Crop Establishment

Crop Establishment is written for persons who wish to acquire technical knowledge and practical skills to successfully establish a wide range of crops. The text begins with a review of aspects of plant science – e.g., plant classification, plant parts and functions, plant nutrition, soils and climate - that impact crop establishment; and progresses through the stages of land preparation and planting. Participants are provided with practical, easy to follow guidance on how to prepare planting materials; till the soil; select crops suitable to site characteristics; line out the field; plant/transplant planting materials; and carry-out post-plant crop care. Particular emphasis is given to environmental management measures such as erosion control, composting, field sanitation and rainwater harvesting.
For participants pursuing Caribbean Vocational Qualifications, the information covers the learning requirements of AGGCRP0001A - Prepare Land for Planting; AGGCRP0021A - Prepare and Establish Planting Materials; and AGGCRP0031B - Plant a Crop by Hand. There are two workbooks: ‘Workbook 4.1 – Land Preparation’ and ‘Workbook 4.2 – Planting’ that contain the practical activities and review questions to prepare participants for competency assessments.