Lawns etc

Question 1

methods of sowing hardy annuals outdoors (3)

Answer 1

1. Broadcast seeds evenly over the surface of the ground and then lightly rake in.
2. Sow in Drills by drawing out a drill to a depth of 1-2cm and sowing the seed evenly along the drill. The drill is covered by drawing the soil back over the drill with the back of a rake and tamping it down.
3. Station Sow by making a hole to the correct depth (according to the seed size) using a dibber, placing 1-3 seeds in each hole before replacing the soil over each hole and firming it.

Question 2

name some hardy annuals

Answer 2

1. Calendula officinalis
2. Helianthus annuus
3. Nigella damascena
4. Tropaeolum majus
5. Ammi majus
6. Limnanthes douglasii
7. Papaver rhoeas
8. Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’
9. Cosmos bipinnatus

Question 3

Describe the symptoms of powdery mildew on herbaceous perennials (3)

Answer 3

1. produces white, dusty spreading patches of the fungus on the upper and lower surfaces of the leaf, flowers and buds.
2. Plant tissue can become stunted and distorted.
3. The infection can cause the infected plant parts to turn a purple-brown colour

Question 4

Describe the symptoms of grey mould on herbaceous perennials (2)

Answer 4

1. a fuzzy-grey/brown mould which affects soft plant tissue, leaves and flowers and can spread rapidly where there is high humidity.
2. The disease causes a slimy rot and death of the plant

Question 5

name some herbaceous perennials suitable for growing in a herbaceous border.

Answer 5

1. Alchemilla mollis
2. Astrantia maxima
3. Anemone x hybrida
4. Polygonatum x hybridum
5. Achillea filipendulina
6. Rudbeckia fulgida
7. Echinacea purpurea
8. Hakonechloa macra
9. Stipa tenuissima
10. Briza media
11. Eupatorium purpurea
12. Verbena bonariensis
13. Anthriscus sylvestris “Ravenswing’

Question 6

What is a climber

Answer 6

a plant which has modifications/adaptations which enable it to climb e.g. twining stems, tendrils or twisting leaf petioles

Question 7

what is a wall shrub

Answer 7

a woody plant, sometimes with fairly lax growth habit, which requires training to grow by a wall. It benefits from the microclimate provided by the wall and may also be grown there for decoration

Question 8

examples of climbers (6)

Answer 8

1. Clematis montana
2. Hedera helix
3. Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris
4. Jasminum officinale
5. Wisteria sinensis
6. Lonicera japonica

Question 9

examples of wall shrubs

Answer 9

1. Argyrocytisus battandieri
2. Pyracantha sp.
3. Garrya elliptica
4. Coronilla valentina

Question 10

Materials for mulching an alpine or rock garden (3)

Answer 10

1. Limestone chippings
2. Granite chippings
3. Grit or gravel 2-10mm in size

Question 11

Maintenance prior to mulching an alpine or rock garden (5)

Answer 11

1. Weed with a hand fork
2. Trim/shape plants as required
3. Removal of dead, diseased or damaged plant material
4. Restore any eroded soil levels
5. Resetting displaced rocks

Question 12

method of mulching alpine/rock garden (4)

Answer 12

1. Ensure layer of mulch is even
2. 15-30mm depth
3. Lift up carpeting leaves and place mulch underneath them, up to their collar
4. Avoid getting mulch on the crown of plants

Question 13

name some alpine or rock garden plants for summer display

Answer 13

1. Armeria juniperifolia
2. Dianthus alpinus
3. Erinus alpinus
4. Helianthemum nummularium
5. Lewisia cotyledon
6. Phlox douglasii
7. Sempervivum arachnoideum
8. Linaria alpinus

Question 14

name some alpine or rock garden plants for spring display

Answer 14

Raoulia hookeri
Pulsatilla vulgaris
Primula rosea
Oxalis adenophylla
Alyssum serpyllifolium

Question 15

what is a marginal plant? (4)

Answer 15

1. These are plants that grow in shallow water with water over the crown of the plant.
2. The roots are fully submerged and the foliage is above the level of the water.
3. The plants are either planted in containers or planted in soil in a natural pond.
4. Marginal plants are planted on the first shelf of a pond

Question 16

name some marginals

Answer 16

Iris pseudacorus
Myosotis scorpioides
Pontederia cordata
Ranunculus flammula
Caltha palustris

Question 17

name some bog plants

Answer 17

Gunnera manicata
Osmunda regalis
Primula denticulata
Primula japonica
Rodgersia pinnata

Question 18

characteristics of a growing media suitable for a marginal plant (2)

Answer 18

1. needs to be heavy
2. loam based which is low in organic matter and nutrients, especially nitrogen to avoid algal bloom.
3. Garden soil could be used but must be free from fertiliser, pesticides, weeds and pests and diseases

