Vol 2_Part 3_Div 2

PROJECT:

CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE OF OFFICERS VILLAS ABU DHABI / MOSSAFHA, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

FOLDER NAME:

VOLUME 2: SPECIFICATIONS PART 3: INFRASTRUCTURE DIVISION 2: LANDSCAPING

Construction & Maintenance of Officers Villas Abu Dhabi / Mossafha, United Arab Emirates

VOLUME 2 SPECIFICATIONS

PART 3 INFRASTRUCTURE Page 1 of 69

November 2011

GENERAL TENDER VOLUMES

Volume 1(A) Instruction to Tenderers

Volume 1(B) General Conditions of Contract, Appendix to Tender, Form of Agreement And Particular Conditions of Contract

Volume 2 Specifications

Volume 3 Drawings

Volume 4 Bill of Quantities




November 2011

SPECIFICATIONS

VOLUME 2 OF 4

Table of Contents

Part 1 General

Division 1 General Requirements

Part 2 4 and 5 Bedroom Villas

Division 2 Site Works

Division 3 Concrete

Division 4 Masonry

Division 5 Metals

Division 6 Wood and Carpentry

Division 7 Thermal and Moisture Protection

Division 8 Doors and Windows

Division 9 Finishes

Division 10 Bath & Toilet Accessories (Specialties)

Division 11 Equipment (Not Used)

Division 12 Furnishing

Division 13 Special Construction (Not Used)

Division 14 Conveying System (Not Used)

Division 15 Mechanical

Division 16 Electrical

Part 3 Infrastructure

Division 1 Particular Specifications

Division 2 Landscaping

Division 3 Standard Specifications

Division 4 Potable Water Network

Division 5 Irrigation Network

Division 6 Storm Water (Refer to Vol. 2, Part 3, Div. 1 & 3)

Division 7 Sewerage Network

Division 8 Power Network

Division 9 Street Lighting and Landscape Lighting

Division 10 Telecommunication Network

Part 4 Vendors List




November 2011

PART 3 INFRASTRUCTURE

Division 2: Landscaping Table of Contents

SECTION A: SOFT LANDSCAPE ........................................................................................ 6

1 General ......................................................................................................................................... 6 1.1 Description ............................................................................................................................ 6 1.2 Standards .............................................................................................................................. 7 1.3 Quality Control ....................................................................................................................... 7 1.4 Submittals .............................................................................................................................. 8 1.5 Delivery, Storage, Handling ................................................................................................... 9 1.6 Maintenance ........................................................................................................................ 10

2 Materials ..................................................................................................................................... 11 2.1 Agricultural Soils .................................................................................................................. 11

2.1.1 Composition ............................................................................................................. 11 2.1.2 Properties ................................................................................................................. 11

2.2 Compost & Organic Manure ................................................................................................ 12 2.3 Fertilizers and Soil Conditioners .......................................................................................... 12

2.3.1 Composition ............................................................................................................. 12 2.3.2 Properties ................................................................................................................. 12

2.4 Biologic organic fertilizers .................................................................................................... 13 2.4.1 Sea Weed / Fish / Bone/ Blood Based Fertilizers ..................................................... 13 2.4.2 Composted Sewage Sludge ..................................................................................... 14 2.4.3 Coconut Fiber ........................................................................................................... 14 2.4.4 Non - Organic Fertilizers ........................................................................................... 14

2.5 Irrigation Water .................................................................................................................... 15 2.6 Planting Medium .................................................................................................................. 15 2.7 Maintenance Fertilizer Application....................................................................................... 18 2.8 Plant Protection Chemicals ................................................................................................. 19 2.9 Permeable Filter Membrane (Soil Separator) ...................................................................... 19 2.10 Planting Material (Plants) ................................................................................................. 19 2.11 Trees................................................................................................................................ 20 2.12 Palms ............................................................................................................................... 20 2.13 Shrubs and Ground Cover ............................................................................................... 21 2.14 Lawn ................................................................................................................................ 21 2.15 Related Items ................................................................................................................... 21

2.15.1 Tree Stakes, ties and anchoring ............................................................................... 21 2.15.2 Temporary Planting Screens and Shades ................................................................ 22 2.15.3 Anti-Desiccant .......................................................................................................... 22 2.15.4 Drainage Gravel ....................................................................................................... 22 2.15.5 Gravel Mulch & Natural Stone .................................................................................. 22 2.15.6 Root Control Barrier .................................................................................................. 22

3 Execution .................................................................................................................................... 23 3.1 General................................................................................................................................ 23 3.2 Palms .................................................................................................................................. 24 3.3 Planting Medium .................................................................................................................. 24 3.4 Planting Depths & Pits ......................................................................................................... 24 3.5 Percolation Tests ................................................................................................................. 25 3.6 Planting Sequence .............................................................................................................. 25 3.7 Identification ........................................................................................................................ 26 3.8 Lawn Areas ......................................................................................................................... 26




November 2011

3.8.1 Sprig Installation ....................................................................................................... 27 3.8.2 Sod Installation ......................................................................................................... 27 3.8.3 Seeding .................................................................................................................... 27 3.8.4 Protection ................................................................................................................. 28

3.9 Cultivation Operations ......................................................................................................... 28 3.9.1 Maintenance of Planting ........................................................................................... 28 3.9.2 Lawn Maintenance ................................................................................................... 28 3.9.3 Use of Chemicals ..................................................................................................... 29 3.9.4 General Clean-Up..................................................................................................... 29

4 Ongoing Maintenance ................................................................................................................ 29 4.1 General................................................................................................................................ 29 4.2 Maintenance Practices ........................................................................................................ 30

4.2.1 Palms ....................................................................................................................... 33 4.2.2 Trees and Shrubs ..................................................................................................... 34 4.2.3 Ground Covers ......................................................................................................... 35 4.2.4 Climbers & Vines ...................................................................................................... 35 4.2.5 Lawn Areas .............................................................................................................. 35

4.3 Reporting and Inspections ................................................................................................... 37 4.4 Soft Landscape Maintenance Manual ................................................................................. 38 4.5 Final Acceptance ................................................................................................................. 38

SECTION B: HARD LANDSCAPE ..................................................................................... 39

1 General ....................................................................................................................................... 39 1.1 Quality Control ..................................................................................................................... 40 1.2 Public Safety and Security .................................................................................................. 40 1.3 Cleanliness of Site ............................................................................................................... 41 1.4 Works To Be Kept Dry ......................................................................................................... 41 1.5 Temporary Works ................................................................................................................ 42

1.5.1 Special Instructions .................................................................................................. 42 2 New Installations ........................................................................................................................ 42

2.1 Submittals ............................................................................................................................ 42 2.2 Delivery, Storage and Handling ........................................................................................... 43

2.2.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 43 3 Materials ..................................................................................................................................... 44

3.1 General................................................................................................................................ 44 3.2 Site Furniture ....................................................................................................................... 45

