About This Course
Enjoy these Benefits and Bring New Life into Your Garden or Start Your Lawn Care Business Today!
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Study Lawn and Garden Maintenance Online Course and Learn How to Properly Care for your Lawn and Garden
Our Lawn and Garden Maintenance master garden course includes all the products and methods needed to run an effective lawn mowing service. Learn how to mulch, fertilize, restore, and revitalize your lawns, among other things, as well as how to properly mow them.
The lawn is an important part of home ground development as well as any other sort of garden, serving as a landscape's green carpet. A well-kept lawn contributes to a home's look, attractiveness, conveniences, and use, all of which increase to the property's value.
Grass is one of the toughest to maintain, and maintaining a lawn is simple as long as you are diligent. A well-maintained lawn accounts for most of a garden's aesthetic appeal. If a lawn isn't properly cared for, it will quickly become unusable.
This gardening certificate course is one of the best garden design courses available online. The online gardening course includes instructions on how to design a butterfly garden, how to care for your plants, cutting gardens, flower gardening. You'll discover plant combinations, learn about fertile soil and soil testing, and flowering shrubs, and enjoy an intro to plant pathology - to name a few.
It also covers how to choose plants for a container garden, and all other gardening basics you need to become a gardener and landscape artist. This gardening course is a basic botany course with everything you need.
Whether you want to start a career in professional gardening, work in community gardens, or simply enhance the plant growth and development of your own garden, this is one of the easiest horticulture courses to help get you started.
The online gardening classes are designed to provide you the knowledge and skills you need to keep your garden healthy and attractive. Lawn care management is a broad field of study that is commonly dismissed as the dreary side of horticulture when it is, in fact, highly technical and of vital importance.
How Our Gardening Course Can Help You?
· You’ll become an expert garden designer with our garden book included in this gardening class.
· In our gardening schools the gardening tutor will teach you the basics you need for gardening for wildlife, how to grow healthy happy houseplants, caring for hunting brook gardens, and it provides an introduction to growing organic food sustainably.
· You’ll learn about harvesting vegetables, herb gardening, heritage fruit gardening, home gardening, houseplant care, tending to a vegetable garden, plant nutrition, plant science, creating a sustainable landscape with trees and shrubs and types of gardening.
· There are many kinds of gardens like edible gardens, deer resistant gardens, flower gardens, kitchen gardens, sustainable gardens that you can learn to cultivate and become an experienced gardener.
To successfully complete this course, a student must:
● Have access to the internet and the necessary technical skills to navigate the online learning resources
● Have access to any mobile device with internet connectivity (laptop, desktop, tablet)
● Be a self-directed learner
● Possess sound language and literacy skills
Quick Course Facts
Course content is structured for easy comprehension
Registered students gain unrestricted access to the Garden Maintenance Course
All course material is available online 24/7 and can be accessed using any device
Study online from anywhere in your own time at your own pace
All students who complete the course will be awarded with a certificate of completion
Lawn Care Certification Course Outline
Module 1: Introduction and Planning
Developing abilities as a lawn and garden specialist takes time and effort. Planning and time management are critical components of this. It's crucial to know when to fertilize, when to mow, and when to water your plants. A vital component of having a successful lawn and garden enterprise is being able to evaluate plants and understand their needs.
Maintenance Plans and Scheduling
Creating a detailed plan and timetable for garden upkeep is the best method to keep track of it. Making a schedule might help you in the long and short run. Plants require different things at different times of the year. If you live in a location with clearly defined seasons, the plants will demand a quite different strategy.
Factors in Planning
Diverse plants necessitate quite different approaches. Some require a lot of upkeep, while others might go months without needing it. The varieties of plants in the garden should be the focus of your maintenance strategy.
Staffing and Hiring
You must consider the size of the garden as well as the quantity of attention it demands when staffing and recruiting workers for garden maintenance. If the majority of your clients have large gardens, you'll need extra labor to keep them in good shape. Some plants take a lot more time and effort, while others can go months without being touched.
Module 2: Equipment and Consumables
Lawn maintenance, both general and specialist, necessitates a number of tools and equipment. Lawn mowers, trimmers, cutters, blowers, and other hand tools, for example, can help you keep your lawn looking neat and tidy.
Lawn Mowers
A good lawn mower is still the most important equipment for keeping a clean, uniform lawn. Because lawns vary in size, lawn mowers come in a variety of sizes, with some models better suited to vast lawns and others to smaller ones.
Trimmers, Cutters, and Blowers
Trimmers and cutters can be used before or after mowing to trim the lawn in locations where the lawn mower can't reach, removing unsightly higher sections of grass. When leaves, grass cuttings, or other garbage accumulate, a blower can be used to remove the unsightly yard waste. Blowers are also useful in the fall for clearing leaves much more quickly than rakes.
Hand Tools
Garden trowels, weeders, shovels, rakes, and garden hoes are hand tools that can aid you with certain grass difficulties that motorized equipment can't handle. Handwork may be preferable for removing weeds and undesired plants by their roots, raking garbage, spreading soil and mulch, or planting the lawn.
Seeders and Spreaders
A seeder and spreader are required to plant a lawn or fill bare areas with grass. They scatter seeds to locations where new grass will grow. Throughout the year, you can use a spreader to provide fertilizer to a lawn, providing it with the nutrients it needs to stay lush and healthy.
Chippers
A chipper can be used to process leaves and twigs, as well as transform yard detritus into useful mulch for future lawn care requirements. You can use a chipper to compress a full garbage container of yard waste into a manageable amount for disposal or repurposing, such as mulch.
Aerators
An aerator is another important instrument that breaks up compacted soil and allows water, air, and nutrients to reach the lawn's roots. Aeration makes the grass robust and healthy as it develops by breaking up the soil.
Expanding Equipment Inventory
Upgrading equipment to boost productivity and service more clients is a common part of business growth and expansion. However, purchasing more expensive equipment should be carefully considered because it may turn out to be a waste of money.
Choosing Equipment
The availability of power sources, employee competence with equipment, and cost all play a role in selecting the correct equipment for a lawn-care service.
Trailers
A lawn maintenance operation would not be complete without trailers. They may transport equipment as well as loose goods like sod, seeds, fertilizer, and mulch. Utility trailers for lawn and garden work are available in covered and open-air styles.
Consumables
You'll need fertilizer, mulch, stone, and topsoil, in addition to the equipment necessary to maintain lawns and gardens. These items assist in maintaining the appearance and health of lawns and gardens. Understanding the various sorts of consumables and when to use them can aid you in determining the best ways to care for a client's lawn.
Fertilizer
Fertilizers often comprise a mixture of minerals containing three key nutrients for plants: nitrogen, which promotes development and a lush color; phosphorus, which helps create root systems; and potassium, which helps prevent disease and promotes overall growth.
Mulch
Mulch is a ground cover made up of a mixture of organic materials that can provide a number of benefits to the lawn or garden. Grass clippings, wood chips, leaves, and other organic yard waste are frequently used to make mulch.
Stone
Traditional grass lawns are often replaced with a covering of stones. Stones also prevent weed growth better than mulch and require very little upkeep and no water. As a result, they're a good choice for arid areas or clientele who want an easy-to-maintain garden.
Topsoil
Topsoil, often known as top dressing, is a nutrient-rich soil mixture. Because topsoil is nutrient-dense, it can be used to encourage general grass growth by giving nutrients to the soil, as well as to heal bumps and holes in a lawn.
Module 3: Soils and Fertilizers
It is impossible to overestimate the value of soil and fertilizer. To properly manage clients' lawns, gardens, and plant life, an in-depth grasp of both is required. Because soil types vary depending on geography, it's also crucial to learn about the specific soil composition in your location.
