow prevention, pipe etc.
joint materials
compounds used to fill the space between adjacent paving units and wall stone. May be bound or unbound. Including: sand, polymeric sand, cement mortars, resin mortars, etc.
jurisdictional regulations
municipal, provincial or federal law or rule, or other order prescribed by authority such as building by-laws, labour laws and environmental protection laws.
landscape drawings
graphic illustrations depicting the dimensions, design, and location of a project. Generally including plans, elevations, details, diagrams, schedules, and sections.
layering
propagation method by which a branch/shoot takes root while still attached to the parent plant.
leaf
flattened structure of a higher plant, typically green and bladelike, that is attached to a stem directly or via a stalk. Leaves are the main organs of photosynthesis and transpiration.
leaf spot
round blemishes found on the leaves of many species of plants, mostly caused by parasitic fungi or bacteria and can cause defoliation.
life cycle of pests
incomplete Insects: Insects with incomplete life cycles have two distinct stages, the adult and nymph stage and include grasshoppers and true bugs (stink bug and squash bugs). Adults have fully developed wings and can fly great distances. Nymphs either do not have wings or have wings that cannot be used for flight.Many insects in this category have piercing, sucking mouthparts and suck juice from plants. Some, such as the grasshopper, chew on leaves and stems. Adult stage is most damaging.
complete Life Cycle Insects: Insects in the complete life cycle group have four distinct stages, the egg, larvae, pupae and adult. Eggs, larva (wormlike or grub-like creature that may feed on various plant parts), pupa (relatively inactive, often enclosed in some form of cocoon), and adult insect completely different in appearance. The larval stage with chewing and rasping feeding is most damaging. Examples of these insects are beetles and moths.
lifts
layers of soil or aggregate fill.
light emitting diode (LED)
semiconductor device that emits visible light when an electric current passes through it. LEDs are very energy efficient and have a long lifespan.
lighting components
the various types of landscape lighting systems, controls and switching, wiring connections, fixture types, functions-purposes-styles, and light sources.
liming
treatment of soil or water with lime to reduce acidity (increasing pH) and improve fertility or oxygen levels.
liners
young, immature plants intended for ‘growing-on’ to mature sizes in nurseries, either by lining-out in the field or in containers. Typically 1 or 2 years old and often sold bare-root or in small containers.
lining out
all nursery stock suitable for planting out in nursery rows, beds, containers, or into natural areas.
living wall systems
self -sufficient vertical gardens that are attached to the exterior or interior of a building. They differ from green façades (e.g. ivy walls) in that the plants root in a structural support which is fastened to the wall itself. The plants receive water and nutrients from within the vertical support instead of from the ground.
load distribution requirements
a load distributed evenly over the entire length of a structural member or the surface of a vehicle, trailer, floor, or roof expressed in weight per length or weight per area.
load securement
all loads carried on a motor vehicle or trailer must be bound, covered or otherwise securely fastened or loaded such that no portion of the load can fall off the vehicle or trailer. Includes vehicle structure, blocking and bracing equipment, and securing devices that meet capability requirements, are in good working order, and have no obvious signs of damage or weakness.
lock-out/tag-out
is a safety procedure used in workplaces to protect workers by tagging dangerous tools, equipment and machines and ensuring that the energy source is locked out to prevent accidental use or start up prior to the completion of maintenance or servicing work.
low voltage lighting systems
permanently installed outdoor lighting fixtures operating at 12 volts or less, which illuminate landscape environments and exterior structures. Components of these systems typically include transformers, switching devices, multi-strand wiring, wire connectors, fixtures and lamps and other accessories
metal hangers
metal angle or strap used to support and fix the ends of wood joists or rafters to beams or girders
microclimate
local climate conditions of a specific area that include temperature, light, wind and moisture and influenced by walls, fences, slope, elevation, exposure and orientation.
micro-propagation
propagation of plants from very small plant parts, tissues or cells grown in a test tube or container where the environment and nutrition are rigidly controlled.
morphology
the study of organism structures, including reproductive structures, and also addresses the pattern of development and relationships of these structures as they mature
mortar
a product composed of cement and sand. When water is mixed in with this product, the cement is activated. Mortar is used to hold together bricks, stones and hardscape components once hardened.
