R2103 5.2 Describe methods of preventing and ameliorating plant disorders

Question 1

Methods to avoid frost damage

1 needed

Answer 1

1. Overwinter in greenhouse
2. Bring plants in pots inside
3. Use fleece to provide protection
4. Cover tender bulbs, corms and tender plants that die back with a thick layer of mulch e.g. straw
5. Use of a polytunnel to protect early crops

Question 2

Methods to avoid shade problems

1 needed

Answer 2

1. Reduce competition for light by spacing plants out
2. Keep foliage cut back to allow light to reach plants on the floor
3. Keep water levels up as shade gardens can dry out more quickly than sunny sites during extended dry periods
4. Place plants appropriately for light requirements
5. Move plants in pots to where they can get the correct amount of light

Question 3

Methods to avoid drought

Answer 3

1. Keep plants regularly watered

Question 4

Methods to avoid water-logging

1 needed

Answer 4

1. Feed during growing season to encourage good root growth
2. Mulch over root area
3. Improve soil structure - add organic matter and horticultural grit to clay soils
4. Build raised beds with well-drained top soil
5. Install drainage or a soakaway
6. Raise pots on feet to aid drainage
7. Do not over water houseplants or leave then standing in water

Question 5

Methods to avoid high / low temperature problems

1 needed

Answer 5

1. Use of greenhouse and cold frames to keep plants warm in lower temperatures
2. Heated propagator
3. Careful placement of plants e.g. not in full sun or not in cool shaded area - depending on plant species
4. Between Autumn and spring use tree wrap to protect against sunscald
5. Tree paint can reflect light and heat and helps prevent sunscald

Question 6

Methods to avoid lime induced chlorosis

1 needed

Answer 6

1. Test soil pH and grow right plants for soil type
2. Feed affected plants with specialised fertilisers containing chelated iron
3. Use ericaceous compost and grow lime-hating plants in containers

Question 7

Methods to avoid fasciation

1 needed

Answer 7

1. Affected parts of trees and shrubs can be pruned out if needed

Question 8

Methods to avoid rose balling

1 needed

Answer 8

1. Cut off damaged buds and wait for new ones to develop
2. Remove all affected buds as grey mould may develop and cause branches to dies back
3. Dont splash buds when watering
4. Plant is a position that is open and unshaded