3.2.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 45 3.2.2 Windbreaks and Temporary Planting Screens ......................................................... 45 3.2.3 Sun Protection and Shade Sails ............................................................................... 46 3.2.4 Benches ................................................................................................................... 46 3.2.5 Litter Bins.................................................................................................................. 46 3.2.6 Collapsible Bollards .................................................................................................. 47 3.2.7 Lighting Bollards ....................................................................................................... 47

3.3 Garden and Lawn Edging .................................................................................................... 47 3.4 Rocks and Stones ............................................................................................................... 48

3.4.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 48 3.5 Compacted Gravel Pavement ............................................................................................. 48

3.5.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 48 3.6 Burned Clay Pavers ............................................................................................................ 49

3.6.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 49 3.6.2 Delivery, Storage and Handling ................................................................................ 49 3.6.3 Properties ................................................................................................................. 50

3.7 Sub Grade ........................................................................................................................... 51 3.8 Base Course ........................................................................................................................ 51




November 2011

3.9 Bedding Course ................................................................................................................... 52 3.10 Mortar for Rigid Installation of Pavers .............................................................................. 52 3.11 Joint Filler ........................................................................................................................ 52 3.12 Manufacturer's Plant, Production & Quality Procedures .................................................. 52 3.13 Play Structures and Playground ...................................................................................... 53

3.13.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 53 3.13.2 Approved Equipment ................................................................................................ 53 3.13.3 Wooden Equipment .................................................................................................. 54 3.13.4 Metal Components ................................................................................................... 54 3.13.5 Plastic Components.................................................................................................. 55 3.13.6 Rope Elements, Belt Swings, Springs ...................................................................... 55 3.13.7 Fasteners and Accessories ...................................................................................... 55 3.13.8 Play Surface ............................................................................................................. 56

3.13.8.1 General ............................................................................................................... 56 3.13.9 Signs and Markings .................................................................................................. 57

3.14 Turf .................................................................................................................................. 57 3.14.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 57 3.14.2 Submittals and Warranty .......................................................................................... 58

4 Execution .................................................................................................................................... 59 4.1 General................................................................................................................................ 59 4.2 Maintenance ........................................................................................................................ 60 4.3 Clay Pavers ......................................................................................................................... 60

4.3.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 60 4.3.2 Sub-Grade ................................................................................................................ 61 4.3.3 Granular Sub-Base ................................................................................................... 61 4.3.4 Flexible Installation of Clay Pavers ........................................................................... 61

4.3.4.1 Bedding Course .................................................................................................... 61 4.3.4.2 Installation ............................................................................................................ 61 4.3.4.3 Compaction and Joint Filling ................................................................................ 62

4.3.5 Rigid Installation of Clay Pavers ............................................................................... 63 4.3.5.1 Preparation ........................................................................................................... 63 4.3.5.2 Installation ............................................................................................................ 63

4.3.6 Quality Control .......................................................................................................... 64 4.4 Compacted Gravel Pavement ............................................................................................. 64 4.5 Play Structures .................................................................................................................... 65

4.5.1 Installation ................................................................................................................ 65 4.6 Playground Surface ............................................................................................................. 66 4.7 Playing Surfaces for Outdoor Sports Facilities .................................................................... 66 4.8 Road Line and Playing Surface Marking ............................................................................. 69 4.9 Architectural Metalwork ....................................................................................................... 69




November 2011

Section A: SOFT LANDSCAPE

1 General

1.1 Description

A. This Specification for Soft Landscape includes: a. The supply, installation and replacements of specified plant materials including plants,

planting soil, supply and use of fertilisers, plant protection chemicals, additives and all related works

b. The supply, installation and / or replacement of associated items c. All maintenance works for plants and related works in the project d. Safe working practice e. Related works during the maintenance period.

B. All other Sections of this Contract shall be read in conjunction with the stipulations under this Section.

C. The Contractor shall investigate the planting site prior to final grading and installing plant materials in order to verify conflicts which may occur with the scheduling of his work with other construction activity in the vicinity of the project area.

D. The Contractor shall determine that all underground utilities and site grading are complete and that the irrigation system is installed and in appropriate function.

E. In case the irrigation system is not yet in operation during construction and / or maintenance period, appropriate manual watering including all required equipment shall be provided by the Contractor at no extra cost until the irrigation system is in operation.

F. The Contractor shall provide and maintain adequate protection to protect all new and existing work and all items of equipment and furnishings for the entire duration of work and maintenance period to the satisfaction of the Engineer.

G. The Contractor shall prepare and submit final levels and contours to be achieved in final grading for approval by the Engineer at a minimum of four weeks before commencing the earthworks.

H. The Contractor shall employ highly qualified personnel for this Project, subject to the approval of the Engineer.

I. The Contractor shall employ a horticulturist with extensive field experience in plant maintenance including ornamental plant, turf and nursery management and pest and disease control.

J. The Contractor shall employ an irrigation engineer with extensive field experience in supervising the installation and maintenance of landscape irrigation networks, including pumping systems, farm irrigation experience only is not favorable.

K. The landscape laborers shall be skilled and appropriately experienced in the installation and maintenance of landscape preparation, planting, irrigation works and all related works.

L. The Client / Engineer reserves the right to reject or accept any Contractors personnel engaged on the project for unqualified services or performance.

M. The Contractor shall comply with safety standards and governing regulations for the on-Site activities. The Contractor shall not burn waste materials at site, bury debris or excess materials on site, discharge volatile or other harmful dangerous materials into irrigation or drainage systems

N. The Contractor shall remove waste materials from site on a day-to-day basis and dispose of in a lawful manner.

O. No substitution of species or sizes of specified plants shall be made without expressly approval of the Engineer.

P. The Contractor shall have a representative who will be able to attend site meetings throughout the duration of the Contract period, and who will have the authority to provide daily ongoing direction for all work crews.

Q. It is the responsibility of the successful Contractor to notify all agencies that may be affected by the installation of any services or work within this Contract and obtain all necessary permits, approvals, stakeouts, and locates.

R. The Contractor is responsible for obtaining and/or verifying all required utility locations prior to the digging of post holes.

S. A detailed layout drawing is required of each play structure to be installed. This drawing is to be submitted for review and information prior to construction. The drawing shall include the




November 2011

manufacturers name and model numbers, dimensions, fall heights, safety zones, setbacks as well as contextual information.

1.2 Standards A. Activities under this Section shall comply with the following international standards:

BS 3936 - 1: 1992 Nursery stock Specifications for trees and shrubs

BS 3936 - 7: 1989 Nursery stock Specification for bedding plants

BS 3936 - 9: 1998 Nursery stock Specification for bulbs, corms & tubers

BS 3936 -10:1990 Nursery stock Specification for Ground Cover plants

BS 3998:2010 Recommendations for tree work

BS 4043:1989 Transplanting root-balled trees

BS 4428:1989 Code for general landscape operations

1.3 Quality Control A. All plant materials, plants, planting soil or other materials specified for the project shall be accepted

installed or planted only with prior approval of the Engineer. B. All activities, installation procedures, incl. preparatory works, planting, installation, quality checks

and testing, all related works during installation and maintenance of the works shall be performed only with prior approval of the Engineer.

