Coc1 Perform Nursery Operations

Sector: Agriculture and Fishery

Qualification: Agricultural Crops Production NC II

Unit of Competency: Perform Nursery Operation

Module Title: Performing Nursery Operation
Technical Education & Skills Development Authority

RB Agri-tourim and Skills Development Center, Inc
Binsang, Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte
COMPETENCY BASED LEARNING MATERIALS
CBLMS ON Document No.

AGRICULTURAL Date Developed:
CROPS PRODUCTION Febraury 2020
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OPERATIONS Revision No:
HOW TO USE THIS
COMPETENCY-BASED LEARNING MATERIAL (CBLM)
Welcome to the competency-based learning material for the module:

Perform Nursery Operations. This module contains training materials and
activities for you to accomplish.
The unit of competency “Performing Nursery Operations” contains the

knowledge, skills and attitudes required for AGRICULTURAL CROPS
PRODUCTION course. It is one of the specialized modules at National
Certificate Level III (NC II).
You are required to go through a series of learning activities in order to

complete each learning outcomes of the module. In each learning outcome,
there are reference materials or instructional sheets for further reading
to help you better understand the required activities. Follow the activities at
your own pace and answer the self-check at the end of each learning
outcome. If you have questions, please feel free to ask for the assistance of
your trainer/facilitator.
RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING (RPL)
You may have some or most of the knowledge and skills included in this
learner’s guide because you have:
 Been working in the same industry for some time.
 Already completed training in this area.
If you can demonstrate to your trainer that you are competent in a

particular skill, you don’t have to do the same training again.
If you feel that you have some skills, talk to your trainer about having
them formally recognized. If you have a qualification or certificate of
competence from previous trainings, show them to your trainer. If the skills
you acquired are still current and relevant to the unit of competency, they
CROPS PRODUCTION June 2020
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may become part of the evidence you can present for RPL. If you are not
sure about the currency of your skills, discuss this with your trainer.
A Trainee Record Book (TRB) is given to you to record important dates,

jobs undertaken and other workplace events that will assist you in providing
further details to your trainer/assessor. A Record of Achievement/Progress
Chart is also provided to your trainer to complete/accomplish once you have
completed the module. This will show your own progress.
DIRECTIONS FOR USE OF THE CBLM
This module was prepared to help you achieve the required competency:
Perform Nursery Operations. This will be the source of information for you
to acquire the knowledge and skills in this particular module with minimum
supervision or help from your trainer. With the aid of this material, you will
acquire the competency independently and at your own pace.
Talk to your trainer and agree on how you will both organize the training
of this unit. Read the module carefully. It is divided into sections, which
covers all the skills, and knowledge you need to successfully complete in
this module.
 Work through all the information and complete the activities in each
section. Do what is sked in the INSTRUCTIONAL SHEET and
complete the SELF-CHECK. Suggested references are included to
supplement the materials provided in this module.
 Most probably, your trainer will also be your supervisor or manager.

He is there to support you and show you the correct way to do things.
 Your trainer will tell you about the important things you need to
consider when you are completing activities and it is important that
you listen and take notes.

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 You will be given plenty of opportunities to ask questions and practice
on the job. Make sure you practice your new skills during regular
work shifts. This way, you will improve both your speed and memory
and also your confidence.
 Talk to more experienced workmates and ask for their guidance.
 Use the self-check questions at the end of each section to test your
own progress.
 When you are ready, ask your trainer to watch you perform the
activities outlined in the module.
 As you work through the activities, ask for written feedback on your
progress. Your trainer gives feedback/pre-assessment reports for this
reason. When you have successfully completed each element or
learning outcome, ask your trainer to mark on the reports that you
are ready for assessment
 When you have completed this module (several modules) and feel
confident that you have had sufficient practice, your trainer will
arrange an appointment to qualified trainer to assess/evaluate you.
The result of your assessment/evaluation will be recorded in your
COMPETENCY ACHIEVEMENT RECORD.

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AGRICULTURAL CROPS PRODUCTION NC II
List of Competencies
No. Unit of Competency Module Code

Perform nursery Perform nursery
1. AFF 6101
operations operations
2. Plant crops Plant crops AFF 6102
Care and maintain Care and maintain

3. AFF 6103
crops crops
Carry-out harvest and

Carry-out harvest and
4. postharvest AFF 6104
postharvest operations
operations

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MODULE CONTENT
UNIT OF COMPETENCY: Perform Nursery Operations
MODULE TITLE: Performing Nursery Operations
MODULE DESCRIPTOR:
This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to

perform nursery operations for agricultural crops including establishing
nursery shed, preparation and handling of planting materials, preparation of
growing media, transplanting germinated seedlings and handling of
nursery tools and equipment.
NOMINAL DURATION: 65 HOURS
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
At the end of this module you MUST be able to:
1. Prepare nursery tools, farm implements and simple equipment
2. Maintain nursery facilities
3. Handle seeds/planting material
4. Prepare growing media
5. Conduct propagation activities
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Tools, farm implements and simple equipment are prepared according
work requirements.
2. Basic pre-operative checking of tools, farm implements and equipment
is performed in accordance with manufacturer’s manual and GAP
standard
3. Tool with wear and corrosions are segregated and treated according
to maintenance plan and procedure
4. Nursery sanitation is maintained according to GAP standard.

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5. Repair and maintenance of nursery facilities are performed to
maximize their efficiency and effectiveness.
6. Preventive measures are applied for inclement weather.
7. Safety measures are practice according to OSHS.
8. Planting materials are determined according to kinds and varieties.
9. Quality seeds are elected according to prescribed characteristics.
10. Seeds testing are conducted to determine the percentage germination
of the seed stock in accordance with the standard procedures.
11. Planting materials are treated following standard protocol.
12. Seed scarification is performed for germination purposes based on
type of crop.
13. Growing media are prepared according to prescribed mixture and
crop requirement.
14. Growing media are placed in prescribed containers according to crop
requirements.
15. Containers are arranged and labeled according to varieties/species.
16. Seedbed is prepared based on crop species.
17. Nursery shed is set-up according to plant requirement.
18. Quality seedlings are selected based on prescribed characteristics.
19. Propagation materials are selected according to propagation activity.
20. Plant propagation techniques are performed based on recommended
practices.
21. Germinated seedlings are maintained until fully established.
22. Pricking and thinking of seedlings are performed based on
recommended practices.

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LEARNING OUTCOME NO. 1
Prepare nursery tools, farm implements and simple
equipment
Contents:
1. Proper handling of nursery tools, farm implements and simple

equipment.
2. Identification of tools and its usage.
3. Classification of tools according to its category of usage.
Assessment Criteria
1. Tools, farm implements and simple equipment are prepared according

work requirements.
2. Basic pre-operative checking of tools, farm implements and equipment
is performed in accordance with manufacturer’s manual and GAP
standard.
3. Tool with wear and corrosions are segregated and treated according
to maintenance plan and procedure.
Conditions
The participants will have access to:
1. Prepare tools, farm implements and simple equipment according to

work requirements.
2. Perform basic pre-operative checking of tools, farm implements and
equipment in accordance with the manufacturer’s manual and GAP
standard.
3. Segregate and treat tools with wear and corrosion according to
maintenance plan and procedure.
4.
Assessment Method:
1. Written Examination
2. Demonstration

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3. Oral Questioning
4. Interview
Learning Experiences
Learning Outcome 1
Prepare nursery tools, farm implements and simple equipment
Learning Activities Special Instructions
1. Guided by the Information
Sheet 1.1-1 listen to the
trainer as he/she discusses
on “Select and use of farm
tools and equipment”
Compare answers with the Answer
2. Answer Self-Check. 1.1-1
Key 1.1-1.
3. Guided by the information
sheet 1.1-2 listen to the
on “Pre-operation and Check-
Up of Farm Equipment”
4. Answer Self-Check 1.1-2
Key 1.1-2.
Accomplish Job Sheet 1.1.1

5. Watch your trainer on he/she
demonstrate on “Pre-
operation and Check-Up of Trainer evaluates performance
Farm Equipment” using Performance Criteria
Checklist 1.11 and makes
recommendations

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Information Sheet 1.1-1
Select and use of farm tools and equipment
Learning Objectives:
After reading this INFORMATION SHEET, YOU MUST be able to:
 Identify appropriate farm tools and equipment according to
requirement/use.
 Check and report the faults and defects of farm tools in accordance
with farm procedures.
 Safely use appropriate tools and equipment according to job
requirements and manufacturers conditions.
Introduction
Farm tools, implements, and equipment play very important role in
agricultural crop production. Their availability makes the work much easier
and faster. However, even if one may have the most sophisticated tools and
implements, but does not know how to use them, they are useless. In order
to do crop production operations successfully, one must have a good
working knowledge of the tools, implements and equipment before using
them.
Hand Tools
Hand tools are objects usually light and are used without the help of
animals or machines. They are being used in performing farm activities
which involve small areas like school garden and home garden.
Examples are:
1. Bolo is used for cutting of grasses and

weeds, loosening and pulverizing the
soil, digging small holes for planting
and posts, and breaking the topsoil in
preparing garden plots if no other tools
are available.

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2. Crowbar is used for digging big holes
and for digging out big stones and
stumps.
3. Pick-mattock is used for digging

canals, breaking hard topsoil and for
digging up stones and tree stumps.
4. Grab-hoe is used for breaking hard

Topsoil,pulverizing soil and hilling up.
5. Spade is used for removing trash or

soil, digging canals or ditches and
mixing soil media.

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6. Shovel is used in removing trash,
digging loose soil, moving soil
from one place to another and
for mixing soil media.
7. Rake is used for cleaning the

ground and leveling the topsoil.
8. Spading fork is used for loosening

the soil, digging out root crops and
turning over the materials in a
compost heap.
9. Light hoe is used for loosening and

leveling soil and digging out furrows for
planting.

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10. Hand trowel is used for loosening
the soil around the growing plants and
putting small amount of manure in the
soil.
11. Hand cultivator is used for

cultivating the garden plot by loosening
the soil and removing young weeds
around the plant.
12. Hand fork is for inter row

cultivation.
13. Pruning shears is for cutting

branches of planting materials and
unnecessary branches of plants.

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14. Axe is for cutting bigger size post.
15. Knife is for cutting planting

materials and for performing other
operations in horticulture.
16. Water pail - for hauling water,

manure and fertilizers.
17.Sprinklers – for watering seedlings and

young plants.
18. Wheel barrow – for hauling trash,

manures, fertilizers, planting materials and
other equipment.

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19. Sprayers – it is for spraying insecticides, foliar fertilizers, fungicides and
herbicides.
Trigger sprayer Pressure sprayer Knapsack sprayer
20. Sickle and Scythe - a hand-held agricultural tool with a variously

curved blade typically used for cutting weeds.
Sickle Scythe
21. Post hole digger - used for digging

holes from small to moderately sized hole
especially in orchard production.
22. Dibbler or Dibble - a tool to help

you dig a hole in the soil to plant your
seeds or starter plants.

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Care of Garden Tools
Garden tools are gardener’s best friends. They help make his work
easier and faster. It is impossible for him to work with his bare hands alone.
For this reason, the gardener should take good care of his tools. He should
avoid losing them. He should likewise protect them from breakage.careful
use and proper safekeeping of garden tools will add many more years to
their life.
Do’s and don’ts with regards to use of tools:

 Choose the right tool that will serve your purpose.
 Carry your tools properly
 Use tools as working aids, not as toys.
 Clean the tools after using them.
 Always observe safety precautions in handling tools.
Routine check-up and hand tool maintenance
 All tools require regular maintenance to work properly.

 Clean all tools after each use with water and treat with penetrating oil
to prevent rust.
 Tools that require a sharp edge must be sharpened regularly as sharp
tools are safer and most efficient to use.
 Various sharpening tools are used depending upon the tool. It is

important to become familiar with the methods relevant to the
tools you use.
 Check tools regularly for loose nuts and screws and tighten as
needed.
 Sand rough handles and repair cracks as soon as they are
noticed to prevent injury.
 Store tools in a dry area.
Reporting Problems and defective tools:
Broken or damaged problems tools can cause injury or accidents in

the workplace. The quicker problems are reported, the quicker the tool can
be fixed or replaced and the less risk or injury.
Broken or wornout tools must not be used but put in a place for it is
to be repaired. This will prevent injury and enhance the life of tool. Persons
with proper training and skill should repair tools. Preventive maintenance
like fastening loose nuts or shafts will greatly reduce the need for larger-
scale repairs.
Importance of routine maintenance

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Tools have always been indespensable services but tools also give to
uncountable damages when used improperly.
Tips on routine maintenance:
1. Use the correct tool for the job.

