Content Outline and Competencies:

I. The Value of Plants
   A. Describe the economic value of plants for homes and neighborhoods.
   B. Explain the environmental value of plants, including water and soil
conservation, sound control and air quality.
   C. Explain the aesthetic value of plants for homes and neighborhoods,
including their psychological benefits.

II. Plant Biology and Physiology
   A. Structure and growth: basic physiological processes
      1. Discuss the importance and process of photosynthesis.
      2. Relate the importance and process of respiration.
      3. Identify photoperiodism and discuss how it can be manipulated.
      4. Identify plant tropisms: plant responses to external stimuli.
   B. Structure and growth: The vegetative phase
      1. Ascertain the life cycle of a higher plant.
      2. Identify the components of a plant cell and discuss their
functions.
      3. Identify the components of a leaf and discuss their functions.
      4. Identify the components of a stem and discuss their functions.
      5. Identify the components of a root and discuss its functions.
   C. Structure and growth: The reproductive phase
      1. Identify a flower and discuss its components and functions.
      2. Identify a fruit and discuss its function.
      3. Identify a seed and describe its components and functions.

III. Plant Culture and Maintenance
   A. Soil and soil fertility
      1. Describe the functions of soil.
      2. Ascertain the basis of plant nutrition.
      3. Discuss the importance of soil pH.
      4. Identify the macro- and micro- plant nutrients and express the
meaning of the three numbers found on a fertilizer container.
      5. Determine the use of fertilizers in the garden.
   B. Water and irrigation
      1. Explain the moisture cycle.
      2. List the roles of water in plant growth.
      3. Discuss irrigation systems for the garden and landscape.
   C. Climate, temperature and light
      1. Describe the effects of climate on plant growth.
      2. Articulate the effect of temperature on plant growth.
      3. Articulate the effect of light on plant growth.
   D. Regulating plant growth
      1. Determine proper plant spacing.
      2. Demonstrate various pruning techniques.
      3. Discuss the use of growth regulating chemicals.
   E. Garden pests
      1. Explore plant pesticide regulations.
      2. List and identify common garden weeds and discuss their control.
      3. List and identify common plant disease problems and discuss their
control.
      4. List and identify common insect pests and discuss their control.

IV. Horticultural Elements of Landscape Design
   A. Trees and shrubs
      1. Recognize 20 common trees and shrubs from the Midwest.
      2. Discuss their general cultural requirements.
   B. Annuals and perennials
      1. Recognize 40 common garden plants from the Midwest.
      2. Discuss their general cultural requirements.
   C. The lawn
      1. List the steps in establishing a lawn.
      2. Discuss the steps in lawn maintenance.

V. Landscape Designs
   A. The ornamental garden
      1. Explore the basic considerations in designing a home landscape.
      2. Identify and discuss common woody plants used in a home
landscape.
      3. Identify and discuss common herbaceous plants used in a home
landscape.
      4. Identify and discuss turf grasses and other ground covers used in
a home landscape.
   B. The vegetable and herb garden
      1. Plan a vegetable garden.
      2. Describe the cultural requirements of 10 common vegetables.
      3. Explain the value of growing herbs.
   C. Indoor and container gardening
      1. Identify the factors affecting plant growth in the indoor
environment.
      2. Describe the process of acclimatization.
      3. Identify 12 common houseplants.
      4. Discuss the care of indoor plants.
      5. Identify the requirements and limitations of the hobby
greenhouse.
   D. The home landscape project
      1. Design a plan for a selected home landscape.
      2. Articulate economic considerations and limitations.
      3. Demonstrate a landscape plan.
      4. Explain its limitations and advantages.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Describe the Essential Factors Affecting a Landscape Design
Including the Site Condition, the Client’s Needs, Preferences and the
Projected Budget
   A. Site Inventory and Analysis
      1. Identify the elements of a base map.
      2. Prepare a scaled base map from field information.
      3. Describe the design and function of a plot plan.
      4. Construct a plot plan for a specific site.
      5. Inventory existing plants and terrain features.
      6. Describe and evaluate sun/shade functions.
      7. Describe and evaluate climatic factors of a site, including
rainfall, wind, sunlight and temperature averages and extremes.
      8. Complete a site analysis for each given location.
   B. Read a landscape design, identifying the shapes and symbols.
   C. Describe the various site soils and substrata and their effect on
the landscape design.
   D. Create a customer profile.
   E. Generate several alternatives to meet the above criteria.

II. Demonstrate Good Customer Serve Practice
   A. Describe good listening skills.
   B. Identify skills used in setting priorities.
   C. Demonstrate good presentation skills to leads to successful sales.
   D. Illustrate final design to customer. 

III. List the Seven Design Principles in All Landscape Drawings
   A. Describe how you would use Unity in creating a theme garden.
   B. Describe the two types of Balance in a landscape design.
   C. Describe how to use Color to direction ones attention to a specific
area of the garden.
   D. Describe how you use Transition to create illusion in the
landscape.
   E. Describe different types of Line in the landscape.
   F. Illustrate the use of Proportion (length, breadth, and depth or
height) in a landscape feature.
   G. Describe the use of Repetition in a well designed landscape.

IV. List the Basic Elements of a Landscape Design
   A. Describe various styles of landscape design, including the Japanese
and English garden style and be able to apply the concepts of the outdoor
room (the use of walls, floor and ceiling).
   B. Describe contemporary trends in landscape design and maintenance of
the design.
   C. Differentiate between the stylistic elements of complexity and
simplicity.
   D. Describe the roles of site condition, garden planting and
construction in the design of a landscape.
   E. Analyze basic problems and potentials in use, practicality and
application of landscape materials.
   F. Use movement and circulation in the design process.

V. Communicate Design Ideas Regarding a Landscape Drawing Through Writing,
Speaking and Graphics.
   A. List and describe the current tools, from the pencil to the
computer, used by the industry to communicate landscape designs.
   B. Be familiar with both an architectural and engineering scale and be
able to employ either so as to communicate a landscape design.
   C. Employ the elements of a landscape design through the use of
appropriate graphic symbols.
   D. Choose and execute the appropriate type of drawing so as to
communicate a landscape design developed by listening to clients, sorting
out priorities and synthesizing that information into the design solution
and thus developing effective customer relationships.
   E. Discuss the use of computer programs and their use in landscape
design.

