Diagnose tree diseases

Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 8:14 PM 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
AHCARB514

State Code
OBV65

TGA Status
Current

DTWD Status
Approved

Current Release Number
1.00

Current Release Date
26/08/2020

View on TGA

State Implementation and Classification

Approved Date

13/11/2020

Field of Education

050301 - Horticulture

Original Release Date

13/11/2020

Nominal Hours

Description

This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose tree diseases and develop a management program for their control. Diseases include pathogens, pests and other disorders of angiosperms, gymnosperms and woody monocotyledons.The unit applies to individuals who work in arboriculture and analyse information and exercise judgement to complete a range of advanced skilled activities and demonstrate deep knowledge in a specific technical area. They have accountability for the work of others and analyse, design and communicate solutions to a range of complex problems. No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.

Notes

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Assess environmental impact

1.1 Identify tree species and determine its region of origin and seasonal growth characteristics
1.2 Determine current and past cultural practices and impact on tree health
1.3 Determine characteristics of growing environment affecting growth of tree
1.4 Identify environmental and cultural factors predisposing tree to disease
1.5 Determine and assess physical and chemical properties of the soil or growing media

2. Identify diseased trees

2.1 Identify trees displaying disease symptoms
2.2 Recognise natural defence systems of trees for major disease types
2.3 Determine disease groups according to classification
2.4 Investigate trees for signs and symptoms of disease
2.5 Determine impact of disease type on tree parts and systems

3. Diagnose tree disease

3.1 Record symptoms and signs of disease according to accepted nomenclature
3.2 Collect and collate samples and evidence of disease and reference according to industry procedures
3.3 Determine the nature and severity of the disease condition
3.4 Determine disease type according to disease classification procedures
3.5 Research and identify disease according to industry standards
3.6 Prepare specimens of diseases for examination
3.7 Collect and package specimens in preparation for despatch to specialist for diagnosis and laboratory testing according to biosecurity procedures

4. Provide a prognosis

4.1 Determine the current health and vigour of the tree
4.2 Assess the severity and extent of the disease
4.3 Research the virulence of the disease on the specific host
4.4 Determine the phenology of the host and the disease
4.5 Research and consider constraints for management options
4.6 Consider influences of environmental conditions on host, disease and management options
4.7 Document prognosis and report according to workplace procedures

5. Develop, document and monitor the management program

5.1 Investigate and recommend management options
5.2 Develop a disease management program according to industry best practice
5.3 Record and document tree diseases and management programs according to workplace procedures
5.4 Monitor, review and update management plans

No information

Replaces

State Code	National Code	Title	Type
BAQ67	AHCARB602	Diagnose tree diseases	Unit of competency

State Code	National Code	Title	Type
BFG3	AHC50520	Diploma of Arboriculture	Qualification
BJR3	AHC50524	Diploma of Arboriculture	Qualification
BDD0	AHC50416	Diploma of Horticulture	Qualification