C. The Contractor shall not proceed to complete further works until following works have been inspected and approved by the Engineer during construction period: a. Submission of works construction program, reporting formats and QA / QC formats b. Approval of all samples & materials, method statements c. Evidence of plant material availability and plant delivery program d. Approval of shop drawings, layouts, levels and final location of landscape elements e. Setting out of landscape areas and pits f. Filled, compacted and graded sweet soil fill, gravel surfacing to landscape areas prior

mixing of amendments and planting g. Excavated pits and percolation tests for pits prior planting h. Plant stock approved / inspected in the nursery prior to transportation to Site i. Plant stock approved at the site prior to planting j. Any irrigation approvals, irrigation system located and working correctly prior planting k. Staking, guying and tying of plants (whereas required) l. Excavation of ornamental stone/mulch areas prior to laying geo-textile and any edging or

placing stone m. Detailed Maintenance Manual and approved As-Built drawings prior to PAC

D. The Contractor shall not proceed to complete further works until following works have been inspected and approved by the Engineer during maintenance period: a. Endorsed or modified maintenance manuals and As-Built drawings b. Monthly maintenance schedules and records c. Weekly maintenance schedules and records

E. The Contractor shall notify the Engineer 48 hours prior to the inspection of the above. Such notification shall be given by inspection request in approved format.

F. Those activities shall be identified as hold points in the Contractors program and inspection and test plans.

G. Any delays, additional work or additional costs due to non-conformance of the Contractor with the above stipulations shall be at the Contractors own risk and expense.

H. Certificates of inspection shall accompany the invoice for each shipment of plants as may be required by law for transportation.

I. File certificates are to be provided to the Engineer prior to acceptance of the material.




November 2011

1.4 Submittals A. The Contractor shall submit all materials to be used along with the approved format, technical

specifications, manufacturers information, manuals etc. for the approval of the Engineer. B. The Engineers approval shall be obtained for all products and materials prior to use in the works.

Approval of products or materials does not in any way relieve the Contractor of his full responsibilities under the Contract.

C. The Contractor shall submit 2 representative samples each of the following items for the Engineers approval: a. Agricultural soil (prior to amending): 1 Kg. along with soil analysis report b. Planting medium (after amendment); 1 Kg of each specified with analysis report c. Fertilisers, manures & other additives; Manufacturers documentation and specifications d. Irrigation water sample e. Natural stones / Gravel/Drainage stone: 0.25 cubic metres f. Geo textile fabric & other drainage materials: 1 square meter g. Staking & Guying materials and methods: As appropriate and required by the Engineer h. Samples of all plants prior delivery: Nursery visits as necessary, to be arranged by the

Contractor D. The Contractor shall submit to the Engineer the proposed source or sources of agricultural soil for

approval prior use. Each sample shall be tested and analyzed by a qualified agricultural soil testing laboratory, and the results submitted to the Engineer. All testing procedures for agricultural soil shall be deemed to be included in the Contractors rates.

E. Soil mix, quantity of application of compost and fertilizers shall be submitted for the approval of the Engineer.

F. The Contractor shall submit shop drawings for all planting areas including layouts, levels, location of plants and other landscape elements for the approval of the Engineer.

G. The Contractor shall carry out all tests directed by the Engineer to ensure that the materials and workmanship are in accordance with the specified Standards and stipulations in the Contract Documents.

H. At the time of completion of works, the Contractor shall submit to the Engineer the complete As Built set of drawings and manuals for approval and final approval as specified in the Contract Documents.

I. The Contractor shall submit the manufacturer's literature and labels for the following materials prior to use or installation: a. Fertiliser b. Pesticides and all plant protection chemicals c. Compost and Manure d. Any other specific products or additives not listed above.

J. Any tests by the Contractor or third party shall be based on a representative sample of material to be used to be taken in the presence of the Engineer. An authorized testing laboratory accepted by the Engineer shall perform the testing and all costs shall be born by the Contractor. The following test reports shall be submitted: a. Manufacturers certified analysis of all standard products, including fertilisers and manures b. Certificates confirming the origin, size of all standard products c. HSE Certificates.

K. Following test shall be performed: a. Agricultural soil:

pH value

Electrical conductivity

Free carbonates

Chlorides

Sulphates

Exchangeable sodium

Boron




November 2011

Sodium

Magnesium

Sieve analysis

Sodium Absorption Ratio

b. For planting medium (after amendment)

pH value

Electrical Conductivity (EC)

c. Irrigation water

Electrical Conductivity (EC)

pH Value

Chlorides (Cl)

Nitrate (NO3)

Bicarbonate (HCO3)

Sulphates (SO4)

Calcium (Ca)

Sodium (Na)

Magnesium (Mg)

Potassium (K)

Boron (B)

L. In case municipal supply water or other known source of irrigation water is not used, test certificate shall be produced along with submittal of sample.

1.5 Delivery, Storage, Handling

A. Manufactured, processed or otherwise prepared materials shall be properly packed and labeled to indicate manufacturer, contents, weight and a detailed description of the material. If delivered in bulk, the Contractor shall submit confirmation giving information required as specified for labels and certifying that materials meet the specified requirements.

B. All materials shall be inspected by the Engineer for damage in transit. No defective materials shall be delivered to the Site. Any material subsequently damaged shall be removed from the Site immediately by the Contractor at his expense.

C. The Contractor shall notify the Engineer at least 15 days in advance of the time when plants will arrive on the Site.

D. All plant materials shall be delivered and kept appropriately, cool and moist at site until installed. E. The Contractor shall assure appropriate species identification of plants and other landscape

material through the use of certified tags or labels. Plants shall be identified with labels bearing waterproof writing.

F. Fertilizer, mulching materials and similar product shall be properly stored in climate controlled conditions.

G. Agriculture soil shall be stored in heaps no greater than one and a half meters high. Soil heaps shall be protected from undue compaction and no construction or waste materials shall be stored on or mixed with the soil. Soil heaps not intended for immediate use shall be kept appropriately covered.

H. At no time shall plants be allowed to dry out, therefore the Contractor shall provide water, shade and protection for plants from hot or cold winds. If necessary, the Contractor shall construct sheds and shade structures under his full responsibility and cost.

I. The Contractor shall assure that plants are handled in the appropriate manner by skilled personnel.




November 2011

J. Care shall be taken to avoid damaging plants being moved from the nursery or holding area to the planting site.

K. Plants in containers or balled shall be handled or moved by the container or root ball only, not by the branches or trunk. Plants shall not be dropped from trucks to the ground. Plant shall be protected from freezing or drying out by covering burlap, tarpaulin or mulching material during transport. Tree trunks shall be protected from sun burn and the terminal protected from damage caused from breakage or rubbing.

L. No plant shall be accepted if the ball of earth surrounding its root system has been cracked or broken prior to or during planting or after the burlap, ropes or platform required in transplanting has been removed.

M. On delivery to the Place of the Work but before setting plants in place, arrange for an inspection by the Engineer for preliminary review. Engineer reserves the right to inspect plants and to select plants at place of growth.