Question 19

characteristics of a growing material suitable for bog plant

Answer 19

find out

Question 20

describe how you would aerate a high quality lawn (5)

Answer 20

1. Aeration should take place during spring or autumn
2. using a range of equipment e.g. fork, hollow tine fork, aerator with a spike, slit or hollow tine.
3. Aeration is carried out to a depth of 50-100mm and spacing of 100- 200mm of the tines.
4. Where hollow tines are used a core of soil is removed from the lawn.
5. When using the aerator the spacing between holes should be 0.5m

Question 21

Describe how to control weeds in a high quality lawn (4)

Answer 21

1. hand weeding using a daisy grubber, spade or fork to remove all the roots. can be done whenever needed
2. hand weeding can be carried out in conjunction with feeding, aerating and scarifying the lawn.
3. The use of a selective herbicide e.g. 2,4-D or mecoprop can be used to control weeds in lawns by applying it as a spray to the whole lawn or as a spot treatment.
4. It is often incorporated in a lawn feed which is applied during spring or autumn.

Question 22

liners used in hanging baskets (4)

Answer 22

sphagnum moss
pre-formed coir matting
hessian
moulded cardboard

Question 23

compost and compost additives used in hanging baskets (5)

Answer 23

1. multi-purpose compost
2. John Innes No. 2
3. water retaining gels e.g. Swellgel
4. controlled release fertiliser e.g. Osmocote plugs
5. reservoir to hold water e.g. a plastic saucer

Question 24

seasonal hanging baskets - plants for summer display (6)

Answer 24

Lobelia erinus
Pelargonium zonale
Impatiens walleriana
Helichrysum petiolare
Petunia (Easy Wave Series) Easy Wave Blue
Lysimachia nummularia
Fuchsia 'Thalia'
Salvia splendens

Question 25

seasonal hanging baskets - plants for winter display

Answer 25

``` Hedera helix ‘Glacier’ Viola x wittrockiana Erica carnea Gaultheria procumbens (teaberry) Narcissus ‘Tête-à-tête’ Cyclamen hederifolium Carex oshimensis Ajuga reptans (bugle) Buxus sempervirens (container) Crocus chrysanthus ```

Question 26

situations where bulbs and corms can be naturalised, with examples (4)

Answer 26

 Lawn e.g. Narcissus pseudonarcissus  Meadow e.g. Fritillaria meleagris  Rock Garden e.g. Scilla siberica  Woodland/Under trees e.g. Cyclamen hederifolium

Question 27

describe methods for naturalising bulbs ( 6 and 5)

Answer 27

1. In a lawn, Narcissus bulbs can be distributed 'naturally' by throwing 2. planted at a depth three times the bulb's height of the bulb, 3. using a bulb planter or a spade. 4. The bulbs are spaced approx the width of the bulb. 5. The bulbs are placed in the holes ‘nose up’ 6. the soil is replaced and firmed and then the turf is replaced. 1. Narcissus pseudonarcissus can also be planted by removing a section of turf and rolling it back. 2. The soil is prepared and the bulbs are distributed by scattering them. 3. Holes three times the depth of the bulb are made using a trowel or spade. 4. The bulbs are placed in the holes ‘nose up’ and covered with soil. 5. The turf is rolled back and firmed.

Question 28

examples of cluster flowered roses (floribunda)

Answer 28

Rosa ‘Iceberg’ Rosa ‘Golden Wedding’ Rosa ‘Queen Elizabeth’

Question 29

examples of large flowered roses (Hybrid Tea)

Answer 29

Rosa ‘Peace’ Rosa ‘Blue Moon’ Rosa ‘Alec’s Red’

Question 30

describe the symptoms of Rose Powdery Mildew (2)

Answer 30

1. grey/white growth mainly on the upper side of the leaves and buds but can affect all aerial parts of the plant 2. Flowering is poor and there is reduced vigour of the plant

Question 31

describe the symptoms of rose black spot (4)

Answer 31

1. black/purple spots on the leaves and stems 2. As the disease develops the black spots on the leaves are ringed with yellow 3. Ultimately the leaves turn yellow and fall prematurely 4. plant vigour is reduced

Question 32

factors to consider in the selection of a container for growing alpine plants (5)

Answer 32

1. Weight - light enough to be moved but heavy enough to avoid it being blown over 2. Drainage - to prevent waterlogging 3. Appearance – to suit the site and the plants 4. Material – natural stone e.g. sandstone or limestone which is aesthetically pleasing 5. Size – need a broad top for the display of alpines and not very deep as alpines are not deep rooting

Question 33

alpine or rock garden plants suitable for a container (6)

Answer 33

