Assist with the propagation of crops or plants from seed

This standard covers assisting with the propagation of crops or plants from seed. The
term ‘assist with' is used to indicate that you will be working under supervision.
This standard is for those responsible for assisting with propagating plants from seeds.
You will be working in accordance with instructions and specifications.
If you are working with chemicals or machinery you need to be appropriately trained or
certificated in line with current legislation.
You must carry out your work in a way which will minimise any impact on the natural
environment and enhance its nature, conservation and recreational value.

P1 carry out all work in accordance with relevant environmental and health and
safety legislation, risk assessment requirements, codes of practice and company
policies
P2 prepare, use and maintain equipment and materials that are appropriate for the
work safely and effectively
P3 prepare the growing medium in accordance with instructions
P4 handle seeds in a way which minimises damage
P5 evenly and accurately sow seeds in accordance with instructions
P6 ensure aftercare is provided in accordance with instructions
P7 maintain suitable levels of hygiene and biosecurity
P8 deal with waste safely and correctly in accordance with instructions

K1 our responsibilities under relevant environmental and health and safety
legislation, codes of practice and company policies
K2 how to prepare, use and maintain equipment that is appropriate for the work
safely and effectively
K3 the types of growing media used
K4 reasons for the choice of growing medium
K5 methods for handling seed prior to sowing
K6 the need for an even distribution of seed
K7 the appropriate depth of sowing
K8 instructions for the aftercare of the sown seed
K9 how to handle, transport and dispose of waste in accordance with legal and
organisational requirements
K10 the importance of maintaining hygiene and biosecurity during the propagation of
crops or plants from seed

Instructions: verbal or written.
Specifications: drawings, schedules, method statements, Standard Operating
Procedures (SOPs), manufacturers' guidelines, customer requirements.
Seed sowing may be indoors or outdoors, and in any growing medium. The operation
may be carried out by hand or machine.
Production of a number of crops, as well as those involved in mono-crop production.
Aftercare: environmental control, weed control.
Growing medium: natural, artificial.