N. Plants not in conformance with the Contract Documents or damaged will be rejected and shall be replaced by the Contractor on his own expense.

1.6 Maintenance

A. The Contractor shall provide and maintain adequate protection to protect all new and existing work and all items of equipment and furnishings for the entire duration of execution and maintenance period to the satisfaction of the Engineer.

B. Maintenance requirements include watering, adjustment of guys and stakes, cultivation, weeding, pruning, and spraying against insect pests and diseases; wrapping and mulching, straightening of plants which lean or sag and which develop more than a normal amount of settlement including excavating around and leveling or raising the plant ball when so directed and other incidental work.

C. The Contractor shall replace dying, dead or deformed plant material and plants not growing in a manner acceptable to the Engineer during the first succeeding planting season with same size, quality and species indicated in Contract Document. Plants that are dormant during growing season shall be replaced.

D. The Contractor shall periodically check guys and stakes of trees to ensure attachment of wire, ties and appropriate ground anchorage. Turnbuckles on guyed plant material shall be kept tight. If ties damage plants, place ties in another position at the trunk to prevent further damage. Repair broken guys and replace broken stakes.

E. Plants to be kept in upright position all times. F. Where manual irrigation is required, the Contractor shall apply sufficient water to planted areas to

penetrate the soil to a minimum depth of 200 mm and in a manner to allow constant, slow saturation. Cease application of water at saturation point to prevent erosion or washout

G. In case of manual watering of plants, weather situation shall be considered not to over-irrigate plants and save water in periods of rain

H. The Contractor shall maintain planting areas free of weeds by approved methods and materials I. The Contractor shall inspect plant materials at least once a month during growing season to locate

any disease or insect pest infestations. J. In case of discovery of any disease or insect pest infestation, a professional, qualified biologist

shall be commissioned at the expense of the Contractor to identify and recommend an infestation control procedure. Appropriate preventive measures shall be taken to avoid further spreading of disease or infestation.

K. The Contractor shall provide 2 copies of the infestation control report to the Engineer for review indicating type of infestation, insecticides, fungicides or herbicides to be used and the entire control procedure. Carry out the control procedure unless directed otherwise by the Engineer.

L. The Contractor shall limit the amount of pruning to the minimum necessary to remove dead or injured twigs and branches. Cuts shall be flush, leaving no stubs, mature branches shall be cut in stages to avoid tearing down the trunk. All cuts, bruises or scars on the bark shall be smoothed, shaped and covered by approved means.

M. The Contractor shall repair damage resulting from erosions, washouts, excessive settlement or other causes by filling areas again with topsoil to finished grade as specified and replace damaged plants.

N. The Contractor shall apply fertilizer during maintenance period as specified according to the results of the analysis contained in the topsoil test report on the installed planting soil mix.




November 2011

O. The Contractor shall maintain plants from time of shipment to the Place of the Work until the end of the Maintenance Period.

P. All plants furnished under this section shall be the species, hybrid, flower color and/or variety specified herein or on the Drawings. If plants prove to be of a different species, hybrid, flower color and /or variety not initially determinable, the Contractor shall replace that plant with a new plant of the originally specified species, hybrid, flower color and/or variety.

Q. The Contractor shall replace all plants found in an unhealthy growing condition during the Maintenance Period.

R. Replacements shall be with new healthy plants of same species /variety/ hybrid/ flower color and size at the time of replacement.

2 Materials

2.1 Agricultural Soils

2.1.1 Composition

A. Agricultural soil shall be sweet sand or marine washed sand free of calcium carbonate, subsoil, refuse, roots, noxious weeds, phytotoxic materials, rocks, sticks, brush, litter, construction debris or any other deleterious materials and shall be approved by the Engineer before use.

B. Agricultural soil shall be free draining, non-toxic and capable of sustaining healthy plant growth and shall have good water holding capacity and minimal runoff or erosion characteristics.

C. The soil shall be from an approved source and taken from approved locations having removed surface crusts and gypsiferous accumulations.

D. Agricultural soil may also be obtained by stripping existing topsoil from suitable areas within the site such as existing greenery areas. Suitability shall be determined according to a detailed chemical soils analysis and as directed by the Engineer. The garden topsoil shall be stripped to a depth of 300mm and stockpiled as specified. The excavated topsoil shall be friable and loamy, free of roots, rocks larger than 12 mm, subsoil, debris, large weeds and other foreign matter, conforming to ASTM D2487 Group symbol (OH)(PT), acidity range: pH 5.5 to 7.5. The soil shall be ameliorated according to the recommendations contained in the soil analysis report.

2.1.2 Properties

A. The agricultural soil shall comply with the following chemical criteria: a. pH value: not less than 6.5 or not more than 8 b. Electrical conductivity: less than 2500 micromhos /cm (2.5 dS / m) in saturated

extract at 25C c. Free carbonates: less than 0.5% air dried d. Chlorides: less than 200 ppm in saturated extract e. Sulphates: less than 200 ppm in saturated extract f. Exchangeable sodium: less than 15% in neutral normal ammonium acetate g. Boron: less than 1.5 ppm, hot water soluble h. Sodium less than 250 ppm i. Magnesium less than 100 ppm j. Nitrates less than 75 ppm

B. The agricultural soil shall comply with the following grading criteria:

Sieve Size (mm) % by mass passing

5.000

2.380

1.180

0.600

100

65 to 100

45 to 100

35 to 80




November 2011

0.300

0.150

0.075

5 to 48

0 to 15

0 to 3

2.2 Compost & Organic Manure

A. Compost and manure of cattle, sheep, chicken etc. shall be from an approved source. It shall be pasteurized and free from weed and disease. It shall be composted fully so that it may be used in direct contact with plant roots, at the quantities specified, without harmful effects to the root system or the plants overall health and appearance. It shall be free from any viable seed that may germinate at a later stage. The particle size and moisture content of compost shall be ideal for easy mixing with soil.

B. Organic manure in the form of fishmeal that is premixed with suitable Nitrogen fixing and phosphate dissolving micro organism based product shall be from approved source. The micro-organism-based product shall be mixed well with fishmeal at the rate of one liter per 50 kg fishmeal. This mixture has to be thoroughly incorporated to soil or planting medium.

C. Test Methods for the Examination of Composting and Compost (TMECC, The US Composting Council) shall be utilised for testing of compost and organic manure.

D. The Contractor shall compost according to plant or turf species to pH and soluble salt requirements, and how they correspond to the compost in use. The composting procedures shall be as approved by the Engineer; any adjustments shall be reported accordingly.

E. Compost quality shall not be based upon the result of a single stability/maturity test. The Engineer reserves the right to modify the allowable compost specification ranges based on specific field conditions and plant requirements.

2.3 Fertilizers and Soil Conditioners

2.3.1 Composition

A. Unless otherwise specified, fertilizer shall be organic, slow release compound fertilizer equivalent to NPK 18-9-9 for palms or 18-9-9 for other plants. In addition to NPK elements, it shall also contain minimum 25% sulphur, 2% MgO and 1.5% trace elements.

