Soft Landscape

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10-7411-Volume 2 1/52

SECTION 02900

SOFT LANDSCAPE

PART 1 GENERAL

1.01 SCOPE

A. This Section of the Specification for Landscape Works includes the maintenance of all

planted areas for the project after the Final Handing Over. This includes:

1 The supply, installation and replacements of specified planting material (plants),

planting soil, supply and use of fertilisers, plant protection chemicals, additives.

2 The supply, installation and replacement of associated ancillary horticultural

proprietary items.

3 All maintenance works for the upkeep of healthy plants including palms, trees,

shrubs, ground covers, accent plants, succulents, cacti, climbing ornamentals, lawn

grasses etc. in the project.

4 Maintenance of a clean and healthy surroundings and environment.

5 Maintenance of safety of working personnel

6 Any related additional works required by the Engineer during the maintenance period.

7 This Section shall be read in conjunction with all other relevant Sections of the

Specification including Irrigation and Hard Landscape Manuals.

1.02 STANDARDS

A All activities relating to this Section of the Specification shall comply with the

following international standards, unless noted otherwise in this Specification.

BS 3936 - 1: 1992 Nursery stock Specifications for trees and shrubs

BS 3936 - 7: 1989 Nursery stock Specification for bedding plants

BS 3936 - 9: 1998 Nursery stock Specification for bulbs, corms & tubers

BS 3936 -10:1990 Nursery stock Specification for Ground Cover plants

BS 3998:1989 Recommendations for tree work

BS 4043:1989 Transplanting root-balled trees

BS 4428:1989 Code for general landscape operations

ISO 9000 Quality management systems



Div 02: Section 02900 Soft Landscape Maintenance

10-7411-Volume 2 2/52

1.03 DEFINITIONS

A Refer to the definitions in the General Conditions of Contract for Civil Works

Contracts. The definitions apply to this general Specification for Landscape Works.

Also:

The Contractor The awarded party for applicable Operation and Maintenance

of Landscape, Irrigation, Wells, Reservoirs, Pumping Stations,

Boosters, Reverse Osmosis.

1.04 QUALITY CONTROL

A General

1 Under no circumstances shall the Contractor perform any work not confirming to

specifications or as instructed by the Engineer. The Contractor shall follow only those

works approved by the Engineer.

B Qualified Personnel

1 Perform work only with personnel experienced in the work required of this Section

under direction of a skilled foreman.

C Substitutions:

1 When plants of the specified species are not available, substitution may be made only

with the written approval of the Engineer.

2 The Contractor will not be allowed to use different techniques or quality criteria

without Engineer s approval.

3 No plant materials, planting soil or other materials specified for the project shall be

accepted installed or planted without the Engineer s approval.

D Hold & Witness points

1 Do not proceed to complete further works until the following has been inspected andapproved in writing by the Engineer or approved representative.

(a)

Submission of works construction programme.

(b) Monthly progress reports.

(c) Approval of all samples & materials.

(d) Evidence of plant material availability.

(e)

Plant importation program.

(f) Excavated landscape areas.




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(g)

Filled, compacted and graded sweet soil fill to landscape areas prior to mixing

of amendments.

(h)

Setting out of planting areas and pits prior to excavation.

(i) Excavated pits and percolation tests prior to planting.

(j)

All Plant stock approved in the nursery prior to transportation.

(k) All Plant stock approved at the site prior to planting.

(l) Staking, guying and tying of Shrubs, Trees and Palms.

(m) Irrigation dipper lines working and tensioned and aligned correctly prior to

shrub and Ground cover planting.

(n)

Excavation of ornamental stone/mulch areas prior to laying geo-textile and any

edging or placing stone.

(o)

Any Irrigation approvals

(p)

Detailed Maintenance Manual.

(q) As Built drawings prior to PAC.

2 Do not proceed to complete further works until the following has been inspected and

approved in writing by the Engineer or approved representative for maintenance work.

(a)

Endorsed or modified maintenance manuals

(b) Endorsed As Built drawings from Construction Contractor.

(c) Monthly maintenance schedules.

(d) Monthly maintenance records sheets.

(e)

Weekly maintenance schedules.

(f) Weekly maintenance records sheets.

3 The contractor shall notify the Engineer 48 hours prior to the inspection of the above.

Such notification shall be given by a written inspection request (in a format acceptable

to the Engineer) each and every time various areas of the work are to be carried out or

covered up so as to prevent subsequent inspection.

4 These activities shall be identified as hold points in the Contractor s program and

inspection and test plans.

5 If the Contractor does not notify the Engineer in sufficient time to allow for his

inspection prior to covering up or completing installations governed by a hold point,

the Contractor shall remove all such materials/equipment as deemed necessary by the

Engineer to verify compliance of the work.

6 Any delays, additional work or additional costs attributed to the above shall be at the

Contractor

s expense.




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PART 2 NEW INSTALLATIONS

2.01 SCOPE

This section relates to installation of new items and construction or components

according to the changes made in the landscape. New works will form an extension orvariation to the maintenance contract and will be dealt with in accordance to

regulations for installation of new items. The operation and maintenance contractor is

not necessarily the selected Contractor for installing new items.

2.02 SUBMITTALS

A General

1 Submit samples of the following for the Engineers approval in accordance with Section

01000 General Submittals, in the General Specification for Civil Works (GSCW).

Provide two sets of the following:

(a)

Agricultural soil (Prior to amending): 1 Kg. along with soil analysis report

(b) Planting medium (after amendment); 1 Kg of each specified with analysis

report.

(c) Fertilisers, manures & other additives; Manufacturer s documentation.

(d) Irrigation water if not used from municipal or previously known source with

water analysis report.

(e) Natural stones/Drainage stone: 0.25 cubic metres.

(f)

Geo textile fabric & other drainage materials: 1 square meter.

(g) Staking & Guying materials and methods: As per project requirements.

(h)

Samples of all plants to be used in this contract prior to delivery: Arrange

nursery visits as necessary, with majority stock in one location.

B Shop Drawings as Built Drawings

1 Additional works or modifications during Maintenance require design drawings with

details called shop drawings. These drawings shall comply with the International

Standard EN ISO 11091: 1999 Construction Drawings

Landscape Drawing Practiceand its Annexure B.

2 The contractor shall maintain one set of As Built drawings. All approved changes

and all completed and approved work shall be recorded on these drawings. The

contractor shall maintain this on a daily basis. At the time of substantial completion the

contractor shall submit to the Engineer the complete

As Built

set of drawings for

approval and final approved set shall be submitted within 14 days of final hand over.

3 Once the drawings have been approved the contractor shall prepare and submit (within

5-days) 3nos. sets of fully book bound drawings and 1nos. soft PDF copy on CD with

scanned literature.




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C Manuals

1 The contractor shall obtain, if available, from the Engineer one set of Maintenance

Manuals which were submitted by the construction contractor(s) to ADM at their final

handing over. The Manual(s) shall have 4 parts:

Part. 1. - Pumping Station and Reservoir Maintenance.Part. 2. - Soft Landscape Maintenance.

Part. 3. - Irrigation System Operation and Maintenance.

Part. 4. - Hard Landscape Maintenance.

Note: This may vary depending on the project scope of works.

2 The Maintenance Manuals shall then be collated and modified by the maintenance

contractor into one manual to suit his scope of work. I.e. some areas or tasks may not

be included or the maintenance contact may cover several areas. The new

Maintenance manual shall be submitted to the engineer within 14-days after receiving

the original manuals.

3 The final contents of the new Maintenance Manual shall be approved with the

Engineer.

4 Once the manuals are approved the contractor shall prepare and submit (within 5-days)

3nos. sets of fully book bound manuals with original manufacturers technical

catalogues, literature etc. and 1nos. Soft PDF copy on CD with scanned literature.

5 14-days prior to final completion handing over of the Maintenance Contract the above

documents shall be again updated and submitted again as outlined above.

D Manufacturer's Literature

1 Manufacturer's literature and labels for the following materials shall be submitted prior

to use or installation:

(a)

Fertiliser(b) Pesticides and all plant protection chemicals

(c) Compost and Manure

(d)

Any other specific products not listed above.

2 The above information shall be maintained by the Contractor and available to the

Engineer and Client at short notice.




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E Test Reports

1 Tests shall be based on a representative sample of material to be used.

2 Submit Test reports to the Engineer before sample submittals.

3 Do not use materials until reviewed by the Engineer.

4 Material used in construction shall be the same as that reviewed in testing.

5 An authorised testing laboratory accepted by the Engineer shall perform the testing and

all costs for this work shall be at the expense of the Contractor.

6 The following test reports shall be submitted:

(a) Manufacturers certified analysis of all standard products, including fertilisers

and manures.

(b) Certificates confirming the origin, size of all standard products, including

fertilisers and manures.

(c) Health certificates for all imported plant material.

7 The following information is required for each of below.

(a) Agricultural soil.

1. pH value:

2. Electrical conductivity:

3. Free carbonates:

4. Chlorides:

5. Sulphates:

6. Exchangeable sodium:

7. Boron:

8. Sodium

9. Magnesium

10. Sieve analysis.

11. Sodium Absorption Ratio (SAR)

(b) For planting medium (after amendment)

1. pH.

2. Electrical Conductivity (EC)

(c) Irrigation water

1. Electrical Conductivity (EC)

2. pH

3. Chlorides (Cl)




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4. Nitrate (NO3)

5. Bicarbonate (HCO3)

6. Sulphates (SO4)

7. Calcium (Ca)

8. Sodium (Na)

9. Magnesium (Mg)

10. Potassium (K)

11. Boron (B)

Note: If municipal supply water or other known source of irrigation water is not used,

test certificate must be produced along with submittal of sample.

F Certificates of Inspection:

1 Certificates of inspection shall accompany the invoice for each shipment of plants as

may be required by law for transportation.

2 File certificates are to be transferred to the Engineer prior to acceptance of the

material.

G Approvals of materials

1 It is conditional to the contract that written approval must be obtained for all products

and materials prior to use in the works. Approval of products or materials does not in

any way relieve the contractor of his full responsibilities under the Contract.

2 The Contractor is to carry out all tests directed by the Engineer to ensure that the

materials and workmanship are in accordance with the specified Standards and Codes

of Practice mentioned in the document.

2.03 WARRANTY

A Provide 12-month warranty from any alteration works from the Date of SubstantialCompletion (PAC) under provisions of General Conditions of Contract .

B All plant materials furnished under this section shall be guaranteed as to the species,

hybrid, flower colour, and/or variety specified herein or on the Drawings. If any

guaranteed plant material proves to be of a different species, hybrid, flower colour and

/or variety not initially determinable, the Contractor shall replace that plant with a new

plant of the originally specified species, hybrid, flower colour and/or variety

C The Contractor shall replace all plants found in an unhealthy growing condition during

the Maintenance Period.

