Decorative Plants in School Grounds

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a reason for growing decorative plants in a school ground?

For beauty

For entertainment purposes (correct)

For food

To control dust around the area

Which of the following plants is categorized as a climber suitable for decorative purposes?

Fen (correct)

Aloe

Asparagus

Rose

What is the primary tool used for making furrows for planting?

Spade

Garden trowel

Rake

Hoe (correct)

Which factor is NOT considered when selecting a suitable site for planting decorative plants?

Soil texture Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct procedure for preparing a seedbed after marking out the size of the land?

Dig the soil over using a spade and fork Signup and view all the answers

Which tool is primarily used for leveling the soil in gardening?

Rake Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to soil before planting small seedlings with a garden trowel?

Break up hard clods Signup and view all the answers

What alternative medium can be used for growing smaller plants if suitable soil is not available?

Rock wool Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes annual plants?

Flowers that live for only one year Signup and view all the answers

What is a common method for collecting seeds from plants?

Shaking branches that carry seed heads and placing them into a cloth or envelopes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes biennial plants?

They complete their lifecycle in two growing seasons. Signup and view all the answers

What is an important characteristic of seed trays?

They must have compartments to manage seedlings. Signup and view all the answers

Which plant is classified as a perennial?

Aloe Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a method of sowing plant seeds?

Using seed beds, boxes, and trays for thorough care Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a seedbed in the context of sowing?

To serve as a space for direct planting and management of seedlings Signup and view all the answers

Which growing medium is NOT typically used for smaller plants?

Wooden crates Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Importance of Growing Decorative Plants

Decorative plants enhance the beauty of school grounds.
They provide shelter for various organisms and areas for relaxation.
Certain plants can offer food sources for students and wildlife.
Medicinal properties of some plants contribute to health education.
Growing plants can generate income through sales or fundraising.
Plants help control dust, improving air quality in the area.

Types of Decorative Plants Suitable for Areas

Climbers are ideal for vertical gardening and beautification.
Grass or lawn makes for a pleasant ground cover.
Roses add aesthetic appeal and variety of colors.
Aloe plants are low maintenance and drought-resistant.
Fennel offers culinary uses as well as ornamental value.
Asparagus can be grown for both food and decorative purposes.
Trees provide shade, structural beauty, and ecological benefits.
Shrubs enhance landscape design and attract wildlife.

Preparing the Soil for Planting

Site Selection Considerations:
- Good quality soil is fundamental for growth.
- Water availability is crucial for plant health.
- Sufficient sunlight is necessary for photosynthesis.
- Understanding the direction of prevailing winds helps in site placement.
- Consideration of root systems is important for plant stability.
Tools for Planting:
- Spade: for digging and firming soil.
- Hoe: used for cultivating and making planting furrows.
- Rake: to level the soil surface.
- Garden line: helps create straight furrows for planting seeds.
- Watering can: essential for watering small plants.
- Garden fork: useful for breaking hard clods and digging.
- Garden trowel: for transplanting seedlings and weeding.
- Wheelbarrow: transports flowers and manure efficiently.
- Hose pipe: facilitates watering throughout the garden.
- Machete: for cutting plants.
- Garden pick: for breaking up tough ground.

Seedbed Preparation

Select areas with arable soil for seedbeds.
Define the dimensions of the seedbed before preparation.
Dig the soil using a spade and fork for aeration.
Incorporate manure or compost into the soil.
Mix the organic matter thoroughly into the soil.
Rake out stones and plant residue for a clean surface.
Water the seedbed to maintain dampness for germination.

Alternative Growing Mediums

Flower pots are portable and suitable for small plants.
Seed boxes can be created from wood or plastic for easy management.
Seed trays with compartments allow for organized planting.
Old tires can be repurposed as creative planters.
Sturdy plastic bags are a flexible option for seedling transport.
Old drums or boots serve as unique and functional containers.

Seasonal Plant Identification

Aloe: Succulent; orange-red flowers; found in Zambezi and Kavango regions.
Quiver Tree: Yellow flowers; attracts birds; thrives in Namib and southern areas.
Bottle Tree: Poisonous; large white flowers; located in Kunene and Erongo regions.
Euphorbia Tree: Leafless; thorny; found in Erongo and Kunene.
Hoodia/Xhoba: Spiny, leafless; red flowers; located in Namib and Kalahari.
African Moringa Tree: Bottle-shaped trunk; found in northern and central regions.

Types of Decorative Flowers

Annuals: Live for one year (e.g., pansies, marigolds, petunias).
Biennials: Live for two seasons (e.g., parsley, daffodils).
Perennials: Live for multiple seasons (e.g., aloe, delphinium, dahlias).

Seed Collection Methods

Hand-pick seeds and organize them into labeled containers.
Shake branches to release seeds into cloth or envelopes.
Use secateurs to cut seed heads and collect them.
Ground collection is less ideal but sometimes necessary.

Sowing Techniques

Seedbeds: Sow seeds directly; provide care with compost and pest control.
Seed Boxes: Made of wood or plastic; must drain; soil added before sowing.
Seed Trays: Plastic compartments allow for organized sowing and later thinning.

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Description

This quiz explores the significance of growing decorative plants within school environments, highlighting their benefits such as beauty, shelter, and medicine. Additionally, it covers suitable types of decorative plants and crucial factors for preparing soil and selecting planting sites.