B. Fertilizer shall be stored in standard containers with the name, weight and guaranteed analysis of the contents clearly marked. Production and expiry dates shall be clearly printed on the fertilizer bags.

C. When a mixed fertilizer is specified, the first number shall represent the minimum percentage of soluble nitrogen, the second number shall represent the minimum percentage of available phosphoric acid and the third number shall represent the minimum percentage of water soluble potash.

2.3.2 Properties

A. Fertilizers of various categories including slow release organic fertilizers shall conform to the following criteria: a. The fertiliser shall be heat treated and fermented. b. Fertilizer shall contain 100% decomposed or partially decomposed organic material from

agricultural waste, for example grape pomace and be free of plant diseases toxic chemicals and plant pests.

c. The product shall not have unacceptable odours. d. The organic matter content shall not be less than 80%. e. Moisture content shall not exceed 20%. f. EC shall not exceed 10 millimhos / Cm in an extract from 1:5. g. The pH values shall be between 6.0 and 7.5 in an extract of 1:5. h. The C/N ratio shall not exceed 20:1. i. The Sodium chloride (NaCl) percentage shall not exceed 2% and soluble sodium shall not be

more than 0.8%. j. It shall be free of soil, sand and other impurities.




November 2011

k. It shall be free from harmful weed seeds, disease causing pathogens, nematodes, insect pests etc.

l. Fertilizers containing humic acid and approved NPK values shall have a minimum content of 25% with an additional organic matter content of min. 20%.

B. All application rates shall conform with the manufacturers recommendations for plant type. C. In addition to above other soil additives might to be used, subject to the approval of the Engineer. D. The application rates shall be as follows specified unless otherwise specified or instructued:

a. Grass and Groundcovers 3kg/m2 b. Palms / Trees 3kg/No

E. Slow release organic fertilizers shall conform to the following criteria:

a. MACRO ELEMENTS

MgO S (K2O) (P2O5) (N) (NPK)

2 25 09 09 18 18-9-9

b. TRACE ELEMENTS

(PPM) % (Element)

2000 0.20 Fe

1000 0.10 Cu

1000 0.10 Mn

1000 0.10 Zn

c. ADDITIVES

Humic Acid

25%

Organic Matter

20%

d. OTHERS

% (Property)




November 2011

It shall be free from natural soils, sands and other plant parts

The percentage of Organic matter shall not be less than 85%

Shall be free of diseases, animal or plant pests especially nematodes

The EC shall not exceed 3 mille mohs/Cm in an extract of 1:5

The pH shall be between 5 and 7.5 in an extract of 1:5

Sodium chloride shall not exceed 0.2%

The moisture content shall not exceed 60 % E. Non Organic Conditioners shall be supplied in tightly packed bags or containers with appropriate

labelling. The technical leaflet of product shall contain:

Chemical name

Effective material and proportion

Application methods for achieving best result as well as its impact on soil and the type of soil it suits.

F. Non Organic Conditioners shall be with following specifications: a. Agricultural Gypsum:

The Calcium Sulphate shall not be less than 80%

Sodium Chloride shall not exceed 3% b. Agricultural Sulphur: The percentage of Sulphur element shall not be less than 8.5% c. Polymers: The water holding capacity shall be clearly indicated d. Bentonite: Sodium chloride shall not exceed 2%. e. Perlite

Saturation Capacity shall not be less than 300%

PH shall not exceed 7.5

It shall be odorless, free of any disease or pest organism.

2.4.2 Composted Sewage Sludge

A. Wet sludge shall have been allowed to dry in lagoons or drying beds exposed to air, to produce a raw sludge with a moisture content of 30-50 per cent. Digested sludge shall be produced from raw sludge by a process which reduces its bulk. Digested sludge shall have the following minimum content. 52% dry matter, 23% organic matter, 1.4% total N, 1.1% P2O5, 0.2% K2O. Samples shall be provided.

B. The digested sludge shall be composted with chips, other hygienically accepted bulking materials or a combination thereof.

C. The compost shall be produced by an aerated pile method or equal which produces internal temperatures exceeding 60oC and destroys most pathogens. The finished compost is to be hygienic and free of odours. The composted sludge shall be analysed for viruses, content of heavy metals such as chromium, nickel, zinc and copper.

D. Analysis shall be carried out to ensure that there are no heavy metals, PCB, hydrocarbons or other toxins.

2.4.3 Coconut Fiber

A. Coconut fibre used for soil amelioration shall be shredded coconut husks obtained form an approved, sustainable source, free of impurities, disease, and organisms. The material shall be bio-degradable with reduced electro-conductivity and a pH between 6 and 7.

2.4.4 Non - Organic Fertilizers

A. Fertilizers of pure chemical nature shall conform to the product specifications and label details. Packing shall clearly mention the brand name, nutrient content in percentages and any other additives present. Products shall be packed in such a way that it doesnt contaminate environment and shall avoid any spillage. For granular fertilizers it shall be of uniform granular size for easy spreading. It shall be without any moisture contamination and free of caking and impurities. Liquid chemical fertilizer shall be clear liquids without crystallization and settlements. For suspension fertilizer, particles shall easily dissolve when diluted. An ISO certified companys product shall be used in all projects. Those chemical fertilizers shall be approved by the Engineer only shall be used according to project needs.




November 2011

2.5 Irrigation Water A. Irrigation water shall be from a known source and it shall conform to the following standards and

shall be within the below mentioned levels.

An ions:

a. Chlorides (Cl) - 200 ppm b. Bicarbonate (HCO3) - 115 ppm c. Sulphates (SO4) - 390 ppm d. Nitrate (NO3) - 10 ppm

Cat ions:

a. Calcium (Ca) - 120 ppm b. Sodium (Na) - 130 ppm c. Magnesium (Mg) - 45 ppm d. Potassium (K) - 18 ppm e. Boron (B) - 2 ppm

B. If any leaching of salts is required, water used shall be less than 1 millimhos / Cm at 250C.

2.6 Planting Medium

A. An ideal planting medium shall provide a condition in which the root system of the new plant can resume easy growth and develop new root hairs to absorb water and nutrients. It shall have the following qualities:

a. Loamy texture b. Good drainage c. Suitable pH d. Balanced nutrients e. Low salinity level.

B. These conditions shall be attained by carefully blending ingredients such as agricultural soil, organic manure, compost and fertilizers. The pH of the amended planting medium shall be within the range of a pH value 6.5 to 7.5 and the Contractor has to do necessary treatments and amendments to bring the pH to required level in case it differs. Wherever there is a need to retain excessive moisture under very dry conditions peat moss or other soil conditioners shall be added as approved by the Engineer.

C. Planting medium shall consist of a homogeneous mixture of soil, compost and fertilizers as specified, and in the following proportions:

a. 40% local sweet sand b. 40% Agricultural / Wadi sweet soil (dry only) c. 10% Organic conditioner, e.g. coconut fibre d. 10% Organic matter e.g. compost

D. Application rates and kind of fertilizers mentioned above shall be for planting medium preparations and first application only. Application rates and methods for maintenance shall be followed as specified herein.