VI. Work as Individuals and in Teams; Learn to Participate in Decision
Making, Delegation of Tasks, Dependability and Participation in Final
Product (Oral, Written or Graphic  Presentation)
   A. Create and draw an original landscape design.
   B. Identify and compare the graphic conventions employed in traditional
computer-assisted design communication.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Turfgrass species used in this region of the country
   A. Identify turfgrass species and describe their growth habits.
   B. Describe environmental limits.
   C. Explain mowing qualities.
   D. Identify basic fertility requirements.

II. Establishment and general maintenance of turfgrass 
   A. Control existing weeds, remove debris, rough grade terrain,
reestablish terrain and renovate terrain.
   B. Create proper drainage.
   C. Modify soil composition if needed.
   D. Grade final surface terraces.
   E. Describe seeding techniques and densities, and practice specific
techniques.
   F. Describe the advantages, disadvantages and techniques of vegetative
planting and practice specific techniques.
   G. Explain the need for mulching, fertilization, irrigation, and pest
control practices.
   H. Describe and practice specific post planting cultural practices.

III. Turf equipment
   A. Identify various types of turf equipment and the role of each type
in turf maintenance, including: mowers, aerators, verti-cutters, seeders,
over-seeders, topdressing equipment, sprayers and others.
   B. Use the identified types of equipment in a safe manner.

IV. Turfgrass pests
   A. Identify specific weed species.
   B. Identify specific diseases.
   C. Identify and describe the life cycle of fungi, time of growth, and
time of occurrence.
   D. Identify turfgrass insects and describe their life cycle(s).
   E. Describe the life cycle of the most common soil pests and describe
the typical damage to the plant.
   F. Describe thatch, explain how it is produced and how to avoid or
remove it.

V. Chemical and cultural controls
   A. Describe the basic elements of pest control.
   B. Select the proper herbicides, fungicides and pesticides used to
control turf pests.
   C. Apply these products using the proper application, calibration and
safety techniques.
   D. Describe pesticide characteristics and be able to contrast pre vs.
post emergence weed control.

VI. Irrigation
   A. Describe the appropriate frequency, timing and rates for irrigating
turfgrasses.
   B. List and describe the different systems available for irrigation and
their advantages.
   C. Describe the design features of specific systems and install,
maintain, and repair specific components.
   D. Discuss the significance of water quality in irrigation
success.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Fruit Trees
   A. Identify the popular fruit trees common to Kansas and Missouri.
   B. Identify recommended varieties of fruit trees for use in landscape design.
   C. Classify fruit trees according to their size or number of grafts.
      1. Identify grafter parts.
      2. Identify grafted locations and numbers.
   D. Explain the soil requirements for growing fruit trees for recommended locations.
   E. Explain the yearly cycle of fruit trees and the yearly cultural practices to develop a fruit tree framework.
   F. Explain how to prune a fruit tree to maximum production, demonstrating correct pruning techniques.
   G. Identify the common insects and pathogens that attack fruit trees and recommend safe, effective solutions to these problems.
   H. Recognize when fruit is ready for harvest and explain how to maintain fruit in storage for a reasonable time.
II. Home Vegetables
   A. Identify common home vegetable types and describe their structure.
   B. Identify the recommended varieties of home vegetables for climatic zones 5 and 6.
   C. Explain the soil, light and water requirements of home vegetables.
   D. Describe the various nutrient requirements, including fertilizer required by home vegetables.
   E. Explain the different cultivation cycles – planting/seeding, growing and harvesting – of home vegetables.
   F. Describe the special cultivation requirements of selected home vegetables.
   G. Identify the common insects and pathogens that attack home vegetables and recommend safe, effective solutions to these problems.
   H. Recommend appropriate home vegetable garden layout and design to meet the client’s needs.
III. Home Vegetables
   A. Identify the popular small fruit plants common to Kansas and Missouri.
   B. Identify the recommended varieties of small fruits in climatic zones 5 and 6.
   C. Explain the soil, light and water requirements for small fruits.
   D. Describe the nutrient requirements, including fertilizer, required by small fruits.
   E. Explain the cultivation cycles – planting/seeding, growing and harvesting – of small fruits.
   F. Identify the common insects and pathogens that attack small fruits and recommend safe, effective solutions to these problems.
   G. Describe special requirements of small fruits including pruning and training and trellis design.

IV. Herbs
   A. Identify popular herbs common to Kansas and Missouri.
   B. Identify particular varieties of selected herbs, for example, sweet cinnamon, anise and spicy globe basil.
   C. Explain the soil, light, space and water requirements of popular herbs.
   D. Explain the cultivation cycles – planting/seeding, growing and harvesting – of popular herbs.
   E. Describe pruning and deflowering of herbs.
   F. Design a spacing chart for selected herbs to accommodate size and invasiveness.
   G. Describe methods for processing, preserving and drying herbs.
V. Customer Service
   A. Demonstrate strategies for identifying customer needs and goals.
   B. Demonstrate strategies for identifying customer resources, including knowledge, skills, plot suitability and personal use of harvest.
   C. Demonstrate strategies for educating the customer regarding the cultural and plot requirements of the plants and garden.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Develop a substantial competitive advantage through market planning
leading to clear and specific steps needed for reaching designed goals.
   A. Identify the customer base and individual needs.
   B. Discuss the company’s resources and policies.
   C. Explain the importance of adapting to change.
   D. Establish goals.
   E. Predict and forecast future trends in garden center marketing.

II. Demonstrate the accomplished skills necessary in a competitive retail
environment.
   A. Articulate good telephone techniques.
   B. Process orders and establish a follow-up process.
   C. Develop a code of behavior to enhance store image.
   D. Maintain inventory.
   E. Develop and follow policies and guidelines.
   F. Apply price formulas and tagging.
   G. Use technology resources.