2. Keep tools in good condition.
3. Cutting tools should be sharpened if it needs sharpening.
4. Remove plug and store tools after use.
5. Wedges and punches should be free from “mushroom heads”.
6. Use and maintain power tools acording to operator’s manual.
7. Make sure that power tools are properly grounded or are double
insulated.
8. Power tools shoud be unplug before changing blades or servicing or
repairing.
9. Guards and shield should be kept in place.
10.Keep power tools locked up to prevent unauthorized use.
Equipment
These are machineries used in horticultural operations, especially in

vegetable production.
Examples are:
1. Water pumps - are used to draw

irrigation water from a source.
1. Power Sprayer ideal for spraying

agricultural chemicals and fertilizers on
farms, greenhouses and orchards.
2. Earth Auger - used to drill soil by

making a hole.

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3. Grass Cutter – used to trim large area
of grass/lawn
Self-Check 1.1-1

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Multiple Choice. Read and analyze the statement carefully. Choose the best
answer and write the letter only in your answer sheet.
1. These are objects that are usually light and are used without the
help of animals or machines.
a. Farm implements
b. Equipment
c. Hand tools
d. Hand trowel
2. What tool is used for removing trash or soil, digging canals or

ditches and mixing soil media?
a. Spade
b. Shovel
c. Spading fork
d. Hand fork
3. Which of the following tool is used for digging canals, breaking

hard topsoil and for digging up stones and tree stumps?
a. Pick-mattock
b. Crowbar
c. Spade
d. Grab-hoe
4. What tool is used for loosening the soil around the growing plants
and putting small amount of manure in the soil?
a. Pick-mattock
b. Crowbar
c. Hand trowel
d. Spade
5. Which tool is used for cleaning the ground and leveling the topsoil.
a. Pick-mattock
b. Rake
c. Spade
d. Hand trowel
6. Which of the following does NOT belong to the group?

a. Sprinkler
b. Rake
c. Water pump
d. Spade
7. Which of the following is to restore something broken or damaged

to good condition?
a. Repair
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b. Storing
c. Cleaning
d. Preventive maintenance
8. It is an activity or operation done to prevent malfunction of tools

and equipment and it is done to prolong the useful life of tools
and equipment.
a. Repair
b. Cleaning
c. Storing
d. Preventive maintenance
Answer Key 1.1-1

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1. A
2. A
3. D
4. C
5. B
6. C
7. A
8. D

Pre-operation and Check-Up of Farm Equipment

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 Read carefully instructional manual of the farm tools and equipment
prior to operation.
 Conduct pre-operation check-up in line with manufacturers manual.
 Identify and report faults in farm equipment in line with farm
procedures.
 Follow safety procedures.
Check Tractor Before Operating:
A pre-operational check of the tractor will assure you that it is in safe

operating condition. Check the tires for proper inflation and defects,
windows for visibility, seat position, seat belts, brakes for adjustment,
steering response, rear view mirrors, slow-moving vehicle emblem,
reflectors, and running lights for day or night time operation.
Safety Check: Walk around the tractor, and check any attached
implement, and obstacles that may be under or near the tractor. This
includes stones, boards, children's toys etc. Make sure there are no
bystanders; remember this is a working area. Check that the wheels are
free, not frozen or stuck in the ground. If the rear wheels are frozen to the
ground, then the tractor may flip backwards around the axle when power is
applied. Check for any loose parts or objects on the tractor such as tools on
the platforms or around brakes and other controls.
Service Walk around: Walk around the tractor a second time to check the
tractor itself. This time look at the tires for wear and inflation, the power
takeoff shaft for shielding and guarding (rotate the shield to make sure it
moves freely), the hitch for proper hitch pin and safety clip. Pay particular
attention to the ground under the tractor for any signs of liquid leaks such
as oil, coolant or fuel.
Check the oil: Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean and check the oil level. If
oil is required, remember to wipe off the filler cap before you remove it to
avoid dirt falling into the engine. Use a clean funnel and clean the top of
the oil can to prevent rust or other foreign objects going in with the oil.
Check the radiator: Slowly remove the red cap and check the liquid level.
Check the air pre-cleaner and air cleaner: Remove and shake out any
dirt.

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Check the fuel level: Fill if necessary, but it should have been filled at the
end of the last day the tractor was used.
Check the fire extinguisher: Your tractor should have a fire extinguisher
in case of fire during operation or refueling. Make sure it is charged and
easily accessible.
Any noted defects should be corrected immediately. These can affect

performance and your safety!
Batteries: handle with care!
Occasionally it may be necessary to handle, adjust or change the battery on

your tractor. Batteries contain sulfuric acid which can cause considerable
harm if it comes into contact with your skin. They can also produce
mixtures of hydrogen gas and oxygen which can explode if contacted with
heat or sparks.
Remember these safety points:
1. Do the work or adjustments in an area free of sparks and heat

sources. Don't smoke while working near the battery. Make sure the
area is well ventilated.
2. Always wear personal protective equipment, covering the eyes and
hands. A full face shield will offer the most protection.
3. Never work leaning directly over the battery.
4. Always disconnect the ground cable first and identify the cables as
positive or negative so that you don't re-attach them interchangeably.
5. Make sure that you clean the terminals and cable connections before
re-attaching them. Make sure the new battery is secured with the
hold-down assembly provided.
6. While installing the battery, make sure that the terminals don't come
into contact with metal parts on the engine or tractor body.
7. Make sure that you connect the ground cable last to prevent sparks
and tighten the connections!
Hydraulic systems and safety
Working with or on hydraulic equipment can be dangerous. Some of the

hazards cannot even be seen readily. Hydraulic systems are under
tremendous pressure and this is where the unseen danger lies.
Before servicing hydraulic systems:

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1. Shut off the engine powering the hydraulic pump.
2. Lower the implement to the ground.
3. Relieve pressure by moving the hydraulic control lever back and forth.
4. If working around or under a raised implement, make sure that it is
blocked or supported by something other than the cylinder itself.
5. Use a piece of cardboard or wood to check for leaks in hoses and
fittings. Even a small amount of pressurized hydraulic fluid can be
injected through the skin and cause severe health problems. Seek
medical attention immediately if hydraulic fluid penetrates your skin.
6. Be cautious when releasing blocks or transport locks on equipment. If
a cylinder has leaked and lost pressure, the implement may fall to the
ground as the locks are released.
Safety Practices During Operation of Farm Equipment
MACHINERY AND TOOL SAFETY
Machines: They save valuable time and are essential to agricultural

productivity. They can ever also impose danger to the worker who operates
them
Safe machinery operation primarily depends on how you operate the

machine. Machines are inanimate objects; they cannot think, reason, or
adapt to meet the needs of people. The responsibility for machinery safety
rests with you. Just as we are told to drive defensively when operating an
automobile. Machine operators should always take precautions.
When examining machinery and workshop areas take note of the common
hazards associated with the equipment and tools on farms. Train your
workers to use extra caution when working with identified hazard areas of
equipment.
Common Hazards Associated with Machinery:

1. Pinch points- are areas where two or more parts move together with
at least one part moving in a circle. The areas where drive belts
contact pulleys or sprockets mesh with chains are prime examples of
pinch points.
2. Crush points- are hazards involving two components moving toward
each other. Examples of crush-point hazards are the raising and
lowering equipment with a three-point hitch, components that are
moved by hydraulic cylinders and the areas between the tractor and
machinery when hitching or turning.

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3. Wrap (entanglement) point -hazards pertain to any exposed rotating
component. Wrap-point hazards include any type of rotating shaft or
driveline. PTO drivelines are prime examples of wrapping or
entanglement hazards.
4. Pull-in point =hazards involve mechanisms designed to take in crops
or other materials for processing. They include combine headers,
windrow pickups, forage chopper headers, and grinders.
5. Shear and cutting point= hazards are areas where two parts move
across one another or one moves across a stationary object.
Windrower cutter bars and grain augers are examples of cutting and
shear points.
6. Thrown objects Metal, glass, wire, sticks, or other materials may be
picked up by a machine and propelled with extreme force. Rotary
mowers are good examples of machines capable of throwing objects.
7. Burn point= hazards are associated with tractors and self-propelled
and pull-type machinery. Hot mufflers, engine blocks, pipes, and hot
fluids are examples of burn points.
8. Stored energy hazards =are present in pressurized systems such as
hydraulics, compressed air, and springs. The sudden or unexpected
pressurization or depressurization of these systems can result in
crushing and other types of accidents, depending on the use of the
system. High-pressure leaks are also forms of stored energy.
General Safety Precaution:
Develop safe procedures for working around all machinery; begin by putting
the following guidelines in place:
 Read and follow all safety procedures in the manufacturer’s manual.
 Turn off the machine and take the key before making any repairs or
adjustments.
 Block raised hydraulic equipment. Do not depend on hydraulic
systems to keep the implement or attachment in a raised position.
 Ensure adequate working space for the job
 Provide and use appropriate personal protective equipment.
 Check to ensure sufficient lighting and ventilation
 Keep walkways and exits clear Maintain required firefighting and first
aid equipment in the work area.
 Ensure fuel, compressed air, electrical or other services are safely
installed and maintained.

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 Modify machinery considered hazardous or remove it from service if it
cannot be made safe to operate.
 Ensure guarding is safely replaced after maintenance jobs are
completed.
 Have guards designed and fitted for older machinery and newly
purchased machinery

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Self-Check 1.1-2
True or False. Write T if the statement is TRUE and F if the statement is

FALSE.
When working with battery
1. Do the work in an area free of sparks and heat sources. Smoke while
working near the battery.
2. Always wear personal protective equipment, covering the eyes and
hands. A full-face shield will offer the most protection.
3. Work leaning directly over the battery.
4. Always disconnect the ground cable first and identify the cables as
positive and negative so that you don't re-attach them
interchangeably.
5. Make sure that you clean the terminals and cable connections before
re-attaching them.

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Answer Key 1.1-2
1. False
2. True
3. True
4. True
5. True

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JOB SHEET 1.1-1
Title: Pre-operation and Check-Up of Farm Equipment
PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:
Given the Agricultural Crop Production of farm equipment, you
should be able to conduct pre-operation and check-up of farm equipment
SUPPLIES AND MATERIALS:

Hard copy of the procedure in pre-operation and check-up of farm
equipment, CBLM, Record Book, Bond Paper, Ball pen.
STEP AND PROCEDURES:
Any of the following equipment or farm equipment suggested by the trainer

is acceptable in performing this operation.
 Hand Tractor
 Four Wheel Tractor
 Water Pump
1. Read the operation manual of the selected equipment carefully.

2. Identify the parts and operation controls and explain its functions in
the presence of the expert/trainer.
3. Conduct inspection using the pre-operation checkup manual.
4. Make the inspection report and indicate the actions to be taken.
5. Correct the equipment troubles as instructed by the expert/trainer.
6. Ask permission from the authorized personnel to operate the
equipment.
ASSESSMENT METHOD:
1. Written exam
2. Actual Demonstration

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Performance Criteria Checklist 1.1-1
CRITERIA
YES NO
Did you….
1. Read the operation manual of the selected
equipment carefully?
2. Identify the parts and operation controls and
explain its functions?
3. Conduct inspection using the pre-operation
checkup manual?
4. Make the inspection report and indicate the
actions to be taken?
5. Correct the equipment troubles?
6. Ask permission from the authorized personnel to
operate the equipment?

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Maintain nursery facilities
Contents:
 Establishment and management of nursery

 Methods and procedure in pruning
Assessment Criteria
 Nursery sanitation is maintained according to GAP standard.

 Repair and maintenance of nursery facilities are performed to
maximize their efficiency and effectiveness.
 Preventive measures are applied for inclement weather.
 Safety measures are practice according to OSHS.
Assessment Method:
 Direct observation
 Oral Interview
 Demonstration

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Learning Outcome 2
Maintain nursery facilities

on “Types of Nurseries”
Key 1.2-1.
on “Management and
Maintenance of Nurseries”
Key 1.1-2.

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Types of Nurseries
Learning Objectives
After reading this Information Sheet, you must be able to:

 Identify and classify the types of nurseries
Introduction
Nursery is a place where plants are grown for the sake of being
removed or transported later. It can occupy a field, garden, green house, or
other form of growing space. In open field, nursery grows ornamental trees,
shrubs and herbaceous perennials, especially plants meant for wholesale
trade or for amenity plantings. In the nursery, the young seedlings are
tended from sowing to develop in such a way as to be able to endure the
hard field conditions. Whether local or introduced plant seedling, nursery
seedlings are found to have better survival rate than the seed sown directly
in the field or through natural regeneration. Nursery seedlings become the
planting material for plantation, whether these plantations are for
production, protection or amenity (Garner, et al, 1976).
Various types of nurseries can be classified based on various criteria.