``` Armeria juniperifolia Draba aizoides Pulsatilla vulgaris Raoulia hookeri Saxifraga paniculata Sempervivum arachnoideum ```

Question 34

name some floating aquatic plants

Answer 34

Stratiotes aloides Hydrochaeris morsus-ranae Pistia stratiotes

Question 35

name some deep water aquatic plants

Answer 35

Nymphaea alba Nuphar lutea Aponogeton distachyos

Question 36

describe a method for dividing aquatic plants (4)

Answer 36

1. The container is lifted from the pond or the plant is carefully dug out of the pond, avoiding damage to the butyl or plastic liner. Personal care must be taken if the plant is in deep water. 2. Remove the plant from the container. If roots are protruding from the container they may need trimming or teasing through the mesh sides. 3. Compost/soil is removed from the roots before separating/cutting the plant into sections of a suitable size with good proportion of growing point and some roots. 4. trim roots and leaves, keeping most healthy and vigorous sections of the plant

Question 37

suitable grasses for a high quality ornamental lawn

Answer 37

Festuca rubra subsp. commutata | Agrostis capillaris

Question 38

``` high quality ornamental lawn maintenance: summarise mowing (3) ```

Answer 38

1. the removal of excess grass growth to a height of 1cm in summer and 2cm in winter. 2. This is usually carried out with a cylinder mower which will also collect the grass clippings. 3. Edges should be trimmed using long handled edging shears.

Question 39

``` high quality ornamental lawn maintenance: Summarise scarification (4) ```

Answer 39

1. carried out to remove the debris (thatch) e.g. weeds and moss in the lawn. 2. Scarification also encourages the production of side shoots (tillers) at the base of the grass. 3. It can be carried out using a spring tine rake or with a pedestrian operated mechanised scarifier. 4. It is usually carried out in two directions.

Question 40

``` high quality ornamental lawn maintenance: Summarise Aeration (3) ```

Answer 40

1. the removal of a core of soil or making holes in a lawn to improve drainage and air movement in the soil 2. This is achieved by using a garden fork and inserting the tines up to 7.5cm into the soil at 0.5m distances. 3. Alternatively a hand held aerator with hollow tines can be used for small areas and a mechanised one for larger areas.

Question 41

high quality ornamental lawn maintenance: | Summarise Top Dressing (4)

Answer 41

1. carried out after aeration to encourage the grass to produce tillers. 2. It consists of 70:30 sand:loam for a light soil and 80:20 for a heavy soil. 3. It is distributed over the turf with a shovel at a rate of 2-4kg/m2 4. and then worked in using a tru-lute or a besom broom.

Question 42

what is meant by the term 'edging', in seasonal bedding schemes plus examples

Answer 42

A single or double row of plants positioned to frame a display which are usually lower in height than the main ground work ``` Viola x wittrockiana Lobelia erinus Begonia semperflorens Cineraria 'Silver Dust' Gazania 'Kiss Bronze' ```

Question 43

what is meant by the term 'Groundwork (infill)', in seasonal bedding schemes plus 4 examples

Answer 43

The main planting within the scheme, uniform in height which is greater than the edging. The plants are grown for their flowers/colour of flowers Pelargonium "Horizon Scarlet' Salvia splendens Tagetes erecta Erysimum cheiri

Question 44

what is meant by the term 'Dot', in seasonal bedding schemes plus 4 examples

Answer 44

plants which are positioned to break up the effect of the groundwork and are usually taller in height. They are often foliage plants to provide a focal point or architectural interest ``` Ricinus communis Canna indica Fuchsia ‘Thalia’ Abutilon pictum 'Thompsonii' Heliotrope arborescens Cornus alba Buxus sempervirens (for a box ball) Taxus baccata (yew cone) ```

Question 45

factors which need to be considered when planting a bare rooted herb. perennial. (8)

Answer 45

 Plant from March to early May or late September to October  Do not allow roots of plants to dry out during planting  The root ball may need soaking prior to planting  Trim roots and any damaged material prior to planting  Prepare an appropriate sized planting hole  Remove roots of weeds entangled within the root system prior to planting to avoid spread  Spread out roots when planting  Plant at same level as ‘nursery mark’ and firm well

Question 46

herbaceous perennials suitable for use as ground cover

Answer 46

``` Alchemilla mollis Bergenia cordifolia Epimedium perralderianum Geranium macrorrhizum Lamium maculatum Persicaria affinis Gallium odorata Asarum europaeum Ajuga reptans (bugle) Geranium macrorrhizum Symphytum ibericum (Iberian comfrey) ```

Question 47

ameliorants which can be incorporated into the soil at the time of planting a bare rooted tree (4)

Answer 47

 Well-rotted farm yard manure, garden compost or leaf mould  Grit to improve drainage  Mycorrhizal fungi  Fertiliser e.g. Growmore for use as a base dressing