D Replacements shall be with new healthy plant(s) of same species /variety/ hybrid/

flower colour and size at the time of replacement.




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2.04 COMPLIANCES

1 Comply with safety standards and governing regulations for cleaning operations. Do

not burn waste materials at site, or bury debris or excess materials on site, or discharge

volatile or other harmful dangerous materials into irrigation or drainage systems;

remove waste materials from site on a day-to-day basis and dispose of in a lawfulmanner.

PART 3 MATERIAL SPECIFICATIONS

3.01 AGRICULTURAL SOILS

A Composition

1 Soil shall be sweet sand or marine washed sand free of calcium carbonate, subsoil,refuse, roots, noxious weeds, phytotoxic materials, rocks, sticks, brush, litter,

construction debris or any other deleterious materials. The soil shall be approved by

the Engineer before its use. It shall be free draining, non-toxic and capable of

sustaining healthy plant growth. It should have good water holding capacity and

minimal runoff or erosion characteristics.

B Chemical Criteria

1 The agricultural soil shall comply with the following:

pH value: not less than 6.5 or not more than 8

Electrical conductivity: less than 2500 micromhos /cm

(2.5 dS / m) saturated extract at 25ºC

Free carbonates: less than 0.5% air dried

Chlorides: less than 200 ppm in saturated extract

Sulphates: less than 200 ppm in saturated extract

Exchangeable sodium: less than 15% in neutral

normal ammonium acetate

Boron: less than 1.5 ppm, hot water soluble

Sodium less than 250 ppm

Magnesium less than 100 ppm

Nitrates less than 75 ppm




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C Grading Criteria

Sieve Size (mm) % by Mass Passing

5.000

2.380

1.180

0.600

0.300

0.150

0.075

65 to 100

45 to 100

35 to 80

D Soil Samples

1 At least 7 days before schedule use, the Contractor shall submit in writing to the

Engineer the proposed source or sources of agricultural soil (sweet sand) for approval.

The Contractor shall ensure that representative samples of sweet sand are taken from

each source for testing purposes. Each sample shall be tested and analysed by a

qualified agricultural Soil testing laboratory, and the results submitted in writing to theEngineer. All testing procedures for agricultural soil shall be deemed to be included in

the Contractor s rates. Use of soil shall be permitted only after approval of the

Engineer.

E Storage

1 Soil shall be stored in heaps no greater than one and a half meters high. Soil heaps

shall be protected from undue compaction and no construction or waste materials

shall be stored on or mixed with the soil. Soil heaps not intended for immediate use

must be kept covered to prevent wind drifts and other public nuisance.

3.02 COMPOST & ORGANIC MANURE

A. Compost and organic manure should conform to following standards

B. Compost and manure of cattle, sheep, chicken etc. shall be from an approved company.

It shall be pasteurized and free from weed and disease. It shall be composted fully so

that it may be used in direct contact with plant roots, at the quantities specified,

without harmful effects to the root system or the plants overall health and appearance.




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It must be free from any viable seed that may germinate at a later stage. The particle

size and moisture content of compost should be ideal for easy mixing with soil.

C Organic manure in the form of fishmeal that is premixed with a suitable Nitrogen fixing

and Phosphate dissolving micro organism based product. The micro-organism -based

product has to be mixed well with fishmeal at the rate of one litre per 50 kg. of

fishmeal. This mixture has to be thoroughly incorporated to soil or planting medium.

3.03 FERTILISER

A Fertiliser shall be organic, slow release compound fertiliser equivalent to NPK 8-8-16

for palms or 16-8-8 for other plants. In addition to NPK elements, it should also

contain minimum 25% sulphur, 2% MgO and 1.5% trace elements.

B Fertiliser shall be furnished in standard containers with the name, weight and

guaranteed analysis of the contents clearly marked. Production and expiry dates must be clearly printed on the fertiliser bags.

C When a mixed fertiliser is specified, the first number shall represent the minimum

percentage of soluble nitrogen, the second number shall represent the minimum

percentage of available phosphoric acid and the third number shall represent the

minimum percentage of water soluble potash.

D Kind and quantity of application of manures and fertilisers are subjected to changes in

different projects and it must be followed as approved by the Engineer.

3.03 STANDARDS FOR ORGANIC FERTILISERS & CONDITIONERS

A Fertilisers of various categories for use in landscape projects must conform to the

following Standards and specifications.

B Slow release organic fertilisers (Non-biological) should conform to following

specifications

1. The fertiliser should be heat treated and fermented.

2. The organic matter content should not be less than 40%.

3. Moisture content should not exceed 25%.

4. EC should not exceed 10 millimhos / Cm in an extract from 1:5.

5. The pH should not exceed 7.5 in an extract of 1:5.

6. The C/N ratio should not exceed 20:1.

7. The Sodium chloride (NaCl) percentage should not exceed 2% and soluble

sodium should not be more than 0.8%.

8. It should be free of soil, sand and other impurities.

9. It should be free from harmful weed seeds, disease causing pathogens,

nematodes, insect pests etc.




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C In addition to above, based on recommendations of the Engineer (wherever needed)

other soil additives are to be used. Those products should conform to specifications

provided herewith.

D Fish/ Bone/ Sea Weed/ Blood Based Fertilisers

1 The content of Organic matter and plant nutrient elements of this fertiliser should not

be less than 50%. Primary and secondary elements as percentages and trace elements

as ppm should be indicated on the packing.

E Biological Organic Fertilisers with beneficial micro- organisms

1 The specification should comply to those of Non-biological organic fertilisers

mentioned above with an exception /addition of the following.

(a) The moisture content should not exceed 30%(b) Names of biological microbes added in the fertiliser must be indicated in the

Certificate of Analysis.

F Liquid Organic Fertilisers

1 In cases where the below mentioned liquid organic fertilisers are to be used, the

following aspects should be considered.

G Sea Weed / Fish / Bone/ Blood Based Fertilisers

1 The content of organic matter and plant nutrient elements should not be less than 25%(from fresh weigh or total volume- W / W or W / V-).

(a)

Fertilisers of which the main contents are humic or fulvic acid:

The percentage of both Humic and Fulvic acid should not be less than 12%.

(b) Fertilisers which contain organic matter + humic or fulvic acid + NPK:

The percentage of all these contents together should not be less than 50%

(from fresh weigh or total volume- W/W or W/V-).

(c) Soil Conditioners

Wherever Soil Conditioners are recommended for use it should conform to the

following specifications.

1. Organic Conditioners

Organic conditioners like Peat moss and Coco Peat must conform to the

following standards.

a Peat Moss

·

It should be free from natural soils & sands




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· The percentage of Organic matter should not be less than 95%

· Should be free of diseases, animal or plant pests especially

nematodes

· The EC should not exceed 3 milli mohs / Cm in an extract of 1:5

· The pH should not exceed 4 in an extract of 1:5

·

Sodium chloride should not exceed 0.2%

· The moisture content should not exceed 60 %

b Coco Peat (Coconut coir peat)

· It should be free from natural soils, sands and other plant parts

· The percentage of Organic matter should not be less than 85%

· Should be free of diseases, animal or plant pests especially

nematodes

· The EC should not exceed 3 mille mohs/Cm in an extract of 1:5

· The pH should be between 5 and 7.5 in an extract of 1:5

·

Sodium chloride should not exceed 0.2%

· The moisture content should not exceed 60 %

2. Non Organic Conditioners

The product should be supplied in tightly packed bags or containers with

proper labelling. The technical leaflet of product should contain:

· Chemical name

· Effective material and proportion

· Application methods for achieving best result as well as its impact

on soil and the type of soil it suits.

Products should be with following specifications:

a Agricultural Gypsum

· The Calcium Sulphate should not be less than 80%.

· Sodium Chloride should not exceed 3%.

b Agricultural Sulphur

· The percentage of Sulphur element should not be less

than 8.5%.

c Polymers

· The water holding capacity should be clearly indicated.

d Bentonite

· Sodium chloride should not exceed 2%.

e Perlite

· Saturation Capacity should not be less than 300%.

· PH should not exceed 7.5.

·

It should be odourless, free of any disease or pestorganism.




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3.04 STANDARDS OF NON - ORGANIC FERTILISERS

A Fertilisers of pure chemical nature must conform to the product specifications and label

details. Packing should clearly mention the brand name, nutrient content in percentages

and any other additives present. Products must be packed in such a way that it doesn tcontaminate environment and should avoid any spillage. For granular fertilisers it must

be of uniform granular size for easy spreading. It must be without any moisture

contamination and free of caking and impurities. For liquid chemical fertiliser, it must

be clear liquids without crystallisation and settlements. For suspension fertiliser,

particles must easily dissolve when diluted. An ISO certified company s product must

be used in all projects. Those chemical fertilisers approved by the Engineer only must

be used according to project needs.

3.05 IRRIGATION WATER

A Irrigation water should be from a known source and it shall conform to the following

standards of which the an ions and shall be within the below mentioned levels.

Anions:

1. Chlorides (Cl) - 200 ppm

2. Bicarbonate (HCO3) - 115 ppm

3. Sulphates (SO4) - 390 ppm

4. Nitrate (NO3) - 10 ppm

Cat-ions:

1. Calcium (Ca) - 120 ppm

2. Sodium (Na) - 130 ppm

3. Magnesium (Mg) - 45 ppm

4. Potassium (K) - 18 ppm

5. Boron (B) - 2 ppm

B In cases where any leaching of salts is required, water used shall be less than 1millimhos / Cm at 250C.

3.06 PLANTING MEDIUM

A An ideal planting medium must provide a condition in which the root system of the

new plant can resume easy growth and develop new root hairs to absorb water and

nutrients. It should have the following qualities:

1. Loamy texture

2.

Good drainage3. Suitable pH




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4.

Balanced nutrients

5. Low salinity level

B These conditions should be attained by carefully blending ingredients such as

agricultural soil, organic manure, compost and fertilisers. The pH of the amended

planting medium should be within the range of a pH value 6.5 to 7.5 and the contractorhas to do necessary treatments and amendments to bring the pH to required level in

case it differs. Wherever there is a need to retain excessive moisture under very dry

conditions peat moss or other soil conditioners shall be added as approved by the

Engineer.

C Planting medium shall consist of a homogeneous mixture of soil, compost and

fertilisers as specified, and in the following proportions:

D Organic Manure / Compost shall be provided at the following rates:

Location Rate

Palm pit

Note: Apply after 3 months for Palms 25 kg per pit

Tree pit (Depends on tree size/age) 20 kg per pit

Large shrubs 15 kg per pit

Small Shrubs & Ground cover beds 10 kg per m2

Lawn Areas 10 kg per m2

Note: 25kg = 1 Bag of Organic Manure (normally)

E NPK slow release organic fertiliser shall be provided at the following rates:

cation N.P.K Rate per pit

Palm pit (depending on age & size)

Note: Apply after 3 months for Palms

8.8.16 400 to 500 gm / pit

Tree pit 16.8.8 300 gm per pit

Large shrub 16.8.8 200 gm per pit

Small Shrubs & Ground cover beds 16.8.8 200 gm per m2

Lawn Areas 16.8.8 200 gm per m2

Special Notes:

1. Application rates and kind of fertilisers mentioned above shall be for

planting medium preparations and first application only. Application

rates and methods for maintenance are explained in the following

Planting Medium Mixtures and Method of applications.




