HORT320 – Soils and Plant Growth
Module code
HORT320
Module title
Soils and Plant Growth
Prescription
The aim of this module is to develop students ability to understand the various properties of soil and how they effect plant growth.
Programmes
- SX1702
- SX1703
- WB2676
NZQA Level
Level 3
NZQA Credits
6
Delivery method
- Web-Supported
Learning hours
- Total learning hours
- 60
Resources required
- Learning Outcomes
- Describe the influence of soil composition and structure on plant growth
Describe the water properties of soil, and the effects of excess and insufficient water on plant growth
Describe the effects of chemical properties of soil on plant growth
Describe the effects of biological properties of soil on plant growth
Describe the role of fertilisers and lime in plant health and growth
Describe how modifying soil properties in a horticulture sector can influence plant growth and sustainable soil management practices - Content
- - Soil; components, horizons, texture and structure
- Soil suitability for plant growth
- Water effects on soil texture and structure, and effects on plant growth
- Soil nutrient availability
- Macronutrients and micronutrients vital to growth, and effect on plant health and growth
- Common NZ soil nutrient deficiencies
- Organic matter in soil, and soil physical and chemical properties effects on organic matter
- Soil organisms and beneficial micro-organisms, functions and effects on plant growth
- Fertilizer and lime effect on plant growth
- Modifying the physical, chemical and biological properties of soil for plant growth
- Sustainable soil management practices - Teaching and Learning Strategy
- Teaching and learning methods will be face to face delivery including workshops, project based interactive tasks, with group sessions, tutorials, and creation of portfolios of evidence.
- Assessment Criteria
- Assessment in this module is competency-based. In order to pass this module, students must attempt and meet all the requirements of the competency-based assessments including carrying out all tasks in a safe manner and to industry standard.
- Learning and Teaching Resource
- Workshops and projects will be supported with online material via the Wintec Moodle learning site.
An extended reading list will be supplied by the tutor at commencement of the module. This will be updated annually.