Soils
Clay soil is a heavy soil that requires a lot of nutrients to thrive. It's made up of more than a quarter of clay and can hold a lot of water. Drainage is slow, and in the summer, it takes a long time to warm up.
Macronutrient Testing
Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the three most important macronutrients in soil. The pH level of the soil, or acidity, is also critical for plant health. Official lab tests that measure soil nutrients and offer a full report are available. There are, however, several self-tests available that can provide a basic profile.
pH
The availability of nutrients to crops is largely determined by the pH of the soil. Between 4.0 to 8.5 is considered typical. The soil is nutrient and mineral rich at pH values between 6.5 and 7, hence this range is deemed optimal.
Potassium
Potassium aids in crop yield, nutrient transfer, and crop and seed quality. It also improves the endurance of plants to many types of stress.
Nitrogen
Plants believe nitrogen to be the most vital nutrient. It improves agricultural output and quality, particularly in main crops including cotton, rice, sugarcane, and wheat.
Phosphorus
It is required for growth, cell division, fruit development, water efficiency, and survival in cold winter climates. To swiftly test the nutritional status of soils, soil extractions for phosphorus were developed. Different countries use different chemical extraction methods.
Types of Fertilizer
Straight, complex, and mixed fertilizers are the three types of fertilizers. A single primary nutrient, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium, is supplied by straight fertilizers.
Common Issues with Soil
While it's necessary to consider plant health issues or damage in the context of the plant's immediate habitat, it's equally critical to assess the soil. Even if conditions do not kill plants, they may deplete the soil of important nutrients or cause harm in other ways.
Module 4: Plant Care and Nutrition
Plants are living things that need to be taken care of. They have basic needs that necessitate extra attention and expertise in order for them to thrive and grow. Depending on the specific setting and the skills of the person giving care, meeting these demands can be difficult.
Basic Plant Requirements
To live and function correctly, all plants require sunshine, air, water, nutrients, growing room, and appropriate temperatures, regardless of their species or size.
Plants in Commercial Settings
Professional landscaping is common in commercial environments such as corporations and hospitals. Their capacity to manage plant upkeep internally is less of an issue when picking plants because they are likely to have the cash for continuing expert care.
Plants in Residential Settings
Plants that are attractive to the eye, safe, low maintenance, and long lasting are frequently used in residential settings. The spider plant is a typical houseplant that is prized for its attractive look and ease of care.
Potted Plants
Potted plants demand a lot of attention. To guarantee appropriate drainage and prevent root rot, the pot or container in which they are housed must have holes in the bottom. Non-porous containers should be used because they do not absorb a lot of water.
Cation Exchange Capability
The total negative ionic charge in the soil is measured to determine cation exchange capacity. The soil's potential ability to furnish nutritional cations for plant uptake is measured by cation exchange capability. It's vital to note that cation exchange capability considers the prospective availability of nutrients rather than the actual or exact availability of nutrients in soils.
Plant Care Mistakes
Giving plants too little water is a typical mistake in plant maintenance. Plants begin to wilt when they are not properly watered. They're stressed, and their development is likely to be hindered as a result. Maintaining a regular watering schedule can keep your plants happy and healthy.
Selecting Plants
Plant selection is not as simple as clear as it appears. This is due to the fact that there are numerous aspects to consider before making your decisions.
Pruning
Pruning is the process of cutting and removing dead or excessive stems or branches, usually for the purpose of promoting plant growth. Pruning helps plants stay healthy by preventing pests and illnesses and allowing room for new growth.
Pruning may include
Cleaning is ideal for mature plants and entails the removal of dead, broken, or diseased components of the plant. By deliberately eliminating sections of a plant to lower the thickness of foliage and stem or leaf volume, thinning promotes better air circulation and light supply.
Module 5: Signs of Poor Plant Health
A rose bush may display different indicators of poor care than a fruit tree. Comparing two similar plants to each other or to photographs of plants from a different historical period, on the other hand, can assist you figure out what's wrong.
Identifying Causes
To figure out what's wrong with your plant, you'll need to know what a regular, healthy plant looks like. You could unintentionally hurt your plants if you don't know what the plant should look like. As a result, start with the fundamentals.
Improper Soil
The usage of poor soil can severely stifle a plant's growth. This dirt may already be present or may have been introduced accidently.
Low Light
Another major contributor to poor plant health is insufficient light. Because of the lack of natural light in interior surroundings, this can be extremely difficult. Indoor gardeners can use special lamps to assist them get enough light. To avoid plant harm, these must be used with caution and according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Improper Amount of Water
Too much or too little water has an equal impact on leaves, stems, and roots. It's quite likely that overwatering or underwatering is the cause of drooping leaves or uneven yellow blotches. Step tips can be damaged by being submerged in water. Roots are harmed by overwatering, and they grow closer to the surface as a result.
Pests
Pests are insects and creatures that wreak havoc on plant growth and health by either eating on them or transferring numerous viral, bacterial, and fungal illnesses.
Uncommon Environmental Causes
While soil nutrients are nearly always taken into account when planting and maintaining a lawn, don't overlook the environment for less evident affects. There could be an unforeseen external reason causing damage to your clients' plants or grasses.
Contagious Diseases
Various fungi, viruses, and bacteria can cause contagious plant diseases. There are various types, and transmission rates might vary depending on environmental factors such as plant proximity.
Invasive Species
Non-native species that have been mistakenly introduced to a region are known as invasive species. Because of their capacity to grow and reproduce swiftly, these plants are considered invasive. They have the potential to destabilize the delicately regulated local environment. Native plant species can be pushed out and replaced by invasive species in extreme circumstances.
Module 6: Chemical Weed and Pest Control
Controlling weeds and other pests is an important part of gardening and lawn care. Both organic and chemical alternatives are accessible. Chemicals must be handled with caution since they have the potential to harm people, animals, and the environment.
Weeds and Pests
Weeds are plants that have no therapeutic, utilitarian, or aesthetic value. Weed control is to prevent weeds from competing with crops or attractive plants.
Herbicides
Herbicides, often known as weedkillers, are chemical agents that kill or inhibit the growth of specific plants. Chemical and synthetic weed control is a type of integrated weed management that involves the employment of chemical, manual, cultural, and/or mechanical weed control methods.
Common Types of Weeds
Even the most well-kept gardens, lawns, and farms can be destroyed by weeds. Weed seeds float in on the breeze, creeping weeds spread out, and weeds you thought you'd removed reappeared stealthily.
Plant Competition
Even though weeds aren't useful to humans, they nonetheless require nourishment to survive. Weeds compete for soil nutrients and sunshine with other plants in your lawn or garden. This can stifle the growth of your customers' crops, flowers, and lawns.
Common Types of Pests
Pests on the lawn range in size from giant rodents to small insects. Regardless of size, each has the potential to cause significant harm. Both above and below ground, infestations can occur. Infestations beneath the surface may not be evident to the human eye.
Benefits of Using Chemicals
The bulk of today's fertilizers contain weed-prevention compounds. Even those that don't help with weed management may direct nutrients to plants rather than weeds. Weeds are less likely to injure grass with a dense, robust root system.
Disadvantages of Chemicals
Chemical fertilizers are applied to lawns, gardens, and crops in excess of 100 million tons per year around the world. When you consider how much energy it takes to create this much fertilizer, let alone transport it and apply it, the negative effects of chemical use become clear.
Common Types of Chemicals
Chemicals are more than just fertilizer. Weed, insect, and disease-killing chemicals are sold separately and in combination with fertilizers, such as in "weed-and-feed" formulations. Herbicides like MCPP, 2,4-D, and pyrethroids, organochlorines, and MCPA, as well as organophosphates, phenoxies, carbamates, and benzoic acid herbicides like MCPP, 2,4-D, and pyrethroids, organochlorines, and MCPA, may be employed in these formulations.