E. Maintenance and further application shall be scheduled as approved by the Engineer, depending upon the season, type of plant, health conditions.

F. For palms, manure and fertilizer inputs can be added to palm pits after planting at a later stage as approved by the Engineer .

G. The planting medium for lawn areas shall be prepared one week before sowing seeds or the grass stolons are planted.

H. In the following, mixing ratios of planting medium and their mixing methods are detailed in tables. The Contractor has to ensure that these methods are strictly followed when planting medium mixes are prepared unless otherwise instructed or approved by the Engineer. The Contractor shall add any additional amendments to planting medium in case the pH of the made up medium does not comply with the Specifications.




November 2011

I. These tables are for initial application of mixtures to planting medium or first application (in case of palms). For maintenance program fertilizing refer to the applicable section of this Specifications. The method and time of application shall be maintained for each type of plants as given below.

J. Rates of application of fertilizers shall vary with palm variety, size and age and necessary changes in the kind of fertilizers and rate of application shall be carried out as approved by the Engineer.

K. Fertilizer program given below is subject to modifications depending on the project needs, soil test reports, planting types, seasons etc. and the Contractor shall follow the Engineer approved program for each project.

L. Date Palm - Phoenix Dactylifera

No Kind of Fertilizer Per

Palm

After planting or

establishment

Remarks

3-4

months

6-7

months

1 Organic matter

based

25 Kg 25 Kg nil Apply uniformly in trenches made of 200

mm. width and 150 mm. depth 0.75 to 1

metre away from trunk within the

individual palm basins;

Mix well with soil in trench working with

hand shovel (spade), backfill scooped out

soil above trench to level, irrigation to

follow immediately.

2 Slow release

Organo-chemical

fertiliser

(NPK 8.8.16)

400

Grams

200

Grams

200

Grams

As above

3 Fishmeal pellets or

granules @ 20 Gr./

Kg. of Organic

manure

500

Grams

500

Grams

nil As above

4 Micro organism

based (as

Microfert) @ 1 litre

per 50 Kg. of Fish

meal

1 liter per

100

palms

1 liter per

100

palms

nil Mix Fishmeal & Microfert thoroughly and

spread in trench of palm basin uniformly;

mix well with soil and other inputs.

Irrigate as explained above.

M. Trees

No Kind of Fertilizer Per Tree Remarks

1 Organic matter

based

20 Kg Spread fertilizer in basins of tree pits prior to planting. Soil to be

filled in such a manner to get a perfect final level considering

settling down of loose soil after irrigation and to accommodate

root ball area of plants after planting. Thoroughly mix the fertiliser

with soil and pre-irrigate well to moisten the entire medium

uniformly before planting to field capacity. Plant as per

specifications. Irrigate plant basins well after planting.

2 Slow release

Organo- chemical

fertiliser

(NPK 16.8.8)

300

Grams

As above

3 Fishmeal pellets or

granules @ 20 Gr./

Kg. of Organic

manure

400

Grams

As above

4 Micro organism 1 liter per Mix Fishmeal & Microfert thoroughly and spread in trench of




November 2011

based (as

Microfert) @ 1 litre

per 50 Kg. of Fish

meal

125 tree

pits

plant basin uniformly; mix well with soil and other inputs. Irrigate

as explained above.

N. Large Shrubs (including appropriate xeriscape species)

No Kind of

Fertilizer

Per Shrub Remarks

1 Organic matter

based

15 Kg Spread fertilizer in basins of shrub pits prior to planting. Soil to

be filled in such a manner to get a perfect final level considering

settling down of loose soil after irrigation and to accommodate

root ball area of plants after planting. Thoroughly mix the

fertilizer with soil and pre-irrigate well to moisten the entire

medium uniformly before planting to field capacity at planting.

Plant as per specifications. Irrigate plant basins well after

planting.

2 Slow release

Organo-

chemical

fertilizer

(NPK 16.8.8)

200

Grams

As above

3 Fishmeal

pellets or

granules @ 20

Gr./ Kg. of

Organic

manure

300

Grams

As above

4 Micro organism

based ( as

Microfert) @ 1

litre per 50 Kg.

of Fish meal

1 liter per

166

shrubs

Mix Fishmeal & Microfert thoroughly and spread in trench of

plant basin uniformly; mix well with soil and other inputs. Irrigate

as explained above.

O. Small Shrubs, Ground Cover Beds, Feature Plants and Lawn Areas (including appropriate

xeriscape species)

No Kind of

Fertilise

Per Sq.

Metre.

Remarks

1 Organic matter

based

10 Kgs Thoroughly mix the fertiliser with soil and pre-irrigate well to

moisten the entire medium uniformly before planting. Moisten

the entire medium to field capacity. Watch for any soil

settlement, and grade to finish level before planting. Plant as per

specifications. Irrigate well after planting.

2 Slow release

Organo-

chemical

fertiliser

(NPK 16.8.8)

200

Grams

As above

3 Fishmeal

pellets or

granules @ 20

Gr./ Kg. of

Organic

manure

300

Grams

As above




November 2011

4 Micro organism

based ( as

Microfert) @ 1

litre per 50 Kg.

of Fish meal

1 liter per

166 Sq. m.

Mix Fishmeal & Microfert thoroughly and spread uniformly on

soil / planting medium; mix well with soil and other inputs.

Irrigate as explained above.

2.7 Maintenance Fertilizer Application

A. General recommendations for maintenance fertilizer application required per annum are as follows. Specific recommendations shall have to be followed depending up on the soil analysis for each project or area. Time of application, rate per application and methods shall be as per the approved application and method for each project or area.

B. Changes to below fertiliser kinds, quantity, time of application etc. shall be considered according to soil analysis data, seasons, type of plants and project needs and shall be followed as per the approved application and method.

Plant

Organic

Manure

Slow

Release

Organic

N.P.K +

T.E.

Nitrogeno

us (Urea /

Am.

Sulphate)

Chelated

Micro

Nutrient

Soil

Cond-

itioner

Timing

Once a

year

Once a

year

Twice a

year

As shown

per year

As shown per

year

Once

a year

Measurement

Kg

As

Shown

As

Shown

Grams

Grams

Kg

Palm

(per palm)

10

2.5 to 3

Kg.

1 to 2 Kg.

250-500

twice

100-200

twice

2

Trees

(per tree)

5

500

Grams

0.5-1 Kg.

100-250

once

100-200

once

1

Shrub

(per shrub)

2.5

200-250

Grams

200-250

Grams

100-150

twice

50-100

once

0.5

Ground cover

(per m2)

5

100-200

Grams

100-200

Grams

50 three

times

25-50

twice

0.25

Lawn areas

(per m2)

5

100-200

Grams

100-200

Grams

25-50 six

times

25-50

twice

0.25

C. Seasonal Flowers (During Growing Period)

Sl

Kind of

Fertilisers

Per Sq.

Metre.

Frequency

Remarks




November 2011

1

Granular fertiliser

N.P.K 12-24-12 +

MgO

50 Grams

Monthly

Spread around plants in planting

beds, mix well with planting medium,

irrigate to field capacity immediately

after application.