III. Demonstrate personal interaction skills to enhance employability of
any horticultural business.
   A. Describe the attributes of the company’s image including quality,
service, reliability and integrity.
   B. Demonstrate the dynamics of customer service including integrity,
customer expectations, innovative customer service techniques, effective
communications skills and importance of showing interest in the customers
needs.
   C. Demonstrate personal qualities that are set as standards including
timeliness, personal hygiene and apparel, language and grammar, attention
to the job, working with others, personal problems, whining and setting
the climate and respect for property.

IV. Demonstrate creative customer service to enhance sales.
   A. Describe and illustrate selling techniques including acknowledgment
- using names, conversational selling, purpose of selling, closing a sale
and the extras.
   B. Articulate the diverse store policies typical of the market (i.e.,
credit, returns and guarantees, personnel requirements/handbook, gift
certificates and deliveries).

V. Demonstrate and evaluate merchandising techniques using different
methods such as promotions, signage, displays, store layout - conveniences
and advertising.

VI. Demonstrate efficiency in solving problems for labor standards such as
time factor, scheduling and developing teamwork and leadership.

VII. For a variety of chemicals, including pesticides, herbicides and
fertilizers, demonstrate the skills necessary to market and deliver them.
   A. Read and interpret Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and label
data.
   B. Follow safety guidelines for preparation, application and
storage.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. History 
   A. Explain the history of arboriculture
   B. Discuss where the industry is today
   C. Explain how new research and problems solving techniques are
changing the industry 
 
II. Soil and Water Management
   A. Describe the physical and chemical properties of soils
   B. Describe soils in urban areas and how they differ from rural areas
   C. Explain the requirements and procedures for soil testing
   D. Analyze soil testing results and recommend soil amendments
   E. Discuss fertilizer types, analysis and techniques
   F. Explain fertilizer leaching and the affects on soil conditions and
tree growth 
   G. Define over fertilization and the effects on soil conditions and
tree growth
   H. Discuss water management
   I. Explain soil drainage and how to modify it

III. Tree Biology
   A. Explain the anatomy and physiology of a tree
   B. Discuss fertilizer requirements
   C. Discuss water requirements
   D. Discuss basic soil requirements

IV. Tree Planting
   A. Discuss the proper soil types and locations for different tree
varieties
   B. Explain the criteria and characteristics for choosing the right tree
for the right site
   C. Explain proper planting hole size
   D. Discuss soil amendments, fertilization and watering of newly planted
trees
   E. Demonstrate proper staking methods and time frame
   F. Describe follow-up care including proper watering, fertilization,
mulching and winterization

V. Tree Maintenance
   A. Describe why, when and where to prune trees
   B. Explain tree responses to pruning
   C. Demonstrate the different techniques for pruning (reduction,
thinning, lions tailing, etc.)
   D. Describe when, where and why cable and bracing are used
   E. Explain the different types of cable and bracing hardware
   F. Explain the limitations of cable and bracing

VI. Tree Problems
   A. Describe the differences between biotic and abiotic disorders
   B. Explain methods to correct abiotic problems
   C. Identify signs and symptoms of common fungal, bacterial, and viral
diseases
   D. Explain the proper treatment methods for tree diseases
   E. Identify common insects and insect problems in Zones 5-6
   F. Explain proper treatment methods for insect problems
   G. Explain the roles of PHC and IPM in insect and disease control

VII.  Climbing Trees
   A. Demonstrate the ability to safely climb trees using climbing gear
   B. Demonstrate the ability to use pruning saws, loppers and other gear
while in the tree canopy
   C. Demonstrate the ability to tie the eight most important rope knots

VIII.  Industry Safety Standards
   A. Explain ANSI and OSHA standard in detail
   B. Demonstrate first aid techniques and explain why CPR certification
is necessary
   C. Explain electrical safety with the 10’ rule and working around
both overhead and underground electric lines
   D. Demonstrate the ability to use and maintain all pruning equipment
safely
   E. Demonstrate the ability to don and use properly all climbing and
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Introduction
   A. Identify the plants of economic and aesthetic value to people.
   B. Classify and differentiate plants based on their physical
characteristics.

II. Horticultural Biology
   A. Identify and classify plant organs.
   B. Compare and contrast the functions of plant organs.
   C. Identify plant cells and their functions.
   D. Compare plant physiological processes.
      1. Photosynthesis
      2. Respiration
      3. Translocation
      4. Transpiration
   E. Identify the physical and chemical properties of water.
      1. Physical states
      2. Cohesion and adhesion
      3. Evaporation and evapotranspiration

III. Horticultural Technology
   A. Identify and perform three methods of asexual plant propagation.
   B. Identify and perform three methods of sexual plant propagation.
   C. Identify and elucidate the common insect pests of plants.
   D. Identify and elucidate the common disease problems of plants.
 
IV. Horticulture Industry
   A. Classify food and ornamental production systems.
   B. Discuss the scope of the horticulture service industries.
   C. Identify trends in research.
   D. Speculate and envision future horticultural goals and problems.

LABORATORY OUTLINE AND COMPETENCIES:

      1. Organize a collection of trade magazine and catalogue examples of
the various fields of horticulture.
      2. Draw and compare the gross morphology of the seed, root, stem,
leaf, flower and fruit of 10 horticulture crops.
      3. Create and identify a seed collection composed of 32 species of
horticultural plants and construct a test to determine seed viability.
      4. Discuss, evaluate and document the results of the seed
germination test.
      5. Prepare a rooting medium and make three different types of
cuttings.  Observe and document the rooting process.
      6. Prepare a medium and sow tomato, petunia and pea seeds.  Observe
and document the germination process.
      7. Observe through a microscope and draw examples of parenchyma,
collenchyma and sclerenchyma cells and the specific tissues in which these
cells are found.
      8. Prepare an experiment comparing stem-tip cuttings with and
without a rooting hormone.  Observe, document and discuss the results.
      9. Prepare an experiment comparing depth of planting of seedling
transplants.  Observe, document and discuss the results.
     10. Prepare an experiment comparing the effect of light intensity on
the growth of plants.  Observe, document and discuss the results.
     11. Prepare an experiment comparing various watering regimes and
their effect on plant growth.  Observe, document and discuss the results.
     12. Prepare a collection of common insect pests and diseases of
horticultural plants.