They include:
Sale: Retail nurseries which sell to the general public. Wholesale

nurseries, which sell only to businesses such as other nurseries and to
commercial gardeners, private nurseries which suffice the needs of
institutions or private estates. Some retail and wholesale nurseries sell by
mail.
Phase of the process: propagation, growing out, or retail sale;
Type of plant: Ground covers, shade plants, fruit trees, or rock garden
plants.

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The nursery business is highly seasonal. It is affected by temperature,
drought, cheaper foreign competition, fashion, etc. Plants may be
propagated by seeds, but often desirable cultivars are propagated asexually
by budding, grafting, layering, or other nursery techniques.
Nurseries often grow plants in a greenhouse, a building of glass or in

plastic tunnels, designed to protect young plants from harsh weather while
allowing access to light and ventilation. Modern greenhouses allow
automated control of temperature, ventilation and light and semi-automated
watering and feeding. Some also have fold-back roofs to allow "hardening-
off" of plants without the need for manual transfer to outdoor beds.
Most nurseries remain highly labor-intensive. Although some processes

have been mechanized and automated, others have not. It remains highly
unlikely that all plants treated in the same way at the same time will arrive
at the same condition together, so plant care and horticulture nursery
management require observation, judgment and manual dexterity. Selection
for sale also requires comparison and judgment. It has been estimated that
manpower accounts for 70 per cent of the production costs of a horticultural
nursery.
Nurseries are categorized in different ways.
According to time duration nurseries are classified in two types:
1) Temporary nursery – This type of nursery is developed only to fulfill the

requirement of the season or a targeted project. The nurseries for production
of seedlings of transplanted vegetables and flower crops are of temporary
nature. Like wise temporary arrangement for growing forest seedlings for
planting in particular area can also be done in temporary nursery.
2) Permanent nursery – This type of the nursery is placed permanently so as

to produce plants continuously. These nurseries have all the permanent

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features. The permanent nursery has permanent mother plants. The work
goes on continuously all the year round in this nursery.
Planning of nursery One has to decide which type of nursery is to be started.

At the same time the durations and type of plants propagated should be
finalized.
According to type of plants produced nurseries are classified in to

following types:
1. Fruit Plant Nurseries
Fruit crops are mainly propagated

vegetative and need special techniques for
propagations as well as maintenance.
Mango, Guava, Pomegranate, Sapota,
Oranges etc. are propagated with
vegetative means. Fruit nurseries are
essential for production of grafts as well
as the mother plants of scions and rootstocks.
 Vegetable Nurseries
All vegetables except few like potatoes, sweet
potato, bulbous vegetables and some other are
raised by seedlings. Very few vegetables are
perennials like, little gourd,Drumsticks,
Alocasia etc. Seedlings are to be produced on a
large scale in short period
3. Ornamental Plant Nurseries

Ornamental and floricultural crops are
numerous and are propagated vegetatively,
like gladiolus, carnation, roses, lilies etc. There
is a large group of ornamental plants, which is

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propagated by seeds and seedling; Asters, Marigolds, Salvias, etc. are some
of them.
4. Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Nurseries

There is considerable increase in people adopting ayurvedic medicines
with the changing life style. It is also necessary to conserve the fast
depleting precious medicinal and aromatic plants. To save and multiply the
valuable medicinal and other auspicious plants, nurseries specializing in
these plants have begun to flourish. These plants are also demanded by the
Ayurvedic medicinal practitioners.
5. Forest Plant Nursery

Forest plants are essential for synthesis of gums, honey, timber and fuel.
There is lack of forest plant nurseries. To save and multiply the entire lot of
valuable forest plants it is very essential to preserve and multiply those
plants for which special type of nurseries are to be established. This is also
needed for medicinal purposes.
6. Hi-Tech Nurseries
There is sudden increase in the demand for certain commercial
plants. For example Tissue cultured banana, gerbera and carnation etc. It is
not possible to fulfill this requirement by ordinary or common nursery
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practices. There is necessity to have special techniques and methods to meet
the demand and only Hi-tech nurseries can satisfy this type of demand.
These nurseries grow plants in greenhouse, building of glass or a plastic
tunnel, designed to protect young plants from harsh weather, while allowing
access to light and ventilation. Modern greenhouses allow automated control
of temperature, ventilation, light, watering and feeding. Some also have fold-
back roofs to allow "hardening-off" of plants without the need for manual
transfer of plants to the outdoor beds.
Types of Nurseries According to the Type of Sale
 Retail Nurseries: Retail nurseries raise plants for sale to the general
public. These places are small, locally owned nurseries that sell
seasonal, annuals, ornamental trees, other landscaping plants and
garden decoration to the general public or companies that specialize
in a particular type of plant, such as tropical plants, citrus trees,
bulbs or roses.
 Wholesale Nurseries: Wholesale nurseries usually grow plants in
bulk for the purpose of selling to large clients. These clients may
include florists, garden centers or departmental stores. A wholesale
nursery may fill a niche for particular types of plants, such as
vegetables or houseplants, or they may grow a general selection of
plants to sell such as fruits, vegetables and landscaping plants.
 Private Nurseries: A private nursery grows plants exclusively for a
single client. The private nursery may be owned by the client or it may
be under contract for use by the client. Clients for private nurseries
include large estates, corporations and institutions. These nurseries
are concerned with raising documented historical plants for the
historic preservation of the estates.
 Mail Order: Privately owned, retail and wholesale businesses may all
be involved in mail order businesses. As shipping technology

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improved, it became possible to ship dormant ornamental trees and
bedding plants via mail. The internet has largely shifted mail order
from catalog to online shopping. Bedding plants may be shipped via
postal carrier, but are primarily handled through third-party shipping
agents.
Self-Check 1.2-1
Multiple Choice

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1. This type of nursery is developed only to fulfill the requirement of the
season or a targeted project.
A. Temporary nursery
B. Permanent nursery
C. Semi-permanent nursery
D. Fruit nursery
2. A type of nursery where asters, marigolds, salvias are propagated

A. Fruit Nursery
B. Vegetable Nursery
C. Ornamental Nursery
D. Forest Nursery
3. A type of nursery where mango, guava, pomegranate, sapota, oranges

are propagated
A. Fruit Nursery
D. Forest Nursery
4. A type of nursery where drumstick, bottlegourd, squash are

propagated.
A. Fruit Nursery
D. Forest Nursery
5. This type of the nursery is placed permanently so as to produce plants

continuously.
A. Permanent nursery
B. Semi-permanent nursery
C. Fruit nursery
D. Temporary nursery
Answer Key 1.2-1

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1. A
2. C
3. A
4. B
5. A

Management and Maintenance of Nurseries
Learning Objectives
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After reading this Information Sheet, you must be able to:
 Determine the factors affecting nursery
 Apply how to manage and maintain nursery
Introduction
Nursery plants require due care and attention after having either
emerged from the seeds or have been raised from other sources like
rootstock or through tissue culture technique. Generally they are grown in
the open field under the protection of mother nature where, they should be
able to face the local environment. It is the duty & main objective of a
commercial nursery grower to supply the nursery plants with suitable
conditions necessary for their development & growth. This is the major work
of management in the nursery which includes all such operations right from
the emergence of young plantlet till they are fully grown-up or are ready for
uprooting & transplanting in the main fields.
Nursery management
The main phases of nursery management are-
 Planning - demand for planting material, provision of mother blocks,

requirement of land area, water supply, working tools, growing
structures and input availability.
 Implementation - land treatment, protection against biotic
interference and soil erosion, proper layout, input supply, etc.
 Monitoring and evaluation - physical presence, rapid response,
critical analysis, incentive to workers, etc
 Feed back for further refinement.
The key elements of hi-tech nursery management are the place, the plant
and the person behind nursery management.
Advantages of Nursery Management
1. It is possible to provide favourable growth conditions i.e. germination

as well as growth
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2. Better care of younger plants as it is easy to look after nursery in
small area against pathogenic infection pest and weed.
3. Crop grown by nursery raising is quite early and fetch higher price in
the market. So economically more profitable.
4. There is saving of land and labour as main field will be occupied by
the crop for lesser duration. Hence intensive crop rotation can be
followed.
5. More time is available for the preparation of main field because
nursery is grown separately.
6. As vegetable seeds are very expensive, particularly hybrids, seed cost
can be economized by sowing them in the nursery.
Nursery site selection

A good nursery should:
(a) be open, level and well-drained;
(b) have light or loose-textured soil to facilitate nursery operations;
(c) have a good source of water without possibility of being flooded;
(d) be accessible to transportation; and
(e) be far from existing potential sources of insect pests and diseases
To be fully operational, the nursery should have a fence for security; a

shed to house the implements and supplies; farm implements and small
equipment; a source of water for irrigation; and sufficiently trained
manpower.
Structures Needed in a Small-Scale Nursery
 Germination Shed
Seed boxes with newly sown seeds are placed in the germination
shed to protect the seeds from too much sunlight, damage from
raindrops, stray animals and insects. Ideally, a germination shed
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must have a plastic roofing to allow some sunlight to penetrate yet
protect the seeds from being dislodged by rain.
 Potting Shed
Seedling containers are filled with potting media in the potting

shed. A potting shed should have a roof to prevent the potting medium
from getting persistently waterlogged. The floor should be dry, free of
weeds and flat for the pots to stand after filling. The area of the shed
should be sufficient enough to allow piling of the filled pots and
stocking of the potting materials.
 Transplant Shed
After transplanting the seedlings from germination boxes or

seedbeds to individual containers,
seedlings are placed in the transplant
shed. A transplant shed should have a
cover to protect the young transplants
from intense sunlight but with
sufficient transparency to allow
some sunlight to reach the seedlings.
The cover must also allow rain to pass
through. However, for species with very
small seedlings like bagras (Eucalyptus
deglupta), transplant shed should have a plastic roof to prevent the
seedlings from dislodging due to raindrop action.

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 Hardening Bed
Seedlings must be made ready for adverse conditions of the

planting site prior to planting to make them sturdy and hardened.
Hardening includes exposing the seedlings to full sunlight, reduction
of the frequency of watering and fertilizer application, and root
pruning. In the nursery, the hardening area therefore should be free
from shade to provide the seedlings full exposure to sunlight. To
control the moisture available to plants, it is ideal to elevate the
seedlings by placing them on a structure that prevents the pots from
resting on the ground. A screen or a bed with bamboo slat floor will
serve this purpose. Aside from regulating the moisture available for
seedlings, elevating seedlings will promote aerial root pruning. Root
pruning will prevent the taproot from penetrating into the ground,
which is detrimental when seedlings are lifted for transplanting.
Preventing the growth of long taproot will enhance the development of
root hairs, which are essential for the early stage of seedling
development when outplanted.
Factors Affecting Nursery Establishment

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1. Topography of the land
The topography of land should be plain as far as possible, if undulated it
should be leveled and terrain may be divided into terraces as large as
possible.
2. Soil
The land should be cleared of trees, root thoroughly and deeply cultivated to
a depth sufficient to achieve this and break any hard pan which may be
present. Loam and Sandy loam with humus are best suited soil, so that ball
of earth should not break with while transplanting and plant may not die,
pH of soil should range between 6.5 - 7.5
3. Water
Water must be constantly available in adequate quantity to meet the
continuous need of the nursery. Source of water and its suitability for plant
is paramount importance. Unsuitable water is the main cause of failure of a
nursery. Water should contain total soluble salt not in excess of 1,400 ppm
(approximately 2 million mhos/cm). It is desirable to get the water tested
from some reliable source before selection of site for nursery.
4. Drainage
Proper drainage is very essential. Water should not be stagnant overnight in
any case. Ensure that extra water of nursery area is flushed out immediately
and water from surrounding area should not enter the nursery area.
5. Market
It includes buying and selling both. One must ensure an outlet before
starting a nursery and the produce in the nearby areas. Marketing at
faraway distance will snatch away profit due to high transportation cost
involved beside damage to the plants and other losses in transit.
6. Skills

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In fact, nursery profession is scientific and skillful; it requires green finger
craftsman ship skill. It is necessary to apply judicious mind while deciding
the labour for the nursery operation.
Nursery Maintenance
1. Watering
The most important factor in achieving good success in the nursery is the
availability of sufficient water to ensure optimum growth of the seedlings.
More often than not inadequate watering is the root of pest and disease
problems in the nursery as the seedlings would be at a weaken stage and
therefore more prone to pests and diseases. A good indication of inadequate
watering in the nursery is the incidences of collante and blast disease.
2. Manuring
It is well established that the fertilizer rates for nurseries require
adjustment to varying management practices and according to different soil
types (Hew & Toh, 1973). However, the recommendations and system
described in this paper are based on sandy clay loam, inland soils for
general usage and on conventional fertilizers or controlled/slow release
fertilizers.
Manuring programme based on conventional fertilizer

Fertilizers are not required until one complete new leaf has appeared (4 -5
weeks after planting). Use of conventional fertilizer should preferably be
confined to small nurseries for field plantings of less than 50 ha or areas
with adequate labour.