Question 48

method of staking a root balled tree (5)

Answer 48

1. The use of a single short stake 2. inserted at an angle of 45° to avoid damage to the rootball 3. facing into the prevailing wind 4. and tied with a buckle tie and spacer. 5. Alternatively double or triple stakes can be used with tree bands or double stakes with a cross bar and a tree tie and spacer

Question 49

trees suitable for a domestic garden

Answer 49

``` Sorbus ‘Joseph Rock’ Amelanchier x grandiflora ‘Ballerina’ Malus x zumi ‘Golden Hornet’ Acer griseum Prunus x subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’ Cercis canadensis ‘Forest Pansy’ Cornus kousa ```

Question 50

Describe the process of trimming during the routine maintenance of alpine or rock garden plants (4)

Answer 50

 Timing e.g. after flowering or at the start of the growing season  Reasons e.g. maintain shape of plant, i.e. reduce size or spread  Removal of spent flowers, diseased or damaged plant material  Position of cuts e.g. just above a node or near the base of previous season’s growth

Question 51

alpine or rock garden plants for spring display

Answer 51

Pulsatila vulgaris Phlox subulata Aubrieta deltoidea Gentiana verna

Question 52

alpine or rock garden plants for summer display

Answer 52

Sempervivum arachnoideum Helianthemum nummularium Sedum spathulifolium ‘Cape Blanco’ Leontopodium alpinum

Question 53

garden pool maintenance tasks: | control of invasive pond weeds (5)

Answer 53

1. Myriophyllum aquaticum or Crassula helmii can be controlled at any time of the year but especially in the autumn. 2. This can be completed by pulling them out by hand, ensuring that the weed is not broken up into small pieces 3. it must be left at the side of the pool for 24 hours to allow pond life to re- enter the pool 4. Containers can be lifted or plants removed from the container to enable weed to be removed. 5. Blanket weed can be removed with the use of a rake by winding it around the handle and leaving the weed at the side of the pool.

Question 54

garden pond maintenance tasks: | netting (3)

Answer 54

1. Plastic netting with small mesh can be positioned safely and securely just above the level of the water during late summer to autumn to prevent fallen leaves from trees entering the pool. 2. need to be cleared regularly. 3. will also prevent access to the pool to predators e.g. herons

Question 55

aquatic plants suitable for growing in a garden pond

Answer 55

``` Nuphar lutea Stratioides aloides Caltha palustris Mentha aquatica Iris laevigata Juncus effusus Nymphaea ‘Pygmaea Helvola’ ```

Question 56

method of seeding a new lawn (excl. seed bed prep) (4)

Answer 56

1. Seed is sown evenly at a rate of 35g/m2 (range of 25- 50g/m2) 2. broadcast in two directions 3. after dividing the amount of seed in half 4. It can also be sown using a cyclone spreader before being lightly raked in

Question 57

suitable grasses for a utility/hard-wearing lawn

Answer 57

Lolium perenne | Poa pratensis

Question 58

symptoms of fairy rings (3)

Answer 58

1. an irregular ring of dead grass gradually expanding across the turf. 2. Immediately adjacent to the dead grass, the grass may be greener than usual. 3. Crops of brown toadstools will be present at specific times of the year

Question 59

control of fairy rings (3)

Answer 59

1. can be controlled by aeration of the dead patches of grass 2. and the application of wetting agents to break up the water repellent properties of the fungal colony 3. can also dig out and replace soil to a depth of 30cm

Question 60

symptoms of red thread (2)

Answer 60

1. Patches of infected grass have a light brown or bleached appearance 2. A reddish tinge develops as the fungal growth occurs on the blades of grass.

Question 61

control of red thread

Answer 61

1. Red thread can be controlled by improving the fertility of the soil with applications of nitrogen fertilisers. 2. Drainage can be improved by aeration and scarification in the autumn. 3. A fungicide e.g. trifloxystrobin can also be used.

Question 62

symptoms and control methods for powdery mildew (disease) on bedding plants

Answer 62

1. a fungal disease which appears as a white/grey dusty coating on the leaves/stems and flowers. 2. It can be controlled by the use of a fungicide e.g. tebuconazole 3. removing infected parts of the plant 4. and effective irrigation to prevent drying at the roots.

Question 63

symptoms and control methods for powdery mildew (disease) on bedding plants (4)

Answer 63

1. a fungal disease which appears as a white/grey dusty coating on the leaves/stems and flowers. 2. It can be controlled by the use of a fungicide e.g. tebuconazole 3. removing infected parts of the plant 4. and effective irrigation to prevent drying at the roots.

