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Horticulture
Horticulture III (Plant Health) 100 Hours Certificate Course
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Horticulture Online Course
Achieve high standards of plant health through distance learning with this Horticulture Online Course from ADL based in the heart of Kent
Learn with this practical course to identify and control pest and diseases in plants, to maintain high standards of plant health, in your business or at home.
Develop with this course a deep understanding of plant health, the systematic identification of health problems in plants and the techniques for control of those problems.
Course Information
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Lessons
Lesson Structure: Horticulture III (Plant Health) BHT116
There are 10 lessons in this course:
1 Â Introduction
- Pests
- Diseases
- Common terminology
- Diagnosing problems systematically
- Tell tale symptoms
- Conducting an inspection: four steps
- Pest or disease reviews
2 Â Overview of Preventative Controls
- Introduction
- Methods of pest management
- Integrated pest management
- Cultural control
- Using disease resistant varieties
- Crop rotation
- Timed planting
- Mulching
- Cleanliness
- Biological control
- Types of biological controls
- Beneficial plants
- Trap or decoy plants
- Pheromone traps
- Physical controls
- Traps
- REpellants
- Mulching
- Pruning
- Wounds
- Chemical controls
- Understanding pesticides
- Safely storing chemicals
- Safely mixing chemicals
- Legalities
- Plant breeding for resistance
- Sources and causes of resistance
- Adaptability, resistance and pest variability
3 Â Insecticides
- Types of insecticides: systemich, stomach poisons, contact poisons, etc
- Inorganics, botanicals, organophosphates, carbamates, synthetic pyrethroids
- Characteristics of insecticides: toxicity, spectrum, LD50, persistence, volatility, etc.
- Golden rules for handling pesticides
- Terminology
4 Â Other Pesticides
- Chemical Pesticides: introduction
- Review of common pesticides
- Soil treatment for control of diseases
- Soil pests
- Types of fumigtants
- Systemic fungicides
- Comparative toxicities
5 Â Spray Equipment
- Types of sprayers
- Uses of sprayers
- Spray terminology
- Sprayer maintenance and cleaning
- Selecting a sprayer
- Calibration
- Using chemicals: agitation, clean up and disposal
- Basic first aid with chemical pesticides
- Response to liquid or powder spills
- Keeping records
- Misters, Dusters, Blowers
- Pesticides and the environment
6 Â Insect Biology
- Insect classification: orders, sub classes
- Insect anatomy: mouthparts, legs, etc
- Lifecycle
- Feeding habits
- Practical project: Insect collecting, preserving, identifying, for an insect collection
- Common insects that a gardener encounters
- Ants
- Aphis
- Beetles
- Borers
- Bugs
- Caterpillars
- Cockroaches
- Crickets
- Earwigs
- Fleas
- Flies
- Galls (caused by insects)
- Grasshoppers
- Ladybirds (good and bad)
- Leaf hoppers
- Leaf miners
- Lerps
- Mealy bug
- Mosquitos
- Scale insects
- Termites
- Thrips
- Wasps
- Whitefly
7 Â Fungal Biology
- What causes disease
- Symptoms of disease
- Lifecycle of a disease: inoculation, penetration, infection, growth and reproduction, dissemination
- Fungi groups: obligate saprophytes, obligate parasites, facultative saprophytes, facultative parasites
- Expanded concept of tree decay
- Chemical pesticides in the UK and Europe
- Common diseases
- Anthracnose
- Bitter pit
- Blights
- Botrytis
- Canker
- Cinnamon fungus
- Club root
- Damping off
- Galls
- Gummosis
- Leaf curl
- Leaf spot
- Melanose
- Mildews
- Rots
- Rust
- Scab
- Silver leaf
- Spot
- Smut
- Sooty mould
- Wilts
8 Â Environmental Problems
- Common environmental problems
- Foliage burns
- Pollution
- Lack of water
- Drainage problems
- Frost
- Hail
- Shade
- Temperature
- Wind
- Symptoms of nutritional deficiencies
- Air pollution
- The plant and water
- Non parasitic problems in turf (lawns)
- Ways to provide environmental protection to plants
9 Â Viruses
- Overview
- Symptoms
- Detection and diagnosis of viruses
- Control
- Examples of virus diseases
10 Nematodes, Molluscs and Crustaceans
- Overview
- Millipedes
- Plant nematodes
- Nematodes in citrus
- Red spider mites
- Spiders
- Slaters or wood lice
- Snails and slugs
Each lesson culminates in an assignment which is submitted to the school, marked by the school’s tutors and returned to you with any relevant suggestions, comments, and if necessary, extra reading.
Learning Goals
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Learning Goals:Â Horticulture III (Plant Health) BHT116
- Identify the characteristics of pests and diseases of plants.
- Explain methods for the control of pests and diseases.
- Describe the characteristics of a range of different pesticides, including insecticides and fungicides.
- Explain the selection and use of spray equipment appropriate for differenpecified tasks.
- Describe aspects of the biology of an insect which are relevant to pest control.
- Describe aspects of the biology of an fungus which are relevant to disease control.
- Explain how inappropriate environmental conditions can affect plant health.
- Identify the characteristic signs of a range of non-insect pests,
- and select apropriate control methods.
Practical (Set Tasks)
Practicals:
Develop a checklist for determining the significance of pests and diseases, which addresses different criteria including:
- Short term impact
- Long term impact
- Economic impact
- Aesthetic impact.
Distinguish between the main types of plant diseases, including:
- Fungal
- Viral
- Bacterial.
Create a standard worksheet for reviewing pest and disease problems of plants.
Diagnose different problems (ie. pests or diseases), documenting the problem on a standard pest/disease review worksheet.
- Application of chemicals
- Plant selection
- Companion planting
- Cultural techniques (i.e. improving ventilation, improving drainage)
- Physical control (i.e. pruning, hand removal, trapping, hosing off).
- Explain how plant breeding has been used to improve pest/disease resistance in different plant species.
- Explain three biological control methods for dealing with specific problems.
- Develop an IPM strategy for a specific situation such as a crop or garden, considering:
- application procedures, remedial action and monitoring.
- Describe plant hygiene practices for a specific situation such as a crop, nursery or garden, in line with industry practice, enterprise guidelines and sound management practice.
- Recommend control methods for different pest and/or disease problems diagnosed.
- List safety procedures to follow when handling pesticides.
Examinations
Program Summary
More Information
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.,