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3. Fertilizer application
For foliar application, the drenching of the seedlings with foliar
fertilizer solution should be carried out early in the morning or late
afternoon. As far as possible, the whole seedlings should be wetted and no
watering of the seedling should be carried out for the day of application.
For solid application, the compound fertilizer should be weighed to

obtain the correct rates, and calibrated applicators (e.g. scoop, spoon, etc.)
given to the workers to ensure that the correct rates are applied. The
fertilizer should be evenly distributed on the surface of the polybag soil at
least 2-4 cm away from the base of the seedlings. The application of solid
fertilizer should be carried out when the seedlings are dry, i.e. in the
morning before watering, or in the afternoon after the morning watering.
Good supervision of all fertilizer applications is necessary to obtain

full benefits from the inputs.
4. Culling
Culling is one of the most important procedures to be carried out in the
nursery to ensure that only the most uniform and vigorous palms that are
likely to give the highest yields are planted in the field.
Four rounds of culling are recommended during the nursery period. In

addition, a final round of selection should be done just before field planting.
Culling in the pre-nursery stage

Culling at the pre-nursery stage is carried out at month 2 and prior to
transplanting the main nursery at around month 3 to 4.
This is one of the main advantages of the double stage nursery system
where the first stage culling of undesirable palms can be done stringently
and quickly over large number of young seedlings. The main types of

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undesirable seedlings (should be culled) at this stage are as follows: narrow
(grass leaf), rolled leaf, twisted leaf, crinkled leaf, collante and stunted or
weak (runts) palms. Allow for 10 to 20% culling at this stage.
Culling in the main nursery

Culling in the main nursery should be carried out when the seedlings are 7
months and 9 months old while the fronds of neighbouring palms have not
started to overlap and etiolation not set in to mask the runts. The typical
characteristics of abnormal seedlings in the main nursery are as follows: –
Erect, flat top, broad pinnae, narrow pinnae, wide internodes, juvenile (slow
to pinnate), weak and slow growing (runts), crinkled leaf, collante, chimaera,
badly diseased (helminthosporium, curvularia, blast, crown disease) and
palms badly damaged by chemicals.
The final round of selection based on uniformity and vigour should be

carried out just before the seedlings are being loaded onto lorries/tractors
for transport into the field. If planting is delayed the final round of culling
must be carried out before etiolation sets in. Allow for 5 to 10% culling and
selection for the main nursery.
Timely culling rounds will ensure the unnecessary keeping of unwanted

seedlings and reduce costs in the nursery.
5. Recording
Accurate records of discarded seedlings are necessary to ensure that
adequate seedlings are available for field planting and supplies.
6. Pests and Disease Control

This is another important aspect in oil palm nursery management. Pest
infestations and disease infections can cause alarming damage and losses if
not recognized at an early stage and brought under control quickly. Most

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pest and disease problems can be avoided by correct agronomic and
management practices, but where they are unavoidable, early detection and
prompt control measures are crucial.
7. Weeding
Weeds in the nursery area should be eradicated since some weeds may
harbour pests or are hosts for diseases. It is necessary to keep the polybags
completely free of weeds that would compete for nutrients, moisture and
sunlight. Ideally the nursery should be weed-free.
Weeding in the pre-nursery stage

In the pre-nursery where seedlings remain for only 12-16 weeks, very little
weeding is required. When necessary, hand weeding in the inter-bed paths
and within the small polybags should be carried out monthly.
It is generally recommended that all herbicides be avoided at this stage in

view of the fact that any error can lead to serious seedling damages or
losses.
Weeding in the main nursery stage

Mulching with palm kernel shells can greatly suppress the growth of weeds
in the large polybags and any weeds appearing can be quickly and easily
hand-weeded.
However, weeds on the ground and surrounding nursery area should be

eradicated through chemical spraying as and when required. Only contact
herbicides eg. paraquat should be used.
8. Storage of Chemicals and Equipment

The control of chemicals in the nursery is of the greatest importance.
Many instances have occurred of herbicides being incorrectly utilized by
mistaking them for insecticides or fungicides. In view of this problem it is

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strongly recommended that the estate have a separate nursery store and
within the store, herbicides are kept separated from pesticides/foliar
fertilizers in lockable cupboards. It is also important that nursery equipment
used for spraying pesticides and herbicides be also clearly marked and kept
apart in separate storage compartments to avoid costly mistakes of cross
contamination. They should only be used in the nursery. Empty herbicide
and pesticide containers should be discarded and not reused.
9. Measures against heat and cold
The younger seedling is susceptible to strong sun and low

temperature. For protection from strong sun, shading with the help of
timber framework of 1 meter height may be used. Net house and green
house structures can also be used
10. Packing of nursery plants
Packing is the method or way in which the young plants are tied or
kept together till they are transplanted. So they have to be packed in such a
way that they do not lose their turgidity and are able to establish themselves
on the new site. At the same time, good packing ensures their success on
transplanting. For packing baskets, wooden boxes, plastic bags are used. In
some parts of the country banana leaves are also used for packing the
plants with their earth ball. This is useful for local transportation.
12. Management of mother plants
Care of mother plants is necessary so as to get good quality

propagules and scion. A. Labeling and records B. Certification C. Irrigation
D. Fertilization E. Pruning F. Protection from pests and diseases Collection
and development of new mother plants Fruit Nurseries

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Self-Check 1.2-1
Enumeration
1-5. Factors affecting nursery establishment

6-10. Activities in maintaining nursery

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Handle seeds/planting material
Contents:
 Planting materials
 The seed and how to select it
 Seed testing
Assessment Criteria
 Planting materials are determined according to kinds and varieties.

 Quality seeds are selected according to prescribed
characteristics.
 Seed testing is conducted to determine the percentage germination of
the seedstock in accordance with the standard procedures
 Planting materials are treated following standard protocol.
 Seed scarification is performed for germination purposes based on
type of crop.
Assessment Method:
 Oral Interview
 Portfolio assessment
 Demonstration

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Learning Outcome 3
Handle seeds/planting material

on “Planting materials”
Compare answers with the
Answer Key 1.3-1
on “Seed Selection”
Answer Key 1.3-2
on “Pre-germination of seeds”
Answer Key 1.3-3
Accomplish Task Sheet 1.2.1
Trainer evaluates performance
using Performance Criteria
germination of seeds”
Checklist 1.21 and makes
recommendations
on “Methods in breaking seed
dormancy”
Answer Key 1.3-4
Accomplish Task Sheet 1.2.2

10. Watch your trainer on
he/she demonstrate on
“Methods in breaking seed
dormancy”
Checklist 1.2-1 and makes
recommendations

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Planting materials
 determine the different planting materials
Introduction
Availability of planting material of good quality is one of the most
important elements of successful horticultural production. Planting
materials available to small-scale farmers in different areas is often
insufficient quality, which undermines potential yield and performance of
crop production.
Planting Material Definition

Seeds A seed is an embryonic plant enclosed in a protective
outer covering.
2 types of seeds
Rhizome a thickened underground stem that has distinct nodes

and internodes and scaly leaves at the nodes.
(banana, bamboo, sugarcane, ginger)
Tuber horizontal underground stem that becomes enlarged

at its growing tips due to the accumulation of stored
food, commonly starch. E.g. Potato.

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Bulb underground stem that is very small and disk-like
ex. tulips, lilies, garlic, onion
Corm short, vertical, swollen underground stem of a plant

that serves as a food storage organ to enable the plant
to survive adverse conditions. Ex. Gladioulus, gabi,
banana
Runner It grows parallel to the ground and has a creeping

stem with long internodes. On the lower surface, the
nodes give out adventitious roots at regular intervals.
A runner develops from the axils of lower leaves of the
aerial stem
ex. strawberry
Stolon A horizontal branch from the base of the plant that
produces new plants from buds at its tips.
It is similar to a runner but arises from the lower part

of the main axis.
ex. bermuda grass
Sucker Regeneration of plants by shoots that arise from
existing root system.
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These stems are similar to the stolon but it grows
obliquely upwards and gives rise to a new plant
ex. banana, pineapple, chrysanthemums
Cormel miniature corm which develop between old and new

corms
Tuberous roots a thickened root which contain large amount of

stored foods like in cassava, sweet potato
Cormel miniature corm which develop between old and new
corms
Pseudobulb a specialized storage structure consisting of an
enlarged, fleshy section of the stem made up of one to
several nodes.

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Self-Check 1.3-1
Matching Type. Match Colum A that corresponds to Column B.
Column A Column B
1. ginger a. corm
2. garlic b. seed
3. rice c. tuber
4. potato d. bulb
5. gabi e. rhizome
f. sucker

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Answer Key 1.3-1
1. E
2. D
3. B
4. C
5. A

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Seed Selection
 identify the seed structures
 determine the good characteristics of seeds
 classify seeds according to its use
Introduction
Seeds are very important to animals and human beings because

almost all plants which are the sources of food come from seeds. Human
on the other hand, needs clothing, medicine and shelter which also come
from plants.
A seed is a fertilized and ripened ovule which may develop into a plant
by germination. For example, a grain of palay or a kernel of corn is a seed. A
seed has three parts: a) cotyledons (seed leaves) b) plumule (future shoot) c)
radicle (future root).
Structure of Seeds
 Testa: It is the outer coat of the seed that protects the embryonic plant.
 Micropyle: It is a tiny pore in the testa that lies on the opposite of the tip
of the radicle. It permits water to enter the embryo before active
germination.
 Hilum: Is a scar left by the stalk which attached the ovule to the ovary
wall before it became a seed.
 Cotyledon: In some plants, this contains high quantities of starch and
will provide a source of food for the developing embryo prior to
germination, in other plants this role is performed by an endosperm.
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In monocotyledons, there is just one cotyledon whereas
in dicotyledons there are two. Depending on the type of germination
(epigeous or hypogeous) the cotyledons may remain below ground or be
pulled above ground.
 Radicle: This is the embryonic root which will develop into the
primary root of the plant. It is usually the first part of the embryo to
push its way out of the seed during germination.
 Plumule: This is the embryonic shoot. It appears as a bud which will
give rise to the shoot and the remaining structures in the plant.
 Endosperm: In many plants, a separate part for storage of starch
develops and this is called the endosperm. It is seen in maize and
Characteristics of a Good Seed

The quality of seed is an important parameter for obtaining the estimated
production and profit. It should be maintained during all the stages of seed
production. In short the seed should possess good genetical and physical
characters.
It must be:
1. Viable - a viable seed has the capacity to germinate.
2. Fully matured - a mature seed comes from a ripe and mature fruit
which has grown from a healthy plant.
3. Fresh - its germinating power must be preserved.
4. True to type - this means the seeds are not mixed with other
varieties.
5. Free from seed-borne disease
6. Damage-free
7. Free from weed seeds and other foreign matter.
Seed Certification Process
Plant breeders bring about improvement in the various varieties by

importing new genes that fit the conditions better. The improvements
include, disease resistant, high yielding, more attractive, easier to breed, etc.
Once the plant breeder has completed the breeding program and tested the
new material extensively, the seed is then released by the plant breeder into
special procedures for propagation.
Before the variety becomes available for ordinary grower, it goes through
stages of multiplication and certification. According to the stages, there are
four classes of seed.
Breeder Seed

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A small amount of seed is developed and released by a plant breeder as
the source of foundation seed.
Tag color: White
Foundation Seed
Breeder seed is multiplied under supervision of agricultural research
stations and monitored for genetic purity and identity.
Tag color: Red
Registered Seed
Foundation seed is distributed to certified seed growers to be further
multiplied for distribution.
Tag color: Green
Certified Seed
The progeny of registered seed is sold to farmers. During the process of
multiplication, certifying agencies in the state or region of production
monitor the activity to insure that the product meets standards set for
the crops.
Tag color: Blue

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Self-Check 1.3-2
1. Which is NOT a good characteristic of a seed?

A. Viable
B. Free from weeds
C. Mature
D. Damage
2. What is the tag color of certified seeds?

A. Red
B. Blue
C. Green
D. White
3. It is the outer coat of the seed that protects the embryonic plant.
A. Testa
B. Hilum
C. Radicle
D. Epicotyle
4. A classification of seed that is 100% pure.

