Topic 4 Element 1 - Site-based Criteria Flashcards
What site appraisals should you do to identify Micro-climates?
- aspect and exposure
- sun traps
- wind tunnels
- heavy shade
- Frost pockets
- Rain shadow
What is Aspect and exposure?
**Aspect **is the direction in which areas of the garden face.
Exposure determines how much light and prevailing winds are experienced.
Valleys, tall buildings and trees cause differences between aspect and e
What is a sun trap?
Suntraps are sheltered areas of the garden that enjoy plenty of sunshine.
Suntraps can extend growing seasons.
What is a wind tunnel?
When there is a narrow area or proximity between tall buildings it creates a smaller space for wind to travel. Air pressure drops causing the wind to move faster.
What are frost pockets?
Normally dips in the terrain that traps cold air close to the ground.
A garden in a frost pocket is at significant risk of late and early fros
What is a Rain shadow?
A rain shadow is where features block rain reaching the soil.
Why should soil depth be a factor to consider when planting?
- stumpy carrots
- poor drainage
Ideally - minimum of 300mm topoils
Why should texture & Structure of soil be a factor to consider when planting?
- poor drainage
- inability to work the soil
Ideally - crumb structure, with a loamy texture
Why should soil pH be a factor to consider when planting?
- plants may not tolerate the conditions
- too high and nutrient availability can be limited
pH6.5 is ideal
Why should drainage be a factor to consider when planting?
Phytophora (root rot) can occur
limited micro-organism activity in saturated wet ground
raised beds may be an option
Why should aspect be a factor to consider when planting?
Too little light can cause plants to bolt or restricted fruiting
Some plants prefer less light
Ideally - 8-10 hours of sun per day
Why should Topography be a factor to consider when planting?
- soil errosion can occur
- delayed planting if frosts persist longer in frost pockets
- wind damage to taller plants
Why should the area of land available be a factor to consider when planting?
overcrowding of plants
Training plants vertically can make better use of space.
Why is availability of water a factor to consider when planting?
Water is vital for the life and survival of plants.