Module 7: Organic Weed and Pest Control
Organic lawn care is an intriguing alternative that is gaining in popularity. Lawn maintenance is an important part of many people's efforts to make our communities more environmentally conscious. It will take time to transition from a chemical lawn care program to an organic lawn care one. It also necessitates a change in immediate goals.
Pros of Organic Management
Organic controls have a number of major advantages, so it's simple to see why they're becoming more popular. The amount of chemical exposure has decreased. Although most lawn care chemicals are safe, many consumers find it comforting to know that exposure rates have been lowered.
Cons of Organic Management
Patience is necessary. Organic lawn care, unlike chemical treatments, is unlikely to yield quick results. You may notice a slight decline in yield as your grass recovers from its chemical fertilizer reliance. Gardens, lawns, and soil that previously employed chemicals will need to be "reprogrammed."
Efficacy of Organic Options
Organic weed and pest management methods are expensive and may not be appropriate for all types of agricultural production. As a result, organic product commands a premium price.
Organic Ingredients
You don't have to spend a lot of money on fertilizers! Some of these fertilizers can be made with common household or backyard materials. While this wouldn’t be possible for a huge lawn and garden enterprise, manufacturing fertilizer may be a cost-effective answer for a small client. As an alternative to store-bought organic fertilizer, grass clippings and wasted vegetables can be used.
Growing Popularity
Organic lawn care is a source of anxiety for many homeowners and grass enthusiasts. Choosing an all-organic lawn is becoming increasingly popular. Many people put forth considerable effort to be environmentally responsible.
Special Use Applications
Organic controls pose a lower likelihood of an adverse reaction in regulated circumstances. Make sure to inquire about the why when talking with clients about their requirements and ambitions.
Module 8: Irrigation Systems
Because water is such a valuable resource when caring for plants and lawns, it's crucial to choose the right irrigation system. This varies depending on the client's requirements and the exact piece of property in question.
Types of Sprinkler and Irrigation Systems
Sprinkler and irrigation systems are divided into two categories: manual and automatic. You have a variety of options depending on your demands and the size of your garden.
Manual
Humans used irrigation strategies for raising various plants as early as the Egyptian and Babylonian civilizations. Irrigation systems have come a long way since then, with the industrial revolution bringing automation to some components.
Automatic
Automatic irrigation systems make your life and your customer's life considerably easier. Automated irrigation can measure everything from soil conditions to temperatures and water the plants accordingly.
Making an Irrigation Plan
At first, designing an irrigation system may appear to be a difficult process. Once you've figured out what your customers want, it's only a matter of matching their needs. Based on how much time people spend at home, the size of their gardens or lawns, and their budgets, you may design an irrigation system to ensure optimal customer satisfaction.
Trickle Systems
Trickle irrigation is one of the most extensively utilized techniques due to its efficiency and water-saving possibilities. A trickling system can deliver water to plants while conserving water by reducing evaporation, which is especially important in locations where water is scarce.
How to Use an Irrigation System
The operation of a watering system depends on its type once it is installed. Some solutions are straightforward enough that clients can utilize them without your assistance. Sprinklers, for example, don't take much expertise to operate, but they do need to be maintained on a regular basis by a professional to ensure adequate pressure and distribution.
Automating Irrigation Systems
There are several ways to automate a watering system. Sprinkler, trickle, and drip systems can all be set to run at certain periods. Irrigation systems with timers water the garden at regular intervals.
Maintenance and Care
Regardless of which system you and your customer chose, they will all require some level of upkeep. Irrigation systems require regular maintenance to keep them working well, from water filtration to pipe blockages and pressure control.
Module 9: Lawn and Garden Safety
Welcome to the course's ninth module. We'll concentrate on occupational safety in this part. Health and safety should be a vital aspect of every job training, especially if automatic equipment and chemicals are employed, as it is often forgotten but always important.
Chemical Handling and Storage
Chemicals will almost certainly be used by a lawn and garden expert at some point throughout their work. Pesticides are chemicals that are used to hurt and kill insects and animals in your garden. Because they can have a wide range of effects on other sorts of wildlife, make sure you understand what you're doing before applying them.
Storage
Pesticides should be kept in a cold, dry place away from children and pets. Make sure they're out of direct sunlight, as this might cause the labeling to fade and make it difficult to identify the goods.
Handling
Fertilizers have nitrogen in them, which can cause skin burns. When fertilizing, always wear latex gloves and, at the very least, eye goggles.
Chemical Record-keeping
Keeping a list of all the chemicals you've used on your lawn is also a good idea. This will come in handy if there are any future issues.
Harmful Chemicals Case Study
Glyphosate is found in Monsanto's Roundup weed killer, as well as a variety of other brands. It's a systemic herbicide that's been demonstrated to be incredibly effective at getting rid of weeds in your garden.
Essential Safety Equipment
Depending on the job you're doing, you'll need different PPE throughout the day. Basic PPE is likely to suffice for simple chores such as weeding.
Eye Protection
When trimming, chopping, or pruning branches, eye goggles are worn. When spraying pesticides or handling chemicals, a face protection is worn.
Hearing Protection
When operating loud power tools or other noise-generating equipment, ear plugs or muffs should be worn. There are decibel meters available if you're not sure if you're legally required to use them.
Footwear
There isn't truly a "kind" of gardening footwear because each one has its own set of advantages. We recommend choosing waterproof, protective, and lightweight boots that you can use for a variety of chores.
Hard Hats
When gardening, it's rare that you'll need to wear a hard hat. A hard hat, on the other hand, is the go-to PPE for easy protection when climbing ladders or working in an environment where things may fall on you.
Chainsaws, Chippers, and Heavy Equipment
Gardening will entail a lot more than just mowing lawns. Additional PPE may be required when utilizing chainsaws, chippers, and other heavy pieces of equipment.
Machine Guarding
When power tools are turned on, they are the most dangerous, which is why we use guards when they are in use. The sort of guard employed is determined by the tool's size and function, as well as the tool's size.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters
If there is a breach in an electrical tool's grounding path, the current can divert and run through the tool's user, causing harm and even death. Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) should be used to prevent this from occuring.
Module 10: Best Business Practices
Most modern homes have lawns, and rather than maintaining them themselves, individuals choose to hire lawn care services. Commercial properties may also require expert assistance to manage their lawns and plants.
Initial Planning and Budgeting
Whether you're starting a business on your own or with a partner, you'll need a strong business strategy to compete in today's market. A crucial first step is to create a company strategy with clearly defined goals and objectives, services you'll provide, and objectives.
Pros of Starting a Lawn Care Business
You can be your own boss, unlike other normal employment where you must adhere to a strict schedule and work in settings that you dislike. You gain the flexibility of working flexible hours at your preferred places and the ability to charge whatever you choose.
Cons of Starting a Lawn Care Business
It might be pricey to start your lawn care business from the ground up and on your own. Obtaining pricey heavy machinery and equipment, such as trailers, is one of the initial expenditures.
How to Determine Pricing
Any company venture necessitates capital and a well-thought-out business plan. It's time to determine a market-competitive pricing strategy for your services after you've purchased the essential equipment and gone through the time-consuming process of licensing and marketing.
Accumulating Equipment Over Time
One of the best business practices is to do extensive market research before making a purchase. You don't want to spend a lot of money right away and blow your budget, nor do you want to buy cheap, low-quality equipment and lose consumers.
Location
The majority of aspiring entrepreneurs begin their lawn and gardening enterprises from the comfort of their own homes. They like to perform their services in a nearby community. They can also keep their lawn equipment and tools in their garages.
Winter Work
When the temperature drops, you don't have to be concerned as a lawn and garden business owner. Even if you live in a snowy area, there are plenty of other methods to make money throughout the winter.
Snowplowing and Salt Services
You can purchase snow blowers or more detachable plows for your existing trucks and begin plowing services for your existing summer/spring customers. You can also use salt spreaders to offer an extra layer of ice protection.
