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Irrigation (Crops)
Irrigation – (Crops) 100 Hours Certificate Course
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Learn About Irrigation (Crops)
This irrigation online course covers the design, installation, maintenance, operation and evaluation of simple irrigation systems.
This online course focuses on irrigation systems for row crops (eg. vegetables & cut flowers) and orchards.
Features of this course include learning how to irrigate crops whether on a large or small scale.
You’ll learn how to plan system types of irrigation to designing appropriate pumps and filters, along side of understanding soil characteristics, drainage and plant needs.
If your interest is in growing row crops then this course will help you understand the methods needed for irrigating these types of crops. This 10 lesson course covers:
This course is similar to BHT210 and BAG213, however, it focuses on irrigation systems for row crops (eg. vegetables & cut flowers) and orchards.
Course Information
Other Categories
Lessons
Lesson Structure:Â Irrigation – Crops BHT204
There are 10 lessons:
- Introduction
- Soil Characteristics And Problems
- Estimating Plant And Soil Requirements
- Drainage – drainage systems, dams, etc.
- Types Of Irrigation Systems
- Hydraulics – discharge and flow rates, etc
- Pumps And Filters
- Selecting The Right System For The Plant
- Trickle Irrigation
- Design And Operation Of Systems
Please Note: Each lesson culminates in an assignment which is submitted to the academy, marked by the academies tutors and returned with any relevant suggestions, comments, and extra reading if required.
Learning Goals
Learning Goals: Irrigation – Crops BHT204
- Identify and consult appropriate sources of information for the irrigation industry.
- Explain the significance of soil characteristics to irrigation.
- Determine when to irrigate in a small scale situation.
- Explain the drainage aspect of handling water.
- Explain the operation and selection of irrigation systems.
- Explain the operation and selection of trickle irrigation systems.
- Determine specifications for the design of an irrigation system.
- Explain the pumps and filters needed for handling water adequately for crops.
- Supervise the installation of an irrigation system.
- Design and operate an irrigation system for crops.
Practical (Set Tasks)
Examinations
Program Summary
More Information
Soil Characteristics
SOIL STRUCTURE AND IRRIGATION
Soil structure has a great effect on both the soil water status and other aspects of the soil. With a desirable structure, water is held in the soil long enough for the plant to absorb what is needed but the excess drains away fast enough that the plant roots do not suffer any problems associated with being too wet.
There are basically four components to soil:
1. Sand – particle between 0.02 to 2mm diameter
2. Silt – between 0.02 and 0.002mm in diameter
3. Clay – less than 0.002mm in diameter
4. Organic matter – animal or plant material.
The nature of a soil will depend on the relative proportions of sand, silt, clay and organic matter. Soils which are very sandy are usually better for propagating seed or cuttings, but need to be kept well-watered. Sandy soils are suitable for some types of plants while heavier soils are better for other types of plants. The principle behind improving soil structure is based on correcting imbalances in the relative proportions of the four basic components in soil (e.g. to improve a sandy soil add clay or organic matter).
On a small scale adding clay to sand, or vice versa, can be reasonably easy to accomplish. On a large scale (e.g. broad-acre crops), trying to improve soils in this manner would be too expensive to carry out. Addition of organic matter to any soils, except those rare soils already high in organic matter, is generally the best way to improve a soils structure and will also help improve the moisture holding capacity of sandy soils.
Too high a proportion of clay can cause the following:
• Poor drainage
• Small pore spaces (i.e. spaces between the soil particles)
Small pore spaces can lead to:
• Deficiency of air available to roots
• Increased likelihood of soil compaction
• Difficulty with cultivation and weeding
• Slower movement of fertilisers due to them being held tightly by the clay particles and
therefore slower to work in the soil
 Too high a proportion of sand can lead to the following:
• Drainage is too quick and therefore soil becomes susceptible to drying
• Soil does not hold together well and so erosion can become a problem
• Nutrients leach out so plants cannot fully utilise them
Organic matter serves a number of purposes:
• It binds soil particles together but keeps the soil open and prevents compaction
• Restricts erosion to some degree
• Holds moisture in the soil
• As it decomposes it provides nutrients for the plants
• Slows down the rate of soil temperature changes
SOILS FOR DIFFERENT PURPOSES
Different soils have different degrees of fertility and different capacities to absorb and retain water, so an understanding of soils is of major importance to the potential irrigator. Often, little or no attention is paid to soil type when choosing an area to irrigate.