A. Registered seed
B. Breeder seed
C. Foundation seed
D. All of the above
5. There are five classes of seed.

A. True
B. False
C. Maybe
D. None of the above

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Answer Key 1.3-2
1. D
2. B
3. A
4. B
5. B

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Pre-germination of seeds
 Classify the difference between seed viability and seed testing
 Prepare various viability test
 Compute percentage seed germination
Introduction
Quality plants are produced only from quality seeds obtained from a
reliable dealer. Select varieties to provide the size, color, and growth of plant.
Many new vegetable and flower varieties are hybrids, which cost a little more
than open pollinated types. However, hybrid plants usually have more vigor,
more uniformity, and better production than non-hybrids and sometimes
have specific disease resistance or other unique cultural characteristics.
Some seeds can be stored for several years if stored properly. But it is
advisable to purchase seeds required for a single planting year. The seed
material which does not contain the seeds of any other crop, weed seeds, or
other debris is considered to be good.
Seed Viability
The viability of the seed accession is a measure of how many seeds are
alive and could develop into plants which will reproduce themselves, given
the appropriate conditions.
It is important to know the seeds that are stored in a gene bank will
grow to produce plants. Therefore, they must have a high viability at the
start and during the storage. The viability of seeds at the start of storage will
also determine, within the environmental conditions, the storage life of the
accession.
How should viability be determined?

The most accurate test of viability is the germination test.
Germination test – made under the controlled condition to find out how
many seeds will germinate and produce normal seedlings which could
develop into normal reproductively mature plants.
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Testing the Viability of Seeds
Not all seeds have the ability to germinate due to the following:
a. High moisture- temperature condition prevailing in our country all
year round
b. Long storage - the seeds were kept too long.
c. Immaturity - too immature when harvested.
Testing seeds avoids wasting good seeds. There is no need of replanting;

therefore, allowing uniform germination and maturity of the crop. In other
words, germination tests will save you time, energy, money, and planting
space.
Seed Germination
There are four environmental factors which affect germination: water,
oxygen, light, and heat.
Water: The first step in the seed germination process is the absorption of
water. Even though seeds have great absorbing power due to the
nature of the seed coat, the amount of available water in the
germination medium affects the uptake of water. An adequate,
continuous supply of water is important to ensure seed germination.
Once the seed germination process has begun, a dry period will cause
the death of the embryo.
Light: Light is known to stimulate or inhibit germination of some seed.
The light reaction involved here is a complex process. Some crops
which have a requirement for light to assist seed germination are
Ageratum, Begonia, Browallia, Impatiens, Lettuce, and Petunia.
Conversely, Calendula, Centaurea, annual Phlox, Verbena, and Vinca
germinate best in the dark. Supplemental light can also be provided
by fluorescent fixtures suspended 6 to 12 inches above the seeds for
16 hours a day.
Oxygen: Respiration takes place in all viable seeds. The respiration in
dormant seed is low, but some oxygen is still required. The respiration
rate increases during germination, therefore, the medium in which the
seeds are placed should be loose and well-aerated. If the oxygen
supply during germination is limited or reduced, germination can be
severely retarded or inhibited.
Heat: Favorable temperature is another important requirement for
germination. It not only affects the germination percentage but also
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the rate of germination. Some seeds germinate over a wide range of
temperatures, whereas others require a narrow range. Many seed have
minimum, maximum, and optimum temperatures at which
they germinate. For example, tomato seed has a minimum germination
temperature of 10o Celsius and a maximum temperature of 35 o Celsius.
But the optimum germination temperature is about 25 to 27 oCelsius.
Generally, 18o to 24oCelsius temperature is the best for germination of
many plant seeds.
Why do some seeds fail to germinate in the test?

 Dead – can be identifies because they are usually softening and rot
during the test as a result of attack by bacteria or fungi.
 Dormant/Seed Dormancy – physiological or physical condition of a
viable seed that prevents germination even in the presence of
otherwise favorable germination conditions.
Common methods of seed viability testing

i. Rag-doll method – seeds are arranged in rows and rolled up.
Steps
1. Select 50 full seeds at random to test germination.
2. Arrange seeds in rows of 10.
3. Wet the towel and allow free water to drip off, afterward lay the wet
towel flat and add seeds.
4. Carefully wrap the cloth and also use the trend to tighten the
towel/cloth by wrapping the thread from one end to another.
5. Submerge ragdoll in water for few seconds.
6. Place ragdoll in a safe place to avoid rats and
birds damage.
7. In every 24 hours, repeat the submerging
activity for three to five days
8. After 3-5 days check the number of seeds
sprouted.
9. Calculate germination percentage

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ii. Petri dish method – seeds are placed in absorbent material in the
dish.
Steps
1. Remove a petri dish from its sleeve and a piece
of the filter paper from its box.
2. Place a filter paper in the bottom half of the
petri dish.
3. Put the seeds on the filter paper leaving space
iii. Seedbox method - seeds are sown in previously sterilized soil.
Computing the Percentage of Germination
Percentage (%) of Germination =
After inspecting the seed box, you find that only 85 seeds germinated out of
100 seeds that you have sown. The percentage of germination will be
Percentage of germination =
Percentage of germination = 85%
This means that only 85 percent of the total number of seeds germinated.

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Self-Check 1.3-3
True or False.
1. Quality plants are produced only from quality seeds obtained from a
reliable dealer.
2. Petri dish method is when seeds are arranged in rows and rolled up.
3. Rag-doll method is when seeds are placed in absorbent material in the
dish.
4. Seedbox method is when seeds are sown in previously sterilized soil.
5. Some seeds fail to germinate in the test because it is dead.

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Answer Key 1.3-3
1. True
2. False
3. False
4. True
5. True

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Task sheet 1.3-3
Title: Prepare for the seed viability testing
Given the inputs in seed viability testing, you should be able to
identify and perform the methods of seed viability testing.

Hard copy of the different methods ad procedures in seed viability
testing, CBLM, Record Book, Bond Paper, Ball pen.

1. Identify the methods of seed viability testing.
2. Determine the importance of seed testing.
3. Read the Information Sheet for clarification.
4. Refer to the trainer if encounter difficulties and for more
clarifications.
5. Submit yourself for the written exam.
ASSESSMENT METHOD:
1. Written exam

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CRITERIA YES NO
1. Did you identify the methods of seed viability testing?
2. Did you determine the importance of each method of

seed viability testing
3. Did you read Information Sheet 1.3-3 for clarification?
4. Did you refer to the trainer if encounter difficulties and
for more clarifications?
5. Did you submit yourself for written examinations?

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Methods in breaking seed dormancy
 prepare techniques for breaking different types of dormancy
Introduction
Seed dormancy is a physiological state in which viable seeds will never
germinate even if subjected to favorable conditions. This is a seed
mechanism to maintain the viability over a long period usually by preventing
moisture absorption and some physiological processes. For a germination to
proceed, the state of dormancy must be overcome. Methods of breaking seed
dormancy varies according to species.
Definition:
Behavior Categories
Seed dormancy: physiological or physical condition of a viable seed that
prevents germination even in the presence of otherwise favorable
germination conditions.
Seed Quiescence: condition in which seed cannot germinate because of
unfavorable condition.
Methods used for breaking seed dormancy of agricultural crops
These are briefly described hereunder:
Softening seed coat and other seed coverings: This helps in better
absorption of water and gases, which ultimately leads to better germination
of the seeds. This can be achieved by scarification.
Scarification: Scarification is the process of breaking, scratching,

mechanically altering or softening the seed covering to make it permeable to
water and gases. Three types of treatments are commonly used as
scarification treatments. These include mechanical, chemical and physical.

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a. Physical
i. Hot water scarification
 Drop the seeds into 4-5 times their volume of hot water
with temperature ranging from 77 to 100oC.
 The heat source is immediately removed, and the seeds
soaked in the gradually cooking water for 12 to 24 hours.
Following this the unswollen seeds may be separated from
the swollen seeds by suitable screens.
 The seed should be sown immediately after hot water
treatment.
ii. Warm moist scarification
 The seeds are placed in moist warm medium for many
months to soften the seed coat and other seed coverings
through microbial activity. This treatment is highly
beneficial in seeds having double seed dormancy.
 The hard seeds are planted in summer or early fall when
the soil temperature is still higher, that usually facilitates
germination.
 For instance the stone fruit including cherry,
plum ,apricot and peaches) show increased germination if
planted early enough in the summer or fall to provide one
to two months of warm temperature prior to the onset of
chilling.
b. Chemical
i. Acid scarification
 Dry seeds are placed in containers and covered with
concentrated Sulphuric acid (H2SO4) or HCl in the ratio
of one part of seed to two parts of acid.
 The amount of seed treated at any time should be
restricted to not more than 10kg to avoid uncontrollable
heating.
 The containers should be of glass, earthenware or wood,
non- metal or plastic. The mixture should be stirred
cautiously at intervals during the treatment to produce
uniform results.
 The time may vary from 10 minutes to 6 hours depending
upon the species.
 With thick-coated seeds that require long periods, the
process of scarification may be judged by drawing out
samples at intervals and checking the thickness of the
seed coat. When it becomes paper thin, the treatment
should be terminated immediately.
 At the end of the treatment period, the acid is poured off
and the seeds are washed to remove the acid.
 The acid treated seeds can either be planted immediately
when wet or dried and stored for later planting. Large
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seeds of most legume species, brinjal and tomatoes are
reported to respond simple sulphuric acid treatment.
c. Mechanical
 It is simple and effective if suitable equipment is
available.
 Chipping hard seed coat by rubbing with sand paper,
cutting with a file or cracking with a hammer are simple
methods useful for small amount of relatively large seeds.
 For large scale, mechanical scarifiers are used. Seeds can
be tumbled in drums lined with sand paper or in concrete
mixers containing coarse sand or gravel. The sand gravel
should be of a different size than the seed to facilitate
subsequent separation.
 Scarification should not proceed to the point at which the
seeds are injured and inner parts of seed are exposed.
Stratification: a method of handling dormant seed in which the imbibed

seeds are subjected to a period of chilling to after ripen the embryo in
alternate layers of sand or soil for a specific period. It is also known as moist
chilling

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Self-Check 1.3-4
Multiple Choice. Choose the correct answer.
1. It is a process of breaking, scratching, mechanically altering or

softening the seed covering to make it permeable to water and gases.
A. Scarification
B. Stratification
C. Both A & B
D. None of the above
2. Which of the following is NOT a type of in scarification treatments?

A. mechanical
B. chemical
C. physical
D. none of the above
3. The following are benefits of softening seed coat and other seed
coverings EXCEPT:
A. better absorption of water and gases
B. better germination of the seeds
C. high viability
4. Chipping of hard seed coat by rubbing with sand paper is an example

of ________ scarification.
A. mechanical
B. physical
C. chemical
5. The use of Sulphuric acid (H2SO4) is an example of ________

scarification.
A. mechanical
B. physical
C. chemical

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Answer Key 1.3-4
1. A
2. D
3. D
4. A
5. C

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Task sheet 1.3-4
Title: Prepare for seed scarification
Given the inputs in breaking the seed dormancy, you should be
able to identify and perform the methods of in seed scarification.

Hard copy of the different methods and procedures seed scarification,
CBLM, Record Book, Bond Paper, Ball pen.

1. Identify the methods of seed scarification.
2. Determine the importance of seed scarification.
clarifications.
ASSESSMENT METHOD:
Written exam
Actual Demonstration

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YES NO
CRITERIA
2. Did you identify the methods of seed scarification?
2. Did you determine the importance of each method of

scarification?
3. Did you read Information Sheet 1.3-4 for clarification?
4. Did you refer to the trainer if encounter difficulties and
for more clarifications?

