Elements and Performance Criteria

The Range of Variables explains the range of contexts within which the performance and knowledge requirements of this standard may be assessed. The scope of variables chosen in training and assessment may depend on the work contexts.

What OHS hazards are likely to be associated with tree pruning?
Hazards may include solar radiation, dust, noise, sharp/blunt pruning tools and equipment, slopes, climbing ladders, ladder instability and loss of balance.

What pruning tools and equipment are likely to be used?
Pruning tools and equipment may include secateurs, pruners, handsaws, steps, chippers and mulchers.

What references are applicable to this standard?
References include specialist texts, horticultural fact sheets and grower notes, Internet and consultants.

What special plants are likely to be included in a pruning program?
Plants covered by this unit include fruit trees and vines, ornamental flowering trees and shrubs, standards, topiaries, pleached arbors, roses, and other plants that have special pruning requirements due to flowering, growth or other characteristics.

What pruning techniques are likely to be utilised in a pruning program?
Pruning techniques may include cleaning out, crown lifting, crown reduction, structural integrity, crown renewal, crown thinning, dead wooding, hedging, branch, root pruning, espaliers, topiary, preparation of standards, bonzai, hedging, epicormic and green shoot removal.

What specialist pruning requirements may be included?
Requirements may include size, light, shape, aesthetics, competition, density, structures, growth re-direction, modification of flowering or fruiting behaviour, removal of diseased, broken or damaged material, sight lines, habit and form.

What evidence is required to demonstrate competence for this standard as a whole?Competence in this unit requires evidence that a person can perform specialist amenity pruning that preserves the integrity of the plant and meets client and industry standards for pruning.The skills and knowledge required to perform specialist amenity pruning must be transferable to a different work environment. For example, this could include different plants, pruning strategies and work locations.
What specific knowledge is needed to achieve the performance criteria?

Knowledge and understanding are essential to apply this standard in the workplace, to transfer the skills to other contexts, and to deal with unplanned events. The knowledge requirements for this competency standard are listed below:

identification of plant species and their pruning requirements
principles and methods of specialist pruning to achieve given objectives
effect on plant growth and habit after pruning
specialist tools and equipment.

What specific skills are needed to achieve the performance criteria?

To achieve the performance criteria, some complementary skills are required. These skills are:

recognise common diseases, pests and nutrition deficiencies in trees
sharpen and maintain tools required for pruning
store and carry tools safely
use appropriate pruning techniques to meet pruning program requirements.

What processes should be applied to this competency standard?There are a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life, which are required in all jobs. They are fundamental processes and generally transferable to other work functions. Some of these are covered by the key competencies, although others may be added. The questions below highlight how these processes are applied in this competency standard. Following each question a number in brackets indicates the level to which the key competency needs to be demonstrated where 0 = not required, 1 = perform the process, 2 = perform and administer the process and 3 = perform, administer and design the process.
Communicating ideas and information
Communication of ideas and information may be applied when instructing other members of the work team or informing clients or their agents. (2)

Collecting analysing and organising information
Information from specialist publications may need to be interpreted, analysed and organised to ensure that pruning is carried out efficiently and safely. (2)

Planning and organising activities
Activities may need to be planned and organised to meet job deadlines. (2)

Working with others and in teams
Teamwork may need to be applied when establishing pruning programs and priorities. (1)

Using mathematical ideas and techniques
Mathematical techniques may need to be applied when recording information about the program. (1)

Solving problems
Problem-solving skills may need to be applied when trying to achieve specialist pruning outcomes. (2)

Using technology
The use of technology may be applied in the operation of specialist tools and equipment. (1)