Gutter Cleaning
During the winter, gutters get more clogged as a result of fallen leaves and snow. You can clean gutters, roofs, porches, fences, and driveways with your existing tools or by purchasing a pressure washer.
Recognition & Accreditation
Upon successful completion of this course and achieving a passing score for the assessment, you will be issued with an international continuing education credit (CEU) certificate.
This Certificate is applicable worldwide, which demonstrates your commitment to learning new skills. You can share the certificate with your friends, relatives, co-workers, and potential employers. Also, include it in your resume/CV, professional social media profiles and job applications.
Units of Study
Module 1: Introduction and Planning
- Maintenance Plans and Scheduling
- Factors in Planning
- Staffing and Hiring
Module 2: Equipment and Consumables
- Lawn Mowers
- Trimmers, Cutters, and Blowers
- Hand Tools
- Seeders and Spreaders
- Chippers
- Aerators
- Expanding Equipment Inventory
- Choosing Equipment
- Trailers
- Consumables
- Fertilizer
- Mulch
- Stone
- Topsoil
Module 3: Soils and Fertilizers
- Soils
- Macronutrient Testing
- pH
- Potassium
- Nitrogen
- Phosphorus
- Types of Fertilizer
- Common Issues with Soil
Module 4: Plant Care and Nutrition
- Basic Plant Requirements
- Plants in Commercial Settings
- Plants in Residential Settings
- Potted Plants
- Cation Exchange Capability
- Plant Care Mistakes
- Selecting Plants
- Pruning
- Pruning may include
Module 5: Signs of Poor Plant Health
- Identifying Causes
- Improper Soil
- Low Light
- Improper Amount of Water
- Pests
- Uncommon Environmental Causes
- Contagious Diseases
- Invasive Species
Module 6: Chemical Weed and Pest Control
- Weeds and Pests
- Herbicides
- Common Types of Weeds
- Plant Competition
- Common Types of Pests
- Benefits of Using Chemicals
- Disadvantages of Chemicals
- Common Types of Chemicals
Module 7: Organic Weed and Pest Control
- Pros of Organic Management
- Cons of Organic Management
- Efficacy of Organic Options
- Organic Ingredients
- Growing Popularity
- Special Use Applications
Module 8: Irrigation Systems
- Types of Sprinkler and Irrigation Systems
- Manual
- Automatic
- Making an Irrigation Plan
- Trickle Systems
- How to Use an Irrigation System
- Automating Irrigation Systems
- Maintenance and Care
Module 9: Lawn and Garden Safety
- Chemical Handling and Storage
- Storage
- Handling
- Chemical Record-keeping
- Harmful Chemicals Case Study
- Essential Safety Equipment
- Eye Protection
- Hearing Protection
- Footwear
- Hard Hats
- Chainsaws, Chippers, and Heavy Equipment
- Machine Guarding
- Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters
Module 10: Best Business Practices
- Initial Planning and Budgeting
- Pros of Starting a Lawn Care Business
- Cons of Starting a Lawn Care Business
- How to Determine Pricing
- Accumulating Equipment Over Time
- Location
- Winter Work
- Snowplowing and Salt Services
- Gutter Cleaning
- Holiday Services
- Winter Lawn Care
- Indoor Gardening Services
- Firewood Delivery Service
- Accounting Best Practices
- Insurance Requirements
- Characteristics of Good Customer Service
Requirements
Entry requirements
Students must have basic literacy and numeracy skills.
Minimum education
Open entry. Previous schooling and academic achievements are not required for entry into this course.
Computer requirements
Students will need access to a computer and the internet.
Minimum specifications for the computer are:
Windows:
Microsoft Windows XP, or laterModern and up to date Browser (Internet Explorer 8 or later, Firefox, Chrome, Safari)
MAC/iOS
OSX/iOS 6 or laterModern and up to date Browser (Firefox, Chrome, Safari)
All systems
Internet bandwidth of 1Mb or fasterFlash player or a browser with HTML5 video capabilities(Currently Internet Explorer 9, Firefox, Chrome, Safari)
Students will also need access the following applications:
Adobe Acrobat Reader
Requirements
Entry requirements:
Students must have basic literacy and numeracy skills.
Minimum education:
Open entry. Previous schooling and academic achievements are not required for entry into this course.
Device requirements:
Students will need access to a computer/any device and the internet.
FAQS
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The Certificates are valid for life and do not need renewing.
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Gardening and Lawn Care Online Certificate Course
"I have really enjoyed this course, and have learned a lot about the fundamentals of owning and running a lawn care and garden maintenance business." - Anna N. Verified Buyer
Learn to transform your lawn into a lush, healthy landscape with our Gardening and Lawn Care Online Certificate Course! Our comprehensive course covers everything you need to know to mulch, fertilize, restore and revitalize your lawns, as well as how to properly mow them. Transform your outdoor space today!
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- Delivery: Online
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- Duration:20 Hours
- Assessments: Yes
- Qualification: Certificate
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About This Course
Enjoy these Benefits and Bring New Life into Your Garden or Start Your Lawn Care Business Today!
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Study Lawn and Garden Maintenance Online Course and Learn How to Properly Care for your Lawn and Garden
Our Lawn and Garden Maintenance master garden course includes all the products and methods needed to run an effective lawn mowing service. Learn how to mulch, fertilize, restore, and revitalize your lawns, among other things, as well as how to properly mow them.
The lawn is an important part of home ground development as well as any other sort of garden, serving as a landscape's green carpet. A well-kept lawn contributes to a home's look, attractiveness, conveniences, and use, all of which increase to the property's value.
Grass is one of the toughest to maintain, and maintaining a lawn is simple as long as you are diligent. A well-maintained lawn accounts for most of a garden's aesthetic appeal. If a lawn isn't properly cared for, it will quickly become unusable.
This gardening certificate course is one of the best garden design courses available online. The online gardening course includes instructions on how to design a butterfly garden, how to care for your plants, cutting gardens, flower gardening. You'll discover plant combinations, learn about fertile soil and soil testing, and flowering shrubs, and enjoy an intro to plant pathology - to name a few.
It also covers how to choose plants for a container garden, and all other gardening basics you need to become a gardener and landscape artist. This gardening course is a basic botany course with everything you need.
Whether you want to start a career in professional gardening, work in community gardens, or simply enhance the plant growth and development of your own garden, this is one of the easiest horticulture courses to help get you started.
The online gardening classes are designed to provide you the knowledge and skills you need to keep your garden healthy and attractive. Lawn care management is a broad field of study that is commonly dismissed as the dreary side of horticulture when it is, in fact, highly technical and of vital importance.
How Our Gardening Course Can Help You?
· You’ll become an expert garden designer with our garden book included in this gardening class.
· In our gardening schools the gardening tutor will teach you the basics you need for gardening for wildlife, how to grow healthy happy houseplants, caring for hunting brook gardens, and it provides an introduction to growing organic food sustainably.
· You’ll learn about harvesting vegetables, herb gardening, heritage fruit gardening, home gardening, houseplant care, tending to a vegetable garden, plant nutrition, plant science, creating a sustainable landscape with trees and shrubs and types of gardening.
· There are many kinds of gardens like edible gardens, deer resistant gardens, flower gardens, kitchen gardens, sustainable gardens that you can learn to cultivate and become an experienced gardener.