Content Outline and Competencies:

LECTURE
I. Biology of Propagation
   A. List the environmental factors affecting plant propagation.
   B. List and explain the functions of all major morphological parts of higher plants.
   C. Describe the processes of photosynthesis and respiration.

II. Sexual Propagation
   A. Discuss the development of seeds.
   B. Identify the techniques of seed production and handling.
   C. Articulate the principles of propagation by seed.
   D. List the techniques of seed propagation.
III. Asexual Propagation
   A. Discuss the techniques of propagation by cuttings.
   B. Discuss the biological factors affecting grafting.
   C. Identify the various techniques of grafting.
   D. Identify the process of layering and discuss its natural modifications.
   E. Describe various industry applied propagation methods.
   F. Demonstrate the various methods of propagating specialized stems and roots.
IV. Principles of Tissue Culture for Micropropagation
   A. Summarize the techniques of in vitro culture for micropropagation and biotechnology.

LAB
   1. Determine the water-holding capacities of various propagation methods.
   2. Draw and label the morphology of various fruits and seeds.
   3. Create and identify a seed collection.
   4. Construct and conduct a test to determine seed viability.
   5. Describe, evaluate and document the results of the seed germination test.
   6. Prepare a planting medium and properly sow tomato and potato seeds.
   7. Draw and label the morphological characteristics of the stem, leaf and root.
   8. Describe propagation methods of specialized plant structures.
   9. Prepare and conduct an experiment comparing stem-tip cuttings with and without a rooting hormone.
  10. Describe, evaluate and document the results of the stem-tip cuttings experiment.
  11. Prepare and conduct an experiment comparing various depths of planting of seedling transplants.
  12. Describe, evaluate and document the results of the depth of planting experiment.
  13. Prepare and conduct an experiment comparing leaf and root cuttings.
  14. Describe, evaluate and document the results of the leaf and root cuttings experiment.
  15. Describe propagation methods of grafting and apply those methods of “pomato” production.
  16. Describe propagation methods of tissue culture.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Cultivation Zones

A. Discuss the characteristics of the various growing zones.

B. Describe the specific requirements of deciduous trees and shrubs successfully cultivated in Zones 5 and 6.

C. List and identify selected deciduous trees and shrubs common to garden centers outside zones 5 and 6.

D. Describe cultivation requirements for deciduous trees and shrubs marginally successful in zones 5 and 6.

II. Classifications

A. Describe the classification systems of deciduous trees and shrubs addressing the logic of its major headings and the logic of its species and sub-species arrangement.

B. List and identify deciduous trees and shrubs according to climatic zones.

III. Plant Applications

A. Describe the aesthetic applications of various deciduous trees and shrubs in a landscape design.

B. Describe the functional or structural applications of various deciduous trees and shrubs in a landscape design.

IV. Plant Requirements

A. Describe the cultivation requirements of various deciduous trees and shrubs including irrigation/drainage, sunlight, space, nutrients and soil conditions.

B. Compare and contrast the maintenance requirements of various deciduous trees and shrubs, including watering/irrigation, fertilizing, pruning, pest and disease management.

V. Customer Service and Sales

A. Describe the interactions with customers and clients necessary to determine the customers needs, goals, resources, knowledge and personal involvement in solving the problem.

B. Describe a typical inventory that would satisfy a customer’s needs.

C. Demonstrate the use of resources to help the customer including guides and resource booklets, catalogs videos and self-help workshops.

VI. Regional and local trends

A. Describe the most commonly recommended species and cultivars of deciduous trees and shrubs

B. Discuss their application, requirements, characteristics, bloom date and duration, relative resistance to disease and pests, cost/purchase, preparation, maintenance, place in the plant classification system and substitutions.

C. Group them as native and non-native.

VII. Catalog deciduous tree and shrub materials

A. Group deciduous trees and shrubs according to their mature height, mature form, rate of growth, cultural requirements including sunlight, drought-tolerance, urban-pollution tolerance, and irrigation requirements.

B. Group deciduous trees and shrubs according to their bloom time, length of bloom, fall color and season of interest.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Cultivation Zones

A. Describe the characteristics of the various growing zones.

B. Describe the specific requirements for evergreen trees and shrubs successfully cultivated inside zones 5 and 6.

C. List and identify selected plants common to garden centers in zones 5 and 6.

D. Describe cultivation requirements for evergreen trees and shrubs marginally successful in zones 5 and 6.

II. Classifications

A. Describe the classification systems of evergreen trees and shrubs addressing the logic of its major headings and the logic of its species and sub-species arrangement.

B. List and identify evergreen trees and shrubs according to climatic zone.

III. Plant Applications

A. Describe the aesthetic applications of various evergreen trees and shrubs in a landscape design.

B. Describe the functional or structural applications of various evergreen trees and shrubs in a landscape design.

IV. Plant Requirements

A. Describe the cultivation requirements of various evergreen trees and shrubs, including irrigation/drainage, sunlight, space, nutrients, and soil conditions.

B. Compare and contrast the maintenance requirements of various evergreen trees and shrubs, including watering/irrigation, fertilizing, pruning, pest and disease management.

V. Customer Service and Sales

A. Describe the interactions with customers and clients necessary to determine the customer’s needs, goals, resources, knowledge and personal involvement in solving the problem.

B. Describe a typical inventory that would satisfy customer needs.

C. Demonstrate the use of resources to help the customer including guides and resource booklets, catalogs, videos and self-help workshops.

