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GA Landscape practice questions

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Question 1Plant processes, soil properties and evidence-based fertility

Under an appropriate soil-test and qualified amendment assessment, which listed substance can lower pH through its relevant soil processes rather than raise it?

  1. Agricultural lime
  2. Elemental sulfur Correct answer.
  3. Gypsum (calcium sulfate)
  4. Potassium chloride

Explanation

Elemental sulfur is the most effective soil amendment for lowering pH in Georgia soils. It is oxidized by soil bacteria into sulfuric acid, gradually reducing pH. Georgia's Piedmont soils are often slightly acidic but may need further acidification for plants like azaleas, blueberries, and camellias that prefer pH 4.5-5.5.

Question 2Plant processes, soil properties and evidence-based fertility

Which soil testing service does the University of Georgia offer to help landscape contractors determine amendment needs?

  1. Only visual soil assessments
  2. Soil analysis through the UGA Cooperative Extension Service soil testing laboratory Correct answer.
  3. Private laboratory referrals only
  4. Soil testing is not available through UGA

Explanation

The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service operates a soil testing laboratory that provides affordable and accurate soil analysis for landscape contractors. Tests measure pH, nutrient levels, organic matter content, and provide specific amendment recommendations. Georgia landscape contractors should test soils before specifying amendments.

Question 3Plant identification, establishment and health management

Which listed irrigation approach can improve water-use scheduling through appropriate weather information and rain response, rather than one fixed calendar for every Georgia site?

  1. Watering lawns every day for short periods
  2. Using smart irrigation controllers with weather-based adjustments and rain sensors Correct answer.
  3. Installing the largest sprinkler heads available for maximum coverage
  4. Irrigating only between 12 PM and 2 PM for fastest absorption

Explanation

The Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District recommends smart irrigation controllers with weather-based adjustments (ET controllers) and rain sensors. These technologies automatically adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions, soil moisture, and plant water needs, reducing water waste by 20-50% compared to traditional timer-based systems.

Question 4Plant identification, establishment and health management

On an appropriate warm coastal Georgia site within the species’ actual requirements, which listed native tree is a drought-tolerant shade-tree option?

  1. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)
  2. Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) Correct answer.
  3. Norway Spruce (Picea abies)
  4. Blue Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica)

Explanation

Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) is a Georgia native shade tree that is extremely drought-tolerant once established. It provides excellent shade coverage, withstands Georgia's heat and humidity, and can live for hundreds of years. It is commonly specified in commercial and residential landscape plans throughout central and southern Georgia.

Question 5Plant identification, establishment and health management

What is the appropriate basis for selecting an actual pre-emergent herbicide use rate for a specified turf species and target under current requirements?

  1. Apply at any rate since pre-emergent herbicides cannot harm turf
  2. Apply according to the product label rate for the specific turf species and target weeds Correct answer.
  3. Apply at double the label rate for better weed control
  4. Apply only once per year in January

Explanation

Pre-emergent herbicides must be applied according to the product label rate for the specific turfgrass species and target weeds. In Georgia, pre-emergent applications for warm-season turf are typically made in late February to early March (before soil temperatures consistently reach 55°F) and again in September for winter weed prevention.

Question 6Agricultural ecosystems, water, soils and resource decisions

A supplied site erosion plan specifies a properly designed stabilized coarse-aggregate entrance. Which listed measure addresses soil tracking onto the road under that plan?

  1. A concrete pad
  2. A construction entrance of coarse aggregate (stabilized construction entrance) Correct answer.
  3. A paved driveway
  4. No entrance control is required

Explanation

Georgia's Erosion and Sedimentation Act requires a stabilized construction entrance made of coarse aggregate at every point of vehicle access to a construction site. This BMP prevents sediment-laden soil from being tracked onto public roads by construction vehicles. The entrance must be maintained throughout the project duration.

Question 7Agricultural ecosystems, water, soils and resource decisions

What is the recommended approach for managing stormwater on a Georgia commercial landscape project?