mulch
layer of bark, peat moss, compost, shredded leaves, hay or straw, lawn clippings, gravel, paper, plastic or other material spread over the soil around the base of plants primarily to modify the effects of climate. During the growing season, mulch can help reduce evaporation, inhibit weeds, moderate soil temperature and add nutrients. Fresh layers of mulch are also spread to enhance aesthetics. In the winter, mulch of evergreen boughs, coarse hay or leaves is used to protect plants from freezing.
native ecosystem
biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment that have not been affected directly or indirectly by human actions.
native plants
a term used to describe plants indigenous to a specific region in geologic time. This includes plants that have developed, occur naturally, or existed for many years in an area (e.g. trees, flowers, grasses, and other plants).
native woodland
area of woodland largely consisting of site specific native trees and shrubs, where an associated woodland flora is present or may develop over time.
natural habitat
area or natural environment in which a specific animal or plant species lives.
natural stone
stone shaped and sized by nature as opposed to stone that has been quarried and cut.
nematodes
microscopic roundworms with a tubular digestive system that live in soil or water and can be parasitic or beneficial.
nomenclature
the naming of things; often restricted to the correct use of scientific names in taxonomy; a system that sets out provisions for the formation and use of names.
an international system of standardized New Latin names used in biology for kinds and groups of kinds of animals and plants
non-native
species living outside its native distributional range, which has arrived there by human activity, either deliberate or accidentally.
nursery
place where plants are grown for transplanting, for use as stocks for budding and grafting, or for sale. Nurseries produce and distribute woody and herbaceous plants, including ornamental trees, shrubs, and bulb crops.
nutrient deficiencies
inadequate supply of essential nutrients or present but not in the form the plant can use causing plant health problems
nutrient tests
laboratory analysis of soil or foliage to determine if deficiencies exist.
nutrients
elements needed by growing plants and supplied by minerals and organic matter in soil and by fertilizers. Includes: nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, iron and micro-nutrients.
on-the-job-training (OJT)
employee training at the place of work while he or she is doing the actual job
organic matter
matter composed of organic compounds that has come from the remains of organisms such as plants and animals and their waste products in the environment.
organically-grown plants
plants grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides or fungicides.
organics
an organic substance such as a fertilizer of plant or animal origin; a pesticide whose active component is an organic compound or a mixture of organic compounds; or a plant produced by organic farming.
overseed
to spread grass seed on turf or an established lawn to fill in thin or bare spots.
pathogens
biological agent that causes disease or illness to its host by disrupting the normal physiology. Can be a fungus, virus, bacteria or parasite.
paving stones
large, flat pieces of stone, brick, tile, concrete or similar material, used in paving and usually used in groups to cover a path or an area of ground
peat moss
spongy organic soil amendment used to increase acidity, organic matter, aeration and water retention of soil. Sphagnum peat moss is generally considered to be highest in quality. Most soilless mix features peat as its main ingredient.
percolation
the movement, under hydrostatic pressure, of water through the interstices of a rock or soil. Also, the movement of water within a porous medium such as soil without a definite channel.
perennial
a non-woody plant which grows and lives for more than two years.
permeable pavement
paved surfaces made of sustainable materials such as pervious concrete, porous asphalt, permeable interlocking pavers, and other materials, that include a base and sub-base that allow the movement of storm water through the surface. In addition to reducing runoff, they trap suspended solids and filters pollutants from the water.
permeable pavers
paving materials that allow rainwater to pass through into the ground to replenish the water table.
personal protective equipment (PPE)
special protective clothing, other garments, devices and equipment designed and worn by workers to protect the wearer from injury. Examples include respirators, goggles, ear plugs, face shields and CSA approved foot wear.
pest
any species of plant, animal, or pathogenic agent which reduces the productivity or health of plants, either directly by eating them or indirectly by spreading diseases among them.
pest control
regulation or management of a species defined as a pest, usually because it is perceived to be detrimental to the ecology or the economy.
pest resistance plants
plants that grow despite the presence of pests and diseases due to naturally occurring resistance or plants that contain chemicals that make them inedible to pests, and stop the spread of disease.
pH
the measure of a soil's acidity or alkalinity. and is measured in pH units. The pH scale goes from 0 to 14 with pH 7 as the neutral point. As the amount of hydrogen ions in the soil increases, the soil pH decreases, thus becoming more acidic. From pH 7 to 0, the soil is increasingly more acidic, and from pH 7 to 14, the soil is increasingly more alkaline or basic.
physiology
the study of vital processes and functional activity occurring in plants in relation to its survival, metabolic activities, water relations, mineral nutrition, development, movement, irritability, organization, growth and transport processes.