To successfully complete this course, a student must:
● Have access to the internet and the necessary technical skills to navigate the online learning resources
● Have access to any mobile device with internet connectivity (laptop, desktop, tablet)
● Be a self-directed learner
● Possess sound language and literacy skills
Quick Course Facts
Course content is structured for easy comprehension
Registered students gain unrestricted access to the Garden Maintenance Course
All course material is available online 24/7 and can be accessed using any device
Study online from anywhere in your own time at your own pace
All students who complete the course will be awarded with a certificate of completion
Lawn Care Certification Course Outline
Module 1: Introduction and Planning
Developing abilities as a lawn and garden specialist takes time and effort. Planning and time management are critical components of this. It's crucial to know when to fertilize, when to mow, and when to water your plants. A vital component of having a successful lawn and garden enterprise is being able to evaluate plants and understand their needs.
Maintenance Plans and Scheduling
Creating a detailed plan and timetable for garden upkeep is the best method to keep track of it. Making a schedule might help you in the long and short run. Plants require different things at different times of the year. If you live in a location with clearly defined seasons, the plants will demand a quite different strategy.
Factors in Planning
Diverse plants necessitate quite different approaches. Some require a lot of upkeep, while others might go months without needing it. The varieties of plants in the garden should be the focus of your maintenance strategy.
Staffing and Hiring
You must consider the size of the garden as well as the quantity of attention it demands when staffing and recruiting workers for garden maintenance. If the majority of your clients have large gardens, you'll need extra labor to keep them in good shape. Some plants take a lot more time and effort, while others can go months without being touched.
Module 2: Equipment and Consumables
Lawn maintenance, both general and specialist, necessitates a number of tools and equipment. Lawn mowers, trimmers, cutters, blowers, and other hand tools, for example, can help you keep your lawn looking neat and tidy.
Lawn Mowers
A good lawn mower is still the most important equipment for keeping a clean, uniform lawn. Because lawns vary in size, lawn mowers come in a variety of sizes, with some models better suited to vast lawns and others to smaller ones.
Trimmers, Cutters, and Blowers
Trimmers and cutters can be used before or after mowing to trim the lawn in locations where the lawn mower can't reach, removing unsightly higher sections of grass. When leaves, grass cuttings, or other garbage accumulate, a blower can be used to remove the unsightly yard waste. Blowers are also useful in the fall for clearing leaves much more quickly than rakes.
Hand Tools
Garden trowels, weeders, shovels, rakes, and garden hoes are hand tools that can aid you with certain grass difficulties that motorized equipment can't handle. Handwork may be preferable for removing weeds and undesired plants by their roots, raking garbage, spreading soil and mulch, or planting the lawn.
Seeders and Spreaders
A seeder and spreader are required to plant a lawn or fill bare areas with grass. They scatter seeds to locations where new grass will grow. Throughout the year, you can use a spreader to provide fertilizer to a lawn, providing it with the nutrients it needs to stay lush and healthy.
Chippers
A chipper can be used to process leaves and twigs, as well as transform yard detritus into useful mulch for future lawn care requirements. You can use a chipper to compress a full garbage container of yard waste into a manageable amount for disposal or repurposing, such as mulch.
Aerators
An aerator is another important instrument that breaks up compacted soil and allows water, air, and nutrients to reach the lawn's roots. Aeration makes the grass robust and healthy as it develops by breaking up the soil.
Expanding Equipment Inventory
Upgrading equipment to boost productivity and service more clients is a common part of business growth and expansion. However, purchasing more expensive equipment should be carefully considered because it may turn out to be a waste of money.
Choosing Equipment
The availability of power sources, employee competence with equipment, and cost all play a role in selecting the correct equipment for a lawn-care service.
Trailers
A lawn maintenance operation would not be complete without trailers. They may transport equipment as well as loose goods like sod, seeds, fertilizer, and mulch. Utility trailers for lawn and garden work are available in covered and open-air styles.
Consumables
You'll need fertilizer, mulch, stone, and topsoil, in addition to the equipment necessary to maintain lawns and gardens. These items assist in maintaining the appearance and health of lawns and gardens. Understanding the various sorts of consumables and when to use them can aid you in determining the best ways to care for a client's lawn.
Fertilizer
Fertilizers often comprise a mixture of minerals containing three key nutrients for plants: nitrogen, which promotes development and a lush color; phosphorus, which helps create root systems; and potassium, which helps prevent disease and promotes overall growth.
Mulch
Mulch is a ground cover made up of a mixture of organic materials that can provide a number of benefits to the lawn or garden. Grass clippings, wood chips, leaves, and other organic yard waste are frequently used to make mulch.
Stone
Traditional grass lawns are often replaced with a covering of stones. Stones also prevent weed growth better than mulch and require very little upkeep and no water. As a result, they're a good choice for arid areas or clientele who want an easy-to-maintain garden.
Topsoil
Topsoil, often known as top dressing, is a nutrient-rich soil mixture. Because topsoil is nutrient-dense, it can be used to encourage general grass growth by giving nutrients to the soil, as well as to heal bumps and holes in a lawn.
Module 3: Soils and Fertilizers
It is impossible to overestimate the value of soil and fertilizer. To properly manage clients' lawns, gardens, and plant life, an in-depth grasp of both is required. Because soil types vary depending on geography, it's also crucial to learn about the specific soil composition in your location.
Soils
Clay soil is a heavy soil that requires a lot of nutrients to thrive. It's made up of more than a quarter of clay and can hold a lot of water. Drainage is slow, and in the summer, it takes a long time to warm up.
Macronutrient Testing
Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the three most important macronutrients in soil. The pH level of the soil, or acidity, is also critical for plant health. Official lab tests that measure soil nutrients and offer a full report are available. There are, however, several self-tests available that can provide a basic profile.
pH
The availability of nutrients to crops is largely determined by the pH of the soil. Between 4.0 to 8.5 is considered typical. The soil is nutrient and mineral rich at pH values between 6.5 and 7, hence this range is deemed optimal.
Potassium
Potassium aids in crop yield, nutrient transfer, and crop and seed quality. It also improves the endurance of plants to many types of stress.
Nitrogen
Plants believe nitrogen to be the most vital nutrient. It improves agricultural output and quality, particularly in main crops including cotton, rice, sugarcane, and wheat.
Phosphorus
It is required for growth, cell division, fruit development, water efficiency, and survival in cold winter climates. To swiftly test the nutritional status of soils, soil extractions for phosphorus were developed. Different countries use different chemical extraction methods.
Types of Fertilizer
Straight, complex, and mixed fertilizers are the three types of fertilizers. A single primary nutrient, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium, is supplied by straight fertilizers.
Common Issues with Soil
While it's necessary to consider plant health issues or damage in the context of the plant's immediate habitat, it's equally critical to assess the soil. Even if conditions do not kill plants, they may deplete the soil of important nutrients or cause harm in other ways.
Module 4: Plant Care and Nutrition
Plants are living things that need to be taken care of. They have basic needs that necessitate extra attention and expertise in order for them to thrive and grow. Depending on the specific setting and the skills of the person giving care, meeting these demands can be difficult.
Basic Plant Requirements
To live and function correctly, all plants require sunshine, air, water, nutrients, growing room, and appropriate temperatures, regardless of their species or size.
Plants in Commercial Settings
Professional landscaping is common in commercial environments such as corporations and hospitals. Their capacity to manage plant upkeep internally is less of an issue when picking plants because they are likely to have the cash for continuing expert care.
Plants in Residential Settings
Plants that are attractive to the eye, safe, low maintenance, and long lasting are frequently used in residential settings. The spider plant is a typical houseplant that is prized for its attractive look and ease of care.
Potted Plants
Potted plants demand a lot of attention. To guarantee appropriate drainage and prevent root rot, the pot or container in which they are housed must have holes in the bottom. Non-porous containers should be used because they do not absorb a lot of water.
Cation Exchange Capability
The total negative ionic charge in the soil is measured to determine cation exchange capacity. The soil's potential ability to furnish nutritional cations for plant uptake is measured by cation exchange capability. It's vital to note that cation exchange capability considers the prospective availability of nutrients rather than the actual or exact availability of nutrients in soils.