  1. Direct all stormwater to the nearest storm drain as quickly as possible
  2. Implement Low Impact Development (LID) practices such as bioswales, rain gardens, and permeable pavers Correct answer.
  3. Allow all stormwater to sheet flow across parking lots
  4. No stormwater management is needed for landscape projects

Explanation

Georgia increasingly promotes Low Impact Development (LID) practices for commercial landscape projects. LID techniques like bioswales, rain gardens, and permeable pavers treat stormwater at the source, reduce runoff volume, and improve water quality. Many Georgia municipalities offer incentives or reduced stormwater fees for incorporating LID into landscape designs.

Question 8Agricultural ecosystems, water, soils and resource decisions

For the supplied impervious-site and measured slow-infiltration clay setting, which listed drainage consideration is relevant rather than assuming every Georgia soil behaves identically?

  1. Aesthetics only
  2. Managing both surface and subsurface water, accounting for high impervious surface runoff and Georgia clay's slow infiltration rate Correct answer.
  3. Only managing roof water from the building
  4. Directing all water to the nearest property line

Explanation

Georgia commercial landscape drainage must address the combination of high impervious surface coverage (parking lots, roofs) that generates rapid runoff and the underlying clay soils that absorb water slowly. Design must include proper grading, catch basins, detention/retention facilities, and compliance with local stormwater ordinances and the NPDES permit program.

Question 9Agricultural and landscape enterprise models and records

What is the purpose of a project contingency in a Georgia landscape construction estimate?

  1. To pad the estimate for extra profit
  2. To account for unforeseen conditions, material price fluctuations, and minor scope changes Correct answer.
  3. To cover the cost of the contractor's personal expenses
  4. Contingencies are not used in professional estimating

Explanation

A project contingency (typically 5-10% of the total estimate) accounts for unforeseen conditions such as hidden utilities, unexpected soil conditions, material price fluctuations, and minor scope changes. In Georgia, where clay soil conditions can vary significantly across a site, contingencies are an essential part of professional landscape estimating.

Question 10Agricultural and landscape enterprise models and records

Compared with an ordinary sole-proprietor structure, which listed business entity form offers the relevant general separation of business and personal liability, subject to actual law and exceptions?

  1. Sole proprietorship
  2. General partnership
  3. Limited liability company (LLC) or corporation Correct answer.
  4. DBA (doing business as) filing

Explanation

An LLC or corporation provides the most personal liability protection by creating a legal separation between the business owner's personal assets and business debts. Georgia LLCs are formed through the Secretary of State and must comply with the Georgia Limited Liability Company Act (OCGA 14-11). This protection is essential given the liability risks in landscape construction.

Question 11Agricultural and landscape enterprise models and records

What is the purpose of including a dispute resolution clause in a Georgia landscape construction contract?

  1. It is not necessary in contracts
  2. It establishes the agreed-upon process (mediation, arbitration, or litigation) for resolving disagreements between the parties Correct answer.
  3. It automatically favors the contractor in disputes
  4. It waives the customer's right to complain

Explanation

A dispute resolution clause in a Georgia landscape contract establishes the agreed-upon process for resolving disagreements. Options include mediation (non-binding facilitated negotiation), arbitration (binding decision by a neutral third party), or litigation (court proceedings). This clause saves time and money by providing a predetermined path for conflict resolution.

Question 12Agricultural mechanics, precision systems and safe learning

What is the standard method for calculating the amount of topsoil needed for a Georgia landscape project?

  1. Multiply length times width times depth in feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards Correct answer.
  2. Estimate by eye based on project size
  3. Use a standard rate of 10 cubic yards per 1,000 square feet
  4. Multiply the perimeter by the desired depth

Explanation

For the supplied rectangular-prism model, length times width times depth in feet gives cubic feet. Divide by 27 to express the same volume in cubic yards. Actual quantity also needs its own shape, settlement, compaction and waste assumptions; the dimensional conversion alone is not a complete purchasing or earthwork design.

Question 13Agricultural mechanics, precision systems and safe learning

What is the purpose of installing a check valve on an irrigation system's sprinkler heads in sloped Georgia landscapes?

  1. To increase water pressure
  2. To prevent low-head drainage that wastes water and causes erosion at the lowest sprinkler heads Correct answer.
  3. To filter debris from the water
  4. To reduce system flow rate

Explanation

The specified check-valve arrangement can reduce low-head drainage from the relevant irrigation heads on a slope. It does not replace the actual backflow-prevention device protecting a clean supply, nor does it guarantee that every runoff or water-use problem is resolved. Identify the actual component and function.

