Lessons

We learned the really basic stuff like plant and tree identification, fertilizing and plant health for the theory classes.The last 4 modules involved hands on session like operating hedge trimmers and lawn mowers

Mulching done around a tree at the botanical Gardens. Mulching helps retain moisture and keeps weeds from growing.

Certificate in landscape operations

My original plans were to sign up for a food preparation course with At-Sunrice academy.But because there were problems with my education qualifications I needed to take the WSQ exams first. So I ended up taking the cert in landscape operations with CUGE (Centre for Urban Greenery and Ecology).

The cert is made up of 10 modules.7 of them are core subjects while the remaining 3 are elective.The 7 core subjects are:

1) Identify lansdcape materials,horticultural products,irrigation components and
tools used in the industry

2) Prepare to work within the landscape industry

3) Recognise plants and their growth requirements

4) Recognise pest, diseases, invasive and noxious plant species

5) Prune plants (not exceeding 3 metres)

6) Improve soil and media

7) Workplace health and safety - Operations

There are 6 elective subjects but we only needed to take up the first 3 listed

1) Plant, mulch and maintain planted areas

2) Safe use and handling of non-hazardous chemicals under supervision

3) Maintain amenity turf and open grassed spaces

Singapore Garden Festival 2010

This entry was obviously inspired by the blockbuster movie Avatar
Winner of the Fantasy category. This Entry is called The Mysterious Jungle of Pandora.This entry by Singaporean Damian Kang also won the Best of Show

Storm clouds

Here''s how it looks like on the 18 floor. we had plenty of rain the past two weeks

Ferns in Singapore's Changi airport

Dicksonia antarctica is an evergreen fern that is native in southern parts of Australia such as New South Wales, Tasmania and Victoria. This one is at least 4 metres in height

Simei

Star Fruit tree

Rotting fruits

Close up view of a Star Fruit

We had to move to Simei so that I could be near my office. There are intersting fruit trees that you do not normally find in Singapore. When I saw so many Star Fruits rotting on the ground I thought that it was a waste not to eat them. I plucked a couple of fruits and tried them at home. There was a bland taste unlike the ones that you buy from the supermarkets. My guess is that our local soil is not suited for producing nice tasting Star Fruits.

Here comes the rain

We had rain the last couple of days thanks to Typhoon Fengshen that brought havoc to the Philippines.