2

Micronutrient

fertiliser

0.3 Grams

Fortnightly

Soil application by fertigation or by

foliar spray (0.3 grams per litre of

water). Conduct foliar test spray in

small area to establish safety for

concentration before spraying large

areas.

2.8 Plant Protection Chemicals A. Plant protection chemicals are all pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, nematicides, miticides, tree

sealants etc. and shall only be applied as per Engineers approval. B. These plant protection chemicals whether in the form of solutions, Granules, emulsifiable

Concentrates, Pellets or Fumigants shall conform to all legal safety standards. C. The product shall be with a low mammalian toxicity and a high LD50 value and shall cause only a

minimal damage to the environment. The Contractor shall educate the persons involved in carrying out plant protection measures about all safety precautions for storage and handling of the product. It shall be useful and effective against the target pests.

D. Product label shall carry details of products ingredients, formulations, toxicity, and rates of application, pests controlled and appropriate means of safe handling. The Contractor shall be able to provide the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) of product as approved by the Engineer and only approved products shall be used.

E. The Contractor shall use only products tested and recommended by the state authorities and follow the manufacturers directions for rate and safety of application of the product.

F. The Contractor shall use the lowest recommended concentration whenever it is possible and apply only on diseased plants.

G. The Contractor shall not apply on a windy or cloudy (sign of rain) day. H. The Contractor shall not prepare excess amount of chemical and dispose balance quantity

elsewhere and shall not spray near pet cages, beehives, water pools etc. I. The Contractor shall spray chemicals during early morning or late evening especially during

summer to avoid plant injury.

2.9 Permeable Filter Membrane (Soil Separator)

A. The filter membrane shall be non-woven 70% polypropylene, weight 70 gms/m2, thickness 0.3mm with permeability to water of 80 L/m2 at 100mm water head.

B. The membrane shall be resistant to tearing and stress (tensile strength under uniform applied stress 5000 N/m), all naturally occurring soil acidities and shall remain unaffected by all direct sunlight for a period of up to 1 month.

C. The membrane shall be in a quality to prevent the capillary action of salt.

2.10 Planting Material (Plants) A. All planting material shall be of the size specified and obtained from an approved source. All plants

shall be supplied as specified and the Contractor is expected to obtain stock from outside the UAE if it is not available locally.

B. Plants to be obtained outside the UAE shall be identified at the time of bidding and accompanied by a draft program for importat of such plants, indicating supplier or source and delivery times required.

C. Plants shall be true to type and supplied under botanical names. Synonyms shall be checked with the Engineer for approval.

D. Imported plants shall be acclimatized for a period of six (6) weeks minimum prior to planting.




November 2011

E. All planting stock shall be well-balanced and well formed, sound, vigorous, healthy and free from disease, sun-scald, abrasion, harmful insects or insect eggs and with a healthy, unbroken root system filling their containers but not root-bound. Unless otherwise specified, only nursery grown plants will be used. All plants shall be container grown (balled plants) except as otherwise specifically stated in the Contact Documents.

F. Plants will only be given final approval based on their condition at site at the end of the maintenance period.

G. The Bid shall be based upon plants that are available. If plants are unobtainable, alternatives may be submitted with the bid, stating how they differ from the Specification. Such substitutions may not be acceptable and submission of further alternatives may be required. Approval shall be obtained from the Engineer prior to any substitution.

H. After the Bid period, no substitutions will be considered and specified plants will have to be procured by whatever means are necessary in order to meet the completion date set.

I. The nomenclature of plants shall conform to the scientific names given in L.H. Bailey Hortorium, Cornell University. 1976. Hortus Third, A concise dictionary of plants cultivated in the United States and Canada. Macmillan, NY. Alternative names (synonyms) shall be checked in this book. All plants shall agree with the botanical description in this reference.

2.11 Trees

A. All trees supplied for new works shall meet the following criteria: a. They shall have a clear straight stem, healthy look and good shape b. They shall have a well balanced crown with the terminal leader intact c. They shall possess at least four main branches d. All saw cuts are to be clean and free from any ripping or splitting and shall be trimmed smooth

after cutting e. All trees and palms are to be purchased and stored in suitable nursery conditions within 6

weeks of the start of the Contract f. All dimensions shown with tolerances (i.e. 120-150mm) refer to maximum and minimum

dimensions that will be accepted. Measurement of all plants of one species shall, as a minimum, average between the upper and lower figures (i.e. in the above case 135mm)

g. Trees are to be sprayed with an approved anti-desiccant 48 hours prior to transport B. Avenue and feature trees are nursery-grown standard form trees with clear, substantially straight

stems. The head shall be developed for its type and evenly balanced, with no main branches crossing the crown. The tree shall have a central leader or a branch head according to the species or cultivar. Unless otherwise specified in the Bill of Quantities, standard form trees shall be 10-15mm calliper when measured 200mm from ground level a minimum overall height of 1.5m at time of planting.

C. Boundary trees shall be feathered form with a defined, upright central leader and stem furnished with evenly spread and balance lateral shoots down to near ground level, according to its species. They shall have a minimum overall height of 1.5m at time of planting.

2.12 Palms A. All palms supplied for new works shall be balled and bur lapped unless container grown specimens

are available. Offshoots will not be acceptable. When palms grown in sandy soil are removed for planting, where retention of ball of earth or bur lapping around root ball is not possible due to its soil texture, extreme care shall be taken to minimize the root damage.

B. Excavation has to be made at sufficient distance away from trunk so that feeder roots are not cut or bruised. Care shall be taken to avoid any kind of root damage while transporting or off loading.

C. Palm leaves or fronds are to be Hessian wrapped from below the lower most frond base to upwards in such a manner that the growing point is securely protected. This has to be done before the palm is removed from its original growing place and shall be retained during transport and subsequent planting. Hessian wraps shall be removed only after ensuring the emergence of new leaves.

D. All palms shall have a vigorous root system, crown of new leaves, appropriate colour of leaves of an adult palm and sufficient hardiness.




November 2011

2.13 Shrubs and Ground Cover A. All shrubs supplied for new works are woody perennials of generally multi-stemmed and bushy

habit ranging from 3 to 4.5m in height down to 500mm height when mature. Shrubs shall meet the requirements for spread and height indicated in the drawing and/or specified in this Contract. Measurement of height for shrubs shall be taken from the ground level to the average height of the shrubs and not the longest branch or stem. Shrubs shall have at least three main stems, and shall be well balanced and bushy with strongly developed root system, free from pest and disease.

B. All herbaceous plants supplied for new works are non-woody perennials of clump forming habit. Such plants shall have well developed stems and a healthy root system, free from pest and disease. Clumps of herbaceous plants shall include rhizomes, corms, tubers or roots and soil undisturbed by lifting, with evidence of growing shoots emerging above soil level. All shrubs and herbaceous plants shall be cultivated in containers of appropriate dimensions corresponding to the size of the plants and the requirements of the species.

