Maintaining Interior Plant-scapes

Next Generation Science/Common Core Standards Addressed!

CCSS.ELA Literacy Follow precisely a complex multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks; analyze the specific results based on explanations in the text.cy. RST.11 12.3 ‐

CCSS. Math. Content. HS G CO.D.12 Make formal geometric constructions with a variety ‐of tools and methods (compass and straightedge, string, reflective devices, paper folding, dynamic geometric software, etc.). Copying a segment; copying an angle; bisecting a segment; bisecting an angle; constructing perpendicular lines, including the perpendicular bisector of a line segment; and constructing a line parallel to a given line through a point not on the line.

Bell Work / Student LearningObjectives

1. Identify the types of plants commonly used in interior-scapes.

2. Explain some of the problems associated with the care of interior plants.

3. Describe common tasks associated with plant maintenance.

TermsAcclimation

Client contact

Infections

Infestations

Plant maintenance technician

Temperate climate plants

Tropical plant

Interest Approach Ask students to list 15 decorating items they have seen during a recent trip to a shopping mall, hotel lobby, or hospital.

Plants should be one of the items mentioned on some of the lists. Have students explain how they feel when;

They are around plants. Based on their answers, discuss the fact that owners of malls, hospitals, and hotels choose to feature plants in the interiors of their buildings because it gives people a good feeling.

Explain that in order for the plants to remain healthy and attractive maintenance is required. Use this discussion to move into the lesson’s first objective.

What types of plants are commonly used in interior landscaping?

Tropical Plants Originally found where it doesn’t freeze. Gathered from the floor of rain forests.◦Resulting in lower light requirements.

Can you identify these Tropical Plants commonly used?

Tropical Plants

Tropical plants are grown primarily in Florida and shipped all over the US.◦ A 6-10 week

acclimation period is required before installing◦ The plant becomes

accustomed to a new environment

Temperate Climate Plants

Experience both leaf drop and dormancy in the fall and winter months.

A very stable climate with controlled temperature and lighting are essential.

They are not often used in interior-scapes.

CAUSES OF STRESS TOINTERIOR PLANTS!

ENVIRONMENT◦• Temperature◦• Light◦• Humidity

DESIGN FLAWS◦ • Installing plants in an inappropriate environment.

HUMANS◦• Use planters as trash containers.◦• Children allowed to climb on plant containers.

What are some common job responsibilities of a plant maintenance technician?

COMMON TASKS CARRIED OUT BY PLANT MAINTENANCE TECHNICIANS

A. Weekly Responsibilities◦ 1. Checking moisture levels.◦ 2. Dusting and cleaning leaves.◦ 3. Pruning.◦ 4. Removing and/or replacing damaged Plants.◦ 5. Observing for infestation and infection.◦ 6. Checking for external abuse by humans.◦ 7. Completing required forms.◦ 8. Communicating with client.

Review / SummaryWhy are tropical plants more commonly used than temperate climate plants in plantscaping?

What are some jobs of a plant maintenance technician?

What are three main causes of stress to interior plants?

Review/Summary What is acclimation?

What are three environmental factors that may cause stress to the plants?

The End!