Question 64

symptoms and control methods for Grey mould (disease) on bedding plants

Answer 64

1. a fungal disease which appears as fluffy grey spores on all soft tissue of the plant 2. It develops rapidly into a slimy rot 3. It can be controlled by the reduction of overhead irrigation 4. and ensuring there is adequate air circulation.

Question 65

methods of irrigation for bedding plants (4)

Answer 65

Overhead sprinklers watering can with a fine rose hose with a lance low level seep hose

Question 66

soil preparation for an herbaceous border: | methods of cultivation (4)

Answer 66

1. Single/double digging or rotary cultivation carried out either in the autumn or spring 2. followed by raking to break down the surface lumps 3. then consolidated 4. before creating a coarse tilth prior to planting

Question 67

soil preparation for an herbaceous border: | materials added during cultivation

Answer 67

``` Well-rotted farmyard manure garden compost spent mushroom compost lime or grit to improve drainage leaf mould ```

Question 68

soil preparation for an herbaceous border: | materials added during cultivation (5)

Answer 68

``` Well-rotted farmyard manure garden compost spent mushroom compost lime or grit to improve drainage leaf mould ```

Question 69

what is a general pruning task which can be carried out for all shrubs

Answer 69

removal of the 3D’s i.e. dead, diseased and damaged material or removal of crossing or rubbing branches or to restrict the size of the plant.

Question 70

name a spring flowering shrub | and method of pruning (4)

Answer 70

Forsythia x intermedia 1. grown for spring flowering 2. pruned in April to May, directly after flowering 3. removing some branches back to the base 4. reducing the length of some branches to maintain a natural shape

Question 71

name a summer flowering shrub | and method of pruning (3)

Answer 71

Buddleja davidii 1. grown for summer flowering 2. pruned in February to March 3. cutting back all stems to within 5cm of the old wood in a ‘stagshorn’ shape

Question 72

name a shrub for winter stem interest

Answer 72

``` Cornus alba Salix alba 1. grown for winter stem interest 2. pruned in March to April 3. by stooling i.e. cutting all stems back to 5cm from their point of origin ```

Question 73

characteristics of a suitable growing media for alpine or rock garden plants in containers

Answer 73

``` Free draining well aerated low in nutrients moisture retentive suitable pH for the chosen plants free from pests and diseases and weeds stable i.e. not ‘slumping’. ```