phyto-inspection
official visual examination of plants, plant products or other regulated articles to determine if pests are present and/or to determine compliance with phytosanitary regulations
phytosanitary certificates
a document, issued by an inspector, that attests to the phytosanitary status of anything exported to and from Canada and that contains the information required by the Model Phytosanitary Certificate of the International Plant Protection Convention is signed by an inspector / official and sealed with an official Phytosanitary Certificate seal .
pinching
a form of pruning that encourages branching on the plant.
plant classification
assignment and identification of organisms to groups within a system of categories distinguished by structure, origin, ecological adaptation, use, cultural or climatic requirements, growth habit and life span etc.
Plants are grouped by various common characteristics to help us communicate similar ecological adaptations and cultural requirements.
plant hardiness zone map
outlines the different zones in Canada where various types of trees, shrubs and flowers will most likely survive. It is based on the average climatic conditions of each area and based on a wide range of climatic variables, including minimum winter temperatures, length of the frost-free period, summer rainfall, maximum temperatures, snow cover, January rainfall and maximum wind speed. In Canada, the map is divided into nine major zones: the harshest is 0 and the mildest is 8. Subzones (e.g., 4a or 4b, 5a or 5b) are also noted in the map legend.
plant health care
a process of scheduled preventative maintenance based on monitoring and use of cultural and chemical tactics, to enhance plant vitality. The plant and its requirements become the central focus of the activities, rather than responding to symptoms caused by pest presence, physical agents, or nutritional deficiencies. A plant health care practice addresses the basic causes of the reduction in plant health and provides corrective measures to promote plant health.
plant key
analytical guide to the identification of plants, based on the use of contrasting characters to subdivide a group under study into branches.
planting guidelines
provide jurisdictional / site specific specifications and details for tree planting.
planting plan
a ‘to scale’ plan that identifies plant name, location and spacing information.
plant texture
relationship between the foliage and twigs of plants. Appearance of plants in terms of coarseness or fineness, roughness or smoothness, heaviness or lightness, denseness or thinness.
plugs
a cylinder of medium in which a plant is grown. The term is generally used for seedlings and rooted cuttings.
pollarding
process taken to remove upper branches of a tree to promote a dense head of foliage and branches and is practiced today to maintain and control tree height.
positive drainage
grade that ensures that surface water drains away from all structures on a property so as not to damage to structures and buildings on a site nor negative impact on human health.
posts
a piece of timber or metal set upright in the ground and used to support something or as a marker
potting-on
transplanting a plant from a smaller container up to a bigger container in the growing-on process.
potting-up
moving young plants or rooted cuttings individually into containers and /or the process of filling containers with soil and plant material.
pre-cast concrete
concrete structural components, such as steps, blocks, etc., produced by casting concrete in a reusable mold or "form" which is then cured in a controlled environment, transported to the construction site and lifted into place.
propagate
production of more plants from a parent plant to preserve essential characteristics. Propagation may be achieved sexually by use of seeds or asexually by use of techniques such as cuttings, dividing, grafting and tissue culture.
pruning
the selective cutting and removing of parts of a tree or shrub. It covers a number of horticultural techniques that control growth, shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and stimulate the formation of flowers and fruit buds. Pruning often means cutting branches back, sometimes removing smaller limbs entirely to preserve or improve plant health and structure.
public utilities
service for the public such as water, sewers, telephone, cable, fibre optics, electricity, or gas
purchase order
formal written authorization provided by a buyer to a vendor to provide certain goods or services (types, quantities, qualities, and prices) and to bill the buyer for them at the specified price. The purchase order becomes a contract when it is accepted by the vendor.
quarantine
confinement or isolation of plants or plant products suspected of carrying an infectious agent for observation and research or for farther inspection, testing and/or treatment for a period of time, in an effort to prevent disease from spreading.
rails
a bar or series of bars, typically fixed on upright supports, serving as part of a fence or barrier or used to hang things on
rain gauges
device for collecting and measuring the amount of rain that falls.
rain water harvesting
collection and storage of rainwater often from rooftops in storage units for reuse on-site, rather than allowing it to runoff. Uses include water for garden, irrigation, domestic use with proper treatment, etc.
rebar
steel bar, usually with manufactured deformations, used in concrete and masonry construction to provide additional strength. Short for reinforcing bar.