Question 14Agricultural mechanics, precision systems and safe learning

What is the Georgia requirement for securing loads of landscape materials during transport on public roads?

  1. No securing is required for landscape materials
  2. All loads must be properly secured per Georgia Code (OCGA 40-6-254) to prevent material from falling or blowing from the vehicle Correct answer.
  3. Only loads over 10,000 pounds need securing
  4. Tarping is only required for highway driving

Explanation

Georgia Code OCGA 40-6-254 requires all vehicle loads, including landscape materials (mulch, soil, plants, debris), to be properly secured to prevent them from falling, shifting, or blowing from the vehicle. Violations can result in fines, and the transporter may be liable for any accidents or property damage caused by unsecured loads.

Question 15Georgia landscape-practice scope and accountable project planning

The supplied landscape contract requires written mutual approval of changes before affected work begins. Which listed change-order practice follows that arrangement?

  1. Verbal approval from the property owner is sufficient
  2. Document the change in writing with cost adjustment, scope description, and both parties' signatures before work begins Correct answer.
  3. The contractor can make changes without approval if they improve the project
  4. Email approval is never acceptable for change orders

Explanation

Georgia construction practice requires all change orders to be documented in writing, including a description of the changed work, cost adjustment (addition or credit), timeline impact, and signatures from both the contractor and property owner before additional work begins. This protects both parties from disputes about scope and cost changes.

Question 16Georgia landscape-practice scope and accountable project planning

Which listed warranty contents make its scope and claim process clear to the customer, without asserting a universal statutory wording for every Georgia contract?

  1. Nothing specific; any warranty language is acceptable
  2. The scope of warranty coverage, duration, exclusions, and the process for making warranty claims Correct answer.
  3. Only the contractor's license number
  4. Warranties are not permitted for landscape work

Explanation

Georgia contract law requires warranties to clearly state the scope of coverage (what is warranted), the duration of the warranty period, specific exclusions (such as acts of nature or customer neglect), and the process for making warranty claims. Clear warranty language protects both the contractor and the customer from disputes.

Question 17Georgia landscape-practice scope and accountable project planning

Which listed purpose explains a preconstruction review with appropriate verified site and boundary information, rather than conferring survey authority on every contractor?

  1. To determine the property tax rate
  2. To document existing conditions, identify site constraints, verify property boundaries, and note utility locations Correct answer.
  3. To select the landscape design style
  4. To interview potential subcontractors

Explanation

A preconstruction survey documents existing site conditions including topography, drainage patterns, existing vegetation, utility locations, property boundaries, and access points. This baseline documentation protects the contractor from disputes about pre-existing damage, identifies potential problems, and ensures the landscape plan is feasible for the specific site.

Question 18Plant identification, establishment and health management

Which listed pesticide-storage arrangement helps avoid food, feed and protective-equipment contamination under the actual applicable product requirements?

  1. Pesticides can be stored anywhere convenient
  2. Pesticides must be stored in a locked, ventilated area separate from food, feed, and personal protective equipment Correct answer.
  3. Only restricted-use pesticides need special storage
  4. Pesticides should be stored in the same area as fertilizers

Explanation

Georgia Department of Agriculture regulations require pesticides to be stored in a locked, ventilated area separated from food, animal feed, seeds, and personal protective equipment (PPE should be stored separately but accessible). Containers must be kept sealed, upright, and labeled. A current inventory and SDS sheets must be maintained.

Question 19Plant identification, establishment and health management

What is the primary purpose of core aeration on Bermudagrass lawns in Georgia?

  1. To remove all thatch from the lawn
  2. To relieve soil compaction and improve air, water, and nutrient penetration to the root zone Correct answer.
  3. To control weeds by disturbing the soil surface
  4. To level uneven areas of the lawn

Explanation

Core aeration can reduce relevant compaction and improve exchanges under suitable turf, soil and timing conditions. It is not a guarantee of drainage or a universal remedy for every lawn decline. Assess the actual roots, water, soil and turf species rather than schedule a mechanical operation from one symptom alone.

Question 20Plant identification, establishment and health management

Which flowering native shrub is commonly used in Georgia landscape designs as a pollinator-friendly ornamental?

