Block D – Landscape Maintenance

Trends

A higher degree of attention is paid to plant health due to more effective maintenance practices and environmental awareness.

Due to increased regulations, IPM processes for the managing of plant health have become more prevalent.

There is an increase in the use of technology to track maintenance activities and to assist in inventory.

There is an increased awareness and a demand for sustainable maintenance practices. Maintenance contractors are more engaged in maintaining green infrastructures and their associated technologies.

Related Components (include, but not limited to)

Softscape material: growing media, mulch, turf, bulbs, plants and plant materials, fertilizers, amendments.

Hardscape materials: drainage components, irrigation and lighting components, pre-cast concrete, aggregates, manufacturers’ stones, natural stone, wood, stone, mortar, joint materials, rebar, geotextiles, filter cloths, erosion mats, river rock, boulders, edging materials, recycled materials.

Structures and features: wood, metals, rails, posts, concrete, metal hangers, steel sheets, nails, screws, composite boards, pumps, hoses, electrical conduits and wiring, water feature components.

Tools and Equipment

See Appendix A.

Task 10 Maintains softscape and green infrastructure.

Context

Landscape horticulturists are responsible for maintaining all interior and exterior plant materials to sustain plant health, maintain the integrity of the design and to provide a functioning and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Required Knowledge

• K 1 plant identification and an understanding of nomenclature
• K 2 growing media conditions such as moisture, pH and nutrient levels
• K 3 drainage systems and components and drain locations
• K 4 fertilizer requirements and schedules
• K 5 soil amendment requirements and schedules
• K 6 irrigation components
• K 7 edging, cultivation and pruning techniques
• K 8 industry standards
• K 9 nutrient requirements for interior and exterior softscape
• K 10 watering requirements and scheduling
• K 11 climate conditions
• K 12 methods of weed control
• K 13 customer/client expectations
• K 14 IPM
• K 15 maintaining the design concept
• K 16 maintenance practices
• K 17 light requirements of interior and exterior softscape
• K 18 cleaning materials and techniques for interior and exterior softscape
• K 19 turfgrass varieties such as Kentucky blue grass, red fescue, perennial rye grass, bentgrass and annual blue grass
• K 20 types of PPE required for tasks and equipment, environmental safety and product safety
• K 21 specialized propagation methods such as air layering, cuttings and layering
• K 22 root division methods
• K 23 growing media such as custom formulations, composts and non-soil products
• K 24 sampling and testing methods
• K 25 jurisdictional regulations
• K 26 species and cultivars and their growing regime
• K 27 basic plant botany and physiology
• K 28 storage and sanitation of tools
• K 29 monitoring devices such as rain gauges, moisture probes and insect traps
• K 30 staking and guying as per industry standards

Sub-task D-10.01 Maintains growing media.

Key Competencies

• D-10.01.01 assess growing media composition for conditions such as texture, moisture levels and porosity using ribbon tests and tools such as probes
• D-10.01.02 collect and label growing media and water samples, and send to lab to determine pH, nutrient and deficiency levels
• D-10.01.03 interpret lab results to determine nutrient requirements for growing media, irrigation water and implement amendments required
• D-10.01.04 cultivate growing media with tools such as garden fork, cultivator, hoe and mechanical rototillers for reasons such as aeration, weed control and maintenance of growing media structure

Sub-task D-10.02 Maintains turfgrass.

Key Competencies

• D-10.02.01 perform visual inspection of turfgrass area to determine conditions and irregularities with colour, thinning, grades and drainage
• D-10.02.02 irrigate turfgrass according to species, environmental conditions and usage
• D-10.02.03 mow and trim turfgrass using tools and equipment according to varieties, usage of site and climate conditions
• D-10.02.04 aerate turfgrass using tools and equipment according to growing media analysis, turfgrass conditions, time of year, usage of site and climate conditions
• D-10.02.05 fertilize and adjust pH according to growing media analysis, usage of site and climate conditions
• D-10.02.06 overseed turfgrass for reasons such as repairs, rejuvenation and introduction of new cultivars
• D-10.02.07 topdress turfgrass using tools and equipment for reasons such as enhancement of substrate profile, and promotion of growth of existing and newly-introduced turfgrass
• D-10.02.08 dethatch turfgrass to promote optimum growth conditions

Sub-task D-10.03 Maintains interior softscape.

Key Competencies

• D-10.03.01 perform visual inspection to determine plant health
• D-10.03.02 test and amend irrigation water
• D-10.03.03 irrigate and fertilize plants according to plant needs using manual or automated methods
• D-10.03.04 cultivate growing media with tools such as garden fork, cultivator and core aerator for reasons such as aeration and maintenance of growing media structures
• D-10.03.05 clean foliage and containers for aesthetics and plant health
• D-10.03.06 replace damaged or broken containers
• D-10.03.07 perform seasonal plant rotation for health and aesthetic reasons
• D-10.03.08 protect furnishings and surfaces from the effects of caustic materials such as salts, fertilizers and sprays

Sub-task D-10.04 Maintains exterior softscape.