VI. Regional and local trends

A. Describe the most commonly recommended cultivars of evergreen trees and shrubs regionally.

B. Discuss their cultural requirements, landscape use, characteristics, liabilities, relative resistance to disease and pests, and cost/purchase,

C. Discuss site preparation, maintenance, place in the plant classification system and substitutions.

VII. Catalog evergreen trees and shrubs.

A. Group evergreen trees and shrubs according to their mature size, mature form and growth rate.

B. Group evergreen trees and shrubs as native or non-native.

B. Group evergreen trees and shrubs according to their cultural requirements, drought tolerance, and tolerance for urban pollution.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Cultivation Zones
   A. Describe the characteristics of the various growing zones and the common types of herbaceous plants successful in those zones.
   B. Describe the specific requirements for herbaceous plants successfully cultivated in zones five and six.
   C. List and identify selected herbaceous plants commonly sold in garden centers in zones five and six.
   D. Describe cultivation requirements for herbaceous plants marginally successful in zones five and six.
II. Classifications
   A. Describe the classification system for herbaceous plants addressing the logic of its major headings and the logic of its species and sub-species arrangement.
   B. List and identify herbaceous plants according to zones of cultivation including perennials, annuals, bulbs, ground covers and vines.
III. Plant Applications
   A. Describe the aesthetic applications of herbaceous plants in a landscape design.
   B. Describe the functional or structural applications of various herbaceous plants in a landscape design.
IV. Plant Requirements
   A. Describe the cultivation requirements of various herbaceous plants, i.e., irrigation/drainage, sunlight, space, nutrients and soil conditions.
   B. Compare and contrast the maintenance requirements of various herbaceous plants, i.e., watering/irrigation, fertilizing, pruning and pest and disease control.
V. Customer Service and Sales
   A. Describe the interactions with customers and clients necessary to determine the customer’s needs and goals, resources, knowledge and personal involvement in solving problems.
   B. Describe a typical interaction with a customer to determine needs and solve a problem.
   C. Demonstrate the use of resources to help the customer including guides and resource booklets, catalogs, videos and self-help workshops.
VI. Describe the most commonly recommended varieties of herbaceous plants for the home gardener including applications, requirements, characteristics, relative resistance to disease and pests, cost/purchase and preparation, maintenance, plant classification system and substitutions.
VII. Catalog herbaceous plant materials according to their requirements and applications including sunlight, moisture tolerance and requirements, bloom date and duration, color, size and cost.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Plant Physiology
   A. Recognize the basic plant parts and name them.
   B. Explain the plant functions and how they relate to growth.
 
II. Plant Diseases
   A. Define plant pathogens and describe how they affect the plant, i.e.,
characteristics of fungi, bacteria and viruses.
   B. Identify common plant diseases, their symptoms and associated
pathogens, i.e., spot diseases, anthracnose, blotch, blight, scorch,
cankers, wilt, damping off, rot, stunts, gummosis, oedema, rust, smuts,
mildews, galls, witches broom, mosaic and chlorosis.

III. Insects
   A. Identify the parts of an insect.
   B. Identify insects that will damage plants.

IV. Insects and Pests
   A. Describe the life cycles of common insects and pests, including
ants, termites, aphids, plant bugs, mealybugs, beetles, leafhoppers,
whitefly, borers, cutworms, mites, sowbugs, nemas, earthworms, slugs and
snails.
   B. Describe control methods for various insects and pests.

V. Vertebrate Animal Pests
   A. Identify the vertebrate animal pests that damage plants and describe
their behavior including rabbits, gophers, skunks, possum, moles, deer,
squirrels, birds and geese.
   B. Describe control methods for various vertebrate animal pests.

VI. Describe and demonstrate pest prevention using cultural practices such
as sanitation, pest resistance, cultural resistance, poisons and chemical
compatibilities. 

VII. Describe other means of pest control that are environmentally safe
and optional using integrated pest management, i.e., monitoring, insect
growth regulators, biological controls, organic methods and chemical
methods.

VIII. Appropriate Use of Equipment 
   A. Demonstrate safety procedures.
   B. Describe regulations and licensing.
   C. Demonstrate orientation and teaching of customers on how to use and
handle application equipment, pesticides and fertilizers according to the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Material Safety
Data Sheets (MSDS).

IX. Demonstrate how to diagnose plant problems with the customer
addressing what to observe in plant specimens, what to ask the customer
and how to evaluate the customer’s understanding of the problem and the
customer’s available resources.
 
X. Plant Nutrition, Its Sources and Needs

   A. List the major and minor elements and how they affect the plant.
      1. Explain nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium as to their function
in the plant, availability in the soil, soil condition and deficiency
symptoms.
      2. Explain minor elements regarding function in the plant,
availability and source and deficiency symptoms.
   B. Discuss water quality as it relates to plant growth and nutrient
availability, i.e., pH - effects, changing pH and effects on nutrition.
   C. Recommend fertilizers for specific deficiencies.
      1. Differentiate between organic and inorganic fertilizers.
      2. Explain the type and make up of available fertilizers and their
uses, i.e., dry, liquid and slow release.
      3. Articulate and interpret the formulations of common fertilizers.
      4. Write out a nutritional program for a flower bed based on the
expected results and specific plant types.
      5. Describe the uses of the following soil amendments for specific
situations:  lime, gypsum, organic matter, calcium, sulfur, iron and
mycorrhizal fungi.

XI. Demonstrate Productive Interactions with Customers.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Basic Plant Requirements for Growth and Health 
   A. Discuss the sun exposure and stress symptoms of the plant.
   B. Discuss how the plant uses and loses water in its life process.
   C. Discuss the nutrient requirements of the plant.
   D. Discuss the effect of atmosphere, pollutants, and wind on plant
growth.
   E. Discuss the growth and requirements of turf and aquatic plants.

II. Soil Types
   A. Identify soil types in this area based on their characteristics.
   B. Explain the different aspects of soil (i.e. texture, topography,
amendments, soil tests and their interpretations and the effect of organic
matter on soil).

III. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
   A. Interpret MSDS sheets and labels for chemicals used for weed
control. 
   B. Interpret MSDS sheets and labels for chemicals used to control
insects, diseases and other pests.
   C. Interpret MSDS sheets and labels for fertilizers used on turf,
ornamental trees, shrubs, vines, herbaceous perennials and annuals.