Irrigating a poor soil may be economical in the short term but can be disastrous in the long term. Soils can be characterised according to chemical as well as physical aspects.
Chemical Properties
Chemical aspects of the soil which must be considered are:
1. Soil pH (acidity/alkalinity)
2. Sodicity
3. Salinity
Soil pH
Soil pH is a measurement scale for acidity/alkalinity which goes from 0-14. Soils range between 3.5 (very acidic) to 10 (very alkaline). The “p” in “pH” stands for the negative logarithm to the base 10, and the “H” stands for H+ (the hydrogen ion). Because “pH” is the negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion concentration, a rise of 1 pH unit means a ten-fold increase in alkalinity and a fall of 1 pH unit means a ten-fold increase in acidity (in simple terms, pH is a measurement of the balance between the negatively and positively charged particles in a soil).
Soil pH can be measured in a laboratory with a pH meter on a suspension of 1 part of soil in 5 parts of water.
Field tests may be made using indicator solutions that change colour according to pH.
pH is important because it affects the availability of the various nutrients in the soil. Some nutrients become unavailable in acidic soils whilst others become unavailable in alkaline soils.
All plants prefer to grow within their own particular range of pH.
Some plants only grow well in a narrow pH range but others will tolerate a much wider range. Table 1 gives you the optimum pH ranges of some plants.
Soil pH may be lowered (made more acidic) by the addition of fertilisers such as those containing sulphur (e.g. ammonium sulphate) and may be raised (made more alkaline) by the addition of lime. The pH of irrigation water may interact with the pH of the soil to create a condition which is either good or not so good for plant growth.
Sodicity
Soils high in sodium are slow-draining and remain waterlogged after heavy rain or irrigation. When sodic soils are wetted they break down and their clay disperses. Clay dispersion can be identified by placing a small clod of the soil in a saucer of pure rain water. Within two hours, a cloud of clay particles will appear around the clod.
When Sodic soils dry out they form a very hard surface crust that makes cultivation difficult. Soil sodicity is measured in the laboratory in terms of the percentage of ions held by the soil’s clay particles, which are sodium ions. The total number of ions which can be held by the clay is referred to as the soil’s “Cation Exchange Capacity” (CEC). If sodium is more than 6% of the soils CEC it is a sodic soil, which therefore disperses when wet.
However, if saline irrigation water is used, dispersion can be prevented. A better method, though, is to prevent dispersion by the addition of gypsum Ca3 (S04) 2, lime Ca (OH)2 or other compounds containing calcium. The calcium ions will substitute for the sodium ions held by the clay particles.
Salinity
Excess salt is often found in the soils of dry areas where salt has been redistributed and concentrated by irrigation water.
Danger levels of salt concentration vary with soil texture and plant species. Soil salinity is usually expressed as the electrical conductivity of an extract from a paste of water saturated soil (EC)e which is a somewhat lower concentration than would occur in the soil solution of a wet soil…
Assessment
Assessment is based on a combination of completing all assignments and sitting for a final short one and a half hour exam, in your own location.
If you don’t cope well with exams then you may elect to undertake a project instead. This is a popular option.
In addition, most modules have a Set Task at the end of each lesson placed before the assignment. This is an opportunity to undertake practical work to help you acquire knowledge and skills and practical experience. This ADL feature is an added bonus not found at most online schools. Set Tasks are not required for assessment.Â
Some courses also have optional Self-Tests which are available on our online learning platform. These are not available by correspondence or by USB, and do not form part of your overall grade.