  1. Japanese Privet (Ligustrum japonicum)
  2. Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) Correct answer.
  3. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
  4. Chinese Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis)

Explanation

Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) is a Georgia native shrub prized for its showy white flower panicles, striking fall foliage, and year-round interest. It supports native pollinators, tolerates shade, and thrives in Georgia's clay soils. It is also Georgia's state wildflower, making it a culturally significant landscape choice.

Question 21Plant identification, establishment and health management

What is the proper technique for transplanting large trees during Georgia's hot summer months?

  1. Transplant at any time since Georgia summers are ideal for plant growth
  2. Avoid transplanting large trees in summer; schedule for late fall through early spring when trees are dormant Correct answer.
  3. Water the tree once after transplanting and leave it alone
  4. Prune all branches back to 50% before transplanting in summer

Explanation

For the relevant temperate deciduous context, a suitable dormant period can reduce some transplant stresses compared with hot summer conditions. Actual species, rootball, weather, soil and practical assessment determine timing and method. There is no universal calendar window that makes moving every large tree safe or successful.

Question 22Plant identification, establishment and health management

A Georgia project prohibits known invasive planting choices under its actual specification. Which listed invasive shrub should be excluded from that proposed planting?

  1. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
  2. Chinese Privet (Ligustrum sinense) Correct answer.
  3. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
  4. American Holly (Ilex opaca)

Explanation

Chinese Privet (Ligustrum sinense) is one of Georgia's most problematic invasive species, spreading aggressively through forests and natural areas. It is listed on the Georgia Invasive Species Task Force list. Landscape contractors should never install Chinese Privet and should use native alternatives like Virginia Sweetspire (Itea virginica) or Fothergilla.

Question 23Agricultural and landscape enterprise models and records

In a supplied contract with the stated retainage arrangement, what is the purpose of holding the specified portion pending completion and agreed punch-list resolution?

  1. To reduce the contractor's profit
  2. To withhold a percentage of each payment (typically 5-10%) until project completion and punch list items are resolved Correct answer.
  3. To increase the total contract price over time
  4. Retainage is illegal in Georgia

Explanation

Retainage is a standard construction contract provision where the owner withholds a percentage of each progress payment (typically 5-10%) until project completion and all punch list items are resolved. This protects the owner by ensuring the contractor completes all work satisfactorily. Georgia law does not prohibit retainage but may limit it on public projects.

Question 24Agricultural mechanics, precision systems and safe learning

A supplied landscape-work safety programme requires task/site-specific orientation before new workers start. Which listed content fits that actual programme?

  1. No training is required for landscape workers
  2. Workers must receive site-specific safety orientation covering hazards, PPE requirements, and emergency procedures before beginning work Correct answer.
  3. Only the crew leader needs safety training
  4. Training is only required after an accident occurs

Explanation

OSHA requires all construction workers, including landscape workers, to receive site-specific safety orientation before beginning work. This must cover identified site hazards, required PPE, emergency procedures, and the location of first aid supplies and fire extinguishers. Georgia landscape contractors must document all safety training provided.

Question 25Georgia landscape-practice scope and accountable project planning

The supplied contract provides direct negotiation followed by its stated mediation route when needed. Which listed response follows that agreed dispute process?

  1. Abandon the project and refuse further communication
  2. Follow the dispute resolution process outlined in the contract, beginning with direct negotiation, then mediation if needed Correct answer.
  3. File a lien immediately without attempting to resolve the issue
  4. Post negative reviews about the client on social media

Explanation

Professional practice in Georgia dictates following the dispute resolution process outlined in the contract. Start with direct negotiation to identify and address concerns, then escalate to mediation if needed. Documenting all communications and maintaining professionalism throughout the process protects the contractor's reputation and legal position.

Question 26Georgia landscape-practice scope and accountable project planning

Which listed subcontracting arrangement helps document actual scope, payment and responsibilities, without erasing applicable statutory duties?

  1. No written agreements are needed with subcontractors
  2. Use written subcontracts that include scope, payment terms, insurance requirements, and indemnification clauses Correct answer.
  3. Verbal agreements are standard in the landscape industry
  4. Subcontractors should be paid before the work is completed

Explanation

Georgia landscape contractors should use written subcontracts that clearly define the scope of work, payment terms, insurance requirements (workers' comp and general liability), indemnification clauses, change order procedures, and compliance with applicable laws. Written subcontracts protect both parties and ensure clear expectations.