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Prepare growing media
Contents:
 Growing media components and mixture

 Seedbed preparation
Assessment Criteria
 Growing media are prepared according to prescribed mixture and

crop requirement.
 Growing media are placed in prescribed containers according to crop
requirements.
 Containers are arranged and labelled according to varieties/species.
 Seedbed is prepared based on crop species.
Assessment Method:
 Oral Interview
 Demonstration

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Learning Outcome 4
Prepare growing media

on “Growing media
components and mixes”
Answer Key 1.4-1
Accomplish Task Sheet 1.4-1
germination of seeds”
Checklist 1.4-1 and makes
recommendations

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Growing media components and mixes
 Gather growing media components and mix according to the desired
proportion.
 Identify the prescribed containers for growing media
 Prepare seedbed according to crop requirements
Introduction
The purpose of a potting media is to satisfy the needs for good
seedling growth within the limited space of a container and to prepare it for
successful transplanting into the field. The media physically supports a
growing seedling and both stores and supplies nutrients (and trace
elements), water, and air to the root system. The better the media, the better
will be development of a healthy, fibrous root system and subsequently a
better-quality seedling is produced which will survive after outplanting and
commence growth quickly. These features alone impart a financial value to
the use of better potting media which is unfortunately never measured.
There are few natural materials with all the elements required for healthy
root growth so potting media are usually blends of different elements. The
assembly and often production costs of suitable elements are absorbed into
overall nursery expenses so the cost and benefit are not calculated, hence
management has to rely on faith in biological fundamentals when allocating
funds for potting media
Media for Vegetative Propagation
There are several media and media mixtures that are available for use in
propagation particularly for rooting and growing of container plants.
Characteristics for Good Media

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 The growth media should have the following characteristics for good
results.
 The growth medium must be sufficiently firm to hold the cutting in
place during rooting. The volume must be fairly constant when it is
dry or wet.
 It must be sufficiently retentive of moisture so that frequency in
watering can be minimized.
 It must be porous so that excess of water can be drained out.
 The media should be free from weed seeds, pathogens, termites,
nematodes etc.
 The media should be capable or suitable for getting sterilized without
any ill-effects.
Components of Media
Soil: Soil is a very common easily available and

comparatively cheaper medium used in
nursery. The soil contains both organic and
inorganic matters. The organic part is the
residues of living and dead parts of plants,
animals, and microbes. The liquid part of the
soil is the soil solution containing water,
dissolved minerals as well as O2 and Co2. The gaseous portion of the soil is
important to keep the balance of air and water in proper and desired
condition. The texture of the soil depends on the relative proportions of
sand, silt & clay. Depending on three proportions, soils are classified as
Sandy, Loamy Sand, Sandy Loam, Silt Loam, Clay Loam and Clayey soils.
The soil structure refers to the arrangement of their particles in the soil
mass. The nursery soil must have a good texture and structure.
Sand: Sand is the least expensive and most
readily available large particle material. (3)
Quartz sand is most often used in propagation
and should be sterilized by fumigation or
steam-pasteurized before use. (1) Sand is the
heaviest ingredient used in potting mixes
which is good for top-heavy plants that might
blow or tip over, but bad for plants that will be
shipped or moved a lot.

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Sphagnum Moss: Sphagnum peat moss is the
most commonly used soilless medium. It is
widely available and relatively inexpensive.
Pumice: a very lightweight volcanic rock that is

used sometimes to increase aeration and drainage in
potting mixes. It is sometimes used in field plantings
or in container cuttings. Pumice has a fair water
holding capacity. It is not heat treated and so is not
sterile.
Vermiculite: This is the micaceous mineral

which expands significantly when heated.
Chemically it is hydrated magnesium,
aluminum, iron, silicate. When expanded it is
very light in weight. It is neutral in reaction and
has good buffering properties. It is insoluble in
water.
Perlite: This is gray white material having

volcanic origin. It is neutral. It has no buffering
reaction and it contains no mineral nutrients.
Saw Dust: It is a byproduct or waste material

from saw mills. The quantity and quality
depend on the parent wood material. It is mixed
while preparation of media.

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Coco Peat: Coco peat is also used as media. A
mixture of few media is always preferred and
used in commercial nurseries. Many times soil
is one of the main parts for mixtures. Media
must be selected on the basis of the
availability, cost, ease in handling etc. The
media should be procured and stored and kept
ready for use in nursery.
Animal manure. Animal manure properly

applied can provide enough nutrients for crop
development and increase organic matter
levels.
Carbonized rice hull (CRH). It makes the clay

soil porous because of its loose composition
and improves soil structure by increasing bulk
density, water holding capacity, and aeration.
CRH also harbours good bacteria and it serves
as houses for microorganisms. With these
benefits, CRH is a very good potting media for
seed sowing and seeding propagation.
Rice hull: protecting coverings of grains of

rice and are obtained in the rice
manufacturing industry. Rice hulls can be
added to mixes to improve air capacity. It is a
constituent of lower importance.
Compost: made from a variety of locally

available materials, usually a combination
of ingredients that are high in nitrogen and

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carbon. Compost holds water well and provides nutrient. Compost can also
provide natural protection against diseases of the seedlings and roots of
plants due to beneficial organisms that live in well-made compost
General Mixing and handling recommendations

 Test the media pH, total soluble salts (electrical conductivity) and
wettability before use.
 Do NOT make changes to your current growing media without
experimenting first to see if changes may affect your cultural
practices.
 Thoroughly mix components, but do not overmix, especially if a
medium contains vermiculite or plastic-coated slow-release fertilizer.
 Do NOT store media that contains fertilizer for long periods of time,
especially if the media is moist.
 Avoid contamination of components or finished media by keeping
amendments in closed bags or covering outdoor piles.
 Do not allow mixes containing a significant amount of peat moss to
dry out.
Steps in mixing growing media

1. The most popular is a combination of sand, soil, ricehull and compost
in equal proportion. (1:1:1 ration)
2. Prepare the tools and materials needed.
3. Wear Personal Protective Equipment.
4. Measure growing media component in equal proportion.
5. Mix one part of sand, one part of soil, one part of ricehull and on part
compost in equal proportion.
Where to grow seedlings?

In growing seedling, you can choose from the following:
1. Containers - it is arranged and labelled according to plant
varieties/species.
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2. Seedbed – it is prepare based on crop species.
CONTAINERS
Polyethylene bags - durable material

that you can be use multiple times;
Good drainage holes for easy
draining of excess water
Clay pots – usually more attractive

than plastic ones, but dry out fast
and must be watered two times
daily
Plastic containers - excellent

choices for moisture loving plants,
or for those of us who are less than
regular with irrigation.
Seed tray - designed to hold

multiple seeds, starting from
the germination stage, until
the seedlings are ready for
transplantation. It better nutrient
availability for each seed, and
eliminates the need for multiple
plantings
Seed box – it is used for large

seeded crops, flatten

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Wired basket – usually in hanged
and dries out quickly
SEEDBED
Flat beds
 used where water availability is adequate

and there are no drainage problems.
 Soil is thrown into the crop row to mound
up the plants; this is called "hilling-up"
and is done to control in-row weeds,
provide support, and improve drainage.
(Hilling-up only works with plants that
have enough stem height and leaf
clearance to tolerate partial burial.
 Crops like rice, corn, sorghum, beans, and
potatoes are started out on a flat bed;
Raised up Beds/Ridges
 advantageous for clayey soils under high

rainfall or wherever else drainage is likely
to be poor.
 crops are furrow irrigated, raised beds or
ridges are essential so that the water can
flow down the furrows between them.
 Height of raised beds: usually 10-30 cm
high.
 Raised beds usually aren't a good choice
during the dry season, because they dry
out more quickly than flat or sunken

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beds;
Two types of raised beds. Bed A is best suited

to high-rainfall areas. Bed B has a lip around
all 4 sides which helps prevents prevent
water from running off (helpful in drier
conditions).
To achieve its function, growing media used in container nurseries should

be:
1. light-weight,
2. good porosity;
3. well-drained but with good water holding capacity,
4. slightly acidic with good cation-exchange-capacity;
5. able to maintain a constant volume when wet or dry,
6. free of insects, diseases, and weed seeds;
7. low in silt, clay and ash content;
8. easily stored for long periods of time without changes in physical

andchemical properties; and
9. easily handled and blended.
Self-Check 3.4-1
True or False. Write T if the statement is True and F if False.

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1. Growing media physically supports a growing seedling and both stores
and supplies nutrients (and trace elem
2. ents), water, and air to the root system
3. Rice is suitable in raised up beds.
4. Raised beds are used where water availability is adequate and there are
no drainage problems.
5. The recommendation ratio in preparing growing media is 1:1:1.
6. Soil is a very common easily available and comparatively cheaper
medium used in nursery.
Answer Key 3.4-1
1. True

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2. False
3. False
4. True
5. True
Task sheet 3.4-1

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Title: Prepare growing medium
Given the Agricultural Crop Production of farm inputs in
preparing for growing media, you should be able to identify the
importance, components, mixes and procedures for the conduct of
operation.

Hard copy of the procedure in preparing the various concoctions,
CBLM, Record Book, Bond Paper, Ball pen.

1. Identify the components/mixes of growing media.
2. Determine the uses/benefits of growing media.
clarifications.
ASSESSMENT METHOD:
1. Written exam

NC II Issued by:
Page 91 of
PERFORMING 124
Developed by:
NURSERY
CRITERIA YES NO
1. Did you identify the components/mixes of growing
media?
2. Did you determine the uses/benefits of growing
media
3. Did you read Information Sheet 3.4-1 for
clarification?
4. Did you refer to the trainer if encounter difficulties

and for more clarifications?

NC II Issued by:
Page 92 of
PERFORMING 124
Developed by:
NURSERY
Conduct propagation activities
Contents:
 Types of Propagation
 Procedures of plant propagation
 Characteristics of quality seedlings
Assessment Criteria
 Nursery shed is set-up according to plant requirement

 Quality seedlings are selected based on prescribed characteristics.
 Propagation materials are selected according to propagation activity.
 Plant propagation techniques are performed based on recommended
practices.
 Germinated seedlings are maintained until fully established.
 Pricking and thinning of seedlings are performed based on recommended
practices
Assessment Method:
 Oral Interview
 Demonstration

NC II Issued by:
Page 93 of
PERFORMING 124
Developed by:
NURSERY
Learning Outcome 5
Conduct propagation activities

on “Types of Plant
Propagation”
Answer Key 1.5-1
on “Quality of a Good
Seedling”
Answer Key 1.5-2
on “Plant Propagation
Techniques and Procedures”
Answer Key 1.5-3
Accomplish Task Sheet 1.5-1
demonstrate on “Plant Trainer evaluates performance
Propagation Techniques and using Performance Criteria
Procedures” Checklist 1.5-1 and makes
recommendations

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PRODUCTION NC II Issued by:
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Types of Plant Propagation
 Determine the importance of plant propagation
 Identify modes of plant propagation
 Determine merits and demerits of different modes of propagation
Introduction
Propagation is the process of multiplying or increasing the population
of a species and at the same time perpetuating their desirable
characteristics.
Importance of Plant Propagation
1. To multiply or increase the number of plants rapidly
2. To retain the desirable characteristics of mother plant
3. To hasten or improve the bearing age of the plant especially in fruit
trees
4. To prevent the extinction of plant species
5. To produce superior strains and disease-resistant plants that will be
suited to the soil and climate of a place
2 Types of Propagation
1. Sexual Propagation – propagation using seeds and spores
2. Asexual Propagation – propagation using the vegetative parts of the
mother plant
SEXUAL PROPAGATION
A mode of reproduction involving the fusion of female gamete and
male gamete to form a zygote that potentially develops into genetically
distinct offsprings.
Characteristics
 Reproduction of plants with the use of seeds
 Requires union of pollen and egg to produce the seed
 Improvement of plant characters is possible
 May require years to produce the desired seed

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Advantages
1. In some fruit plants, this is the most popular and only method of
propagation
2. Seeds-propagated root stocks are hardy and develop better root
system.
3. Viruses don’t transmit through seeds, thus mostly seedlings are free
from viruses.
Disadvantages
1. Seedlings have a long juvenile period; come into bearing later,
2. Due to segregation of characteristics, the progeny is not true-to-type.
3. It is not economical.
ASEXUAL PROPAGATION
Propagation of new plants from the cell of single parent. Development
of new plant naturally or artificially without the use of seeds.
Advantages
1. Some plants do not bear seed, so this is the only way of propagation
2. Plants are true-to-type, uniform in growth, yielding capacity and fruit
quality.
3. Early return of investment.
4. Advantages of rootstocks can be obtained by budding or grafting
susceptible varieties on resistant rootstock.
5. Plants have restricted growth, thus cultural and harvesting are easy.
Disadvantages
1. Hybridization is not possible
2. Short life span
3. Conservation and storage require a lot of space and are experience.
Types of Asexual Propagation
New plans can be produced from vegetative structures such as roots, stems,
leaves of some plants. The process can be natural or artificial.

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1. Natural vegetative propagation
Natural vegetative propagation ia a process found in herbaceous and

woody perennial plants, and typically involves structural modifications of
the stem, although any horizontal, underground part of a plant (whether
stem, leaf, root) can be contribute to vegetative reproduction of a plant. By
roots: example: tuber, runners, rhizome, bulb, corm, tuber, sucker
 By leaves: some leaves, such as bigonia, have buds on their margins.