Question 74

name the different plant groups, for different situations within a pond

Answer 74

``` Deep water floating oxygenators marginal bog garden plants ```

Question 75

name some oxygenating aquatic plants

Answer 75

Myriophyllum verticillatum | Lagarosiphon major

Question 76

how to control blanket weed in a pond (4)

Answer 76

1. ‘twirling’ it around a cane or the handle of a rake and leaving it at the side of the pond initially to allow any wildlife to return to the pond. 2. Float a bale of barley straw in a mesh bag in the pond 3. Approximately 50g of straw per m2 of water surface area. 4. The straw is added to the pond in spring and is removed after six months when it has turned black.

Question 77

ideal month/s for scarifying

Answer 77

March – April & September - October

Question 78

ideal month/s for feeding with a high nitrogen fertiliser

Answer 78

March - August

Question 79

ideal months for feeding with a balanced fertiliser

Answer 79

March & September - October

Question 80

ideal month/s for mowing

Answer 80

March - September

Question 81

ideal month/s for Aerating

Answer 81

April – June & September - October

Question 82

ideal month/s for Top Dressing

Answer 82

March – April & September - October

Question 83

ideal month/s for Weed control

Answer 83

March – April & September - October

Question 84

ideal month/s for Mole control

Answer 84

February - June

Question 85

ideal month/s for Control of Fusarium Patch

Answer 85

September - November

Question 86

ideal month/s for Control of pests e.g. Leatherjackets

Answer 86

July - September

Question 87

what is a true alpine?

Answer 87

Alpines are plants that grow at high altitude above the tree line. Alpines may be deciduous or evergreen woody plants, herbaceous plants, bulbs, corms or tubers. They are hardy, adapted to survive in extremes of climate, and compact with few over 15cm (6in) tall. Their low habit reduces their wind resistance and helps them to resist the crushing weight of heavy snow in winter. In alpine regions, plants experience very high levels of sunshine and wind. Their cushion or mat-forming habit and their small, fleshy, hairy or leathery leaves cut down water loss in high winds and hot sun.

Question 88

what are rock garden plants

Answer 88

- Rock plants are slow-growing plants of relatively small size, suitable for growing in rock gardens. - They include dwarf trees and shrubs, architectural plants and many plants that are not from alpine regions. - Some such as Armeria maritima (thrift) occur in coastal habitats while many miniature bulbs are native to sunny Mediterranean hillsides. - In common with true alpines they share the need for a free-draining soil and are therefore suitable to plant with alpines.

Question 89

what is a deep water aquatic plant?

Answer 89

1. water 30-90cm deep 2. as well as ornamental value, their floating leaves also help to reduce algae by cutting down the amount of light entering the pond. 3. plants will drown and die if the planting depth is not suitable for their size and vigour so that the leaves and flowers reach the surface 4. In all but large informal ponds, the growth of deep-water plants needs to be controlled by root restriction, and regular division

Question 90

what is a floating aquatic plant?

Answer 90

1. foliage that floats on the surface of the water. 2. They are are essential to maintain clear water. By blocking out a proportion of sunlight, they help prevent the growth of algae which only thrive in well-lit water. 3. provide shade and shelter for pond life. 4. absorb their nutrients from the water through fine roots which hang suspended from leaf clusters or rosettes that float on the surface. 5. Avoid invasives.

Question 91

what is a marginal plant

Answer 91

1. at approx 30cm of water

Question 92

what is a marginal plant

Answer 92

1. approx 30cm of water, with their crown submerged but foliage above water. 2. Ornamental pools usually include a shelf to accommodate marginal plants. Natural and wild-life pools will have sloping sides where marginals can be grown. 3. Marginals are valuable when used in an informal pond to soften the edges and break up the outline of the pond. 4. In a wild-life pool, marginal plants provide cover for wildfowl and other small creatures such as aquatic insect life.

Question 93

what are bog plants

Answer 93

1. bog plants thrive in waterlogged soil and can withstand occasional flooding. 2. They must not dry out. 3. Bog plants are planted directly into the soil and they like a soil rich in organic matter, so fallen leaves will add to the nutrient levels and structure of the soil.

Question 94

what is an F1 hybrid

Answer 94

1. By crossing selected plants with different but desirable characteristics, you can produce a plant that has the best features of both parents. 2. F1 hybrids are produced by crossing two stable seed lines (called inbred lines). The inbred lines are the critical part of F 1 hybrid production. 3. Inbreeding is allowing plants with very similar characteristics to cross-pollinate and set seed repeatedly. After several generations, you will have a population of very similar plants. 4. eg, for a short red cosmos, create a pure-bred line of tall red cosmos and a pure-bred line of short pink cosmos. When these two lines cross the result is a short red cosmos. This is the F1 hybrid. (first filial generation). 5. Inbred lines lack vigour and perform poorly and are difficult and expensive to maintain

Question 95

what is hybrid vigour? (2)

Answer 95

1. When two inbred lines are crossed, the F1 hybrid – the first filial generation, is uniform in characteristic and shows hybrid vigour, such as large flowers or fruit. 2. F1 hybrids are usually annual plants and vegetable cultivars.

Question 96

examples of F1 hybrids

Answer 96

* Helianthus ‘Harlequin’ F1 hybrid * Viola hybrida ‘F1 Sorbet’ * Impatiens 'New Guinea Divine Mixed' F1 (Downy mildew) * Carrot 'Flyaway' F1 Hybrid

Question 97

seasonal bedding: | what is meant by the term bedding

Answer 97

1. The term bedding refers to the temporary planting of fast-growing plants, into flower beds borders, containers and hanging baskets to create colourful, temporary, seasonal displays. 2. Plants used for bedding may be annuals, biennials, or perennials. 3. These bedding displays are usually changed twice a year, planting out in late spring, for summer colour, and early autumn, for winter/spring colour.

Question 98

seasonal bedding: what is meant by the term hardy give 2 examples

Answer 98

A hardy plant can survive temperatures down to - 15C and should survive in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters. eg. Polyanthus F1 Crescendo Rose Bellis perennis 'Bellisima Mixed'

Question 99

seasonal bedding: what is meant by the term half-hardy give 2 examples

Answer 99

1. A half-hardy plant can be grown outdoors in summer, throughout most of the UK but can only survive temperatures as low as 5C. 2. They cannot survive frost. 3. They are over-wintered in a cool greenhouse and can go outside once all danger of frost has past. eg. Pelargonium 'Scarlet Horizon' Impatiens walleriana 'Super Elfin Series'

Question 100

seasonal bedding: what is meant by the term tropical give 2 examples

Answer 100

Tropical is a term used for summer bedding displays when plants with large leaves and coarse textured foliage are used to create a lush jungle feel. These plants require an outside temperature of about 15C. eg. Ricinus communis Musa basjoo

Question 101

Name TEN plants suitable for summer bedding displays.

Answer 101

``` Lobelia erinus Petunia x hybrida Salvia splendens Tagetes patula Tagetes erecta Canna Indica Heliotrope arborescens 'Marine' Pelargonium zonale Gazania 'Bronze Kiss' Alyssum 'Alice Golf Mixed' ```

Question 102

Name FIVE plants suitable for spring bedding displays, including TWO bulbs (or corms or tubers).