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2. Maintenance and further application shall be scheduled in accordance

with the Engineer s instruction depending upon the season, type of plant,

health conditions.

3. For palms, manure and fertiliser inputs can be added to palm pits after

planting at a later stage as approved by the Engineer.

4. The planting medium for lawn areas should be prepared one week before

sowing seeds or the grass stolons are planted.

3.07 PLANTING MEDIUM MIXTURES AND METHOD OF APPLICATIONS

A In the following pages, mixing ratios of planting medium and their mixing methods are

detailed in tables. The contractor has to ensure that these methods are strictly followed

when planting medium mixes are made unless otherwise instructed by the Engineer.

The contractor shall add any additional amendments to planting medium in case the pH

of the made up medium does not comply with the specification. (i.e. between 6.5 and7.5).

B These tables are for initial application of mixtures to planting medium or first

application (in case of palms). The tables and does not include maintenance program

fertilizing, this is shown in the next section. The method and time of application should

be maintained for each type of plants as given below.

C Rates of application of fertilisers shall vary with palm variety, size and age and

necessary changes in the kind of fertilisers and rate of application shall be carried out as

instructed by the Engineer.




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1 Date Palm - Phoenix dactylifera

SlKind ofFertilisers

PerPalm

After planting

or establishment

Remarks3-4months

6-7months

1 Organic

matter based

25 Kgs 25 Kgs. nil Apply uniformly in trenches made

of 200 mm. width and 150 mm.

depth 0.75 to 1 metre away from

trunk within the individual palm

basins;

Mix well with soil in trench

working with hand shovel(spade), backfill scooped out soil

above trench to level, irrigation to

follow immediately.

2 Slow release

Organo-

chemical

fertiliser

(NPK

8.8.16)

400

Grams

200

Grams

200

Grams As above

3 Fishmeal

pellets or

granules @

20 Gr./ Kg.

of Organic

manure

500

Grams

500

Grams nil As above

4 Micro

organism based ( as

Microfert)

@ 1 litre per

50 Kg. of

Fish meal

1 liter

per 100 palms

1 liter

per 100 palms

nil Mix Fishmeal & Microfert

thoroughly and spread in trenchof palm basin uniformly; mix well

with soil and other inputs. Irrigate

as explained above.




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2 Tree pits

Sl

Kind of

Fertilisers

Per

Tree Remarks

1 Organic

matter based

20 Kgs Spread fertiliser in basins of tree pits prior to planting.

Soil to be filled in such a manner to get a perfect final

level considering settling down of loose soil after

irrigation and to accommodate root ball area of plants

after planting. Thoroughly mix the fertiliser with soil

and pre-irrigate well to moisten the entire medium

uniformly before planting to field capacity. Plant as

per specifications. Irrigate plant basins well after

planting.

2 Slow release

Organo-

chemical

fertiliser

(NPK

16.8.8)

300

Grams

As above

3 Fishmeal

pellets orgranules @

20 Gr./ Kg.

of Organic

manure

400

Grams As above

4 Micro

organism

based (as

Microfert)@ 1 litre per

50 Kg. of

Fish meal

1 liter

per 125

tree

pits

Mix Fishmeal & Microfert thoroughly and spread in

trench of plant basin uniformly; mix well with soil and

other inputs. Irrigate as explained above.




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3 Large Shrub pits

Sl

Kind of

Fertilisers

Per

Shrub Remarks

1 Organic

matter based

15 Kgs Spread fertiliser in basins of shrub pits prior to

planting. Soil to be filled in such a manner to get a

perfect final level considering settling down of loose

soil after irrigation and to accommodate root ball

area of plants after planting. Thoroughly mix the

fertiliser with soil and pre-irrigate well to moisten the

entire medium uniformly before planting to field

capacity at planting. Plant as per specifications.

Irrigate plant basins well after planting.

2 Slow release

Organo-

chemical

fertiliser

(NPK

16.8.8)

200

Grams

As above

3 Fishmeal

pellets orgranules @

20 Gr./ Kg.

of Organic

manure

300Grams As above

4 Micro

organism

based ( as

Microfert)@ 1 litre per

50 Kg. of

Fish meal

1 liter

per 166

shrubs

Mix Fishmeal & Microfert thoroughly and spread in

trench of plant basin uniformly; mix well with soil

and other inputs. Irrigate as explained above.




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4 Small Shrubs, Ground Cover beds, Feature plants and Lawn areas

Sl

Kind of

Fertilisers

Per Sq.

Metre. Remarks

1 Organic

matter based

10 Kgs Thoroughly mix the fertiliser with soil and pre-

irrigate well to moisten the entire medium uniformly

before planting. Moisten the entire medium to field

capacity. Watch for any soil settlement, and grade to

finish level before planting. Plant as per

specifications. Irrigate well after planting.

2 Slow release

Organo-chemical

fertiliser

(NPK

16.8.8)

200

Grams

As above

3 Fishmeal

pellets or

granules @

20 Gr./ Kg.

of Organicmanure

300

Grams

As above

4 Micro

organism

based ( as

Microfert)

@ 1 litre per

50 Kg. of

Fish meal

1 liter

per 166

Sq. m.

Mix Fishmeal & Microfert thoroughly and spread

uniformly on soil / planting medium; mix well with

soil and other inputs. Irrigate as explained above.




10-7411-Volume 2 20/52

5 Seasonal Flowers

SlKind ofFertilisers

Per Sq.Metre. Remarks

1 Organic

matter based

10 Kgs Thoroughly mix the fertiliser with soil and pre-

irrigate well to moisten the entire medium uniformly

before planting. Moisten the entire medium to field

capacity. Watch for any soil settlement, and grade to

finish level before planting. Plant as per

specifications. Irrigate well after planting.

2 Granular

fertiliser

N.P.K

20.10.10 +

MgO

50

Grams

As above

6 Fertiliser program given above is subjected to modifications depending on the project

needs, soil test reports, planting types, seasons etc. and the contractor shall follow the

approved program specified by the Engineer for each project.

3.08 MAINTENANCE FERTILISER APPLICATION

A These are general recommendations required per annum. Specific recommendations

shall have to be followed depending up on the soil analysis for each project or area.

Time of application, rate per application and methods shall be as per the approved

Method Statement for each project.

Plant

Organic

Manure

Slow

Release

Organic

N.P.K +

T.E.

Nitrogeno

us (Urea /

Am.

Sulphate)

Chelated

Micro

Nutrient

Soil

Cond-

itioner

Timing

Once a

year

Once a

year

Twice a

year

As shown

per year

As shown per

year

Once

a year

Measurement Kg AsShown AsShown Grams Grams Kg




10-7411-Volume 2 21/52

Palm

(per palm)

10 2.5 to 3

Kg.

1 to 2

Kg.

250-500

twice

100-200

twice

2

Trees

( per tree)

5 500

Grams

0.5-1

Kg.

100-250

once

100-200

once

1

Shrub

(per shrub)

2.5 200-250

Grams

200-250

Grams

100-150

twice

50-100

once

0.5

Ground cover

(per m2)

5 100-200

Grams

100-200

Grams

50 three

times

25-50

twice

0.25

Lawn areas

(per m2)

5 100-200

Grams

100-200

Grams

25-50 six

times

25-50

twice

0.25

Seasonal Flowers (During growing period)

Sl

Kind of

Fertilisers

Per Sq.

Metre.

Frequency Remarks

1 Granular

fertiliser N.P.K

12-24-12 +

MgO

50 Grams Monthly

Spread around plants in planting

beds, mix well with planting

medium, irrigate to field capacity

immediately after application.

2 Micronutrient

fertiliser

0.3 Grams Fortnightly

Soil application by fertigation or by

foliar spray (0.3 grams per litre of

water). Conduct foliar test spray in

small area to establish safety for

concentration before spraying large

areas.

B Changes to above fertiliser kinds, quantity, time of application etc. shall be considered

according to soil analysis data, seasons, type of plants and project needs and shall be

followed as per the instruction of the Engineer.




10-7411-Volume 2 22/52

3.09 PLANT PROTECTION CHEMICALS

A All pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, nematicides, miticides, tree sealants etc. fall under

the Plant Protection Chemicals.

B These plant protection chemicals whether in the form of solutions, Granules,

Emulsifiable Concentrates, Pellets or Fumigants must conform to all legal safety

standards.

C The product must be with a low mammalian toxicity and a high LD50 value and should

cause only a minimal damage to the environment. The contractor should educate the

persons involved in carrying out plant protection measures about all safety precautions

for storage and handling of the product. It should be useful and effective against the

target pests.

D Product label must carry details of product

s ingredients, formulations, toxicity, and

rates of application, pests controlled and proper means of safe handling. The contractor

must be able to provide the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) of product as

instructed by the Engineer and use only approved products.

E While using a plant protection chemical, the following safety guidelines should always

be followed.

1 Use only products tested and recommended by the state authorities.

2 Follow the manufacturer

s directions for rate and safety of application of the product.

3 Use the lowest recommended concentration whenever it is possible and apply only on

diseased plants.

4 Do not apply on a windy or cloudy (sign of rain) day.

5 Do not prepare excess amount of chemical and dispose balance quantity elsewhere.

6 Do not spray near pet cages, beehives, water pools etc.

7 Spray chemicals during early morning or late evening especially during summer to

avoid plant injury.

3.10 PLANTING MATERIAL

A General

1. All planting material shall be of the size specified and obtained from an approved

source. All plants shall be supplied as specified and the Contractor is expected to

obtain stock from outside the UAE if it is not available locally.




10-7411-Volume 2 23/52

2.

Plants to be obtained outside the UAE should be identified at the time of bidding and

accompanied by a draft programme for importation of such plants, indicating supplier

or source and delivery times required.

3. Plants shall be true to type and supplied under botanical names. Synonyms must be

checked with the Engineer.

4. Imported plants must be acclimatised for a period of six (6) weeks minimum prior to

planting.

5. All planting stock shall be well-balanced and well formed, sound, vigorous, healthy and

free from disease, sun-scald, abrasion, harmful insects or insect eggs and with a

healthy, unbroken root system filling their containers but not root-bound. Unless

otherwise specified, only nursery grown plants will be used. All plants shall be

container grown (balled plants) except as otherwise specifically stated in the Contact

Documents.