These buds have adventitious roots. Usually, when such leaves touch
the ground, new plants develop that grow into dependent plants. They
can be cut and planted into new plants.
 By roots:
o example: dahlia, potato
 Subaerial stem – branches that are arise from the stem which are very
close to the surface of the ground break off from the parent plant and
develop new plants.
Classification:
o Runners – ex. strawberry
o Suckers – ex. chrysantemum
o Offset - ex. water lettuce
o Slips – pineapple
 Underground stem – portion of the stem that is underground

Classification:
o Tubers – ex. potato
o Rhizome – ex. ginger
o Bulb – ex. onion
o Corms – ex. gladiolus

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2. Artificial Vegetative Propagation – is a common practice buds are
present at the margins of the leaves. These bud fall off and grow into new
plants
Artificial propagation of plants includes four main processes:
 Grafting
This process involves joining the shoot system of a plant (known as scion)
to the root system of another plant (known as the stock). The two are
joined where the sizes (diameter) of the scion and stock are very close.
They are both cut diagonally and placed facing each other. They are then
taped and left to heal with time.
o Approach grafting – the rootstock is approach to the scion, while

it is still attached to the mother plant
o Cleft grafting – most popular grafting method in the Philippines.
It is also called “wedge grafting”. In it, scion is inserted into a
cleft of the rootstock.
o Bark grafting – used on flowering and fruit trees. This technique
is applied to rootstock of larger diameter (4 to 12 inches)
o Side-veneer grafting – most popular way of grafting conifers and
usually done on potted rootstock
o Budding – a grafting technique in which a single used from the
desired scion is used rather than an entire scion containing
many buds. Commonly used in citrus plants

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 Cutting – most common method in propagation plants; done through
cutting a vegetative part with few buds and placing it under a favorable
condition until it resembles a complete plant.
o Stem cutting
o Root cutting
 Layering
Stems still attached to their parent plants may form roots where they touch
a rooting medium. Severed from the parent plant, the rooted stem becomes
a new plant. It promotes a high success rate because it prevents the water
stress and carbohydrate shortage that plague cuttings.
o Air layering/Marcotting: rooting is done on the shoot itself when
it is still attached to the mother plant
o Ground/Simple layering – rooting is done in the ground while
the branch is still attached to the mother plant
o Mound layering – rooting is done on the new shoots from
ground level.
o Composite layering – similar to simple layering but several
layers can result from single stem
o Tip layering – similar to simple layering, the difference is the tip
of the branch nearest to the ground is the one buried.

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Self-Check 1.5.1
Multiple Choice. Select the correct answer.

1. The easiest method of artificial propagation.
a. Marcotting
b. Layering
c. Inarching
d. Cutting
2. The implantation of a meristem from another plant to a plantlet is

called:
a. Grafting
b. Budding
c. Micrografting
d. Layering
3. Which grafting method is used to bypass a damaged area of tree

trunk?
a. Approach grafting
b. Bark grafting
c. Inarching grafting
d. Side veener grafting
A farmer wanted to increase the number of mango trees in his farm.

He wants to have 20 trees with the genetic qualities of the parent
plant and another 20 trees with the parent qualities as the root stock
while using another variety as the scion. He also wanted to have 5
trees using 3 different varieties as scion.
4. Which type of plant propagation is reflected in the paragraph above?

a. Sexual propagation
b. Asexual propagation
c. Veneer grafting
d. Tongue grafting
5. Which method of propagation is referred to in the third sentence?

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a. Inarching grafting
b. Bark grafting
c. Splice grafting
d. Saddle grafting
6. In the second sentence, which method of propagation may be used?

a. Mound layering
b. Tip layering
c. Composite layering
d. Air layering
7. The following methods of propagation can be used to achieve what us

needed in the third sentence, EXCEPT:
a. Approach grafting
b. Tongue grafting
c. Root cutting
d. Saddle grafting
8. Using seeds and spores is an example of _______.

a. Sexual propagation
b. Asexual propagation
c. Grafting
d. Layering
9. It is the process of multiplying or increasing the population of a

species and at the same time perpetuating their desirable
characteristics.
a. Multiplication
b. Regeneration
c. Propagation
d. Pollination
10. This process involves joining the shoot system of a plant to the
root system of another plant.
a. Layering
b. Budding
c. Cutting
d. Grafting

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Answer Key 1.5-1
1. D
2. A
3. A
4. B
5. B
6. D
7. C
8. A
9. C
10. D

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Quality of a Good Seedling
 Enumerate the characteristics of a good seedlings
 Identify high seedlings vs low quality seedlings
 Maintain germinated seedlings
Introduction
The quality of seedlings has a profound effect on the growth
performance of planted trees. A low-quality seedling is not worth planting
because it will always produce a low quality tree, even if it is provided with
the appropriate silvicultural treatments and planted in an appropriate site.
Further, the plantation maintenance cost of low-quality seedlings can be
high due to high mortality and more intensive management requirement.
On the other hand, a high-quality seedling provides minimal
plantation cost because of low seedling mortality and the less intensive
management needed. Further, the planting of high-quality seedlings provide
early return on investment because they have more rapid growth, thus
rotation age is shortened. If farmers are particular about choosing the best
germplasm of agricultural crops such as corn and rice, the more that they
should be selective about the quality of tree seedlings to plant. Most
agricultural crops can be harvested in a few months such that any mistake
in the selection and use of germplasm can be rectified in the next cropping
season. Trees, on the other hand, would require several years before they
could be harvested. Thus, the mistake of planting low quality seedlings will
also take several years before this can be corrected.
The following are examples of advantages of high-quality seedlings compared
with low quality seedlings:

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HIGH QUALITY SEEDLINGS LOW QUALITY SEEDLINGS
1. Low Mortality 1. High Mortality
2. Low Plantation Maintenance 2. High Plantation Maintenance
Cost Cost
3. Shorter Ration Period 3. Longer Ration Period
4. High Timber Recovery 4. Low Timber Recovery
5. High Timber Quality 5. Low Timber Quality
The quality of seedling is based on two aspects physical and genetic.

Physical quality is basically reflective of the nursery seedling cultural
practices, and is exhibited by seedling height, root collar diameter, health
and root form. Genetic quality refers to the genetic of seedlings as a result
of practices including the collection of germplasm from selected sources
phenotypically superior seed trees, seed production area and seed orchard
A high-quality seedling has the following characteristics:

1. Grown from seeds or wildlings collected from genetically and
phenotypically superior mother trees or trees from seed production areas
or seed orchards.
2. Healthy, free from diseases and with dark green leaves.
3. Sturdy stem and with relatively large root collar diameter.

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4. Root system that is free from deformities, dense with many fine fibrous
hairs with white root tips.
5. Balanced root and shoot mass.
6. Fully hardened, accustomed to full sunlight and reduced water few
weeks prior to out planting
If any of the seedlings in your nursery are similar to the following

illustrations, you should discard them:
A high-quality seedling must have

healthy root system with many
fibrous roots and be free from
deformities.
Seedlings with root system similar to

illustrations below should not be planted.
Normally, about 20-30% of seedlings raised in the nursery will exhibit poor
physical quality. Accordingly, there should be an allowance of 20-30% more
seedlings than the quantity of seedlings required. Low quality seedlings

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must be discarded and should not be used for field planting. It is more
expensive to maintain a poor quality seedling in the nursery and it is not
worth spending resources for planting low quality seedlings in the field. Poor
quality seedlings will not give high net financial returns of investment.
Maintenance and Hardening of Seedlings

 Water the trays 2x a day, once in early morning and once in early
afternoon until the seedlings have sprouted
 After germination, watering can be done once a day
 Harden the seedlings one week before transplanting by watering every
other day.

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Self-Check 1.5-2
True of False.
1. A high-quality seedling is healthy, free from diseases and with dark
green leaves.
2. Harden the seedlings three week before transplanting by watering
every other day.
3. A high-quality seedling must have poor root system with many fibrous
roots and be have deformities.
4. A low-quality seedling is not worth planting because it will always
produce a low-quality tree, even if it is provided with the appropriate
silvicultural treatments and planted in an appropriate site.
5. A high-quality seedling has sturdy stem and with relatively large root
collar diameter.

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Answer Key 1.5-2
1. True
2. False
3. False
4. True
5. True

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Plant Propagation Techniques and Procedures
 Conduct propagation activities
Introduction
Artificial reproduction/propagation is the creation of new life by other
than the natural means available to an organism. Cutting plants' stems and
placing them in compost is also a form of artificial reproduction. The process of
growing many plants from one plant by man-made methods is called artificial
propagation of plants.
Cuttings
Many types of plants, both woody and herbaceous, are frequently
propagated by cuttings. A cutting is a vegetative plant part which is severed
from the parent plant in order to regenerate itself, thereby forming a whole
new plant.
 Stem Cuttings
Numerous plant species are propagated by stem cuttings. Some can be
taken at any time of the year, but stem cuttings of many woody plants must
be taken in the fall or in the dormant season.
Tip cuttings: Detach a 2 to 6-inch piece of stem, including the terminal bud.
Make the cut just below a node. Remove lower leaves that would touch or be
below the medium. Dip the stem in rooting hormone if desired. Gently tap
the end of the cutting to remove excess hormone. Insert the cutting deeply

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enough into the media to support itself. At least one node must be below the
surface.
Medial cuttings: Make the first cut

just above a node, and the second cut
just above a node 2 to 6 inches down
the stem. Prepare and insert the
cutting as you would a tip cutting. Be
sure to position right side up. Axial
buds are always above leaves.
Cane cuttings: Cut cane-like stems

into sections containing one or two
eyes, or nodes. Dust ends with
fungicide or activated charcoal. Allow
to dry several hours. Lay horizontally
with about half of the cutting below
the media surface, eye facing upward.
Cane cuttings are usually potted
when roots and new shoots appear
but new shoots from dracaena and
croton are often cut off and re-rooted
in sand.
Single Eye: The eye refers to the node.

This is used for plants with alternate
leaves when space or stock material
are limited. Cut the stem about ½-
inch above and ½-inch below a node.
Place cutting horizontally or vertically
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in the medium.
Double Eye: This is used for plants

with opposite leaves when space or
stock material is limited. Cut the stem
about 12-inches above and 12-inches
below the same node. Insert the
cutting vertically in the medium with
the node just touching the surface.
Heel cutting: This method uses stock
material with woody stems efficiently.
Make a shield-shaped cut about
halfway through the wood around a
leaf and axial bud. Insert the shield
horizontally into the medium.
 Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings are used almost exclusively for a few indoor plants. Leaves of
most plants will either produce a few roots but no plant, or just decay.
Whole leaf with petiole: Detach the leaf and
up to 1 ½ inches of petiole. Insert the lower
end of the petiole into the medium. One or
more new plants will form at the base of the
petiole. The leaf may be severed from the new
plants when they have their own roots, and
the petiole reused.
Whole leaf without petiole: This is used for
plants with sessile leaves. Insert the cutting
vertically into the medium. A new plant will
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form from the axillary bud. The leaf may be
removed when the new plant has its own
roots.
Split vein: Detach a leaf from the stock plant.
Slit its veins on the lower leaf surface. Lay the
cutting, lower side down, on the medium.
New plants will form at each cut. If the leaf
tends to curl up, hold it in place by covering
the margins with the rooting medium.
Leaf sections: This method is frequently used with snake plant and fibrous
rooted begonias. Cut begonia leaves into wedges with at least one vein. Lay
leaves flat on the medium. A new plant will arise at the vein. Cut snake
plant leaves into 2-inch sections. Consistently make the lower cut slanted
and the upper cut straight so you can tell which is the top. Insert the
cutting vertically. Roots will form fairly soon, and eventually a new plant will
appear at the base of the cutting. These and other succulent cuttings will rot
if kept too moist.
 Root Cuttings
Root cuttings are usually taken from 2 to 3 year old plants during their
dormant season when they have a large carbohydrate supply. Root cuttings
of some species produce new shoots, which then form their own root
systems, while root cuttings of other plants develop root systems before
producing new shoots.

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Plants with large roots: Make a straight top cut. Make a slanted cut 2 to 6
inches below the first cut. Store cutting about 3 weeks in moist sawdust,
peat moss, or sand at 40 degrees F. Remove from storage. Insert the cutting
vertically with the top approximately level with the surface of the rooting
medium. This method is often used outdoors.
Plants with small roots: Take 1 to 2 inch sections of roots. Insert the
cuttings horizontally about 12 inches below the medium surface. This
method is usually used indoors or in a hotbed.
Layering
The following propagation methods can all be considered types of layering,
as the new plants form before they are detached from their parent plants:
Tip layering: Dig a hole 3 to 4 inches

deep. Insert the shoot tip and cover it
with soil. The tip grows downward
first, then bends sharply and grows
upward. Roots form at the bend, and
the recurved tip becomes a new plant.