How our courses work
- Choose Your Learning Method
You choose how you would like to receive your course material, i.e., Online, USB or Correspondence. The choice is yours. You may also work on online or offline. - Tutor Allocation
Every student is assigned their own dedicated tutor who is an expert in their subject area. They provide as much or as little individual contact as you require. You can contact your tutor whenever you need – your hours are not limited. - Feedback and Assignments
Tutor Feedback is an essential component in helping you understand the subject matter. Tutor feedback is given in the form of notes written on the assignment. We encourage you to contact your Tutor where help with clarification and understanding of course material may be required.
Your assignments are located at the end of each lesson. You submit them for marking whenever you are ready. There is no time limit.  - Set Tasks and Self-Tests
Most modules have a Set Task at the end of each lesson before for the assignment. This is where you get the opportunity to undertake practical work to help you acquire knowledge, skills and practical experience. Many modules also have short Self-Tests. - Exams
Once all assignments have been completed you may then elect to sit for a one and half hour exam in your own location. If you prefer not to take the exam you do have the option to undertake a project instead.
Once the exam or project part of the course is completed, your Certificate is then processed. Please allow approximately 4 weeks for this. - Design Your Own Qualification
ADL offers students the flexibility to self-design their own qualification – bundling together a combination of 100-hour modules into a qualification higher than a certificate.
FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here is a list of the most often asked FAQ’s.
General
Q. Why should I enrol with the Academy for Distance Learning?
A. Here at ADL, our students are our priority – we treat everyone as a unique individual.
Q. Do I need to buy text books?
A. No, as each module has been written by highly qualified industry professionals. The content of the material is presented in such a way that text books are not required. However, if you require additional reading your tutor will be able to supply a list.
Q. What happens if I have to stop studying for a while? (eg. become sick, go on holidays, have a baby, move house, etc)
A. It’s OK to take a break and start up your study at a later point in time. Just let us know.
Q. Is there an age limit?
A. There is no maximum age limit. We do however, have a minimum age limit of 18 years. Below that age parental consent would be required.
Q. Are your courses up-to date?
A. Our courses are revised and updated on a rotation system.
Q. Do you have a Cancellation policy?
A. Yes. We have a cancellation policy that is fair and equitable. For further details please click here.
Q. Will I have any opportunity to engage with other students?
A. We have a Student Community group based on facebook! If you don’t have a facebook account already, you could make one just for talking with fellow students on the group.
Enrolment
Q. When can I enrol/start?
A. You may enrol and start at any time of the year – it’s all self- paced.
Q. Can I study from anywhere in the world?
A. Our courses are available to anyone, anywhere in the world from the comfort of your own home. The course content is relevant to any country, culture or economy.
Q. How long do I have to complete the course?
A. You complete the course at any time that is convenient for you.
Q. Completing a 100 hour module – how long will it take?
A. For some students a 100 hour module will take approximately to 3- 6 months to complete. Others take less time and some even longer.
Assessment
Q. Assessment – how does it work?
A. For each 100 hour module you are assessed by assignments (at the end of each lesson) and a final one and a half hour exam (or you may elect to complete a Project, instead of sitting the exam) – the choice is yours – you sit for the exam in your own location.
Q. I don’t cope well with exams – what can I do?
A. You may elect to undertake a Project (set by your tutor) instead of sitting the exam. Projects are completed from your home and can usually take a couple of weeks to complete.
Q. If my assignment is not up to standard is there an opportunity to resubmit my work?
A. Yes –
Q. How many assignments do I need to complete for each module?
A. At the end of each lesson, there is an assignment – so if a course has say, 10 lessons, there would be 10 assignments.
Q. I am having difficulty attending workshops/industry meetings, what can be done?
A. If your course requires attendance at workshops, conferences, or industry meetings; alternative arrangements can be made in your country.
Qualifications
Q. What qualification will I receive?
A. For individual modules, you would be awarded a Certificate endorsed by TQUK (Training Qualifications, UK), providing you complete all assignments and the exam. If you just want to complete only the assignments and not sit for the exam or finish a Project, then a Letter of Achievement would be awarded. For more details on qualifications available please click here.