Answer 102

Erysimum ‘Bowles’s Mauve’ Myosotis sylvatica Viola x wittrockiana Hyacinthus orientalis Tulipa ‘Queen of Night’ Tulipa 'Ballerina'

Question 103

Name FIVE herbaceous perennials suitable for growing in shade

Answer 103

``` Begonia cordifolia Pachysandra terminalis 'Green Carpet' Trollius europaeus Eranthis hyemalis Pulmonaria officinalis Brunnera macrophylla Arum maculatum Arum italicum Astrantia major ‘Gill Richardson’ Cyclamen coum Polygonatum x hybridum ```

Question 104

Name TEN bulbs or corms or tubers, of which FOUR should be suitable for growing in the border FOUR for containers and FOUR for naturalizing

Answer 104

border: Iris germanica, Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’, Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’ containers: Narcissus‘Tête à tête’, Crocus vernus, Galanthus nivalis, Cyclamen hederifolium naturalising: Galanthus nivalis, Narcissus ‘Tête à tête’, Narcissus pseudonarcissus, Crocus vernus

Question 105

Name TEN shrubs suitable for growing in a domestic garden

Answer 105

``` Skimmia japonica Rhododendron arborescens Pieris japonica Camelia japonica Philadelphus 'Belle Etoile' Syringa vulgaris 'Sensation' Garrya elliptica Colletia paradoxa Choisya ternata Viburnum tinus Hydrangea quercifolia ```

Question 106

Name FIVE shrubs grown for winter interest

Answer 106

``` Cornus alba Daphne bholua Hamamelis x intermedia Salix alba Edgeworthia chrysantha Chimonanthus praecox ```

Question 107

name FIVE shrubs grown for autumn display

Answer 107

``` Eunoymous allatus 'Compactus' Callicarpa bodinieri A. palmatum ‘Sango-kaku’ Rhus typhina Hydrangea quercifolia Cotoneaster horizontalis ```

Question 108

Name FIVE lime-hating trees OR shrubs (Calcifuge)