6. Plants will only be given final approval based on their condition at site at the end of the

warranty (365-days Maintenance) period.

B Substitutions

1. The Bid must be based upon plants that are available. If plants are unobtainable,

alternatives may be submitted with the Bid, stating how they differ from the

Specification. Such substitutions may not be acceptable and submission of further

alternatives may be required. Approval shall be obtained from the Engineer prior to any

substitution.

2. After the Bid period, no substitutions will be considered and specified plants will have

to be procured by whatever means are necessary in order to meet the completion dateset.

C Nomenclature

1 The nomenclature of plants shall conform to the scientific names given in:

(a) L.H. Bailey Hortorium, Cornell University. 1976. Hortus Third , A concise

dictionary of plants cultivated in the United States and Canada. Macmillan,

NY.

(b) Note: Alternative names (synonyms) shall be checked in this book. All plants

must agree with the botanical description in this reference.

3.11 TREES

A. All trees supplied for new works must meet the following criteria:

1.

They must have a clear straight stem, healthy look and good shape.

2. They must have a well balanced crown with the terminal leader intact,

3.

They must possess at least four main branches




10-7411-Volume 2 24/52

4.

All saw cuts are to be clean and free from any ripping or splitting and shall be

trimmed smooth after cutting.

5.

All trees and palms are to be purchased and stored in suitable nursery conditions within

6 weeks of the start of the contract.

6.

All dimensions shown with tolerances (i.e. 120-150mm) refer to maximum andminimum dimensions that will be accepted. Measurement of all plants of one species

shall, as a minimum, average between the upper and lower figures (i.e. in the above

case 135mm).

7. Trees are to be sprayed with an approved anti-desiccant 48 hours prior to transport.

B. Avenue and feature trees are nursery-grown standard form trees with clear,

substantially straight stems. The head shall be developed for its type and evenly

balanced, with no main branches crossing the crown. The tree shall have a central

leader or a branch head according to the species or cultivar. Unless otherwise specifiedin the Bill of Quantities, standard form trees shall be 10-15mm calliper when

measured 200mm from ground level a minimum overall height of 1.5m at time of

planting.

C. Boundary trees shall be feathered form with a defined, upright central leader and stem

furnished with evenly spread and balance lateral shoots down to near ground level,

according to it s species. They shall have a minimum overall height of 1.5m at time of

planting.

3.12 PALMS

A All palms supplied for new works shall be balled and bur lapped unless container

grown specimens are available. Offshoots will not be acceptable. When palms grown in

sandy soil are removed for planting, where retention of ball of earth or bur lapping

around root ball is not possible due to its soil texture, extreme care should be taken to

minimize the root damage.

B Excavation has to be made at sufficient distance away from trunk so that feeder roots

are not cut or bruised. Care must be taken to avoid any kind of root damage while

transporting or off loading.

C Palm leaves or fronds are to be Hessian wrapped from below the lower most frond

base to upwards in such a manner that the growing point is securely protected. This

has to be done before the palm is removed from its original growing place and should

be retained during transport and subsequent planting. Hessian wraps should be

removed only after ensuring the emergence of new leaves.

D All palms shall have a vigorous root system, crown of new leaves, proper colour of

leaves of an adult palm and sufficient hardiness.




10-7411-Volume 2 25/52

3.13 SHRUBS, HERBACEOUS PLANTS & GROUND COVERS

A Shrubs

1 All shrubs supplied for new works are woody perennials of generally multi-stemmed

and bushy habit ranging from 3 to 4.5m in height down to 500mm height when mature.

Shrubs shall meet the requirements for spread and height indicated in the drawing

and/or specified in this contract. Measurement of height for shrubs shall be taken from

the ground level to the average height of the shrubs and not the longest branch or stem.

Shrubs shall have at least three main stems, and shall be well balanced and bushy with

strongly developed root system, free from pest and disease.

B Herbaceous Plants

1 All herbaceous plants supplied for new works are non-woody perennials of clump

forming habit. Such plants shall have well developed stems and a healthy root system,

free from pest and disease. Clumps of herbaceous plants shall include rhizomes, corms,

tubers or roots and soil undisturbed by lifting, with evidence of growing shootsemerging above soil level. All shrubs and herbaceous plants shall be cultivated in

containers of appropriated dimensions corresponding to the size of the plants and the

requirements of the species.

C Ground Covers

1 All Ground cover plants supplied for new works are low growing, 500mm or less, or

prostrate shrubs or herbaceous plants whose habit is to totally cover the soil. All

ground cover species shall be evenly balanced to allow equal growth in all directions.

Plants shall have fully developed root system and leaves. Unless otherwise specified,

rooted cuttings will not be accepted. All plants shall be container grown.

3.14 ANCILLARY ITEMS

A Tree Stakes

1 All trees shall be double staked. Stakes shall be of timber, straight, free of projections

and pointed at one end. The stakes shall be pressure impregnated with non-injurious

wood preservative such as TANALITH E to be applied at least two weeks before use.

Stakes shall also be painted with 2 no. coats of matt green water resistant exterior

paint.

takes

Large Shrub Stakes

50 x 50 mm

50 x 50 mm




10-7411-Volume 2 26/52

2 When installed the length of the stake shall be minimum one third below ground level

unless otherwise detailed or approved by the Engineer. Erect in a straight manner not

leaning toward or away in any direction from the plants main stem.

B Tree Ties

1 Tree ties shall be high-density polyethylene (HDPE) chain-lock type.

2 Ties fabricated from string, packing materials, fabric webbing or galvanised wire and

guard hose will not be accepted. The contractor shall provide an on site sample

erection of a tree stake and tie prior to approval.

C Guying & Anchoring

1 Where guying and anchoring of large plant material is required the contractor shall

submit a method statement for the Engineers approval. Durable high strength rubberstrapping is preferred over steel cable and turnbuckle arrangements.

D Temporary Planting Screens

1 Whenever planting is in an exposed position, liable to strong or excessively hot wind

conditions, windbreaks shall be provided until such time as the planting is firmly

established.

2 Screens shall be typically 1750mm tall using high density polyethylene monofilament

shade net of approx. 75% density supported by tree stakes as described above.

3 The shade net configuration can be altered to suit the size of the planted specimen.Variations from the above typical sizing shall be approved by the engineer.

E Hessian

1 Hessian bands shall be 750mm wide to lengths necessary for wrapping tree trunks and

main branches.

F Anti-Desiccant

1 Anti-desiccant shall be an emulsion type, film-forming agent designed to permittranspiration but retard excessive loss of water form plants. Trees or shrubs shall be

sprayed 48 hours prior to moving.

G Gravel Mulch & Natural Stone

1 Gravel shall be free from additional organic and waste material, of a consistent beige

colour or as specified in the BOQ.

2 Gravel shall be spread evenly over areas as indicated with final spreading finished with

a rake. In areas of abutment with other landscape materials (e.g. lawn, planting,) the




10-7411-Volume 2 27/52

finish line of the gravel must be a clean sharp edge or held with proprietary edging as

indicated in the drawings and the BOQ.

H Temporary Shade Structure

1 For plant species requiring shade during establishment on site, temporary shade

structures shall be erected and maintained by the contractor to the Engineers

discretion.

I Root Control Barrier

1 Root Control Barriers shall be used to protect adjacent structures from damage as

shown on the drawings and as directed by the Engineer. The barrier shall be HDPE,

minimum 600mm wide in continuous rolls and manufactured for purpose.

2 Do not fully enclose or encircle the plants roots system. Locate at the interface between the plant and the objects being protected

PART 4 EXECUTION

4.01 PRELIMINARIES

A Site Investigations

1 Prior to any operations the contractor shall undertake site investigations to ensure full

awareness of all the site conditions. The site conditions shall include but not be limited

to:

(a) The site boundary and/or extent of works.

(b) Location of all existing services on the site.

(c) The existing drainage conditions and infrastructure.

(d) Existing vegetation including that to be retained.

(e) Ground conditions such as existing subsurface rock, ground water level etc.

B Site Enclosures

1 The Contractor shall erect temporary fencing to the boundaries of the site as required

for the protection of the public and/or to the Contractor s site infrastructure and

storage areas.

C Existing Vegetation

1 The contractor shall erect temporary fencing to protect existing vegetation to be

retained. The area shall enclose the outer drip line and root zone of all trees. Storage of

building materials, construction refuses or any other deleterious material is not permitted in the fenced area.




10-7411-Volume 2 28/52

2 Protect all existing vegetation to be retained with maximum care at all times during

construction and possession of the site. The contractor will be required to replace any

damaged or destroyed vegetation to the full value of the said vegetation and at the

discretion of the Engineer.

D Existing Planting Soil

1 Where the drawings indicate storage or reuse of existing topsoil, carefully strip and

stockpile to avoid unnecessary compaction, contamination or any damage to the

topsoil.

2 Do not pile higher than 3m and cover in windblown areas to protect from drying out.

Do not store longer than 12-months. If this is required seek additional approval for

alternative methods.

E Demolition

1 As per the demolition plans or as noted on the drawings, clear and remove from site all

items not required to be retained, protected or preserved. Refer to the General

Specification for Civil Works , Section 02060, Demolition and Site Clearing for further

guidelines.

4.02 CONSTRUCTION WORKS PROGRAM

1 Prepare a construction schedule for approval in accordance with the General

Specification for Civil Works , Division 1 - General Requirements and submit to the

Engineer for approval.

2 Include the actual dates for all witness and hold points. Submit within 7- days of

gaining possession of the site.

4.03 PLANTING SEASON & CONDITIONS

A No planting shall be carried out during periods of heavy rain, sandstorms, heavy winds,or during intense daytime heat.

B Plants and trees shall only be moved or planted in the cooler winter months between

mid September and mid May.

C Palms and lawns can be installed in the more humid months late May to early

September.

When special conditions warrant a variance to the planting times above, a proposed

planting schedule shall be submitted to the Engineer for review and approval. In such

cases, the planting will be installed at no additional cost and all conditions and

obligations such as maintenance and warranty remain the responsibility of the

contractor.




10-7411-Volume 2 29/52

D Planting of trees and shrubs will occur prior to lawn planting.

E All planting should be carried out only after the irrigation system is fully operational.

4.04 ON-SITE ACCLIMATISATION STORAGE

A Where possible, prior to planting, all plant materials shall be acclimatised on site for a

minimum of one week and protected against drying at all times. This is only possible if

facilities are available on site to do so. Otherwise immediate planting is recommended.

In such cases required acclimatisation shall have been fulfilled in the nursery to

overcome any transplanting shock later. Under any circumstances, the Contractor shall

provide facilities for on-site acclimatisation of all plants.

B Palm trees shall be planted immediately upon arrival on site. If palms have to be held

for longer than twelve hours before planting they should be heeled-in in trenches

which are kept moist at all times.

