Programme Purpose: To equip the learner with the relevant knowledge, skill and competence to plant, grow and maintain a range of vegetables under supervision. 

Learning Outcomes: 

On successful completion of the course, learners will be able to; 

• State the principles of crop rotation including a rationale and examples 
• State the major factors affecting soil suitability for vegetable production to include soil composition, nutrient availability, water holding capacity, drainage, organic matter content and compaction 
• Prepare ground for vegetable growing to include digging, breaking up of soil, removal of debris, weeds and large stones to form suitable surface 

• Apply compost, manure and fertiliser to a stated rate at planting and throughout the growing season 
• Grow a range of vegetables to include brassicas, legumes, root crops and salad crops from seeds, including both station and drill sown, tubers, sets, plugs and transplants 
• Maintain growing vegetable crops to include watering, weather and pest protection, training and supporting 
• Deal with common pests and diseases of vegetable crops to include identification and control by a range of methods 
• Deal with weeds to include identification and control by a range of methods 
• Harvest a range of vegetables to include selection, grading and packing 
• Operate within appropriate safety procedures to create and maintain a safe working environment including safety standards regarding lifting, carrying and handling plants, tools and equipment.