Answer 108

``` Camellia japonica Arbutus unedo Pieris japonica Rhododendron arborescens Acer palmatum ```

Question 109

Describe the procedure for establishing a lawn from turf: site prep , consolidation, levelling, base dressing stating both the ingredients and rate), laying techniques, top dressing naming material, irrigation.

Answer 109

1. Turf may be laid at almost any time of year except during very cold, dry or wet weather but as with seed, autumn is best. 2. clear the site completely of large stones/rubble/ all plant growth/ tree stumps/roots. 3. Remove any poor quality existing turf 4. Eliminate all annual and perennial weeds. Either dig out by hand or use a systemic herbicide such as glyphosate. 5. ideal top-soil for a lawn is a well-drained, sandy loam at least 20cm-30cm deep over a well-structured and free-draining subsoil. 6. On very free-draining soil incorporate some well-rotted organic matter 7. On heavy clay soils, drainage may be improved by incorporating two parts of sand to one part of soil or by double digging. 8. After clearing the site, cultivate with rotavator, or dig over removing any large stones brought to the surface 9. rake to a fine tilth 10. leave the soil to settle for a few days- up to 6 weeks if pos 11. emerging weed seeds should then be removed by hand or treated with a contact herbicide

Question 110

benefits of turf

Answer 110

* Laying turf gives an immediate visual effect * It can be done in the autumn or winter when there are fewer tasks that need doing in the garden * Purpose grown turf is widely available and contains different grasses for various uses and if large quantities are needed it can even be grown to order * Turf is available in a range of sizes and shapes. * Turf may be laid at almost any time of year except during very cold, dry or wet weather but as with seed, autumn is the best time * Turf is comparatively easy to lay * It is easier to achieve a neat, well defined edge to paths and borders with turves than with seed * Weeds and birds are not a problem. * The lawn can be walked on within a few days and can be used properly within two to three months

Question 111

limitations of turf

Answer 111

• Turf is much more expensive than buying grass seed • Moving and laying turves is heavy work • Laying turf is both more difficult and time consuming than seeding • Turf must be laid very soon after it has been delivered. If this is not possible it must be laid out in a shady area and watered regularly. If left rolled up it will become yellow and die. • If not bought from a reputable supplier it could be of poor quality, full of weeds and annual meadow grass and of a variable thickness making it difficult to lay • In dry weather, frequent watering will be necessary to keep the new turf constantly moist, otherwise it will shrink.

Question 112

benefits of seeding a lawn

Answer 112

* Grass seed is very much cheaper than buying turf * A wide range of different seed is available to suit a variety of sites * Sowing the seed is relatively quick and easy compared to laying turf * It is much lighter work than laying turf * Seed can be easily stored until the weather conditions are right

Question 113

limitations of seeding a lawn

Answer 113

* Grass seed needs to be sown when the soil is warm and moist so that it will germinate quickly so there is a smaller window for seeding than for laying turf. Early autumn is best but it can also be sown in spring. Both spring and autumn are busy times of year. * Birds will eat the seeds and they may disturb the seedbed by ‘dust-bathing’. * The soil surface requires a more careful final preparation and if the site is weedy it must be left fallow for a time to ensure a reasonable freedom from weed seeds * The area needs to be cordoned off with string and canes to prevent people from walking across the soil. * Seedlings are susceptible to drought, so the area needs to be watered during dry spells and in cold damp conditions a new lawn from seed is more susceptible to disease * Selective lawn herbicides should not be used on newly sown lawns earlier than six months after germination. With spring sown lawns this means not until the following spring as their effectiveness diminishes rapidly with the onset of cooler conditions in early autumn. * Seed establishment is slow so it is some months before the lawn can be used. If autumn-sown, full use will not be until June next year and if spring-sown, not until late autumn. * When the new lawn is 5cm (2in) high, cut with a rotary mower to 2.5cm (1in). Carefully rake up the clippings. This is then repeated for the next four cuts, so this is quite time consuming compared to mowing new turf

Question 114

Describe the procedure for establishing a lawn from turf: | levelling

Answer 114

1. After roughly levelling the ground by eye, an exact level can be achieved by knocking pegs into the ground, to the same depth to form a grid. 2. Starting from a straight edge eg. path, create a taut line with string. 3. Take a number of identical pegs and make a mark on each one at the same distance from the top 4. Starting at the straight edge knock the pegs into the ground at equal intervals so that the marks are at the required level of the lawn or approximately 2cm (3/4in) below this if turfing. 5. Add a second row of pegs and repeat until the site is covered by a grid of pegs. 6. Use a spirit level, placed on a straight plank of wood, to span across the rows to check pegs are all the same height. 7. adjust the level of the soil so that it is aligned with the mark on each peg.

Question 115

Describe the procedure for establishing a lawn from turf: | consolidation (5)

Answer 115

1. Once levelled, tread the soil evenly all over to firm it and to ensure there are no soft spots which might later sink, making the turf vulnerable to being scalping. 2. To get the level surface that is crucial for the best lawns, tread and then rake the area several times in different directions. 3. If the site is being seeded, leave it for about three to four weeks to allow any weed seeds to germinate. 4. Hoe off emerging weed seeds or treat with a contact weedkiller and carefully raked off two or three days later once dead. 5.If turf is being laid there is no need to wait three or four weeks, it can be laid straight away.

Question 116

Describe the procedure for establishing a lawn from turf: | base dressing, stating both the ingredients and rate

Answer 116

A few days before either seeding or laying turf, apply fertiliser to the site. Apply and rake in 70g per sq. m (2oz per sq. yd.) of general-purpose fertiliser.

Question 117

Describe the procedure for establishing a lawn from turf: | laying

Answer 117

1. Begin at one side or one corner and work across the site so that the person laying the turf faces the bare soil. 2. Lay the first row of turf in a straight line. 3. Work from boards to avoid foot indentations 4. Standing on the boards placed on the newly laid turves lay the next row of turves so that the end of each turf piece or roll is staggered with the previous row as in the pattern of a brick wall 5. Ensure the turves are closely butted together avoiding gaps. 6. Do not finish a row with a small piece of turf along an edge, as this will be vulnerable to damage and drying out. If necessary, lay the last complete piece of turf at the edge and fill the gap with the smaller piece of turf. 7. Ensure the turves are level by having a bucket of sandy soil at hand and adding or removing soil as necessary. 8. Lay further turves until the site is finished. 9. When all the turf has been laid, cut the edges to shape. 10. Once all the turf has been laid it can be firmed lightly with the back of a rake

Question 118

Describe the procedure for establishing a lawn from turf: | top dressing, naming material

Answer 118

1. When laying is complete, lightly spread a mixture of sand and soil or compost and work into the joints, using a lute or brush. 2. This top-dressing fills any minor hollows and also helps the turves knit together and become established more quickly.

Question 119

Describe the procedure for establishing a lawn from turf: | irrigation and maintenance

Answer 119

1. After top-dressing, leave the turf undisturbed; the first few days are critical for root development. 2. Water lightly with a fine rose. Do not allow the turves to dry out as they may shrink and gaps will open up. 3. do not over-water, as this can lead to shallow rooting and encourages the weed grass, annual meadow grass. 4. Mow, with the blades set high, as soon as the grass has grown to about 5cm.