Attachement

Attachement # 03 to General Specification Vol. 2 of Tender Contract Documents related

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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.


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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

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:

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.


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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 and approved 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.

(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


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(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.

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 or variation 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.


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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 Practice and 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 WRM at their final handing over. The Manual(s) shall have 3

parts:

1. - Soft Landscape Maintenance.

2. - Irrigation System Operation and Maintenance.

3. - 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.


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

the Engineer and Client at short notice.

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:


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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)

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.


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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

Substantial Completion’ (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.

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 lawful manner.


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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

100

65 to 100

45 to 100

35 to 80

5 to 48

0 to 15

0 to 3

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 the Engineer. 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.


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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. 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


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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.

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.


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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

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%


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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 pest

organism.

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’t contaminate environment and should

avoid any spillage. For granular fertilisers it must be of uniform granular size


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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 1

millimhos / 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 drainage

3. Suitable pH

4. Balanced nutrients

5. Low salinity level


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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 contractor has 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:

Location 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 and 7.5).

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

Sl

Kind of

Fertilisers

Per

Palm

After planting

or establishment

Remarks

3-4

months

6-7

months

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 trench

of 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 or

granules @

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 or

granules @

20 Gr./ Kg.

of Organic

manure

300

Grams

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 Organic

manure

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.


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5 Seasonal Flowers

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

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

As

Shown

As

Shown

Grams

Grams

Kg

Palm

10

2.5 to 3

1 to 2

250-500

100-200

2


24

(per palm) Kg. Kg. twice twice

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.

3.09 PLANT PROTECTION CHEMICALS

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

fall under the Plant Protection Chemicals.


25

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.


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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.

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 date set.


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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

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

and minimum 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 specified in the Bill of Quantities, ‘standard form’ trees shall


28

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.

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.


29

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 shoots emerging 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.

Type Size

Tree Stakes

Large Shrub Stakes

2400 x 50 x 50 mm

1800 x 50 x 50 mm

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.


30

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 rubber strapping 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

permit transpiration 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.


31

lawn, planting,) the 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


32

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.

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


33

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 02100, 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.

1 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


34

all conditions and obligations such as maintenance and warranty remain the

responsibility of the contractor.

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.


35

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.

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.


36

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.

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


37

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.


38

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.

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. Fill around 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.


39

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 be applied.

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.

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 and loosening 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.


40

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 grass stolons unless other is

specified by the Engineer.

F Sprig Installation:

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.


41

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 the ground. 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.


42

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 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

groves for 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.


43

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 used during any operations nor shall heavy machinery be taken over on

areas prepared for planting or grassing.


44

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 the Engineer.

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.


45

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/bubblers are 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.

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


46

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.

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


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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

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 are general 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.


48

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

100-200

Gr

100-

200 Gr

50 three

times

25-50

twice

0.25

Lawn areas

(per m2)

5

100-200

Gr

100-

200 Gr

25-50 six

times

25-50

twice

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.

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.


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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

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


50

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 planting medium.

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 basin with 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 planting will 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


51

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.

F Palms

1 Care of replacement palms

(a) Six to eight weeks after planting, remove palm wrapping, separate

fronds and check 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


52

(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 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

frequencies and 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 ‘Method Statement ‘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.


53

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.

(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 when leaves 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

obtain approval from the Engineer to remove all stakes and ties,

excepting those trees requiring continued support.

3 Watering:


54

(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 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


55

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.

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


56

helps to maintain shape as 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

(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 trespass or 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:


57

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 weekly to 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 blades of 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 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 during

dormant 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 to evaporation. The

Contractor shall follow the Irrigation Manual to get guidance

for irrigation rates and methodology.


58

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. The fertiliser

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.

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 the lawn 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


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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 soil surface 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.


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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 heaps on 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

not exceed 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


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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 each month.

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.

2 Maintenance activities shall not be limited to those listed in this Schedule and

submission or approval of this schedule in no way relieves the contractor from

the responsibilities of carrying out any additional maintenance works required

to maintain the landscape in good condition.

E Monthly Report:

1 The contractor shall prepare and submit a monthly report detailing all

activities and practices adopted during the previous month to the Engineer for

review. Photographs or drawings shall be included in the report wherever

progress evidences or proofs are needed. The Engineer shall review and

comment on the works done based on weekly and monthly forecasted work

schedules and daily reports.

F Payment:

1 If in the opinion of the Engineer the maintenance works have not been

satisfactorily carried out according to site conditions and the specifications,

part of the monthly payment shall be withheld until the works have been

satisfactorily carried out.


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5.05 MONTHLY INSPECTIONS

A All landscape areas will be inspected monthly by the Engineer using

maintenance checklists and the schedules submitted by the contractor. All

items on the previous month’s snags lists are to be carried out by the time of

the next inspection that is within that particular month unless agreed and/or

required more urgently.

B A list of snags outlining specific works that require completion will be issued

after each inspection to the contractor.

5.06 SOFT LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE MANUAL

A The Contractor shall compile and prepare a comprehensive ‘ Soft Landscape

Maintenance Manual’ based on the project manual for post contract, if

available, use that will include all details of the following in compliance with

the requirements stipulated in the Contract Document;:

1. Pesticide/herbicide/fungicide applications – including safety, application rates

and procedure, schedules of pesticides/herbicides/fungicides.

2. Irrigation – including water application rates maintenance procedure.

3. Landscape maintenance – including fertiliser descriptions, application rates

and programs.

4. Method Statements for each maintenance practices.

5. Maintenance practises detailed under Basic and Specific headings.

6. Equipment inventory, maintenance procedures and full manufacturer’s

maintenance manuals.

7. Personnel requirements.

B This manual has to be submitted 21 days before the expiry of maintenance

contract.


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5.07 FINAL COMPLETION HANDING OVER

A 14-days before the end of the maintenance contract, a joint inspection shall be

held with the Contractor and the Engineer to review the requirements for any

alteration or replacement in order to gain approval for final Handover. To

ensure satisfactory handover procedures, the site meetings held each month

between the Contractor, Engineer and Department’s Representative will be

used to inspect and approve the maintenance works which will be reviewed to

ensure adequate work has been done.

B At the time of final inspection, all areas under this contract shall be free of

weeds, neatly cultivated and raked, and all plants in good order. No bare

patches of earth shall be visible in turf or ground cover planting areas.

C If, after the inspection, the Department and the Engineer are of the opinion that

all Works have been performed in accordance with the Drawings and

Specifications, the Engineer will give written approval of acceptance and

completion of the Maintenance contract period. If all or certain portions of the

Works are not acceptable under the terms and intent of the Drawings and

Specifications, the formal Maintenance Period for all the work shall be

extended at no cost to the Department, until the defects in the Works have

been corrected and the Works are accepted by the Department and the

Engineer.

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