NALP Horticultural Tech study plan

Define soil texture classes and explain how cation exchange capacity affects nutrient retention in landscape beds and turf

Calculate fertilizer application rates from a soil test recommendation for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium

Identify the 16 essential plant nutrients and classify each as macro or micro

Describe how soil pH alters nutrient availability and list three amendment strategies for acidic and alkaline soils

Explain the roles of light, temperature, and water in photosynthesis and transpiration for both ornamentals and turf

Diagnose common abiotic disorders (sunscald, chlorosis, drought stress, cold injury) from symptom descriptions

Compare irrigation scheduling methods for turf versus mixed landscape beds

Outline integrated pest management scouting steps and thresholds for a single common pest

Identify 40 woody and herbaceous landscape plants by leaf arrangement, margin, venation, and bud type using a dichotomous key

Distinguish native versus introduced species and state one site-condition requirement for each plant on your list

Match plants to light, moisture, and soil pH conditions for three distinct site profiles

Explain hardiness zone limits and microclimate effects on plant selection

Write planting specifications for balled-and-burlapped, containerized, and bare-root stock including hole width, depth, and backfill

Sequence the steps of proper tree planting and flag five common mistakes that cause transplant failure

Select plant material that meets American Standard for Nursery Stock quality criteria for caliper and root flare

Draft a maintenance schedule for the first 24 months after planting

Compare cool-season and warm-season turfgrass species on growth habit, mowing height, and traffic tolerance

Calculate mowing height, frequency, and clipping management for a stated grass species and season

Describe aerification, dethatching, and overseeding timing relative to the growth cycle

Explain thatch formation and identify the threshold at which remediation is warranted

Design a planting plan that applies right plant, right place and spacing at mature size for a 500-square-foot bed

Specify mulch type, depth, and placement relative to the trunk and explain the risks of overmulching

Describe pruning objectives and make the correct cut on a described branch using proper technique and timing

List the safety hazards of hand tools and identify the required personal protective equipment for each task

Perform pre-operation checks and identify the controls and safety interlocks on mowers, string trimmers, and chainsaws

Explain kickback causes and chain brake function, and state the safe cutting stance for a chainsaw

Interpret pesticide label signal words, reentry intervals, and PPE requirements before any application

Describe safe fuel handling, storage, and spill response procedures

Complete a timed 100-question cumulative practice set and score each domain separately

Re-teach the two weakest domains using your own notes, then re-test those domains

Review all four prior deliverables and correct any errors found

Build a one-page formula and facts sheet for rates, spacing, and mowing height