Implement a tree transplanting program

Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
23/07/2026 2:05 AM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Unit of competency

National Code
AHCLSC310A

State Code
D6924

TGA Status
Replaced

DTWD Status
Replaced

Current Release Number
1.00

Current Release Date
10/06/2011

View on TGA

State Implementation and Classification

Approved Date

15/02/2012

Field of Education

050301 - Horticulture

Original Release Date

15/02/2012

Nominal Hours

Description

This unit covers the process of implementing a tree transplanting program and defines the standard required to: determine tree transplanting requirements from specifications; prepare tools and equipment; tree and new site for tree transplanting; calculate tree mass and size for safe removal; bind and/or wrap root balls and crowns; lift, reinstall and stabilise tree; organise work according to program requirements; record transplanting activities.

Notes

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Prepare for tree transplantation

1.1. Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) hazards associated with transplanting operations are identified, risks assessed and suitable controls implemented.
1.2. Liaison with local authorities and information services is undertaken to determine location of services and utilities, and legislation, local by-laws and regulations governing the transplanting/transporting of trees.
1.3. Tree is inspected to ensure the appropriate transplanting operations are implemented according to an identified program, and to ensure the safety of personnel, the public and property is maintained throughout and upon completion of work.
1.4. Root ball and crown treatments are selected, prepared and used according to the requirements of the species to ensure the tree remains viable throughout the transplanting process.
1.5. Site is prepared for transplanting activities including notification of local residents and authorities where necessary.
1.6. Surrounding property/vegetation is relocated, secured and/or protected from potential damage during tree transplanting.
1.7. Tools, equipment and machinery necessary to implement tree transplanting activities are selected, prepared and used according to enterprise guidelines and manufacturers' recommendations.

2. Implement transplanting operations

2.1. Soil around the root zone is excavated and root ball is undercut with minimum stress to the plant according to documented work procedures.
2.2. Roots are pruned where required to meet AS4373 Pruning of amenity trees.
2.3. Tree is stabilised as the root system is undercut and anti-transpirants applied as a root soak or foliar spray to ensure viability of the plant is maintained.
2.4. Root ball is bound with appropriate material to ensure adequate soil is retained and kept moist prior to transportation and installation.
2.5. Tree is lifted and secured for potential storage and/or transportation using safe lifting techniques and in accordance with documented guidelines.
2.6. Tree or shrub is prepared and handled to minimise damage during handling and transportation.
2.7. Appropriate drainage and soil improvements are implemented and the tree is re-installed and stabilised.
2.8. Tools, equipment and machinery are cleaned and stored according to enterprise guidelines and manufacturers' recommendations.
2.9. Completed transplanting program is recorded and communicated to management and/or the client according to enterprise guidelines.

3. Maintain health and viability of transplanted tree

3.1. Water is applied to the reinstalled tree over a sustained period to ensure minimal leaf loss and that new growth is apparent.
3.2. Anti-transpirants are applied and any nutritional requirements of the species are provided.
3.3. Tree protection devices are installed to ensure adequate support and protection is provided.
3.4. Tree condition and site is monitored to ensure the plant remains healthy.

RANGE STATEMENT
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole.
Transplanting may include:
all species of trees suitable for transplanting in an amenity or landscape context.

EVIDENCE GUIDE
The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
The evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit must be relevant to workplace operations and satisfy holistically all of the requirements of the performance criteria and required skills and knowledge and include achievement of the following:
determine tree transplanting requirements from specifications
prepare tools and equipment, tree and new site for tree transplanting
calculate tree mass and size for safe removal
bind and/or wrap root balls and crowns
lift, reinstall and stabilise tree
organise work according to program requirements
record transplanting activities.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Competency requires the application of work practices under work conditions. Selection and use of resources for some worksites may differ due to the regional or enterprise circumstances.

Replaces

State Code	National Code	Title	Type
S3326	RTF3018A	Implement a tree transplanting program	Unit of competency

Replaced By

State Code	National Code	Title	Type
BAP47	AHCLSC310	Implement a tree transplanting program	Unit of competency

State Code	National Code	Title	Type
D473	AHC30710	Certificate III in Horticulture	Qualification
D476	AHC31010	Certificate III in Parks and Gardens	Qualification