SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Identify and correct nutrient deficiencies in ornamental plants 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
264258  Identify and correct nutrient deficiencies in ornamental plants 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Ornamental Horticulture and Landscape 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation Horticulture 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 3  NQF Level 03  8 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This unit standard does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
A person credited with this unit standard will be able to:
  • Indicate the factors that hamper the availability of nutrients to plants.
  • List the macronutrients and their roles in plant growth.
  • Describe the signs that show a deficiency of macronutrients in ornamental plants.
  • List the fertilisers that can be applied to balance the nutrient content of the soil.
  • Describe the corrective measures to maintain the correct level of macronutrients. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Learners accessing this qualification will have demonstrated competence in:
  • Communication at NQF Level 1 or equivalent.
  • Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 1 or equivalent. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    N/A 

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Describe the factors that affect the availability of macro elements for plants. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Leaching is defined according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    pH is defined according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The effects that a pH has on the availability of certain elements for plants are described in terms of given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The methods of modifying the pH in a soil are explained with regard to the application of appropriate chemical compounds according to procedures. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Identify the macronutrients used by plants and the contributions that they each make to ensure the optimum growth in ornamental plants. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The macronutrients that must be present for optimum growth are listed by name and their chemical symbol according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The function of Nitrogen is described in terms of its role in the formation of organic compounds such as chlorophyll and the speed of a plant's growth. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The function of Phosphorus is described in terms of its role in the plant metabolism for the growth of roots, fruits and seeds according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The function of Potassium is described in terms of its role in cations for the formation of plant tissue and essential enzymes according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The function of Calcium is described in terms of its role in the formation of carbohydrates and the cellular walls of a plant according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The function of Sulphur is described in terms of its role in the formation of plant proteins and for root development according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    The function of Magnesium is described in terms of its role in the formation of chlorophyll according to given theory. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Describe Nitrogen deficiency. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    A plant's indication of a Nitrogen deficiency in the soil is described in relation to the yellowing of its leaves according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The major effects that a Nitrogen deficiency has on the plant is explained in terms of the reduction in its production of chlorophyll and the slowing of its growth rate according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The fertiliser compounds that make Nitrogen available to the plants are listed and the methods of applying these are described in accordance with the company's procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The benefits of applying the appropriate Nitrogen fertiliser is explained in respect of the adjustments in the soil's pH according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The negative aspects of applying an excessive amount of Nitrogen are explained in terms of the vigorous vegetative growth that occurs and the suppression of flower and fruit development. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Describe the signs that plants exhibit when the soil has a Phosphorus deficiency, the effects this has on the plants and the fertilisers that can be applied to restore the balance. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    A plant's indication of a Phosphorus deficiency in the soil is described in relation to the reduction in growth and the lengthening of the fruit maturation period. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The major effects that a phosphorus deficiency has on the plant is explained in terms of the reduction in size of the fruit and seeds and the slowing growth rate. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The fertiliser compounds that make phosphorus available to the plants are listed and the methods of applying these are described in accordance with the company's procedures. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Describe Potassium deficiency. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    A plant's indication of a Potassium deficiency in the soil is described in relation to the yellowing of leaves according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The major effects that a Potassium deficiency has on the plant is explained in terms of the reduction in its production of chlorophyll and the resultant slowing of its growth rate. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The fertiliser compounds that make Potassium available to the plants are listed and the methods of applying these are described in accordance with the company's procedures. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 6 
    Describe the signs that plants exhibit when the soil has a deficiency in one of the lesser macro-nutrients and the fertilisers that can be applied to restore the nutrient balance. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    A plant's indication of a Calcium deficiency in the soil is described in relation to the distortion in the leaf's form and the collapsing of the leaf tissue according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The fertiliser compounds that make Calcium available to the plants are listed and the methods of applying these are described in accordance with the company's procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    A plant's indication of a Sulphur deficiency in the soil is described in relation to the slow growth rate and lengthy period to fruit maturity according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The fertiliser compounds that make Sulphur available to the plants are listed and the methods of applying these are described in accordance with the company's according to procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    A plant's signs of a Magnesium deficiency is described according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The fertiliser compounds that make Magnesium available to the plants are listed and the methods of applying these are described in accordance with the company's procedures. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 7 
    Describe the constituents of general fertilisers and the benefits of using this type of nutrient. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The major constituents of general fertilisers are listed and the reasons why these elements are included is explained in terms of their proportionate use in plant growth according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The bold numeric description of these mixes, as stated on the containers, are explained in terms of the specific ratios of the major elements according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The relevance of the bold percentage rating of these mixes, as stated on the containers, is explained within the context of the amount of fertiliser that has been coated on the carrier pellets according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The reasons why the mass is stated on the fertiliser bags is explained in terms of the determination of the amount of fertiliser that is required to fertilise an area according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The correct storage of fertilisers is described in terms of the environmental conditions that ensure that the constituents remain dry and retain their nutrient value. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 8 
    Indicate the practices that must be implemented to ensure that the correct balance of nutrients is maintained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The "lowest denominator" rule is explained in terms of the detrimental effect that a deficiency of only one of the macronutrients has on the growth and health of a plant according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The necessity of conducting regular soil analysis is explained within the context of determining the quantity of each macronutrient that the soil requires for optimum growth according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The importance of following an annual or seasonal fertilising schedule is explained in terms of the timeous replenishment of the nutrients before a deficiency arises according to given theory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The benefits of utilising fertigation to apply the fertilisers are described in respect of the frequency of applications and low rates that are possible with this method of fertilising. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The necessity to monitor the soil's water content and to schedule the irrigation accordingly, is explained in terms of the potential loss of nutrients that can occur through leaching. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The importance of monitoring the pH of the soil is explained in terms of the effects that an imbalance of the pH levels has on the availability of certain elements for plants. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against the qualification must be registered as an assessor with the relevant Education, Training, Quality, Assurance (ETQA) Body, or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this qualification must be accredited as a provider with the relevant Education, Training, Quality, Assurance (ETQA) Body, or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant Education, Training, Quality, Assurance (ETQA) Body, or by an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA, according to the ETQA's policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation.
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments, unless ETQA policies specify otherwise. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described in the associated unit standards.
  • Anyone wishing to be assessed against this qualification may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that is accredited by the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    Embedded knowledge is reflected in the Assessment Criteria for each Specific Outcome. 

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    The learner is able to identify and solve problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made by:
  • Recognising the various symptoms that indicate a nutrient deficiency in the soil. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    The learner is able to organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively by:
  • Following an annual or seasonal fertilising schedule to ensure the timeous replenishment of the nutrients before a deficiency arises. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    The learner is able to communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentation by:
  • Participating with others in the monitoring of the chemical content of the water that is used for irrigation. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    The learner is able to use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others by:
  • Conducting regular soil analysis to determine the quantity of each macronutrient that the soil requires for optimum growth. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    The learner is able to demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognizing that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.

    Evident in all Specific Outcomes. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO CONTRIBUTING 
    The learner is able to contribute to the full personal development of themselves and the social and economic development of the society at large.

    Evident in all Specific Outcomes. 

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this unit standard was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    N/A 

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Core  66649   National Certificate: Landscaping  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  AgriSETA 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.