4.05 HANDLING AND TRANSPORTATION OF PLANTS

A General

1 Plant material shall be lifted or moved in such a manner that the roots are not

disturbed. Plant materials shall be lifted by handling the container and not the above

ground portion of the plant. Root systems of all plants shall not be allowed to dry out

at any time and shall not be exposed to excessive or artificial heat or to freezing

temperatures. During transportation all plants shall be packed adequately to ensure

protection for climatic or physical injuries. Tarpaulins or other covers shall be placed

over plants when they are transported by open trucks or freight cars. Plants are not to be piled on top of one another. All plants shall be treated with anti-desiccant prior to

transportation.

B Palms

1 Prior to transporting to site, and immediately upon lifting all suckers, flowering and

fruiting parts and approximately thirty percent of fronds shall be removed. The

remaining fronds shall:

(a) be sprayed with approved anti-desiccant 48 hours prior to transplanting,

(b) lifted to enclose and protect the growing tip,

(c) wrapped in hessian and securely tied in position,

2 The roots of non- container grown palms shall be pruned and the root ball shall be

protected with tied hessian bands. Hessian bands shall be 750mm wide and to lengths

necessary for the additional wrapping tree trunks and main fronds.

3 When planted in their final location palms shall be set and maintained plumb to

Engineers approval.

4 Imported palms shall have been acclimatised for at least six months before removal

from the nursery.




10-7411-Volume 2 30/52

4.06 PLANTING MEDIUM

A Mix the soil additives with agricultural soil at the rates specified. The planting medium

shall be mixed mechanically by an approved method to create a homogeneous mixture.

For individual pits of tree and shrub planting, planting medium shall be prepared in situ

by mixing the specified quantity of each ingredient for each pit. The pH of the amended planting medium should be within the range of a pH value 6.5 to 7.5. A one-kilogram

sample of each batch shall be submitted to the Engineer for approval prior to

spreading.

4.07 PLANTING DEPTHS & PITS

A Unless otherwise specified, planting beds and pits are to be the following minimum

dimensions:

Location Size / depth

Palm pits 2000 x 2000 x 2000 mm

Tree pits 1500 x 1500 x 1500 mm

Large Shrub pits 1000 x 1000 x 1000 mm

Small Shrub pits 750 x 750 x 750 mm

Shrub beds 500 mm depth

Ground cover beds 300 mm depth

Lawn areas 300 mm depth

B Paving may cover a small percentage of the planting pits area. The planting pit

however is to be maintained at the minimum dimensions shown above.

C The planting medium depth from top level of pit must be 1.5 times or more than the

total root ball depth and in no cases should it be less than 1/3rd of the pit depth.

4.08 PERCOLATION TESTS

A Percolation tests shall be carried out at a minimum rate of 1 test per 50 plants with

respect to individual species or as directed by the Engineer at a higher frequency. The

test shall be carried out using the following procedure:

1. Fill the plant pit with irrigation water and mark the level reached.

2. Monitor the rate of percolation over a period of one hour. If the water level drops by

more than 20mm then the pit has passed the test.

3. If the plant pit fails the test, bore holes shall be augured at the bottom of the pit to

achieve proper percolation to the approval of the Engineer.




10-7411-Volume 2 31/52

4.09 PLANTING SEQUENCE

A General

1 Planting shall be done only once the installation of irrigation system has been

completed in all respects, planting area have been prepared properly and the work

approved by the Engineer. The Contractor shall proceed with complete planting

operations as per the approved construction program and as portions of the site

become available, working within seasonal limitations for each type of landscape work

required.

B Bed Preparation

1 Prior to spreading of any planting medium, the sub-grade shall be filled or excavated to

the appropriate levels. The sub-grade shall then be raked level and cleared of all debris

and rock to reveal a smooth clean sub-base at levels required to accommodate the

specified depths of planting medium and mulch.

C Grading

1 Agricultural soil shall be installed to achieve tolerances specified for finished level of

planting medium, and when reasonably dry and workable, graded to smooth, flowing

contours with all minor hollows and ridges removed.

2 Planting medium to be spread at levels to accommodate mulch where specified. Final

grades should not deviate more than +/- 25mm from the finish grade specified.

3 Finished ground level adjoining building shall be kept 150mm below the level of the

damp-proof course.

D Setting out

1 Stake out the outline of planting areas, Ground cover beds and individual tree and

shrub locations and for approval by the Engineer prior to plants being installed.

E Excavation for Planting

1 At the time of planting, a hole shall be made into the pit/bed large enough to take the

plants root ball. Refer to the previous section on standard planting depths and pits.

The planting hole shall be thoroughly moistened prior to planting.

F Back filling

1 After passing the percolation tests, backfill with approved planting medium in layers

not exceeding 300 mm. Each layer shall be separately firmed and watered in to

eliminate all air pockets until final soil level is reached. Allow for

compaction/subsidence by overfilling by 100 mm. Once placed the growing medium

shall be covered with plastic sheeting or fenced and clearly marked to prevent

disturbance until planting commences.




10-7411-Volume 2 32/52

G Stakes

1 Stakes shall be driven into the tree pits at least one third of their specified length.

Stakes are required for any new plantings with respect to the size and individual

plant condition and location as directed by the Engineer. If these are required for

improvement of the growing conditions of the plant temporarily then they can be

requested by the Engineer at anytime.

H Planting

1 Plants shall be carefully removed from containers. The plants shall be removed with

all the potting soil moistened and intact around the roots. Care shall be taken not to

damage the roots of the plants. The plant shall be placed upright in the centre of

the hole. Planting should be avoided in extreme weather conditions.

2 Care shall be taken to set the plant in such a way to ensure that the collar line (line of

contact between soil and stem) is at the same level as the surrounding ground. Fillaround the plant root ball with planting medium in layers of 150-300 mm.

3 The Engineer shall finally decide the relative positioning of all plants, and any

relocation if needed shall be carried out by the contractor as part of the contract.

I Watering

1 Watering should be carried out through the approved irrigation system only. Under

emergency situations when watering could not be carried out through irrigation

system, plants should be irrigated with water tanker using hosepipe fitted with fine

spray heads and under controlled pressure. Watering should not adversely affect the plant or ground conditions. i.e. If pressure is too high or shower nozzles absent or

water temperature is too high.

2 For palms, trees and shrubs a circular watering basin slightly larger than the planting

hole shall be formed. Immediately after planting, all plants shall be thoroughly watered

in. Ensure that soil from the watering basin does not migrate so as to cover the root

ball top or around the collar of the plant as this can cause damage or death of the plant.

J Levelling and cleaning

1 After planting, the area surrounding the plant shall be restored to 25mm below finish.

Excess soils and rubbish shall be disposed of properly and final layer of mulch shall beapplied.

K Pruning

1 Immediately after planting, all plants are to be pruned in accordance with accepted

horticultural practices or as directed by the Engineer. Pruning shall consist of carefully

cutting back any damaged, dead or diseased branches and the removal of any weak or

malformed growth, with the aim of forming each type of stock to the standard shape

for its species.

2 The above horticultural care and arboriculture practices shall be applied to existing

trees retained within the project area. If requested, a method statement of proposed

arboricultural works to existing trees shall be submitted to the Engineer for approval.




10-7411-Volume 2 33/52

L Identification

1 A plastic label clearly engraved with the species and variety shall be attached to each

plant or to each group of plants (1 tag/10 plants minimum). In some cases this may not

be required. Approval may be sought from the Engineer not to label particular plants.

2 Monitoring plants; check all plants one week after planting for signs of wind shake andloosening due to soil subsidence. Do corrections as needed.

4.10 LAWN AREAS

A Lawn grass areas are to be installed using either:

1

Sprigging (stolons)

2 Sodding (Laying rolled or rectangular turf)

3 Seeding.

B Refer to the drawings for nomination of the selected method.

C Before planting lawn areas the ground must be prepared. Soil must be mixed with

organic manure and fertilisers to enrich the planting medium. To retain soil moisture or

to adjust soil pH, peat moss may be required. It shall be added as per the Engineer s

instructions. Planting medium after amendments should be within a pH range of 6.5 to

7.5.

D The ground level should also be prepared in such a way to avoid any water logging,

surface run-off or soil erosion. Levels shall be graded toward drainage inlets or subsoil

drainage lines if available. Always form slopes away from buildings and structures.

E Ensure the following before actual planting starts.

1 Prior to beginning planting operations the irrigation system must be completely

operational ensuring 100% coverage.

2. Bring the water content of the area to attain field capacity by allowing water to

percolate until standing water disappears.

3. Apply fertiliser quantities and kinds as approved by the Engineer.

4. Cultivate to a depth of 300 mm.

5. Level the ground to finish levels with suitable garden tools and machinery. All sticks,

stones larger than 10 mm diameter, weeds, debris and other extraneous material shall

be removed. Area shall be rolled and raked to true lines free from unsightly variations,

bumps, ridges or depressions.

6

For Sprigging (stolons) use Paspalum vaginatum g rass stolons unless other is specified

by the Engineer.

F Sprig Installation:




10-7411-Volume 2 34/52

1. Keep dry dormant stolons refrigerated 0°-3°C, until the area to be planted is prepared.

Do not exceed two weeks of refrigeration. Soak stolons in water after removing from

cold storage and prior to planting.

2. Do not exceed two days of storage on job site. Stolons are to be kept moist, shaded

and ventilated during such storage.

3. Sow at 6 bushels (One Bushel = 36.5 litres) per 100 square Metres.

4. Plant utilising a disc to cut in stolons and followed by culti-packer roller or other

technique approved by the Engineer.

5. Water as necessary to keep the stolon bed moist until germination. Once grass is up

begin lengthening intervals between irrigation.

6. Planting shall not occur when day temperature is extremely high or night temperature

is extremely low.

G Sodding (Rolled or rectangular Turf)

1 Unless otherwise specified use Paspalum vaginatum turf sods. While selecting sods,

the following should be noted.

(a) Sods must be healthy looking and not exhibiting any symptoms of prolonged

storage, yellowing or drying

(b)

Sods should preferably be of equal size.

(c) Planting soil should be well adhered to the root system (not less than 50mm

thickness)

(d)

Sods must be free of weeds, pests and diseases

(e) Sod planting soil should contain sufficient moisture at the time of delivery at

site

2 Transporting of sods must be in covered trucks on wooden pallets to avoid any

damage while in transit. Off loading from trucks at site must be done using proper

unloading machinery such as forklifts or by means of slings and supports.

3 Sods shall be laid on cultivated soil within 24 hours of stripping. From the point of

unloading, sods shall be taken to the actual location of its lay by the use of flat-bedded

wheelbarrows thus minimising potential damage what so ever. Careful handling is of

prime importance during laying. Under no circumstances sods should be thrown on theground. The sods shall be laid to form a solid mass with tightly fitted joints. The ends

of the sods shall be butted. Strips shall be staggered to offset joints in adjacent courses.