regeneration
processes designed to build soil health or to regenerate soil, including maintaining a high percentage of organic matter in soils, minimum tillage, biodiversity, composting, mulching, and crop rotation to support a sustainable growing environment.
respirators
apparatus worn over the mouth and nose or the entire face to prevent the inhalation of dust, smoke, or other noxious substances.
retaining wall
wall built to stabilize a slope and keep soil from sliding or eroding downhill.
retention ponds
basins that are designed to temporarily hold a set amount of water and to catch runoff from higher elevation areas while slowly draining to another location. They are more or less around for flood control when large amounts of rain could cause flash flooding.
ribbon tests
simple method used to estimate the percentage of sand, silt and clay in a soil sample.
river rock
natural aggregate smoothed by forces of water. Can come in all sizes and colors depending upon the source.
rollover protection devices (ROP)
operator compartment structures (usually cabs or frames) intended to protect equipment operators and motorists from injuries caused by vehicle overturns or rollovers.
roof-top gardens
any garden on the roof of a building. Roof plantings provide food, temperature control, hydrological benefits, architectural enhancement, habitats or corridors for wildlife, and recreational opportunities.
root division methods
process of reproducing plants by a division of roots or crowns.
rooted cuttings
a vegetative portion removed from a parent plant that has been induced to form roots and eventually new leaves and shoots.
rooting hormones
growth substances that stimulate root formation when applied to the base of a cutting.
roots
part of the plant, usually underground, that absorbs water and nutrients from the soil and anchors the plant in the soil. However, roots can also be aerial (growing up above the ground or above water)
rootstocks
the root or part of a root used for plant propagation. In grafting the rootstock is that part of a grafted plant that supplies the roots
mildew
a fungi that forms fine webs on the surfaces of leaves on live plants. Mildews thrive in warm, humid conditions and mainly affect plants not adapted to those conditions. Also referred to as powdery mildew.
rot
also called decay, any of several plant diseases, caused by any of hundreds of species of soil-borne bacteria and fungi. They are characterized by plant decomposition and putrefaction. The decay may be hard, dry, spongy, watery, and mushy.
rotating crops
a system in which crops are grown on different sections of a plot on a three- or four-year cycle to build soil fertility, boost yields and economic returns, and minimize the negative impact of soil borne pests and diseases.
rust
disease caused by a rust fungus, characterized by reddish or brownish spots on leaves, stems, and other parts.
scab
fungal disease common in areas with summer rainfall - most commonly troubling apples and crab apples. It causes disfiguring lesions, and can infect other plants as well.
scarify
to break up and loosen (soil) to a shallow depth. Roughing up the surface of a root ball that has circling roots
scion wood
short length of stem, taken from one plant which is then grafted onto the rootstock of another plant.
soil texture
is a qualitative classification tool used in both the field and laboratory to determine classes for soils based on their physical texture.
scorch
injury caused to a plant's leaves due to a pathogen heat or lack of water or excessive transpiration .
screed
a straight board used to even off the surface of sand or freshly poured concrete. The screed is usually slid across the tops of the form boards holding the aggregate or concrete. In this process, aggregate or concrete remaining above the level of the forms is moved to areas in which the level is too low, or else simply removed as excess.
sealants
material usually applied as a liquid to waterproof, enhance color, and in some cases reduce abrasion. Applied to wood, and interlocking concrete pavements.
shearing
removal of a shrub's surface by clipping in order to achieve a specific shape and / or resulting in a very formal growth habit
shoring
props or posts of timber or other material in compression; used for the temporary support of excavations, formwork, walls or unsafe structures.
shrubs
a woody plant that is never tree-like in habit and produces or shoots from or near the base. A multi-stemmed, woody plant that does not exceed 20 feet in height.
identifying the existing inventory of elements and features including roads, neighbouring properties, soil type, drainage, microclimate, compaction, slopes, water ways, existing plants, wildlife, utilities and hazards, access and security requirements etc.
steps taken to preserve site and minimize environmental impact ( erosion, runoff, flooding, compaction etc.) on the site and neighbouring properties due to the construction activity. (Traffic, ground disturbance etc.)
smart water technology
irrigation best management practices and components that address landscape needs without over watering.
softscape
parts of a landscape that comprise and support living material. For example flowers, plants, grass, trees, soil, mulch, etc
softscape material
living, animated part of a landscape including plants, flowers, color scheme and pattern of plantation.
soil
porous material at the surface of the earth and consists of minerals, organic matter, water, gases, and living organisms.