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Remove the tip layer and plant it in
the early spring or late fall. Examples:
purple and black raspberries, trailing
blackberries.
Compound layering: This method

works for plants with flexible stems.
Bend the stem to the rooting medium
as for simple layering, but alternately
cover and expose stem sections.
Wound the lower side of the stem
sections to be covered. Examples:
heart-leaf philodendron, pothos.
Mound (stool) layering: Cut the plant

back to 1 inch above the ground in
the dormant season. Mound soil over
the emerging shoots in the spring to
enhance their rooting. Examples:
gooseberries, apple rootstocks.
Air layering: Air layering is used to propagate some indoor plants with thick
stems, or to rejuvenate them when they become leggy. Slit the stem just
below a node. Pry the slit open with a toothpick. Surround the wound with
wet unmilled sphagnum moss. Wrap plastic or foil around the sphagnum
moss and tie in place. When roots pervade the moss, cut the plant off below
the root ball. Examples: dumbcane, rubber tree.

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Simple layering: Bend the stem to the ground. Cover part of it with soil,
leaving the last 6 to 12 inches exposed. Bend the tip into a vertical position
and stake in place. The sharp bend will often induce rooting, but wounding
the lower side of the branch or loosening the bark by twisting the stem may
help. Examples: rhododendron, honeysuckle.
Plants with more than one rooted crown may be divided and the crowns
planted separately. If the stems are not joined, gently pull the plants apart.
If the crowns are united by horizontal stems, cut the stems and roots with a
sharp knife to minimize injury. Divisions of some outdoor plants should be

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dusted with a fungicide before they are replanted. Examples: dahlias, iris,
rhubarb, day lilies.
 Grafting
Cleft grafting: Cleft grafting is often used to change the cultivar or top
growth of a shoot or a young tree (usually a seedling). It is especially
successful if done in the early spring. Collect scion wood 3/8 to 5/8 inch in
diameter. Cut the limb or small tree trunk to be reworked, perpendicular to
its length. Make a 2-inch vertical cut through the center of the previous cut.
Be careful not to tear the bark. Keep this cut wedged apart. Cut the lower
end of each scion piece into a wedge. Prepare two scion pieces 3 to 4 inches
long. Insert the scions at the outer edges of the cut in the stock. Tilt the top
of the scion slightly outward and the bottom slightly inward to be sure the
cambial layers of the scion and stock touch. Remove the wedge propping the
slit open and cover all cut surfaces with grafting wax.
Bark grafting: Unlike most grafting methods, bark grafting can be used on
large limbs, although these are often infected before the wound can
completely heal. Collect scion wood 3/8 to 1/2 inch in diameter when the
plant is dormant, and store the wood wrapped in moist paper in a plastic
bag in the refrigerator. Saw off the limb or trunk of the rootstock at a right
angle to itself. In the spring, when the bark is easy to separate from the
wood, make a 12-inch diagonal cut on one side of the scion, and a 1½-inch
diagonal cut on the other side. Leave two buds above the longer cut. Cut
through the bark of the stock, a little wider than the scion. Remove the top
third of the bark from this cut. Insert the scion with the longer cut against
the wood. Nail the graft in place with flat-headed wire nails. Cover all
wounds with grafting wax.
Whip or tongue grafting: This method is often used for material 1/4 to ½
inch in diameter. The scion and rootstock are usually of the same diameter,
but the scion may be narrower than the stock. This strong graft heals
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quickly and provides excellent cambial contact. Make one 2½-inch long
sloping cut at the top of the rootstock and a matching cut on the bottom of
the scion. On the cut surface, slice downward into the stock and up into the
scion so the pieces will interlock. Fit the pieces together, then tie and wax
the union.
Care of the Graft

Very little success in grafting will be obtained unless proper care is
maintained for the following year or two. If a binding material such as strong
cord or nursery tape is used on the graft, this must be cut shortly after
growth starts to prevent girdling. Rubber budding strips have some
advantages over other materials. They expand with growth and usually do
not need to be cut, as they deteriorate and break after a short time. It is also
an excellent idea to inspect the grafts after 2 or 3 weeks to see if the wax has
cracked, and if necessary, rewax the exposed areas. After this, the union will
probably be strong enough and no more waxing will be necessary.
Limbs of the old variety which are not selected for grafting should be cut
back at the time of grafting. The total leaf surface of the old variety should
be gradually reduced as the new one increases until at the end of 1 or 2
years, the new variety has completely taken over. Completely removing all
the limbs of the old variety at the time of grafting increases the shock to the
tree and causes excessive suckering. Also, the scions may grow too fast,
making them susceptible to wind damage.
Budding
Budding, or bud grafting, is the union of one bud and a small piece of bark
from the scion with a rootstock. It is especially useful when scion material is
limited. It is also faster and forms a stronger union than grafting.
Patch budding: Plants with thick bark should be patch budded. This is done
while the plants are actively growing, so their bark slips easily. Remove a
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rectangular piece of bark from the rootstock. Cover this wound with a bud
and matching piece of bark from the scion. If the rootstock’s bark is thicker
than that of the scion, pare it down to meet the thinner bark so that when
the union is wrapped the patch will be held firmly in place.
Chip budding: This budding method can be used when the bark is not
slipping. Slice downward into the rootstock at a 45 degree angle through
1/4 of the wood. Make a second cut upward from the first cut, about one
inch. Remove a bud and attending chip of bark and wood from the scion
shaped so that it fits the rootstock wound. Fit the bud chip to the stock and
wrap the union.
T-budding: This is the most commonly used budding technique. When the
bark is slipping, make a vertical cut (same axis as the root stock) through
the bark of the rootstock, avoiding any buds on the stock. Make a horizontal
cut at the top of the vertical cut (in a T shape) and loosen the bark by
twisting the knife at the intersection. Remove a shield-shaped piece of the
scion, including a bud, bark, and a thin section of wood. Push the shield
under the loosened stock bark. Wrap the union, leaving the bud exposed.
Care of Buds
Place the bud in the stock. Force the bud to develop the following spring by
cutting the stock off 3 to 4 inches above the bud. The new shoot may be tied
to the resulting stub to prevent damage from the wind. After the shoot has
made a strong union with the stock, cut the stub off close to the budded
area.

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Self-Check 3.5-3
Multiple Choice. Arrange the following in order.
1. The following are steps in cleft grafting:

I. Cut the lower end of each scion piece into a wedge.
II. Prepare two scion pieces 3 to 4 inches long. Insert the scions at the
outer edges of the cut in the stock.
III. Make a 2-inch vertical cut through the center of the previous cut. Be
careful not to tear the bark. Keep this cut wedged apart.
IV. Remove the wedge propping the slit open and cover all cut surfaces
with grafting wax.

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V. Cut the limb or small tree trunk to be reworked, perpendicular to its
length.
VI. Tilt the top of the scion slightly outward and the bottom slightly
inward to be sure the cambial layers of the scion and stock touch.
a. V-III-I-II-VI-IV
b. III-II-VI-IV-I-VI
c. I-II-III-IV-V-VI
d. VI-I-III-IV-V
2. The following are steps in air layering:

I. Wrap plastic or foil around the sphagnum moss and tie in place.
II. Surround the wound with wet unmilled sphagnum moss.
III. Slit the stem just below a node.
IV. When roots pervade the moss, cut the plant off below the root ball.
V. Pry the slit open with a toothpick or a blade.
a. II-III-IV-V-I
b. I-II-III-V-IV
c. III-V-II-I-IV
d. II-IV-V-I-III
3. The following are steps in patch budding:

I. If the rootstock’s bark is thicker than that of the scion, pare it
down to meet the thinner bark so that when the union is wrapped
the patch will be held firmly in place
II. Cover this wound with a bud and matching piece of bark from the
scion.
III. Remove a rectangular piece of bark from the rootstock.
a. III-1-II
b. I-II-III
c. II-I-III
d. III-II-I

CROPS June 2020
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NURSERY
Answer Key 3.5-3
1. A
2. C
3. D

CROPS June 2020
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NURSERY
TASK SHEET 3.5-1
Title: Plant Propagation Techniques and Procedures
Given the Agricultural Crops Production of plant propagation,
you should be able to conduct plant propagation technique.

Hard copy of the procedure in plant propagation, CBLM, Record
Book, Bond Paper, Ball pen.

CROPS June 2020
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NURSERY
Any of the following plant propagation techniques suggested by the trainer
is acceptable in performing this operation.
 Cuttings
 Grafting
 Layering
 Budding
1. Prepare tools and materials use in propagation.

2. Choose a good quality seedling. If grafting, scion and rootstock must
be compatible.
3. Perform the steps and procedures carefully.
4. Place the propagated seedling at the nursey when done.
ASSESSMENT METHOD:
1. Written exam
Performance Criteria Checklist 3.5.1
CRITERIA YES NO
1. Did you identify the tools and materials in
propagation?
2. Did you perform the steps and procedures in plant
propagation?
3. Did you read Information Sheet 3.5-1 for
clarification?

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NURSERY
4. Did you refer to the trainer if encounter difficulties
and for more clarifications?
References
Agricultural Arts for Secondary
Brecht, J.K., M.E. Saltveit, S.T. Talcott, K.R. Schneider, K. Felkey and J.A.
Bartz, 2004. Fresh-cut vegetables and fruits. Hortic. Rev., 30: 185-250.
Wills, R.B.H., B. McGlasson, D. Graham and D. Joyce, 1998. Postharvest:

An Introduction to the Physiology and Handling of Fruit Vegetables and
Ornamentals. 4th Edn., CAB International, New York, USA., ISBN-13:
978-0851992648, Pages: 280.

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NURSERY
Ramon G. Asuncion et al., Agricultural Arts (T.H.E., SEDP, NSEC series)
https://agrivi.com/post/drying-as-a-key-process-in-post-harvest-
technology
https://www.cropsreview.com/direct-seeding.html
https://extension.umaine.edu/gardening/manual/propagation/plant-
propagation
http://www.knowledgebank.irri.org/step-by-step-production/growth/
planting/direct-seeding#wet-direct-seeding

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NURSERY

Coc1 Perform Nursery Operations

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Sector: Agriculture and Fishery

Qualification: Agricultural Crops Production NC II

Unit of Competency: Perform Nursery Operation

Module Title: Performing Nursery Operation

Technical Education & Skills Development Authority

COMPETENCY BASED LEARNING MATERIALS

CBLMS ON Document No.

Welcome to the competency-based learning material for the module:

The unit of competency “Performing Nursery Operations” contains the

You are required to go through a series of learning activities in order to

RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING (RPL)

 Been working in the same industry for some time.

 Already completed training in this area.

If you can demonstrate to your trainer that you are competent in a

A Trainee Record Book (TRB) is given to you to record important dates,

DIRECTIONS FOR USE OF THE CBLM

 Most probably, your trainer will also be your supervisor or manager.

CBLMS ON Document No.

 Talk to more experienced workmates and ask for their guidance.

CBLMS ON Document No.

No. Unit of Competency Module Code

Care and maintain Care and maintain

Carry-out harvest and

CBLMS ON Document No.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: Perform Nursery Operations

MODULE TITLE: Performing Nursery Operations

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to

NOMINAL DURATION: 65 HOURS

CBLMS ON Document No.

CBLMS ON Document No.

1. Proper handling of nursery tools, farm implements and simple

1. Tools, farm implements and simple equipment are prepared according

The participants will have access to:

1. Prepare tools, farm implements and simple equipment according to

CBLMS ON Document No.

Accomplish Job Sheet 1.1.1

CBLMS ON Document No.

1. Bolo is used for cutting of grasses and

CBLMS ON Document No.

3. Pick-mattock is used for digging

4. Grab-hoe is used for breaking hard

5. Spade is used for removing trash or

CBLMS ON Document No.

7. Rake is used for cleaning the

8. Spading fork is used for loosening

9. Light hoe is used for loosening and

CBLMS ON Document No.

11. Hand cultivator is used for

12. Hand fork is for inter row

13. Pruning shears is for cutting

CBLMS ON Document No.

15. Knife is for cutting planting

16. Water pail - for hauling water,

17.Sprinklers – for watering seedlings and

18. Wheel barrow – for hauling trash,

CBLMS ON Document No.

Trigger sprayer Pressure sprayer Knapsack sprayer

20. Sickle and Scythe - a hand-held agricultural tool with a variously

21. Post hole digger - used for digging