4 The lawn shall be tamped or rolled to ensure contact with the planting medium.

Planting medium shall be worked into minor spaces between pieces of sods and excess

planting medium be removed.

5 The perimeter of the lawn area shall be flagged off to stop foot traffic until after the

third mowing or as directed by the Engineer.

6 Immediately after laying, lawn shall be hand watered abundantly using water hose so

that water percolates down as quickly as possible to enable root mass to be in contact

with the planting medium. Watering should be continued in this manner for about a

week by which time rooting will have started. Care should be taken not to over water




10-7411-Volume 2 35/52

so as to cause water logging. Normal sprinkler irrigation programme shall be

commenced once root establishment is ensured.

H Seeding

1 Grass seed to be used must be free from any kind of obnoxious weed seeds. It must be

true to its type with a minimum purity of 95% and germination rate of 80%. Analysis

certificate or test reports by the producer mentioning the purity and germination

percentage of grass seed, percentage of other grass seeds and weed seeds with names

and inert materials must be submitted. Each bag or packing must bear these details

besides the Common and Scientific name of the species and approval of the Engineer

must be obtained before using.

2 Seeding shall be spread over a fine levelled, cultivated soil bed by hand or mechanical

seeder.

3 After final levelling, work a hand rake mildly on soil surface to make shallow grovesfor seeds to fall in which shall be later covered by irrigation water so that seeds shall

not be blown off by subsequent wind.

4 Since grass seed is very tiny and free flowing, it may be mixed with coarse sand up to

two times of its quantity to get a uniform sowing coverage while hand spreading. Half

of the specified rate shall be applied twice in perpendicular directions so as to achieve

an even seed distribution rate.

5 Following seeding, the bed shall be raked or harrowed or to cover the seed with soil to

a maximum depth of 25mm

6 Water shall be applied lightly and frequently until one week or 50% germination and

then gradually increase duration and period between watering until normal irrigation

programme is met.

I Protection

1 The perimeter of seeded, sprigged or rolled turf areas shall be flagged off to restrain

foot traffic until after the second mowing (followed by complete grass coverage) or as

directed by the Engineer.

4.11 HEAVY MACHINERY

1 Heavy machinery, which would excessively consolidate the subsoil, shall not be usedduring any operations nor shall heavy machinery be taken over on areas prepared for

planting or grassing.

PART 5 MAINTENANCE OF SOFT LANDSCAPE

5.01 SOFT LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS

A General

1 During the maintenance contract period the Contractor shall carry out maintenance of

the planting strictly in accordance with the Maintenance Manual approved by theEngineer.




10-7411-Volume 2 36/52

2 The Contractor shall be responsible for carrying out all necessary measures to ensure

that the plant material thrives and in a healthy established status and that the landscape

areas are kept in a clean and tidy condition.

3 The extent of the landscape to be maintained by the Contractor shall be deemed to

cover and include all soft landscape areas and irrigation systems within the overall

project boundaries as shown on the drawings within that manual.

4 The Contractor shall provide all necessary measures and materials Fertilizers,

nutrients, soil, compos, manure, water, pesticides, mulching materials etc.)_to ensure

that all plants including ground covers are maintained green and in healthy condition,

B The Soft Landscape Maintenance Contractor shall

1 Provide sufficient personal and equipment to perform all work in a professional manner

to the satisfaction of the Engineer and in keeping with generally accepted horticultural

practices and techniques.

2 Check each area daily and take remedial measures as necessary. Any changes to the

agreed maintenance regime need specific approval by the Engineer in writing. The cost

of which will be calculated from the schedule of rates in the contract.

3 Take responsibility for the Landscape maintenance and works and areas of site

implemented and shall take all necessary steps to co-ordinate his works with those of

other contractors.

4 If different contractors maintain soft landscape and irrigation systems, ensure that

failure of the work does not cause the failure of another Contractor

s works.

5 Co-ordinate with the Irrigation Maintenance Contractor, if different, to ensure the

planting areas are watered as necessary at an approved rate and time, preferably at

night, or early in the day (i.e. 12 pm to 10 am). In adequate or excessive irrigation

applications are to be avoided so that all plants receive optimum watering for plant

development.

C In general the Contractor shall also

1 Monitor the automatic irrigation system assuring that all irrigation emitters/bubblersare not clogged, broken or missing, and that all landscape planting areas are receiving

ample irrigation.

2 Verbally notify the Engineer and the Irrigation Contractor, if different, in the event of

irrigation malfunction and confirm in writing.

3 Monitor irrigation application by keeping soil moisture records on a daily basis for

each planting zone, as directed by the Engineer. A Tensiometer, with the probe placed

adjacent to the root zone in planted areas, shall be used to measure soil moisture. All

tests are to be executed prior to irrigation cycle starting. Testing requirements shall be based on the irrigation needs and as determined by the Engineer.




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4 Notify the Engineer and Irrigation Contractor when additional water is required,

setting out times and application rates, to enable co-ordination of time clocks and

schedules.

5 Notify the Engineer in writing immediately if emergency hand irrigation is needed and,if approved by the Engineer, shall water each plant by hand, either by using hose pipes

connected to the main irrigation / bore-hole system, if available, or by importing water.

While hand watering the contractor shall use hoses fitted with suitable hose end nozzle

attachments (e.g.: shower heads) to avoid damages to plants or soil surface. Ensure the

pressure is appropriate for this.

6 Notify the Engineer in writing immediately if any malicious damage to the works is

cause by others. i.e. vandalism or car accident damage. Where approved by the

Engineer, the Contractor shall submit a quotation to repair any damage and, if

instructed, carry out the repairs within 7 days of instruction where season allows.Planting seasons shall be adhered to unless otherwise approved by the Engineer.

7 Undertake all necessary maintenance operations necessary for healthy plant growth.

D Qualification & Work Experience of Supervisors

1 The Contractor shall ensure that a senior qualified supervisor is made available for

organising and running the maintenance program. The contractor shall also have

available an experienced foreman who can supervise the workers on a day-to-day basis.

E Qualification & Work Experience of Supervisor and Forman.1. The Supervisor shall be a graduate in Horticulture or Agricultural Science with

minimum 6-years exposure to landscape projects in the Middle East.

2. The Foreman shall be a degree or diploma holder in Horticulture / Agriculture Science

with not less than 4 years of field experience in landscape projects.

3. They should be able to recognise field problems and to carry out remedial measures

time to time.

4. They must be able to organise the work force and manage works to keep the plants in

premium condition.

5.02 BASIC MAINTENANCE PRACTICES

A General

1 The entire landscape area shall be kept weed and litter free. The disposal of unwanted

objects shall be made on a daily basis to keep the project area and surroundings clean

and presentable. The contractor has responsibility to maintain any fence or boundary in

a sound manner to protect the landscape area from stray animals and intrusions. Any

rodent burrows, rat holes, animal encroachments etc. should be repaired as it appears.




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B Plant Nutrition

1 The contractor shall monitor under-nourishment of plant materials at all times including

anything that could affect the general health of plants or invite invading pests and

diseases. Some common deficiency symptoms are listed below for general guidance.

Element Deficiency symptoms exhibited

Nitrogen Pale green older leaves, stunted plant growth

Phosphorous Poor root growth, Purplish discoloration of leaves

Potassium Brown leaf edges, curled leaves, poor flowering

Calcium Die-back of leaf tips, flower stalk dropping

Magnesium Marginal or inter-veinal yellowing of older leaves

Sulphur Yellowing of younger leaves and stunted growth

2 If symptoms appear, soil or tissue analysis shall have to be carried out by the

contractor before treatments or remedial measures are carried out.

C Fertilisers

1 The most commonly used fertilisers are in granular, crystal or pelletized form. These

are applied to the soil, mixed well with soil and watered thoroughly. Fertilizers should

always be applied evenly over at a distance away from the stem.

2 Another method of applying the necessary plant nutrients is by the use of liquid feeds.

These have the advantage of reducing the risk of burning the plant when applied as per

manufacturer's instructions and the nutrients are immediately available, as the liquid is

easily absorbed.

3 Due to their lower concentrations used, liquid fertilizers are to be repeated frequently

according to plant needs.

4 Also fertilizers can be applied by foliar feeding. For enhancing efficiency, before foliar

fertilizer spraying, green foliage of plants shall be washed with clean water to remove

dust etc.

D Compost / Organic Manure

1 Application shall be in moderate temperatures before the onset of summer and should

consist of a layer of approved compost or organic manure, being worked well into the

top 50 -100mm of the soil surface, taking care not to damage the roots around the base

of the plant. This will help to improve the structure of the soil allowing easy passage of

air and water to the root zone.

E Trace elements

1 These are needed in small quantities to enhance healthy growth of plants in general.

F Method Statement




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1 The Contractor shall follow the Method Statement

approved by the Engineer for

carrying out any plant nutrition operations.

G Maintenance Fertilising

1 A maintenance-fertilising schedule is illustrated below in tabulated form. These aregeneral recommendations required per annum. Specific recommendations shall have to

be followed depending on the soil analysis for each project or area. Time of

application, rate per application, quantity and methods shall be as per the approved

Method Statement for each project or as instructed by the Engineer.

Plant Organic

Manure

/

Comp-

ost

Slow

Release

Organic

N.P.K

+ T.E.

Nitrogenous

(Urea / Am.

Sulphate)

Chelated

Micro

Nutrient

Soil

Cond-

itioner

Timing

Once a

year

Once a

year

Twice a

year As shown As shown Per year

Measurement Kg As

Shown

As

Shown

Grams Grams Kg

Palm

(per palm)

10 2.5-3

Kg.

1 to 2

Kg.

250-500

twice

100-200

twice

2

Trees

( per tree)

5 500 Gr. 0.5-1

Kg.

100-250 once 100-200

once

1

Shrub

(per shrub)

2.5 200-250

Gr

200-

250 Gr.

100-150

twice

50-100

once

0.5

Ground cover(per m2)

5 100-200Gr

100-200 Gr

50 threetimes

25-50twice

0.25

H Plant Protection

1 Plant protection includes insect, disease and weed control measures to keep plants in a

sound condition. This protection is mainly carried out by chemical application

measures. The chemicals selected shall be effective against specific target pests. For

concealed pests systemic chemicals shall be used. If satisfactory biological control

measures are available against any targeted pest, this should be preferred over a

chemical control.




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2 If herbicides are to be used, it shall be selective or non-selective, pre-emergent or post

emergent type depending upon the plants grown, weeds present, time of application,

place of application etc. The contractor shall use only recommended application

equipments & methods so that the weeds are killed without harming other plants.