Question 27Plant processes, soil properties and evidence-based fertility

A requested soil assessment includes the relevant nutrient, pH and physical-texture tests. Which listed purpose best explains obtaining that actual panel before a new planting, rather than assuming every routine soil test includes all those measures?

  1. To determine landscape design aesthetics
  2. To identify pH, nutrient levels, and texture so amendments and fertilizer are correct Correct answer.
  3. To certify pesticide applicator licensing
  4. To set the irrigation schedule based on cloud cover

Explanation

A soil test identifies pH, macronutrient and micronutrient levels, and often organic matter and texture, so a technician can amend correctly and apply only the fertilizer the site actually needs. Skipping the test leads to over- or under-application and wasted product.

Question 28Plant processes, soil properties and evidence-based fertility

A soil test reports a pH of 5.2 for an ornamental bed. The most common amendment to raise pH is:

  1. Elemental sulfur
  2. Aluminum sulfate
  3. Agricultural limestone Correct answer.
  4. Ammonium sulfate

Explanation

Agricultural limestone (calcium carbonate, sometimes including dolomitic forms) is the standard amendment to raise soil pH on acidic landscape sites. It neutralizes soil acidity and supplies calcium and, with dolomitic lime, magnesium.

Question 29Plant processes, soil properties and evidence-based fertility

Which soil component primarily determines water-holding capacity and drainage characteristics?

  1. Soil texture (sand, silt, and clay proportions) Correct answer.
  2. Soil color
  3. Soil temperature in winter
  4. Background levels of micronutrients

Explanation

Soil texture, the proportion of sand, silt, and clay, is the dominant factor in water-holding capacity and drainage. Sandy soils drain quickly and hold less water; clay soils drain slowly and hold more water but can become compacted.

Question 30Plant processes, soil properties and evidence-based fertility

Which group of nutrients are considered the primary macronutrients listed on a fertilizer label?

  1. Calcium, magnesium, sulfur
  2. Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium Correct answer.
  3. Iron, manganese, zinc
  4. Boron, copper, molybdenum

Explanation

The three numbers on a fertilizer label always represent the primary macronutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (as P2O5), and potassium (as K2O). Calcium, magnesium, and sulfur are secondary macronutrients; the others are micronutrients.

Question 31Plant processes, soil properties and evidence-based fertility

A fertilizer bag is labeled 10-10-10. What does the middle number represent?

  1. 10% nitrogen by weight
  2. 10% available phosphate (P2O5) by weight Correct answer.
  3. 10% calcium by weight
  4. 10% iron by weight

Explanation

The middle number on a fertilizer analysis is always the percentage of available phosphate (P2O5) by weight, the standard reporting form for phosphorus in fertilizer law. The three numbers always run N-P-K in that order.

Question 32Plant processes, soil properties and evidence-based fertility

Yellow leaves with green veins (interveinal chlorosis) on a pin oak in alkaline soil most likely indicates a deficiency of:

  1. Nitrogen
  2. Phosphorus
  3. Iron Correct answer.
  4. Potassium

Explanation

Iron chlorosis is classic on pin oak and other acid-loving species growing in high-pH soils, where iron is present but unavailable. The diagnostic pattern is interveinal yellowing while leaf veins stay green.

Question 33Plant processes, soil properties and evidence-based fertility

When planting a container-grown landscape tree, the top of the root flare should be:

  1. Buried 4-6 inches below grade for stability
  2. At or slightly above the surrounding grade Correct answer.
  3. Wrapped in plastic to prevent moisture loss
  4. Planted only after removing all backfill soil

Explanation

Best practice is to plant so the root flare sits at or 1-2 inches above the surrounding grade. Burying the flare encourages stem girdling roots, bark decay, and reduced establishment.

Question 34Plant processes, soil properties and evidence-based fertility

A supplied planting plan specifies an appropriate 2-to-4-inch layer of its selected mulch. Which listed placement follows that plan while keeping material away from the trunk?