Plant Care Mistakes
Giving plants too little water is a typical mistake in plant maintenance. Plants begin to wilt when they are not properly watered. They're stressed, and their development is likely to be hindered as a result. Maintaining a regular watering schedule can keep your plants happy and healthy.
Selecting Plants
Plant selection is not as simple as clear as it appears. This is due to the fact that there are numerous aspects to consider before making your decisions.
Pruning
Pruning is the process of cutting and removing dead or excessive stems or branches, usually for the purpose of promoting plant growth. Pruning helps plants stay healthy by preventing pests and illnesses and allowing room for new growth.
Pruning may include
Cleaning is ideal for mature plants and entails the removal of dead, broken, or diseased components of the plant. By deliberately eliminating sections of a plant to lower the thickness of foliage and stem or leaf volume, thinning promotes better air circulation and light supply.
Module 5: Signs of Poor Plant Health
A rose bush may display different indicators of poor care than a fruit tree. Comparing two similar plants to each other or to photographs of plants from a different historical period, on the other hand, can assist you figure out what's wrong.
Identifying Causes
To figure out what's wrong with your plant, you'll need to know what a regular, healthy plant looks like. You could unintentionally hurt your plants if you don't know what the plant should look like. As a result, start with the fundamentals.
Improper Soil
The usage of poor soil can severely stifle a plant's growth. This dirt may already be present or may have been introduced accidently.
Low Light
Another major contributor to poor plant health is insufficient light. Because of the lack of natural light in interior surroundings, this can be extremely difficult. Indoor gardeners can use special lamps to assist them get enough light. To avoid plant harm, these must be used with caution and according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Improper Amount of Water
Too much or too little water has an equal impact on leaves, stems, and roots. It's quite likely that overwatering or underwatering is the cause of drooping leaves or uneven yellow blotches. Step tips can be damaged by being submerged in water. Roots are harmed by overwatering, and they grow closer to the surface as a result.
Pests
Pests are insects and creatures that wreak havoc on plant growth and health by either eating on them or transferring numerous viral, bacterial, and fungal illnesses.
Uncommon Environmental Causes
While soil nutrients are nearly always taken into account when planting and maintaining a lawn, don't overlook the environment for less evident affects. There could be an unforeseen external reason causing damage to your clients' plants or grasses.
Contagious Diseases
Various fungi, viruses, and bacteria can cause contagious plant diseases. There are various types, and transmission rates might vary depending on environmental factors such as plant proximity.
Invasive Species
Non-native species that have been mistakenly introduced to a region are known as invasive species. Because of their capacity to grow and reproduce swiftly, these plants are considered invasive. They have the potential to destabilize the delicately regulated local environment. Native plant species can be pushed out and replaced by invasive species in extreme circumstances.
Module 6: Chemical Weed and Pest Control
Controlling weeds and other pests is an important part of gardening and lawn care. Both organic and chemical alternatives are accessible. Chemicals must be handled with caution since they have the potential to harm people, animals, and the environment.
Weeds and Pests
Weeds are plants that have no therapeutic, utilitarian, or aesthetic value. Weed control is to prevent weeds from competing with crops or attractive plants.
Herbicides
Herbicides, often known as weedkillers, are chemical agents that kill or inhibit the growth of specific plants. Chemical and synthetic weed control is a type of integrated weed management that involves the employment of chemical, manual, cultural, and/or mechanical weed control methods.
Common Types of Weeds
Even the most well-kept gardens, lawns, and farms can be destroyed by weeds. Weed seeds float in on the breeze, creeping weeds spread out, and weeds you thought you'd removed reappeared stealthily.
Plant Competition
Even though weeds aren't useful to humans, they nonetheless require nourishment to survive. Weeds compete for soil nutrients and sunshine with other plants in your lawn or garden. This can stifle the growth of your customers' crops, flowers, and lawns.
Common Types of Pests
Pests on the lawn range in size from giant rodents to small insects. Regardless of size, each has the potential to cause significant harm. Both above and below ground, infestations can occur. Infestations beneath the surface may not be evident to the human eye.
Benefits of Using Chemicals
The bulk of today's fertilizers contain weed-prevention compounds. Even those that don't help with weed management may direct nutrients to plants rather than weeds. Weeds are less likely to injure grass with a dense, robust root system.
Disadvantages of Chemicals
Chemical fertilizers are applied to lawns, gardens, and crops in excess of 100 million tons per year around the world. When you consider how much energy it takes to create this much fertilizer, let alone transport it and apply it, the negative effects of chemical use become clear.
Common Types of Chemicals
Chemicals are more than just fertilizer. Weed, insect, and disease-killing chemicals are sold separately and in combination with fertilizers, such as in "weed-and-feed" formulations. Herbicides like MCPP, 2,4-D, and pyrethroids, organochlorines, and MCPA, as well as organophosphates, phenoxies, carbamates, and benzoic acid herbicides like MCPP, 2,4-D, and pyrethroids, organochlorines, and MCPA, may be employed in these formulations.
Module 7: Organic Weed and Pest Control
Organic lawn care is an intriguing alternative that is gaining in popularity. Lawn maintenance is an important part of many people's efforts to make our communities more environmentally conscious. It will take time to transition from a chemical lawn care program to an organic lawn care one. It also necessitates a change in immediate goals.
Pros of Organic Management
Organic controls have a number of major advantages, so it's simple to see why they're becoming more popular. The amount of chemical exposure has decreased. Although most lawn care chemicals are safe, many consumers find it comforting to know that exposure rates have been lowered.
Cons of Organic Management
Patience is necessary. Organic lawn care, unlike chemical treatments, is unlikely to yield quick results. You may notice a slight decline in yield as your grass recovers from its chemical fertilizer reliance. Gardens, lawns, and soil that previously employed chemicals will need to be "reprogrammed."
Efficacy of Organic Options
Organic weed and pest management methods are expensive and may not be appropriate for all types of agricultural production. As a result, organic product commands a premium price.
Organic Ingredients
You don't have to spend a lot of money on fertilizers! Some of these fertilizers can be made with common household or backyard materials. While this wouldn’t be possible for a huge lawn and garden enterprise, manufacturing fertilizer may be a cost-effective answer for a small client. As an alternative to store-bought organic fertilizer, grass clippings and wasted vegetables can be used.
Growing Popularity
Organic lawn care is a source of anxiety for many homeowners and grass enthusiasts. Choosing an all-organic lawn is becoming increasingly popular. Many people put forth considerable effort to be environmentally responsible.
Special Use Applications
Organic controls pose a lower likelihood of an adverse reaction in regulated circumstances. Make sure to inquire about the why when talking with clients about their requirements and ambitions.
Module 8: Irrigation Systems
Because water is such a valuable resource when caring for plants and lawns, it's crucial to choose the right irrigation system. This varies depending on the client's requirements and the exact piece of property in question.
Types of Sprinkler and Irrigation Systems
Sprinkler and irrigation systems are divided into two categories: manual and automatic. You have a variety of options depending on your demands and the size of your garden.
Manual
Humans used irrigation strategies for raising various plants as early as the Egyptian and Babylonian civilizations. Irrigation systems have come a long way since then, with the industrial revolution bringing automation to some components.
Automatic
Automatic irrigation systems make your life and your customer's life considerably easier. Automated irrigation can measure everything from soil conditions to temperatures and water the plants accordingly.
Making an Irrigation Plan
At first, designing an irrigation system may appear to be a difficult process. Once you've figured out what your customers want, it's only a matter of matching their needs. Based on how much time people spend at home, the size of their gardens or lawns, and their budgets, you may design an irrigation system to ensure optimal customer satisfaction.
Trickle Systems
Trickle irrigation is one of the most extensively utilized techniques due to its efficiency and water-saving possibilities. A trickling system can deliver water to plants while conserving water by reducing evaporation, which is especially important in locations where water is scarce.