IV. Environmental Requirements for Healthy Landscape
   A. Recommend general fertilizers, using the following variables:
different composition, different formulations, spray schedules and
application rates.
   B. Discuss the need for weed control in the landscape:
      1. List the different types of weeds
      2. Identify commonly found weeds
      3. List the chemical controls
      4. Discuss the benefits of mulch.  
   C. Discuss common landscape diseases
      1. Discuss the chemical controls for diseases based on their
classification and the timing for their control
       . Discuss the use of IPM (integrated pest management)

V. Important Annual and Perennial Plant Material
   A. Identify and describe important annual and perennial plants, their
uses, care and maintenance.
   B. Create a calendar for installation and replanting to establish a
continuous display of color in the annual and perennial herbaceous beds.
   C. Establish a nutritional program, weed control, fall and spring
maintenance program for the annual and perennial herbaceous plant
materials. 
   D. Correctly install and maintain annual and perennial herbaceous plant
materials.

VI. Pruning
   A. Discuss the timing of pruning for deciduous trees and shrubs,
flowering shrubs, evergreen trees and shrubs and herbaceous plant
materials.
   B. Identify pruning tools and power equipment and demonstrate their
safe use.
   C. Correctly prune ornamental woody plant materials and herbaceous
materials

VII. Troubleshoot Problems and Develop Solutions
   A. Listen to client’s concerns.
   B. Evaluate current situation including problem areas and areas that
work.
   C. Prioritize and synthesize collected information into possible
solution(s).

VIII. Safety
   A. Demonstrate the safe use of equipment, chemicals, and other
products.
   B. Demonstrate proper lifting techniques.
   C. Identify appropriate clothing and explain the use of noise
protection while using equipment.

IX. Customer Relations
   A. Demonstrate good listening skills.
   B. Identify skills used to set priorities and synthesize that
information into a possible maintenance solution.
   C. Create effective relationships with customers that lead to a
successful sale and/or implementation of a landscape maintenance
contract.

X. Irrigation
   A. Describe the appropriate frequency, timing and rates for
irrigation.
   B. List and evaluate the different systems available and describe their
advantages.
   C. Describe the design features for specific systems including: pumps,
valves, controls and pipes.
   D. Install, maintain, and troubleshoot specific components.
   E. Discuss the significance of water quality in irrigation
success.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Introduction
   A. Describe the various careers in turfgrass industry.
      1. Ground superintendent
      2. Manufacturing/sales representative
      3. Professional-service contractor
      4. Technical writer
      5. Scientist/educator
   B. Assess the quality of turfgrass.
      1. Visual quality
      2. Functional quality

II. Growth and Development of Turfgrass
   A. Draw and label grass plant components in a diagram.
   B. Describe germination and seedling development of the grass seed.
   C. Diagram plant leaf form.
   D. Identify three types of stems common to turfgrass.
   E. Explain the process of tillering.
   F. Discuss the two types of turfgrass root systems: primary and
secondary.
   G. Describe the flowering position of the grass shoot: inflorescence.
   H. Compare seasonal growth variation of turfgrass: the biomodal
pattern.
   I. Analyze bioenergetics and metabolism processes and their impact on
plant growth.

III.  Varieties of Turfgrass Species
   A. Relate the six climatic groups and the impact on the type of grass
in its group.
   B. Identify each turfgrass by its Latin name and common name.
   C. Evaluate the turfgrass leaf blade anatomy and morphology.
   D. State the criteria for selecting a turfgrass species based on soil,
temperature ranges, maintenance and utility.
   E. Identify turfgrass seed by variety and in different seed mixes

IV. Turfgrass Environment
   A. Assess the atmospheric effects on the plant such as light,
temperature, moisture and wind.
   B. Explain the effect the edaphic environment has on the plant. 
   C. Explain the effect the biotech environment has on the plant.

V. Primary Practices Used to Care for Turfgrass
   A. Demonstrate and describe techniques for mowing
   B. Demonstrate and describe techniques for fertilization
   C. Demonstrate and describe techniques for irrigation

VI. Secondary Practices Used to Care for Turfgrass
   A. Describe techniques for cultivation
   B. Describe techniques for rolling
   C. Describe techniques for top dressing
   D. Describe techniques for molting
   E. Explain the use of wetting agents
   F. Explain the use of colorants
   G. Explain the use of growth regulators 
   H. Explain the use of soil amendments

VII. Equipment Use
   A. Demonstrate in a class laboratory session the use of:
      1. Mowers
      2. Aerators
      3. Sprayers
      4. Trimming tools
      5. Seeders
   B. State and apply safety regulations and practices when using
turfgrass equipment
   C.Compare and contrast types of safety equipment required for safe use
of turfgrass equipment 

VIII.  Pest Identification
   A. Identify insect pests 
   B. Identify weed pests
   C. Identify disease problems
   D. Create a turfgrass and weed collection

IX. Pesticides and Methods Used to Manage Pests
   A. Describe methods of weed control
   B. Describe methods of disease control
   C. Describe methods of nematode control
   D. Describe methods of insect control
   E. Describe methods of large-animal control

X. Steps and Procedures to Propagate Turfgrass
   A. Evaluate preparation of the site
   B. Select turfgrass
   C. Explain planting procedure
   D. Outline post-planting procedures
   E. Describe renovation of deteriorated turfgrass
   F. Discuss use of temporary winter turfgrass

XI. Concept of the “Cultural System” 
   A. Appraise the culture intensity required.
   B. Deduce the growth factors required.
   C. Evaluate the levels of supply available.
   D. Identify the limiting factors.
   E. Asses the cultural intensity selection

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Area and Regional Lawn Grasses

A. Grass plant

1. Describe the parts of the grass plant.

2. Explain the function of each plant part.

B. Seed

1. Describe the development of the grass seed.

2. Explain the germination process.

C. Growth Cycle

1. Describe elements of the growth cycle.

2. Explain the sequence of development, including root, crown and leaf.

D. Area grasses

1. List the area grasses.

2. Identify samples of area grasses.

3. Describe the growth and maintenance requirements of area grasses.

II. Establishing a Lawn

A. Describe the environmental conditions that affect lawn cutting, including light, moisture, wind, turf components and soils.