soil amendments
any material added to a soil/media to improve its physical properties to enhance production, such as water retention, permeability, water infiltration, drainage, aeration and structure.
solenoid switches
electromagnet which is connected to a controller and facilitates the opening and closing of automatic control valves within irrigation systems.
spalling
loss of a fragment/chip or splinter, usually in the shape of a flake, or pitted appearance detached from the edge or surface of a paver or concrete due to a blow or sudden force, or the action of weather, or pressure. Typically caused by poor installation and / or weather factors.
species
is one of the basic units of biological classification and a taxonomic rank. A species is often defined as the largest group of organisms capable of interbreeding and producingfertileoffspring. A class of individuals having some common characteristics or qualities; distinct sort or kind; a plant that is a representative member of a species, one that is not a hybrid or variety.
specifications
precise statement of legal particulars or documents that define the detailed qualitative requirements for products, materials, and workmanship upon which the contract for construction is based.
spill containment
where spills of chemicals, oils, sewage etc. are contained within a barrier or drainage system rather than being absorbed at the surface.
spill kits
consist of absorbents that are sprinkled on top of the spill or sponge-like fabrics that are placed around the spill in order to contain it. The kit may also include protective equipment, such as goggles and gloves
standards
a document developed to establish recognized and accepted minimum levels of quality that may be recognized by the Owner, User, Consultant for
material, product, plant, design, system or installation procedure and;
to standardize, or simplify such variables as dimensions, varieties or other characteristics of specific products or plants in order to minimize variation in manufacture, production and/or use.
stem cuttings
is a technique for vegetatively (asexually) propagating plants in which a piece of the stem or root of the source plant is placed in a suitable medium such as moist soil, potting mix, coir or rock wool. Also known as striking or cloning.
stems
the main body or stalk of a plant or shrub, typically rising above ground but occasionally subterranean. Slender stalk supporting or connecting another plant part, such as a leaf or flower.
stippling
leaf injury from insects resulting in leaf spotting as a result of localized destruction of the chlorophyll by the injected enzymes at the feeding site. Aphids, leafhoppers, and mites are commonly associated with this type of injury.
storm water management
practices that are developed to reduce, control, and prevent storm water runoff through a variety of strategies. These strategies vary in nature and effectiveness and strive to improve water quality and either reduce or control flooding and erosion.
structural integrity
ability of an item to hold together under a load, including its own weight, resisting breakage or bending. It assures that the construction will perform its designed function, during reasonable use, for as long as the designed life of the structure.
structural soil
a designed medium which can meet or exceed pavement design and installation requirements while remaining root penetrable and supportive of tree growth even when surrounded by pavement. It is a mixture of gap-graded gravels, clay loam, and a hydrogel stabilizing agent to keep the mixture from separating.
subsoil
the stratum of earth or earthy material immediately under surface of topsoil. It contains little or no humus.
subsurface drainage systems
the process of directing excess water away from the root zones of plants by natural or artificial means, such as by using a system of pipes and drains placed below ground surface level.
take-off or quantity take-off
process in which detailed lists are compiled, based on drawings and specifications, of all the material and equipment necessary to construct a project. Estimators use construction blueprints, either manually or electronically, and start "taking off" quantities of items they will need from those blueprints in order to prepare part of the estimate. Examples of possible take offs include the number of plants, linear measurement of pavers, volumes of aggregate etc. needed to complete the work.
tenders
refers to projects or procurement and is the process whereby organizations, clients, governments and institutions invite bids for large projects that must be submitted within a finite deadline.
thinning
selective removal of plants/trees to allow sufficient room for the remaining plants to grow
a form of pruning, that removes an entire shoot, limb, or branch at its point of origin to revitalize a plant by removing over-mature, weak, problematic, and excessive growths. When performed correctly, thinning encourages the formation of new growth that will more readily bear fruit and flowers. This is a common technique in pruning roses and "opening-up" the branching of neglected trees, or for renewing shrubs with multiple branches. A thinned plant becomes more
open and is more likely to retain its natural form. More light penetrates a plant that has been thinned, and interior branches and foliage will be retained nearer the center of a tree.
top-dress
application of soluble fertilizers, fresh soil, or compost to the soil surface around a plant or to lawns to replenish nutrients and to improve plant health.
topography
shape, height and elevations of natural and man-made features of a particular landscape, such as mountains, rivers, valleys, and human settlements, railway lines, and roads.