How to Use an Irrigation System
The operation of a watering system depends on its type once it is installed. Some solutions are straightforward enough that clients can utilize them without your assistance. Sprinklers, for example, don't take much expertise to operate, but they do need to be maintained on a regular basis by a professional to ensure adequate pressure and distribution.
Automating Irrigation Systems
There are several ways to automate a watering system. Sprinkler, trickle, and drip systems can all be set to run at certain periods. Irrigation systems with timers water the garden at regular intervals.
Maintenance and Care
Regardless of which system you and your customer chose, they will all require some level of upkeep. Irrigation systems require regular maintenance to keep them working well, from water filtration to pipe blockages and pressure control.
Module 9: Lawn and Garden Safety
Welcome to the course's ninth module. We'll concentrate on occupational safety in this part. Health and safety should be a vital aspect of every job training, especially if automatic equipment and chemicals are employed, as it is often forgotten but always important.
Chemical Handling and Storage
Chemicals will almost certainly be used by a lawn and garden expert at some point throughout their work. Pesticides are chemicals that are used to hurt and kill insects and animals in your garden. Because they can have a wide range of effects on other sorts of wildlife, make sure you understand what you're doing before applying them.
Storage
Pesticides should be kept in a cold, dry place away from children and pets. Make sure they're out of direct sunlight, as this might cause the labeling to fade and make it difficult to identify the goods.
Handling
Fertilizers have nitrogen in them, which can cause skin burns. When fertilizing, always wear latex gloves and, at the very least, eye goggles.
Chemical Record-keeping
Keeping a list of all the chemicals you've used on your lawn is also a good idea. This will come in handy if there are any future issues.
Harmful Chemicals Case Study
Glyphosate is found in Monsanto's Roundup weed killer, as well as a variety of other brands. It's a systemic herbicide that's been demonstrated to be incredibly effective at getting rid of weeds in your garden.
Essential Safety Equipment
Depending on the job you're doing, you'll need different PPE throughout the day. Basic PPE is likely to suffice for simple chores such as weeding.
Eye Protection
When trimming, chopping, or pruning branches, eye goggles are worn. When spraying pesticides or handling chemicals, a face protection is worn.
Hearing Protection
When operating loud power tools or other noise-generating equipment, ear plugs or muffs should be worn. There are decibel meters available if you're not sure if you're legally required to use them.
Footwear
There isn't truly a "kind" of gardening footwear because each one has its own set of advantages. We recommend choosing waterproof, protective, and lightweight boots that you can use for a variety of chores.
Hard Hats
When gardening, it's rare that you'll need to wear a hard hat. A hard hat, on the other hand, is the go-to PPE for easy protection when climbing ladders or working in an environment where things may fall on you.
Chainsaws, Chippers, and Heavy Equipment
Gardening will entail a lot more than just mowing lawns. Additional PPE may be required when utilizing chainsaws, chippers, and other heavy pieces of equipment.
Machine Guarding
When power tools are turned on, they are the most dangerous, which is why we use guards when they are in use. The sort of guard employed is determined by the tool's size and function, as well as the tool's size.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters
If there is a breach in an electrical tool's grounding path, the current can divert and run through the tool's user, causing harm and even death. Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) should be used to prevent this from occuring.
Module 10: Best Business Practices
Most modern homes have lawns, and rather than maintaining them themselves, individuals choose to hire lawn care services. Commercial properties may also require expert assistance to manage their lawns and plants.
Initial Planning and Budgeting
Whether you're starting a business on your own or with a partner, you'll need a strong business strategy to compete in today's market. A crucial first step is to create a company strategy with clearly defined goals and objectives, services you'll provide, and objectives.
Pros of Starting a Lawn Care Business
You can be your own boss, unlike other normal employment where you must adhere to a strict schedule and work in settings that you dislike. You gain the flexibility of working flexible hours at your preferred places and the ability to charge whatever you choose.
Cons of Starting a Lawn Care Business
It might be pricey to start your lawn care business from the ground up and on your own. Obtaining pricey heavy machinery and equipment, such as trailers, is one of the initial expenditures.
How to Determine Pricing
Any company venture necessitates capital and a well-thought-out business plan. It's time to determine a market-competitive pricing strategy for your services after you've purchased the essential equipment and gone through the time-consuming process of licensing and marketing.
Accumulating Equipment Over Time
One of the best business practices is to do extensive market research before making a purchase. You don't want to spend a lot of money right away and blow your budget, nor do you want to buy cheap, low-quality equipment and lose consumers.
Location
The majority of aspiring entrepreneurs begin their lawn and gardening enterprises from the comfort of their own homes. They like to perform their services in a nearby community. They can also keep their lawn equipment and tools in their garages.
Winter Work
When the temperature drops, you don't have to be concerned as a lawn and garden business owner. Even if you live in a snowy area, there are plenty of other methods to make money throughout the winter.
Snowplowing and Salt Services
You can purchase snow blowers or more detachable plows for your existing trucks and begin plowing services for your existing summer/spring customers. You can also use salt spreaders to offer an extra layer of ice protection.
Gutter Cleaning
During the winter, gutters get more clogged as a result of fallen leaves and snow. You can clean gutters, roofs, porches, fences, and driveways with your existing tools or by purchasing a pressure washer.
Recognition & Accreditation
Upon successful completion of this course and achieving a passing score for the assessment, you will be issued with an international continuing education credit (CEU) certificate.
This Certificate is applicable worldwide, which demonstrates your commitment to learning new skills. You can share the certificate with your friends, relatives, co-workers, and potential employers. Also, include it in your resume/CV, professional social media profiles and job applications.
Units of Study
Module 1: Introduction and Planning
- Maintenance Plans and Scheduling
- Factors in Planning
- Staffing and Hiring
Module 2: Equipment and Consumables
- Lawn Mowers
- Trimmers, Cutters, and Blowers
- Hand Tools
- Seeders and Spreaders
- Chippers
- Aerators
- Expanding Equipment Inventory
- Choosing Equipment
- Trailers
- Consumables
- Fertilizer
- Mulch
- Stone
- Topsoil
Module 3: Soils and Fertilizers
- Soils
- Macronutrient Testing
- pH
- Potassium
- Nitrogen
- Phosphorus
- Types of Fertilizer
- Common Issues with Soil
Module 4: Plant Care and Nutrition
- Basic Plant Requirements
- Plants in Commercial Settings
- Plants in Residential Settings
- Potted Plants
- Cation Exchange Capability
- Plant Care Mistakes
- Selecting Plants
- Pruning
- Pruning may include
Module 5: Signs of Poor Plant Health
- Identifying Causes
- Improper Soil
- Low Light
- Improper Amount of Water
- Pests
- Uncommon Environmental Causes
- Contagious Diseases
- Invasive Species
Module 6: Chemical Weed and Pest Control
- Weeds and Pests
- Herbicides
- Common Types of Weeds
- Plant Competition
- Common Types of Pests
- Benefits of Using Chemicals
- Disadvantages of Chemicals
- Common Types of Chemicals
Module 7: Organic Weed and Pest Control
- Pros of Organic Management
- Cons of Organic Management
- Efficacy of Organic Options
- Organic Ingredients
- Growing Popularity
- Special Use Applications
Module 8: Irrigation Systems
- Types of Sprinkler and Irrigation Systems
- Manual
- Automatic
- Making an Irrigation Plan
- Trickle Systems
- How to Use an Irrigation System
- Automating Irrigation Systems
- Maintenance and Care
Module 9: Lawn and Garden Safety
- Chemical Handling and Storage
- Storage
- Handling
- Chemical Record-keeping
- Harmful Chemicals Case Study
- Essential Safety Equipment
- Eye Protection
- Hearing Protection
- Footwear
- Hard Hats
- Chainsaws, Chippers, and Heavy Equipment
- Machine Guarding
- Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters
Module 10: Best Business Practices
- Initial Planning and Budgeting
- Pros of Starting a Lawn Care Business
- Cons of Starting a Lawn Care Business
- How to Determine Pricing
- Accumulating Equipment Over Time
- Location
- Winter Work
- Snowplowing and Salt Services
- Gutter Cleaning
- Holiday Services
- Winter Lawn Care
- Indoor Gardening Services
- Firewood Delivery Service
- Accounting Best Practices
- Insurance Requirements
- Characteristics of Good Customer Service
Requirements
Entry requirements
Students must have basic literacy and numeracy skills.