B. Discuss which environmental conditions are most significant for Midwest lawns.

C. Explain why Kansas/Missouri is a difficult area for lawns.

III. Care and Maintenance of Lawn

A. Describe the effects on lawns of the following: mowing, fertilization, irrigation and aeration.

B. Describe the annual schedule for each maintenance activity.

IV. General Lawn Problems and Pests

A. Define types of pests and problems, describing the damage caused by them.

B. Describe the types of controls for each pest.

V. Pesticides

A. List the types of pesticides and describe specific examples of each.

B. Describe the typical formulation of each pesticide.

C. Discuss the significance of labeling, including ingredients, rates and warnings.

VI. Application Equipment

A. Describe the types and uses of the following application equipment:

1. Sprays/nozzles

2. Dusters

3. Granular applicators

B. Calibrate each application device.

C. Describe and demonstrate each element of a safe application:

1. Protective equipment

2. Cleanup

3. Handling chemicals

4. First aid

5. Drift control

6. Protecting other people

D. Demonstrate correct application procedures.

VII. Ornamental Pest Control

A. Describe the common insect pests, their indications and their control.

B. Describe the common vertebrate pests, their indications and their control.

C. Describe the diseases common to ornamental plants, their indications and their control.

VIII. Turf Threats

A. Weeds

1. Describe the life cycles of various weeds common to the area.

2. Classify weed families.

3. Identify examples of specific weeds.

4. Describe and apply appropriate weed controls.

B. Insects

1. Describe the body parts of an insect.

2. Describe the various families of insects and explain their differences.

3. Identify specific examples of insects and their damage.

4. Describe and demonstrate the appropriate controls for various insect infestations.

IX. Federal, State and Local Regulations

A. Describe the regulations, their enforcement and penalties.

B. Describe and demonstrate each of the following topics:

1. Applications

2. Storage

3. Transportation

4. Disposal

X. Safety

A. Describe the state and federal safety regulations for pest and disease control, including:

1. OSHA regulations

2. DOT regulations

3. Other federal, state and local regulations

B. Describe and demonstrate correct procedures for handling a chemical spill, including:

1. Confinement

2. Notification of proper agencies

3. Cleanup of the chemical spill

4. Proper disposal of chemical containers

C. Describe and demonstrate the correct procedures for dealing with a poisoning, including:

1. Diagnosis

2. First aid

3. Professional medical intervention

XI. Certification

A. Describe the application and completion procedures to become a certified applicator of pesticides in either Kansas or Missouri.

B. Describe the standards and requirements necessary for certification.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Introduction – What is Soil
   A. Explore the topics covered in the course.
   B. Discuss the functions of soils, soil constituents, and history of
the use and study of soils.
   C. List the goals and purpose for studying soils.

II. Soil Constituents
   A. Discuss the definition and uses of soil.
   B. Classify different types of rocks as basic soil elements.
   C. Identify the four soil constituents.
   D. Compare the physical and chemical weathering processes of rocks.

III. Soil Forming Factors
   A. Describe the soil forming processes that act on soil to form soil
horizons.
   B. Describe and illustrate the five soil forming factors of climate,
organisms, topography, time and parent material.
   C. Relate the climate in the Kansas City area to its impact on the
weathering of rocks and minerals in the soil.
   D. Discuss the impact of organisms on the mixing of the soil.
   E. Relate Kansas City area’s topography to soil formation in
different parts of the area.

IV. Soil Horizons
   A. Differentiate between soil structure and soil texture.
   B. Identify types of soil structure.
   C. Describe how soil color attributes provide information on soil
characteristics.
   D. Identify the various layers of a soil horizon and label the
different soil horizons using morphological clues (color, texture,
structure, etc.).

V. Classifying Soils Using Soil Taxonomy
   A. Identify the eight epipedons (surface soil) and their
characteristics that help determine the soil category.
   B. Identify the subsoil characteristic, or horizon to determine the
soil category.
   C. Describe the twelve orders and their locations on the earth.

VI. Soil Survey
   A. Define the three main elements in a soil survey.
   B. Explain the uses of different map scales and the scale order used
for soil surveys.
   C. Recite the historical significance of soil surveying.
   D. Explain how soil maps are made and their potential uses.
   E. Describe the two major systems of legal land descriptions.
   F. Describe how tracts of land are classified in area.
   G. Identify the eight land capability classes in terms of cropland soil
suitability.
   H. Read a soil survey and determine the soil classifications.

VII. Soil Texture
   A. Classify soil texture components by different particle sizes.
   B. Determine soil texture by particle size. 
   C. Illustrate the mechanical analysis of soil texture by using
“Stokes Law”.
   D. Describe the use of the textural triangle in determining soil
texture.
   E. Describe the use of the feel method in determining soil texture.
   F. Identify the uses of soil texture profiles.

VIII. Soil Bulk Density
   A. Calculate bulk density of soil by using the clod method, the
cylinder method, and the core method.
   B. Calculate soil erosion based on the bulk density.
   C. Identify the terms used to describe soil consistence.
   D. Explain the significance of soil compaction or pore space.
   E. Define the C.O.L.E. measurement of the shrink-swell potential.
   F. Explain the significance of soil porosity and how it can be
changed.

IX. Soil Water
   A. Explain how adhesion and cohesion of water molecules affect the
capillary action of water in soils.
   B. Describe the gravitational potential of the total water potential.
   C. Label soil water classifications according to how “tightly” the
water is being held in the soil.
   D. Determine what conditions are appropriate for drainage (too much
water) or irrigation (not enough water).
   E. Identify four types of irrigation and their uses.
   F. Identify the four soil moisture regimes.

X. Soil Organisms and the Nitrogen and Carbon Cycles
   A. Discuss how earthworms are like “miniature topsoil factories”.
   B. Explain how roots in the soil play an important role in the activity
of microorganisms.
   C. Discuss the negative influence nematodes have on plant roots.
   D. Explain the positive and negative roles of fungi in relation to
organic materials and to other living organisms.
   E. Explain the functions bacteria play in the soil and groundwater.
   F. Explain the role soil bacteria play in providing nitrogen for plant
growth.
   G. Identify various soil organisms.
   H. Diagram the nitrogen & carbon cycle and explain each of four steps
in the nitrogen cycle.