topping
cutting back of the vertical stem (leader) and upper primary limbs (scaffold branches) on mature trees to achieve a uniform height. Topping is also referred to as heading, stubbing, or dehorning.
traffic control
directing the movement of vehicles, equipment, people or goods in a controlled manner to ensure efficiency and safety for all
transformers
a device used to transfer electrical energy from one circuit to another at a different voltage.
trench slope
involves cutting back the trench wall at an angle inclined away from the excavation.
tropical plants
all vegetation growing in a wide band around the equator between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. Most interior plants are tropical plants.
true-to-type
a plant that, when self-fertilized, only produces offspring with the same traits. The alleles for these type of plants are homozygous.
tubers
fat underground stem which stores food and plant energy and from which a plant grows. (e.g. Dahlias)
turf/ turf grass
the upper stratum of soil bound by grass and plant roots into a thick mat.
Any of various grasses (as Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass) grown to form turf
universal hand signals
established code of signals used by a signaler to communicate with an equipment /vehicle operator.
urban tree canopy
the layer of leaves, branches, and stems of trees that cover the ground when viewed from above.
utilities
gas, water, electrical and sewer services beyond 5 feet from a building.
ventilation
natural or mechanical process by which air is introduced to, circulated or removed from a space, with or without heating, cooling, or purification treatment. The main purposes of ventilation are to regulate the temperature and humidity to the optimal level, and to ensure movement of air and thus prevent build-up of plant pathogens (such as Botrytis cinerea) that prefer still air conditions. Ventilation also ensures a supply of fresh air for photosynthesis and plant respiration, and may enable important pollinators to access the greenhouse crop. Ventilation can be achieved via use of vents - often controlled automatically via a computer - and recirculation fans.
vines
plant whose stem requires support and which climbs by tendrils or twining or creeps along the ground.
water conservation
water management practices that improve the use of water resources to benefit people or the environment by beneficial reduction in water use, loss or waste.
water harvesting
accumulation and deposition of rainwater for reuse on-site, rather than allowing it to runoff. Uses include water for garden, water for livestock, water for irrigation, water for domestic use with proper treatment, and indoor heating for houses etc.
water holding capacity
is the ability of a soil to hold water and is used for irrigation scheduling, crop selection, groundwater contamination considerations, estimating runoff and determining when plants will become stressed. Water holding capacity varies by soil texture.
water management
activity of planning, developing, distributing and optimum use of water resources under defined water policies and regulations. It includes: management of water treatment of drinking water, industrial water, sewage or wastewater.
water proofing
any of a number of materials applied to various surfaces, e.g., a building foundation, to prevent the infiltration of water.
water table
the level below which the ground is saturated with water.
weed barriers
materials such as polypropylene blanket, fabric, mulches, composts that stabilizes soil, controls erosion, separates soil profiles and hinders weed growth.
weed control
use of manual, mechanical or chemical means to discourage the growth of unwanted, (usually) fast growing and/or invasive plants.
weeds
plants that grow where they are not wanted and if not kept under control will compete with the ornamental plants or vegetables for nutrients and water in the soil.
weight loads
recommended maximum weight load for a line, rope, crane or any other lifting device or component of a lifting device.
wetland reserves
wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs and similar areas that are protected and managed in order to preserve a particular type of habitat and its flora and fauna which are often rare or endangered.
self-contained raised beds with built-in reservoirs that supply water from the bottom up.
wire baskets
baskets made from heavy gauge wire that are often used to hold a B&B root ball intact during shipping and handling. Wire also allows for the tree to be picked up by the root ball instead of the trunk.
wood chips
medium-sized solid material made by cutting, or chipping, larger pieces of wood. Woodchips may be used as a biomass solid fuel and are raw material for producing wood pulp. They may also be used as organic mulch in gardening, landscaping, restoration ecology and mushroom cultivation.
woody
stems or trunks that are hard and thickened rather than soft and pliable and which increase in diameter each year.
work orders
written notice from the project owner to the contractor in which the contractor is authorized to proceed with the work on a specified date.
xeriscape principles
is a landscape design and maintenance concept that conserves water and protects the environment. The 7 principles include: Planning and design; Soil analysis; Practical turf areas; Appropriate plant selection; Efficient irrigation; Use of mulches; and Appropriate maintenance
zone
section of an irrigation system served by a single control valve. Zones are comprised of similar sprinkler types and plant material types with similar water requirements and types.