3 The Contractor shall follow the Method Statement approved by the Engineer for

carrying out any plant protection measures. Storage and handling safety shall be the

sole responsibility of the Contractor, and all necessary safety requirements shall be in

accordance with the Manufacturer s recommendations.

I Maintenance works

1 During the maintenance period the contractor shall keep all plants in a clean and

healthy condition. He shall carry out the following:

§ Palm crown and fronds must be kept clean and tidy

§ Pruning of plants according to plant types and season

§ Stakes and ties maintenance and adjustments

§ Disease and pest control measures

§ Weed control measures

§ Rodent, reptile control

§ Fertiliser applications as needed and approved

§ Irrigation schedules

§ Plant basin maintenance

§ Topiary works

§

Trimming and Edging§ Lawn mowing at correct intervals

§ Lawn aeration, dethatching etc.

§ Gap filling and weak plant replacements.

§ Removal of dead and diseased plants

§ Foliage washing

§ Mulch maintenance

5.03 SPECIFIC MAINTENANCE PRACTICES

A General

1 The contractor shall follow Specific maintenance practices relevant to each project

considering the plant types, application time, and prevailing deficiency symptoms.

Details of such works shall be explained in the Weekly Schedule for the following

week s works.

2 The Contractor must carry out the maintenance practices described below. These items

shall be read in conjunction with the Basic Maintenance Practices. It is the

responsibility of the contractor to carry out all such works to maintain healthy

presentable plants to the satisfaction and approval of the Engineer.

B Replanting




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1 When replanting any plant it is essential to ensure both the planting soil and root ball

are moist but not saturated. A hole should be dug large enough as specified to easily

accommodate the root ball without crowding, and the depth should be such to ensure

that the plant is only settled as deeply as it was in the container. Remove any roots,

rocks or refuse from the hole. In cases where planting medium lost its quality due to

any unsuitable factors, it shall be removed and replaced with specified plantingmedium.

2 Remove the plant from its container taking care not to disturb the root ball, any roots

which are too long or damaged should be removed. Then position the plant in the hole

in such a way that it is placed to best advantage for the onlooker.

3 If planting bare root plants, the stake should be placed before backfilling, carefully

threading it through the root system to avoid any damage. If using container grown

plants, the stake can be inserted after backfilling. When backfilling is completed firm

down soil and form a basin around the trunk, once planting completed, fill the basinwith water.

C Replacement of Plants

1 The Contractor shall be responsible for replacing any plants that fail to survive during

maintenance period, whether as a result of inadequate maintenance operations, poor

workmanship or poor quality of plant material.

2 If during the course of the maintenance period trees or shrubs or other plants die

because of a fault by the Contractor, the Contractor shall replace the plant at no cost to

the Department. All questions related to responsibility for the replacement plantingwill be subjected to site inspection and agreement by the Engineer.

3 The Final Completion Certificate will not be issued until all plants scheduled on the

Drawings and Schedule of Work are successfully maintained in a healthy condition in

the manner specified and as approved by the Engineer.

D Soil Analysis

1 The contractor shall arrange analysis of soil samples from locations within the project

at every 6 monthly intervals during maintenance period or as directed by the Engineer.

The required number of samples shall be decided as instructed by the Engineer

depending on the soil adversity, size of the project and other planting features.

2 Test results must comply with the specified standards of ph levels of planting medium

and adequate plant nutrients. The contractor shall take necessary corrective measures if

it does not comply.

E Site Cleaning

1 The Contractor shall keep the landscape areas clean and tidy at all times and dispose of

all waste materials arising from the cleaning. This shall include all pathways and hard

landscape areas within the scope of works. If any large items are dumped on the site

the contractor shall either remove or contact the owner or responsible authority to

remove the items as quickly as possible.




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F Palms

1 Care of replacement palms

(a) Six to eight weeks after planting, remove palm wrapping, separate fronds andcheck for terminal bud growth. If terminal bud shows signs of growth leave

palm unwrapped to allow the heart to receive sunlight. If no sign of regrowth

is evident, it can be safely assumed that the palm had died and therefore

should be replaced.

2 Pruning & Cleaning

(a) Phoenix dactylifera and Washingtonia filifera and most other palms, (If not

self cleaning) require the oldest fronds being removed in November, but

periodic removal of dead fronds should be carried out as and when necessary.The fronds should be removed using a sharp disinfected saw cutting on the

underside of the petiole as close to the trunk as possible. To assist in the

cutting, the frond should be tensioned by pushing it upward.

(b) Any dead, dry leaves or stalks hanging must be removed; Inflorescence must

be tied and kept clean. Pollination shall be carried out at right time with viable

pollens collected from healthy palms. Only workers experienced in pollination

techniques shall be engaged for this work. Excessive male inflorescence must

be cut and removed. Trunk shall be maintained with a uniform girth as the leaf

sheaths are to be cut clean.

(c) After an established period of one growing season the Contractor shall clean

palms by having all bases of old fronds saw back close to stem at a downward

sloping angle, leaving no cavities which might harbor larval pests. Leaf axils

shall be periodically checked for inhabitance of rats or other reptiles and

control measures shall be taken urgently. Off shoots should be removed to

keep only the main single palm to give the best landscape appearance unless

other wise instructed by the Engineer.

3 Watering of Palms

(a) The Contractor shall co-ordinate with the irrigation contractor to ensure that

the palms receive adequate amount of water as per application rates specified

unless otherwise directed by the Engineer.

4 Fertiliser application

(a) The Contractor shall start the regular maintenance Fertiliser application

programme from 3 months after planting or as directed by the Engineer.

Approved granulated Fertiliser with micronutrients shall be applied at the

rates specified in the Method Statement approved by the Engineer prior to

usage. Also note the general maintenance fertiliser schedule table for




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guidance. Soil should be moist at the time of fertilizing and irrigation should

be followed immediately after fertilizing.

5 Pest and Disease Control:

(a) The Contractor shall maintain proper controls by spraying at such frequenciesand in such amounts as to prevent insect and disease problems. The

Contractor shall carry out specific checks every month to identify any

causative organisms and treatments shall be target oriented.

(b) Palms shall be inspected for signs of boreholes in their trunk. If these are

present both stem and head shall be treated twice with insecticide, in mid May

and again in mid June or as approved by the Engineer. Control measures shall

be timely addressed for major pests like Red Palm Weevil, Root Knot

Nematodes, Mealy Bugs, Fruit Stalk Borer, Termites etc.

(c) Red Palm Weevil being the most dangerous pest of Date Palm has to be

controlled as per an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program. IPM

involves use of suitable pesticides and Sex Aggregation Pheromone Traps.

Mating and Egg laying of adult insects usually takes place from November to

April during low temperature and high humidity. Pesticide sprays shall be

carried out before pest population multiply. Affected palms shall be

immediately removed and disposed from the site before infection spreads to

other palms.

(d) Laying of bait or traps to control rodents shall be carried out in problematic

areas. All pest control measures shall be conducted as per the MethodStatement approved by the Engineer.

6 Maintaining Palm basins:

(a) Maintain palm-planting basins by removing all debris and weeds. Care should

be taken to protect bubblers and other irrigation accessories while doing

cleaning works.

G Trees and Shrubs

1. Pruning

(a) All plants, in general, shall be maintained in a well-pruned condition to

improve their appearance and to keep them healthy. Remove from time-to-

time dead, dry, diseased and broken branches. While pruning, care has to be

taken for using proper pruning tools so that ragged and split ends are avoided.

Cuts should always be made on a slant/angle so that they shed water easily.

Also locate the cut end just above a branch junction, bud or leaf node,

pointing in the direction that it is desired the new branch should grow. Stubs

of branches left beyond the bud will dieback to the bud, making entry of

disease easier.




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(b) For flowering trees and shrubs pruning should be carried out in a manner that

does not affect the forthcoming blossoms. The contractor has to adopt the

right pruning techniques to encourage foliage plants to develop dense

canopies and give the best appearance. Light pruning to shape a plant or

remove dead branches can be done all year round. However, heavy pruning

should be done during the dormant season (December-February) only whenleaves have fallen.

(c) For topiary plants, shape and structure must represent an attractive figure. All

cuts shall be clean leaving no stubs. Cut ends shall be applied with a fungicide

to prevent entry of disease causing organisms.

2. Stakes & Tree ties

(a) Stakes for all ornamental trees should be inspected on a monthly basis to

prevent girdling of trunks or branches, and to prevent rubbing that causes bark wounds. Any lean from natural causes should re straighten. Stakes

loosened or broken shall be repaired or replaced using pressure treated 50mm

square stakes as specified. Similarly tree ties also shall be inspected at monthly

intervals. Loosen ties when necessary to avoid constricting the growth of

limbs and the trunk. Where necessary stakes and ties shall be replaced using

the equivalent material being removed. Tree stakes and supports should be

removed only once the plants are anchored strongly by its own root system

and the tree is capable of standing vertical and able to resist normal summer

high winds and winter storms.

(b) At completion of the maintenance contract the Contractor shall obtainapproval from the Engineer to remove all stakes and ties, excepting those

trees requiring continued support.

3 Watering:

(a) The amount of water needed for healthy growth will vary depending on plant

size, wind and sun exposure, season and soil type. Therefore, an optimum

average water flow should be established for each season or major change in

weather as specified by the Engineer.

4 Fertiliser application:

(a) The Contractor shall start the regular maintenance fertiliser application

programme from 3 months after planting. The contractor shall refer to the list

of approved Fertilisers and micronutrients for any of his fertiliser programme.

These shall be applied at the rates specified in the Method Statement

approved by the Engineer.

5 Pest and Disease Control:

(a) Maintain proper controls by spraying at such frequencies and in such amounts

as to prevent insect and disease problems on trees and shrubs. He shall




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undertake timely control measures preventing sap-sucking, leaf-eating and

stem-boring type insects.

(b) Sap-sucking pests include aphids, scale insects, mealy bugs, thrips, and leaf or

tree hoppers. Aphids, are carriers of virus diseases, and some like scale

insects, leaf hoppers and aphids, secrete a sticky substance on stems and branches which induces growth of a disfiguring black fungus called sooty

mould. Tiny dark thrips suck plant sap to cause malformation of leaves and

flowers with white streaks and marks that are particularly noticeable on darker

blooms; and phyllids or leaf miners cause swellings or discolored patches on

leaf surfaces or distortion of whole leaf.

(c) Leaf diseases, fungal, bacterial and viral, can also be responsible for

abnormities of the leaves of trees. Powdery mildew is one of the most

common and coats leave with a white, ash-like deposit causing them to curl

and drop off. Whenever needed a contact, systemic or fumigant chemical shall be used to control these insects and diseases. Control measures shall be

conducted as per the Method Statement approved by the Engineer.

6 Weed Control:

(a) Control the weeds by removing all undesirable plant material around the base

of trees on a regular basis. For trees planted in grass areas approximately 80-

100 cm diameters should be maintained around the base of the tree free from

grass and other plant material especially when still staked or install HDPE

trunk guards if powered nylon string trimmers are used to clean the base of

the tree.