XI. Soil Organic Matter and Erosion 
   A. Diagram and explain the ideal growth conditions for organic matter
decomposition.
   B. Explain the importance of the carbon to nitrogen ratio for compost
microbe’s climate.
   C. Describe the influence of precipitation and temperature on organic
matter production.
   D. Describe the role organic matter plays in a soil structure.
   E. Identify the causes and processes of soil erosion.
   F. Measure soil erosion using the universal soil loss equation (USLE).

XII. Soil pH
   A. Define the elements in the soil pH scale.
   B. Identify the sources of different pH factors in the soil.
   C. Identify methods for determining soil pH.
   D. Test for soil pH.
   E. Describe the causes for the high pH in calcareous, saline and sodic
soils, and solutions for remedies to these soils.
   F. Explain how nutrients can affect the soil pH factor and can be used
to solve micronutrient deficiencies.
   G. Identify the methods, materials, and application procedures for
changing the soil pH factor.

XIII. Cation Exchange and Clay Materials
   A. Describe the methods of expressing the CEC (Cation Exchange
Capacity) and weight of common cation elements.
   B. State the formula for determining the CEC. 
   C. Identify methods for measuring CEC.
   D. Identify the composition and properties of clay.

XIV. Fertilizers
   A. Identify information required for display on commercial fertilizers
(including the guaranteed chemical analysis).
   B. Explain the process of adding nitrogen to soils and its relationship
to the nitrogen cycle.
   C. Identify the four forms of nitrogen fertilizer materials.
   D. Explain the importance of phosphorus to plants and types of
phosphorus fertilizers. 
   E. Describe situations where phosphorus is a pollutant.
   F. Explain the importance of potassium to plants and sources of
potassium fertilizer.
   G. Identify and describe five methods of fertilizer application.
   H. Identify methods for determining nutrient deficiency.

XV. Organic-Based Growing Media
   A. Identify the different materials used to create organic-based
growing media or ‘potting soil.’ 
   B. Explain the special circumstances related to the use of this type of
media.
   C. Discuss the unique dynamic between container side slope, volume of
media, temperature penetration into the root zone, aeration requirements
and movement of moisture through sides of container soils.

XVI. Horticultural Substrates and Urban Soils 
   A. Explain the principles that govern substrates and urban soils.
   B. Describe the substrates properties, concerns and specific
applications.
   C. Identify an urban soils properties, concerns, amelioration, and
specific applications.
   D. Explain composting principles, properties, techniques, parameters
and specific uses.
   E. Describe how urban soils or disturbances to a native soil affect
plants.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. General Landscape Construction Process
   A. Outline the basic steps in the construction process.
   B. Define general legal requirements and terminology.
   C. Interpret landscape construction plans and drawings.
II. Approved Safety Practices
   A. Describe and follow the procedure for safe operation of landscape construction hand and power tools and equipment.
   B. Explain and use factors to prevent accidents and personal injury while using or operating landscape construction tools and equipment.
   C. Describe the proper procedure to follow while working around utilities.
III. Site Preparation Process
   A. Identify the steps to take in preservation of existing site elements.
   B. Indicate the procedure for removal of unwanted site elements.
   C. Explain the procedure for grading a site, constructing site drainage and erosion control.
   D. Describe the procedures for protection of site utilities, existing plant material and other features to be saved during construction.
   E. Prepare a site before construction begins.
IV. Landscape Construction Project - Design and Construction
   A. Design a simple construction project.
   B. Choose the tools and materials required to complete the project.
   C. Determine the cost of the project.
   D. Use the correct procedures to complete the project.
   E. Evaluate the completed projects.
V. Materials and Tools
   A. Describe the use, tools, and equipment for the following materials:
      1. Landscape pavers for sidewalks, patios, retaining walls and
stairs and driveways.
      2. Concrete for stepping stones, sidewalks, and driveways.
      3. Stone for paths, patios and fences.
      4. Wood for landscape structures, edging, stairs and retaining walls.
      5. Other materials as time allows.
   B. Evaluate the different methods of construction using these materials.
VI. Bid Development and Costs
   A. Prepare and present a landscape construction bid.
   B. Discuss the challenges of managing a landscape construction project.
   C. Identify the proper procedure for efficient project management.
   D. Recognize and build on proper teamwork skills.
   E. Accurately complete quantity take offs and create cost estimates from construction drawings.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Initiation of the Internship
   A. List goals and objectives to achieve in the internship setting
   B. Develop a job description and determine specific objectives for the
internship with the facilitator
   C. Discuss in a meeting with the facilitator and job supervisor the job
description, objectives, and process for the internship’
   D. Fill out a job application and resume targeted to a job in the
student’s field

II. Company Profile
   A. Provide an accurate description of the company and its goals
   B. Provide an accurate description of the services the company
provides
   C. Provide an accurate description of the policies and procedures the
company has in place to deal with customers, job related issues, and
employee concerns

III. Knowledge and Skills in the Workplace
   A. Fulfill the requirements of the job description
   B. Perform tasks to meet the objectives as outlined in the internship
   C. Demonstrate knowledge related to the specific objectives of the
internship

IV. Internship
   A. Meet with the job supervisor at regular intervals to discuss work
related tasks
   B. Meet with internship facilitator at regular intervals to develop and
evaluate objectives for the learning experience
   C. Write individualized learning objectives for job related tasks
   D. Maintain a journal of time spent on the job and all tasks performed
including meetings with job supervisor
   E. Document any new experiences or learning that is the result of
working for this company
   F. Identify potential problems at the job site; develop a plan to
correct the problem and present it diplomatically

V. Professional Workplace Skills
   A. Report to work on time and work 20 hours per week
   B. Dress and speak in a manner appropriate to the company and job
performed
   C. Demonstrate good customer skills including phone, email, and
customer service
   D. Describe the importance of adaptability in the workplace
   E. Follow all employee rules and regulations, policies and procedures
   F. Discuss the importance of honesty, loyalty and discretion

VI. Internship Evaluation
   A. Describe and evaluate significant consistencies and/or
inconsistencies between classroom competencies and work place experiences
   B. Describe and assess the company and the internship experience with
an emphasis on the value of future internships with this company
   C. Assess and summarize the employer evaluation
   D. Write a final report
   E. Discuss the final report with the job supervisor and internship
facilitator