Key Competencies

• D-10.04.01 perform visual inspection to determine plant health
• D-10.04.02 irrigate and fertilize plants according to plant needs using manual or automated methods
• D-10.04.03 cultivate growing media with tools such as garden fork, cultivator, mechanical rototiller and hoe for reasons such as aeration, weed control and maintenance of growing media structures
• D-10.04.04 perform seasonal planting and removal of plants such as annuals, biennials and bulbs
• D-10.04.05 apply or install seasonal protection such as anti-desiccants, burlap wrapping and binding with twine to ensure plant survival through winter
• D-10.04.06 perform hardening-off practices such as mulching activities to ensure plant survival through winter
• D-10.04.07 protect plants from snow load by constructing and installing seasonal structures
• D-10.04.08 remove weeds for plant health and aesthetics
• D-10.04.09 mulch beds and containers for reasons such as moisture retention, weed suppression, growing media temperature moderation and aesthetics
• D-10.04.10 edge beds for reasons such as bed definition and aesthetics
• D-10.04.11 inspect and maintain natural and manufactured edge such as, brick, poly edging or aluminum edging
• D-10.04.12 perform site cleanup such as litter pickup, removing excess clippings and cleaning sidewalks
• D-10.04.13 remove staking and guying materials to prevent plant damage

Sub-task D-10.05 Propagates plant materials.

Key Competencies

• D-10.05.01 select and use clean hand tools such as knives, spades, digging forks and secateurs
• D-10.05.02 sow seeds using mechanical methods such as broadcast spreaders and motorized slit seeders
• D-10.05.03 harvest and divide roots, tubers, bulbs and corms according to plant species
• D-10.05.04 select and perform specialized propagation methods such as layering, grafting, and cutting according to time of year and species

Sub-task D-10.06 Repairs softscape.

Key Competencies

• D-10.06.01 repair living components damaged as a result of activities such as snow and ice, vehicular traffic and animal damage
• D-10.06.02 replace interior and exterior plants due to death, damage and disease
• D-10.06.03 repair natural and manufactured edge such as brick, poly edging or aluminum edging
• D-10.06.04 repair staking and guying materials to prevent plant damage
• D-10.06.05 repair soil irregularities such as grading and drainage

Task 11 Maintains hardscape and green infrastructure.

Context

Landscape horticulturists are responsible for maintaining all hardscape systems and features. Other tradespersons may be required to complete tasks in the maintenance of hardscape lighting and irrigation.

Required Knowledge

• K 1 drainage requirements
• K 2 site layout
• K 3 operation of mechanical systems such as pumps, irrigation system and lighting
• K 4 water quality and pressure requirements for irrigation and water features
• K 5 low voltage electrical lighting systems and their components
• K 6 basic electrical practices and principles
• K 7 types of hard surface materials such as wood, concrete, natural stone and asphalt
• K 8 types of irrigation systems and their components
• K 9 installation practices for hardscape systems
• K 10 types of drains
• K 11 effects of frost heaving on hard surfaces and footings
• K 12 causes and results of efflorescence and spalling
• K 13 hardscape components
• K 14 IPM
• K 15 environmental stewardship practices
• K 16 types of green infrastructures such as green roofs, living walls, retention ponds, permeable pavers, bio-swales, storm water retention, wetland reserves and silva cells
• K 17 snow and ice best management practices that meet industry standards
• K 18 industry standards for segmental concrete installation and associated products
• K 19 basic carpentry skills for repair

Sub-task D-11.01 Maintains green infrastructure.

Key Competencies

• D-11.01.01 inspect green infrastructures for deficiencies such as blocked drains, and excessive and invasive plant growth to ensure plant and systems viability
• D-11.01.02 assess site to determine health and well-being of plants
• D-11.01.03 inspect drainage systems, permeable surfaces and drainage swales for debris and blockages
• D-11.01.04 protect existing trees by installing snow fence
• D-11.01.05 protect critical root zones, native woodland areas and waterways to ensure the integrity of the area

Sub-task D-11.02 Maintains drainage systems.

Key Competencies

• D-11.02.01 check drains, catch basins and retention ponds to ensure proper operation
• D-11.02.02 inspect and replace screens to avoid blockage
• D-11.02.03 remove debris from drainage systems to ensure optimal flow
• D-11.02.04 maintain grades according to original design to allow for adequate flow
• D-11.02.05 inspect performance of drains, catch basins and retention ponds by flushing drainage systems with water
• D-11.02.06 ensure drain covers are secure for safety and proper operation
• D-11.02.07 winterize drainage systems by performing activities such as cleaning, flushing and installing heating cables to prevent damage and ensure proper operation

Sub-task D-11.03 Maintains walkways, patios, driveways and parking lots.