  1. In a 6-inch cone piled tightly against the trunk
  2. Only over the root flare itself to keep weeds away
  3. 2-4 inches deep, in a wide ring, pulled back from the trunk Correct answer.
  4. 12 inches deep to insulate the roots

Explanation

A 2-4 inch ring of organic mulch, pulled back several inches from the trunk and extending out to (or beyond) the dripline, conserves moisture, moderates soil temperature, and reduces mower damage. Mulch volcanoes piled against the trunk cause decay and pest issues.

Question 35Plant processes, soil properties and evidence-based fertility

The supplied controlled-release fertilizer uses coated granules. Which listed description explains that particular release mechanism, rather than every possible slow-release product?

  1. Releases all nutrients in 24 hours
  2. Coats nutrients so they release gradually over weeks or months Correct answer.
  3. Contains only micronutrients
  4. Is always applied as a liquid drench

Explanation

Controlled-release fertilizers use polymer coatings or sulfur coatings around nutrient prills so that release happens gradually over weeks or months. This reduces burn risk, leaching, and labor cost on landscape sites.

Question 36Plant processes, soil properties and evidence-based fertility

Cation exchange capacity (CEC) primarily measures a soil's ability to:

  1. Drain after a heavy rain
  2. Hold positively charged nutrients on soil particle surfaces Correct answer.
  3. Photosynthesize organic carbon
  4. Resist freeze-thaw cycles

Explanation

Cation exchange capacity describes the soil's ability to hold and exchange positively charged nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and ammonium. Higher CEC soils (clays and organic-rich soils) hold more nutrients and are less prone to leaching.

Question 37Plant processes, soil properties and evidence-based fertility

What does "fertilizer placement" refer to in landscape fertility programs?

  1. The chemical formula of the product
  2. Where the fertilizer is physically applied so plants can use it Correct answer.
  3. The retail aisle the bag is stored in
  4. The freight class of the shipment

Explanation

Placement is the physical location where fertilizer is applied (broadcast over a lawn, deep-root injected under a tree's drip line, banded near a hedge, or surface-side-dressed). Correct placement determines whether nutrients reach feeder roots before they leach away.

Question 38Plant identification, establishment and health management

Which botanical name refers to the red maple commonly used as a landscape shade tree?

  1. Acer rubrum Correct answer.
  2. Acer saccharum
  3. Acer palmatum
  4. Acer negundo

Explanation

Acer rubrum is the red maple, named for its red flowers, red fruit, red leaf petioles, and outstanding red fall color. It is one of the most widely planted shade trees in the eastern United States and is a common plant ID item on the NALP horticultural exam.

Question 39Plant identification, establishment and health management

A landscape technician identifies a needled evergreen with flat, soft needles arranged in two rows on the twig and small woody cones with three-pointed bracts. Which genus is most likely?

  1. Pinus
  2. Picea
  3. Pseudotsuga Correct answer.
  4. Juniperus

Explanation

Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas fir) has soft, flat needles arranged spirally but appearing two-ranked, and its cones have distinctive three-pointed bracts that look like a mouse's tail and back legs sticking out between the scales.

Question 40Plant identification, establishment and health management

Quercus alba is the botanical name for which landscape tree?

  1. Pin oak
  2. Northern red oak
  3. White oak Correct answer.
  4. Live oak

Explanation

Quercus alba is the white oak, recognized by leaves with rounded lobes, light gray scaly bark, and acorns that mature in a single season. It is a foundational native shade tree on most temperate-zone plant ID lists.

Question 41Plant identification, establishment and health management

Hosta plants in a landscape are best classified as which type of plant?

  1. Annual
  2. Herbaceous perennial Correct answer.
  3. Deciduous shrub
  4. Broadleaf evergreen

Explanation

Hostas are herbaceous perennials that die back to the ground each winter and regrow from underground rhizomes in spring. They are popular shade-tolerant perennials for landscape borders.

Question 42Plant identification, establishment and health management

Which botanical name is the eastern redbud, a common small flowering landscape tree?

  1. Cornus florida
  2. Cercis canadensis Correct answer.
  3. Malus floribunda
  4. Prunus serrulata

Explanation

Cercis canadensis (eastern redbud) is a small, multi-stemmed deciduous tree with heart-shaped leaves and pink-purple, pea-like flowers that emerge directly on bare branches in early spring. It is a staple specimen tree of NALP plant ID lists.