Minimum education
Open entry. Previous schooling and academic achievements are not required for entry into this course.
Computer requirements
Students will need access to a computer and the internet.
Minimum specifications for the computer are:
Windows:
Microsoft Windows XP, or laterModern and up to date Browser (Internet Explorer 8 or later, Firefox, Chrome, Safari)
MAC/iOS
OSX/iOS 6 or laterModern and up to date Browser (Firefox, Chrome, Safari)
All systems
Internet bandwidth of 1Mb or fasterFlash player or a browser with HTML5 video capabilities(Currently Internet Explorer 9, Firefox, Chrome, Safari)
Students will also need access the following applications:
Adobe Acrobat Reader
Requirements
Entry requirements:
Students must have basic literacy and numeracy skills.
Minimum education:
Open entry. Previous schooling and academic achievements are not required for entry into this course.
Device requirements:
Students will need access to a computer/any device and the internet.
FAQS
1. Who are Courses For Success?
Courses For Success is a course platform that started in 2008
with 5 courses, since then we have grown to over 10,000 online courses.
Our courses span across the following categories:
•Animal
•Beauty
•Business
•Health & Fitness
•Finance
•Lifestyle
•IT & Software
•Personal Development
•Teaching & Academics
2. Is there a refund/cancellation policy?
Yes, we have a 7-day money-back refund policy.
3. What is the FREE Personal Success Training Program?
The Personal Success Training Program
was developed by Courses For Success to help our customers achieve
success. Currently, we are offering this program for FREE with every
course or bundle purchase this month. This is a limited time offer!
4. Are there any requirements to study this course?
No,
anyone who has an interest in learning more about this subject matter
is encouraged to take our course. There are no entry requirements to
take this course.
5. Do I require to have finished high school to complete this course?
No,
you do not require a High School Diploma or to have finished school to
study this course, this course is open to anyone who would like to take
this course.
6. What if English is not my first language?
This
course is provided in English, however, due to the digital nature of
our training, you can take your time studying the material and make use
of tools such as google translate and Grammarly.
7. Is this course online or conducted in person?
All our courses are accessible online on any device. You may complete them at your own pace and at your own time.
8. How do I receive my course?
After
you have completed the payment, you will receive a confirmation email
and tax receipt. You will also receive an email containing your course
login details (username and password), as well as instructions on how to
access and log in to your course via the internet with any device,
please check your junk/spam folder in the event that you do not receive
the email.
9. When does this course start?
Providing
you have internet access you can start this course whenever you like,
just go to the login page and insert your username and password and you
can access the online material.
10. What is online learning like?
Online learning is easy, if not easier than a traditional academic situation.
By studying an online course, the usual boundaries caused by location and time constraints are eliminated, meaning you are free to study where and when you want at your own pace.
Of course, you will need to be able to self-manage your time and be organized, but with our help, you’ll soon find yourself settling into a comfortable rhythm of study.
11. What computer skills do I need for my course?
You
don't need to be a computer expert to succeed with our online training,
but you should be comfortable typing, using the internet and be capable
of using common software (such as Microsoft word).
12. How long will you have access to the online course?
The majority of our courses have unlimited lifetime access, meaning you can access this course whenever you want.
Please also check the course summary, as a small selection of courses have limited access.
13. How long will my course take?
Course duration, is listed under Course Summary
14. Do I need to buy textbooks?
All the required material for your course is included in the online system, you do not need to buy anything else.
15. Is the course interactive?
Yes, all our courses are interactive.
16. Is there an assessment or exam?
Yes,
you will be required to complete a multiple-choice test online at the
end of your course, you can do this test as many times as you require.
17. What type of certificate will I receive?
You
will receive a Certificate of Completion that is applicable worldwide,
which demonstrates your commitment to learning new skills. You can share
the certificate with your friends, relatives, co-workers and employers.
Also, include it in your resume/CV, professional social media profiles
and job applications.
Wendy Sue Hunt - 5 STAR REVIEW
"If you are considering taking any “Courses for Success”, I would highly recommend it. I have always been a firm believer it’s important to always sharpen your skills. You are never too old to learn more. I found the courses very helpful, interesting and easy to understand.
The term “Courses for Success” helped me in my current position to succeed. After completing the courses, I gave my manager the completion certificates. Recently I received a promotion too."
Valencia Marie Aviles - 5 STAR REVIEW
"I
had a very good experience with my course. It has helped me to get
multiple jobs and prepared me for almost everything I would need to
know. The course was very informative and easy to understand and broken
up perfectly to be done in a short amount of time while still learning a
good amount! I would recommend Courses for Success to anyone trying to
get abs certifications for job advancements, it is well worth it!"
ELENA GRIFFIN - 5 STAR REVIEW
"I have absolutely enjoyed the materials from Courses for Success. The materials are easy to understand which makes learning enjoyable. Courses for Success have great topics of interest which make you come back for
more.
Thank you Courses for Success for being part of my learning journey and making education affordable!"
Our
completion certificates are very valuable and will help you progress in
your work environment and show employers how committed you are to learn
new skills, you might even get a promotion.
18. Will this course be credited by universities?
No, it is not equivalent to a college or university credit.
19. Am I guaranteed to get a job with this certificate?
This course will give you the skills you need to help you obtain employment, but it’s up to you if you get the job or not.
20. How will this course assist me with my career?
Studying
and completing this course will show employers that you have the
knowledge in this field, additionally you will gain more confidence in
this area of expertise.
21. How long is the certificate valid for?
The Certificates are valid for life and do not need renewing.
22. Can I take more than one course at a time?
Courses
are studied online at your own pace and you are free to study as many
or as few courses as you wish, we also offer online course bundles that
allow you to save on additional courses so that you may get all the
topics related to your training goals in one go.
23. What are the Payment Methods available? Is there a payment plan?
We accept payments via PayPal, Credit Card and Bank Transfer.
Payment Plans: We have partnered with Partial.ly, to offer our own in house payment plan. Everyone is Pre-Approved, providing the initial deposit is paid in full.
To pay via bank transfer contact us info@coursesforsuccess.com
24. Can I purchase for multiple people?
Yes, you can do this by purchasing individually via website or send us a request via email at info@coursesforsuccess.com
25. Can I request for an invoice before purchase?
Yes, you can request for an invoice via email at info@coursesforsuccess.com
26. Purchase for a gift?
Yes, you can purchase this course as a gift, simply send an email to info@coursesforsuccess.com, with the course details and we can accommodate this.
27. Can I create my own course bundle?
Yes,
you can customize your own bundle. Please send us the complete list
with the exact course link of the courses you'd like to bundle up via
email info@coursesforsuccess.com and we will create them for you. *Each course access, time of completion and certification varies depending on the course type.
28. How will I contact Courses For Success if I have any questions?
You can contact our support team, at any time through live chat on our website, or email at info@coursesforsuccess.com, or by calling one of our phone numbers depending on which country you are in.
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Course Bundles
Looking for specific training for yourself or employees. Choose from our Course Bundles below or build you own Bundle, by adding more courses to your cart. Choose different courses or the same course for multiple staff members and receive volume discounts at checkout.