Key Competencies

• D-11.03.01 remove debris and undesirable growth manually or by using tools and equipment such as blowers, brooms, high pressure sprayers and torches
• D-11.03.02 top up jointing sand on interlock surfaces according to manufacturers' specifications
• D-11.03.03 fix or replace interlock paver surfaces with improper slope or elevation that has occurred as a result of construction or weather

Sub-task D-11.04 Maintains irrigation systems.

Key Competencies

• D-11.04.01 start-up systems by charging and running systems through a test cycle
• D-11.04.02 visually inspect site to determine functioning of systems
• D-11.04.03 identify problems with irrigation systems, and troubleshoot and repair
• D-11.04.04 visually inspect system components such as screens, heads and pipes for damage such as clogging, cracks and corroded wiring and repair or adjust
• D-11.04.05 check functioning of zone valves according to manufacturers' specifications
• D-11.04.06 adjust irrigation controllers according to environmental conditions
• D-11.04.07 clean and clear sensors to ensure optimum operation
• D-11.04.08 winterize systems by blowing out irrigation systems

Sub-task D-11.05 Maintains landscape lighting.

Key Competencies

• D-11.05.01 turn on systems to detect defects
• D-11.05.02 visually check light fixtures, fuses and transformers for function and damage, and repair and replace
• D-11.05.03 repair low voltage wiring
• D-11.05.04 check and adjust lighting coverage and positioning
• D-11.05.05 clean and clear sensor to ensure optimum operation
• D-11.05.06 check light timing and adjust program according to seasonal requirements

Sub-task D-11.06 Maintains water features.

Key Competencies

• D-11.06.01 inspect water features for defects such as cracks, leaks, plugged filters, and faulty gaskets and seals
• D-11.06.02 charge systems to prime pumps and start-up operation for the season and replace pumps
• D-11.06.03 set and reset timers according to manufacturers' specifications
• D-11.06.04 drain and refill features for seasonal maintenance
• D-11.06.05 clean components such as filters, screens, nozzles, pumps and skimmers
• D-11.06.06 run systems to ensure functioning according to manufacturers' specifications
• D-11.06.07 inspect water for conditions such as clarity, algae and debris
• D-11.06.08 test water for conditions such as pH levels and presence of bacteria
• D-11.06.09 test ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)
• D-11.06.10 clean basins manually and amend the water with aquatic products
• D-11.06.11 remove and protect plants and fish during winter or when cleaning the features according to conditions and species requirements
• D-11.06.12 winterize features by disassembling, insulating, covering and draining to avoid damage
• D-11.06.13 disconnect feature components and store according to manufacturers' specifications
• D-11.06.14 clean fountains by draining water and washing features

Sub-task D-11.07 Maintains steps and retaining walls.

Key Competencies

• D-11.07.01 inspect steps and walls to detect defects that require remediation
• D-11.07.02 recognize hazards of structures, flag area and report to supervisor
• D-11.07.03 clean steps and walls using tools and equipment such as pressure washers and brooms

Sub-task D-11.08 Maintains landscape structures.

Key Competencies

• D-11.08.01 inspect structures for defects such as compromised hardware, rotting wood, heaving and settling
• D-11.08.02 recognize hazards of structures, flag area and report to supervisor

Sub-task D-11.09 Practices snow and ice management.

Key Competencies

• D-11.09.01 select and use tools and equipment such as vehicles with blades, walk-behind and tractor mounted blowers, spreaders and skid-steers
• D-11.09.02 determine snow storage locations and removal requirements
• D-11.09.03 remove snow according to contractual requirements
• D-11.09.04 apply ice control products according to industry standards and jurisdictional regulations

Sub-task D-11.10 Repairs hardscape.

Key Competencies

• D-11.10.01 perform minor repairs to drainage systems such as damaged pipes, plugged catch basins and french drains
• D-11.10.02 apply preservatives, stains and sealants on hard surfaces to provide ease of cleaning, longevity and aesthetics
• D-11.10.03 repair damage to aggregate-based hard surfaces such as structural planters, paving stones, gravel, asphalt and concrete
• D-11.10.04 visually inspect structural integrity of hard surfaces for cracks, frost heave, efflorescence, spalling and settling
• D-11.10.05 repair faulty and broken irrigation heads, valves, pipes and solenoid switches
• D-11.10.06 seal steps and retaining walls
• D-11.10.07 apply adhesive to loose caps on steps and retaining walls
• D-11.10.08 perform lift and re-lay of all hard surface materials
• D-11.10.09 repair low-voltage wires, fixtures and replace bulbs
• D-11.10.10 perform minor repairs such as replacing cracked stones, rotting, splintering and cracked timber, levelling structures, and staining or painting wood structures
• D-11.10.11 repair cracks, leaks and holes in water features
• D-11.10.12 reinstate all damaged hardscape components due to all snow clearing activities such as replacing broken concrete, damaged fences and exterior utilities
• D-11.10.13 reinstate utilities by calling in the professional services that handle those utilities