Q. Can I customize my diploma/higher qualification?
A. Not all educational institution’s certificates /diplomas meet everyone’s needs. The opportunity to Design Your Own Diploma at the Academy (subject to our approval) is an added bonus, not found at other colleges. You choose modules that you think will help you in achieving your goal.
Q. What do I get when I complete the course? Will I receive a transcript?
A. At the completion of all courses and providing all assignments and exam requirements have been met, you will receive your Award and a Transcript.
Tutors
Q. Our tutors – who are they?
A. We appoint Tutors and require that they must be currently active in their industry, with at least 5 years’ experience in their chosen profession.
Q. Can I contact my tutor at any time?
A. Yes – you have unlimited access to your tutor via email through our Online Classroom. You can always leave a message with ADL requesting your tutor to contact you. You decide on how much or how little contact you wish to have.
Q. Practical work – How is this done?
A. To find out more about this part of the course please visit the section on How Our Courses Work here.
Career Options
What's Included
What your tuition fees include
- All Course Material via Online, USB or Correspondence
- Assignments Marked
- Professional Tutor Feedback
- Set Tasks - Practical Exercises to help you develop skills
- Self-Tests – multiple choice questions at the end of lessons in most modules
- Unlimited Personal Tutor Support – via our student classroom
- Committed and Friendly Admin Support – vital to your success
- All ADL Exam or Project fees (exception RHS exams)
- Qualification Certificate
- Official Transcript with assignment grades
- Student Manual
Plus FREE
- Academic Writing course (optional - 10 hours only)
- Critical Thinking course (optional - 10 hours only)
- Job Seekers Careers Guide
- Study Tips on How To Study Better
- Career Counselling by ADL Staff
- CV Writing Help, Tips and Advice
There are no hidden extras
Career Opportunities
FAQ - RHS Theory Qualifications
GENERALÂ
If you require further details about any of the RHS industry recognised qualifications please, call one of our friendly RHS Course Advisors on +44 (0)1227 789 649 or email: [email protected]
Q:Â When can I Enrol/Start My RHS Course With ADL?
A: Anytime, Anywhere. There are no enrolment deadlines.
Q:Â I live Overseas. Can I Study From Overseas?
A: You can study any of the RHS theory qualifications overseas. All courses are offered in English. You will need to email RHS Qualifications direct to arrange sitting for your examination overseas.
Q: Is There a Time Limit for Completing an RHS Qualification?
A: At present there are no time limits. However, RHS is contemplating in the future, the introduction of course time-lines.
Q:Â Are There Any Entry Requirements (Pre-Requisites)?
A:Â The RHS Theory courses do not require prerequisites, previous experience or any knowledge of horticulture. You just need passion for all things horticulture.
Q: What Course Should I Start With First? I Am New To RHS Qualifications.
A: We highly recommend that you start with Level 2 – Principles of Garden Planning, Establishment and Maintenance.
Q:Â What Does ADL Course Material Include?
A:Â Includes Power Point Presentations, Videos and written course lessons.
RHS EXAMS
Q:Â When Do Exams Take Place?
A: Exams are held on fixed dates in February and June of each year. You should register as a candidate at least 3 months before these dates, so please do not leave exam registration to the last minute
Q:Â Where Do I Take My Exams?
A:Â UK: You take the exams at the RHS Wisley Centre, located between Cobham and Ripley in Surrey or at other authorised RHS centres around the UK.
Overseas: please email RHS qualifications direct for centre information.
Q:Â Exam Pass Marks?
A:  Module – pass 50%.  Commendation 70%.
Qualification:Â 50% pass for all modules.
Commendation awarded for all modules.
Each question carries a value of 10 marks.
Q: I’m Not Happy With My Exam Results?
A:Â You have the opportunity to re-sit your exam at the next opportunity.
There are no restrictions on the number of re-sits you can take. The highest mark you achieve will remain.,