Question 43Plant identification, establishment and health management

Which conifer holds its needles in fascicles of five?

  1. Pinus strobus Correct answer.
  2. Pinus nigra
  3. Pinus sylvestris
  4. Pinus thunbergii

Explanation

Pinus strobus (eastern white pine) bears soft, blue-green needles in bundles of five, which is a defining ID feature. Most other common landscape pines, including Austrian, Scots, and Japanese black pine, have needles in bundles of two.

Question 44Plant identification, establishment and health management

An evergreen ground-hugging conifer with scale-like leaves and blue, berry-like cones is most likely:

  1. Taxus baccata
  2. Juniperus horizontalis Correct answer.
  3. Buxus microphylla
  4. Ilex crenata

Explanation

Juniperus horizontalis (creeping juniper) is a low, spreading evergreen ground cover with scale-like or short awl-like leaves and small blue, berry-like cones. It is widely used for slopes, foundation edges, and erosion control.

Question 45Plant identification, establishment and health management

Which botanical name refers to Kentucky bluegrass, a common cool-season turf species?

  1. Festuca arundinacea
  2. Lolium perenne
  3. Poa pratensis Correct answer.
  4. Cynodon dactylon

Explanation

Poa pratensis is Kentucky bluegrass, a cool-season turfgrass that spreads by rhizomes and forms a dense, fine-textured lawn in northern climates. It is a foundational identification for any landscape technician working in cool-season turf regions.

Question 46Plant identification, establishment and health management

Hydrangea macrophylla flower color is most often determined by which soil factor?

  1. Soil temperature
  2. Available aluminum, which is influenced by pH Correct answer.
  3. Calcium carbonate content
  4. Soil bulk density

Explanation

In Hydrangea macrophylla (bigleaf hydrangea), flower color shifts toward blue when aluminum is plant-available, which happens in acidic soils, and toward pink in higher-pH soils where aluminum is unavailable. Adjusting pH is the practical lever a technician uses to change color.

Question 47Plant identification, establishment and health management

Which of the following is a deciduous conifer that drops its needles every fall?

  1. Picea pungens
  2. Taxodium distichum Correct answer.
  3. Tsuga canadensis
  4. Thuja occidentalis

Explanation

Taxodium distichum (bald cypress) is a deciduous conifer that turns rust-orange and sheds its soft needles every fall. It is one of only a few common landscape conifers that lose their foliage seasonally.

Question 48Plant identification, establishment and health management

A landscape technician sees a small tree with alternate, simple, palmately lobed leaves; star-shaped leaves; corky-winged twigs on older branches; and spiny round seed balls. Which species is it?

  1. Acer saccharum
  2. Liquidambar styraciflua Correct answer.
  3. Quercus rubra
  4. Carpinus caroliniana

Explanation

Liquidambar styraciflua (sweetgum) has alternate, star-shaped leaves, corky wings on older twigs, and the distinctive spiny round seed balls that drop in fall and winter. The combination of star-shaped leaves and spiny seed balls is unique.

Question 49Plant identification, establishment and health management

Liriope muscari is most commonly used in landscape design as a:

  1. Specimen shade tree
  2. Deciduous flowering shrub
  3. Grass-like ground cover or border Correct answer.
  4. Cool-season turfgrass

Explanation

Liriope muscari (big blue lilyturf) is an evergreen, grass-like perennial used as a low border edging or shade ground cover. It produces small purple flower spikes in summer and is not a true grass.

Question 50Plant identification, establishment and health management

Which characteristic best distinguishes Picea (spruce) needles from Abies (fir) needles?

  1. Spruce needles are flat and friendly; fir needles are sharp and square
  2. Spruce needles are sharp and square in cross section and attached to woody pegs Correct answer.
  3. Both spruce and fir bear needles in fascicles of five
  4. Spruce needles are deciduous, while fir needles are evergreen

Explanation

Spruce needles are sharp, four-sided, and attached to woody pegs (sterigmata) on the twig, which leaves a rough surface after needles drop. Fir needles are flat, soft, and attach with a suction-cup-like base, leaving a smooth twig.