(b) Trees in gravel and other planted areas should be kept clear of all undesirable

plant materials. The best method to maintain planting basins free from weeds

is to remove them by hand digging. Due to the tendency for the roots of most

shrubs to be near the surface, it is recommended that weeds in close vicinity

of the plants stem i.e. approximately 50cm are removed by hand and not dug

out. Chemicals can be used only in places away from other plants.

H Ground covers

1 Trimming and Edging

(a) The growth pattern of ground cover should be maintained in such a way that

within the same type, canopy level should be equally maintained without

growth differences unless otherwise instructed by the Engineer. The top

growth should be cut back to promote lower growth and horizontal growth.

Edging should be carried out when plants have reached the edge of boundary.

All pruning should be carried out using hand shears or a powered edge

trimmer. After cutting, all clippings should be removed immediately to avoid

any problems of disease transmission from the dead leaves.




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2 Fertiliser application

(a) The contractor shall apply fertilisers as per the approved Method Statement ,

which is subjected to review every 3 months depending upon the season,

health of plants, horticultural practices and after the soil test reports.

3 Pest and disease control:

(a) The contractor shall undertake control measures as per the approved Method

Statement , which is subjected to revisions monthly according to pest and

disease problems. The contractor shall gain approval from the Engineer before

every chemical application and it shall be done in strict accordance with the

Manufacturer s instructions.

4 Weed control

(a) Only hand weeding shall be permitted in order to avoid chemical injury to

ground covers. It is not easy to isolate weeds growing within a ground cover

area. If a weed needs chemical control measures, the contractor shall use a

selective chemical that kills only the weed without harming the ground covers.

I Climbers & Vines

1 Pruning

(a) Pruning should start whilst the plant is small, so it will grow gradually and

increase evenly in size. Pruning of vines and climbers helps to maintain shapeas well as induce vigor to plants. All pruning cuts should be neat and clean

and made 1 cm above a well-developed healthy bud or sound out wards

growing side shoot, at an angle of about 45 degrees to the growing point.

Light pruning to shape a plant or remove dead twigs can be done all year,

whereas heavy pruning is best done in the dormant season. Vines should be

pruned so that stems are generally of equal length to help avoid them going

"leggy". Pruning just above outward-pointing branches will also help to train

them to spread laterally.

2 Watering

(a) The amount of water needed for healthy growth will vary dependent on size,

wind and sun exposure, growth rate and soil type. Therefore an optimum

average water flow must be established for each season, or a major change in

the weather.

3 Fertilising

(a) Fertiliser shall be applied as per the approved Method Statement

4 Tying




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(a) Vines should be tied and trained to grow along the walls and against trellis

work, using expandable wire reinforced plastic ribbon twine. The material

should not harm the twigs or branches on tying or require supports or stakes.

The contractor shall obtain prior approval of the Engineer for this material.

5. Weed Control:

(a) Weed control should consist of removing all undesirable plant material around

the plants. The best method is hand weeding, although herbicides can be used

cautiously to avoid any injury to plants. Their use is not recommended due to

the risk of damage to the climber or vine. Regularly cultivating the soil surface

to a depth of 50 mm can prevent weeds from establishing.

I Lawn Areas

(a) The contractor shall carry out all maintenance practices in a systematic

manner so as to give the best conditions of lawn. In areas of extreme trespassor movement of people, extra management care shall be required. Such areas

should be brought under frequent aeration using proper aerating equipments

to break down the hard soil pan formed by trespassing. Care should also be

taken to replant dead spots as it is appears. To achieve a healthy lawn the

contractor shall undertake the following maintenance operations.

1. Mowing:

To exhibit attractive lush growth the frequency of mowing shall be

determined by the grass variety grown, climatic conditions and other

microclimatic factors. Mowing frequency shall vary from twice weeklyto once fortnightly in summer and cooler months respectively

depending upon the speed of growth and species or as per the need

according to growing conditions. Grass shall be mowed at a height of

25 mm generally, but not less than 1/3rd of total length of grass blade as

this can cause physiological shock. Under no circumstances shall grass

be mowed immediately after irrigation or a rain. Mowing shall be

followed at right angles to previous cutting direction. Machinery for

mowing (a mechanized mower) shall be fitted with grass collecting

boxes. Equipment shall be in optimum operating condition prior to use.

Faulty or un- serviced equipment is not accepted for use. Cutting bladesof mower should be inspected before each cutting and should be

sharpened if required. Any broken or bent blades shall be replaced

immediately. Spillage of clippings should be manually removed

immediately after mowing before next irrigation. The Contractor shall

alternatively use a modern mower that can cut grass in to fine pieces

and spread grass clippings on the land. In such case care shall be taken

not to delay between mowing.

2. Trimming & Edging:

Trimming grass against the base of walls, fences, curbstones and in places where access for mowers is not possible shall be done regularly




10-7411-Volume 2 48/52

by hand with grass shears or with a powered nylon string trimmer.

Edging, that refers to the cutting of horizontal growing grass against

pavements, flower beds, plant basins etc. shall be best carried out using

a motorized edging machine or long handled shears. Edging and

trimming should be practiced at a frequency of not less than once a

week during summer months (March-October) and as required duringdormant winter months (November-February).

3. Irrigation:

The Contractor shall ensure that the grass be given sufficient amount of

water through the irrigation system to maintain the grass in a green

healthy condition. Necessary changes in rate of watering during

different months of year shall be in accordance with the instruction of

the Engineer. For maximum effect to be gained, watering should be

carried out in early mornings, to avoid excessive moisture loss due toevaporation. The Contractor shall follow the Irrigation Manual to get

guidance for irrigation rates and methodology.

4. Fertiliser application:

For best results fertilisers should be applied to the grass while ground is

dry and followed by thorough watering after application, to reduce the

risk of scorching. Fertiliser can be applied either using applicators,

which can be tractor mounted for large areas or broadcast by hand in

small areas. Whichever method of application is used, it is important to

obtain a good even coverage to avoid 'patching' in the grass. Thefertiliser should be applied at half rate in two directions at right angles

to each other to ensure a complete spread. Prior to fertiliser application,

the contractor shall obtain approval of the Engineer for the Method

Statement and follow the rates and types of fertilisers set out therein.

5. Weed Control:

Troublesome weeds coming up in lawn area can be controlled either by

manual removal or by using suitable selective herbicide. While using

herbicides care must be taken to choose the right chemicals, as non-selective herbicides shall kill the lawn grass. The contractor shall obtain

the approval of the Engineer after submitting the literature of the

product and by doing test applications. Broadleaf herbicides should be

applied whilst the target weed is actively growing and are best applied

late in the day to avoid excessive evaporation that would prevent the

plant from absorbing sufficient chemical. If broadleaf weed infestation is

severe, it may be necessary for several applications at approximately

two-week intervals to achieve acceptable control. Herbicides can be

applied using powered spraying machines or a knapsack sprayer. When

using any chemical it is important to follow the manufacturer s

instructions.




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6. Dethatching:

Thatch is the build up of dead-looking material, old grass and stolons

between the soil surface and the leaf blades. Dethatching is the process

of removing this to allow proper penetration of water, fertiliser and air

to the soil surface and root zone. The contractor has to dethatch thelawn once a year or as necessary during the active growing period of

lawn. Proper equipments are to be used. After dethatching, all dead

materials shall be removed manually or with a mower having box

collectors. Follow fertiliser and irrigation application immediately.

7. Aerating:

Contractor has to undertake aeration of lawn area as to break down the

hard pan of topsoil yearly once or twice, or as instructed by the

Engineer. Proper aerating tools should be used that shall remove small

cores of earth, thus allowing water, fertiliser and air through the soilsurface down to the root zone. Aeration shall be carried out more

frequently for playgrounds or heavily trafficked areas, or as instructed

by the Engineer.

8. Gap filling & Patch works:

The contractor shall repair dry or damaged patches or gaps in lawn area

with the same variety grass during a suitable season. An appropriate

planting method shall be followed to undertake this work in accordance

with Document 2900 Landscape Soft works.

9. Topdressing:

Topdressing is the application of fine planting soil to lawn areas to

remove minor hollows, settlement or unevenness of damaged areas.

The lawn shall be cut prior to top dressing. Do not fully cover the grass

blades; prevent smothering by raking to work soil down to ground

level. Top dressing may be carried out in several stages for more

uneven areas. Topdressing should be undertaken in the dormant period

prior to summer. Apply fertiliser after levels are obtained and irrigate

the area.

10. Manure Topping:

Top dressing with manure shall also be practiced as per the

maintenance application Fertiliser, section 2.09 or as per the

approved Method Statement

. When using manure care must be taken

to use well-decomposed manure in powder form free from lumps or

other impurities. Manure shall be applied during moderate weather

conditions and either hand spread or using a manure spreader for large

lawn areas. On no occasion should manure be allowed to fall in heapson lawn surface. Manure application shall be avoided immediately




before dethatching or mowing. The best time is just after mowing

before first irrigation. Lawn area shall be thoroughly watered after

manure spreading. Always keep the ground moist until the manure

particles are properly incorporated with soil.

5.04 SUBMISSION OF REPORTS

A. Operations and Maintenance Schedule:

1 Within 7 days of accepting the contract, the contractor shall submit to the Engineer for

approval a comprehensive Operations and Maintenance Schedule that includes

methodology for addressing all horticultural and other issues explained in this section.

This shall include any other aspects the contractor determines appropriate for the

betterment of maintenance of landscape.

2 The schedule shall be broken into sectors covering the site. The sectors shall notexceed 4000 m2 or as determined by the Engineer and the boundaries shall be

established by clear and obvious changes in landscape type treatment or topography.

B Daily Records:

1 The contractor shall keep records of daily operations done in relation to maintenance

works. He shall include activities and procedures carried out on a day-to-day basis and

submit the same along with the Monthly Report of corresponding month. (See below)

C Weekly Maintenance Schedule:

1 The Contractor s Site Supervisor/Foreman shall inspect the site at least once per week

during the maintenance period and shall prepare a brief schedule of operations required

for the coming week. The format for the schedule of operations will cover each sector

of the site as mentioned above.

2 The schedule shall describe the operations the contractor intends to carry out in the

coming week to cover the items listed in the specification and to ensure that the

current weather conditions and growing performance, insect attack, etc. is taken into

account.

3 A copy of this schedule is to be submitted to the Engineer every week so that a running

record of proposed operations can be checked at the maintenance inspections eachmonth.

D Monthly Maintenance Schedule:

1 The contractor shall prepare a Monthly Maintenance Schedule forecasting the required

maintenance operations for the coming month. This should be submitted for approval

to the Engineer before the 25th of the preceding month.