C. All Ground cover plants supplied for new works are low growing, 500mm or less, or prostrate shrubs or herbaceous plants whose habit is to totally cover the soil. All ground cover species shall be evenly balanced to allow equal growth in all directions. Plants shall have fully developed root system and leaves. Unless otherwise specified, rooted cuttings will not be accepted. All plants shall be container grown.

2.14 Lawn A. Sods shall be from inspected stock, certified free of weed, diseases, insects, in healthy condition

kept moist frequently, with a full cover over the whole sod of one grass species. The sods shall be procured from a qualified supplier and laid within 24 hours after removal from growing area and delivery to site.

B. Sods shall have been under similar climatic conditions to those in the locality of the project. C. Stolons shall be healthy living stems with attached roots of locally adapted grass without adhering

soil, including two to three nodes and from 100 to 150 mm long, obtained from heavy and dense sod. Provide sprigs that have been grown under climatic conditions similar to those in the locality of the project. Coordinate harvesting and planting operations to prevent exposure of sprigs to the sun for more than 30 minutes before covering. Sprigs containing weeds or other detrimental material or that are heat damaged will be rejected.

2.15 Related Items

2.15.1 Tree Stakes, ties and anchoring

A. All trees shall be double staked. Stakes shall be of timber, straight, free of projections and pointed at one end. The stakes shall be pressure impregnated with non-injurious approved wood preservative to be applied at least two weeks before use:

a. Tree Stakes: 2400 x 50 x 50mm b. Large Shrubs Stakes: 1800 x 50 x 50mm

B. When installed, the length of the stake shall be minimum one third below ground level unless otherwise approved by the Engineer.

C. The Contractor shall erect the stakes in a straight manner not leaning toward or away in any direction from the plants main stem.

D. Tree ties shall be high-density polyethylene (HDPE) chain-lock type. E. Ties fabricated from string, packing materials, fabric webbing or galvanised wire and guard hose

will not be accepted. The Contractor shall provide an on site sample erection of a tree stake and tie prior to approval.

F. Where guying and anchoring of large plant material is required, the Contractor shall submit a method statement for the Engineer s approval. Durable high strength rubber strapping is preferred over steel cable and turnbuckle arrangements.

G. Hessian bands shall be 750mm wide to lengths necessary for wrapping tree trunks and main branches.




November 2011

2.15.2 Temporary Planting Screens and Shades

A. Whenever planting is in an exposed position, liable to strong or excessively hot wind conditions, windbreaks shall be provided until such time as the planting is firmly established.

B. Screens shall be typically 1750mm tall using high density polyethylene monofilament shade net of approx. 75% density supported by tree stakes as described above.

C. The shade net configuration can be altered to suit the size of the planted specimen. Variations from the above typical sizing shall be approved by the Engineer.

D. For plant species requiring shade during establishment on site, temporary shade structures shall be erected and maintained by the Contractor to the Engineers satisfaction.

2.15.3 Anti-Desiccant

A. Anti-desiccant shall be an emulsion type, film-forming agent designed to permit transpiration but retard excessive loss of water form plants. Trees or shrubs shall be sprayed 48 hours prior to moving.

2.15.4 Drainage Gravel

A. Gravel for the drainage layer shall be imported fill, free of organic matter and as specified below:

Gradation requirements:

Sieve Size % Passing by Weight

26.5 mm 100

19.0 mm 85-100

13.2 mm 65-90

9.5 mm 50-73

4.75 mm 35-55

1.18 mm 15-40

0.300 mm 5-22

0.075 mm 2-8

2.15.5 Gravel Mulch & Natural Stone

A. Gravel shall be free from additional organic and waste material, of a consistent beige color unless otherwise specified.

B. Gravel shall be spread evenly over areas as indicated with final spreading finished with a rake. In areas of abutment with other landscape materials (e.g. lawn, planting,) the finish line of the gravel shall be a clean sharp edge or held with proprietary edging as indicated in the drawings and the BOQ.

2.15.6 Root Control Barrier

A. Root Control Barriers shall be used to protect adjacent structures from damage as shown on the drawings and as approved by the Engineer. The barrier shall be HDPE, minimum 600mm wide in continuous rolls and manufactured for purpose.

B. The Contractor shall not fully enclose or encircle the plants roots system but shall locate the barrier at the interface between the plant and the objects being protected.




November 2011

3 Execution

3.1 General

A. Prior to any operations the Contractor shall undertake site investigations to ensure full awareness of all the site conditions. The site conditions investigation shall include but not be limited to:

The site boundary and/or extent of works

Location of all planned and existing services on the site

The existing drainage conditions and infrastructure

Existing vegetation including that to be retained

Ground conditions such as existing subsurface rock, ground water level etc.

B. The Contractor shall coordinate tree pit excavation with hardscape and other installations and shall ensure that tree pits are not over-excavated before paving commences to avoid necessity of providing additional fill for paving base.

C. Measures required to stabilise paving around tree pits due to over-excavation shall be corrected at the expense of the Contractor.

D. All tree pits and excavation thereof needs to be submitted for approval. The Contractor shall ensure that trees are properly aligned and in straight rows where required, e.g. in roads. Such trees shall be matched specimens, having similar height and appearance The Contractor shall plant trees appropriately in centre of planting pits.

E. The Contractor shall erect temporary fencing to the boundaries of the site as required for the protection of the public and/or to the Contractors site infrastructure and storage areas or areas around existing plants to be retained.

F. Protect all existing vegetation to be retained with maximum care at all times during construction and possession of the site. The Contractor will be required to replace any damaged or destroyed vegetation to the full value of the said vegetation and at the discretion of the Engineer.

G. Where the drawings indicate storage or reuse of existing topsoil, carefully strip and stockpile to avoid unnecessary compaction, contamination or any damage to the topsoil. The Contractor shall not pile higher than 3m and cover in windblown areas to protect from drying out. Do not store longer than 12-months unless otherwise approved.

H. As per the demolition plans or as noted on the drawings, clear and remove from site all items not required to be retained, protected or preserved. Refer to the General Specification for Civil Works, Section 02100, Demolition and Site Clearing for further guidelines.

I. The Contractor shall protect benchmarks, survey stakes and other survey reference points, to be re=established at his own cost in case of accidentally displaced.

J. The Contractor shall coordinate with the Engineer to establish grades and levels and to check and confirm locations and levels of installations to be coordinated with this Work.

K. The Contractor shall survey, stake and accurately mark areas to receive subsoil fill, topsoil, topsoil mixtures and plants to conform to lines and levels indicated on drawings.

L. The Contractor shall remove swampy or soft areas down to subsoil or rock base suitable to receive and retain compacted subsoil.

M. The Contractor shall excavate and grade to depths where required to receive specified depths of topsoil and of topsoil mixture in planting beds.

N. The Contractor shall excavate as required to accommodate plant balls and topsoil mixture around ball for trees.

O. The Contractor shall allow for settlement of soils, subsurface conditions and uniform slopes for drainage.

P. Prior to placing gravel drainage layer the Contractor shall scarify subsoil where indicated, to a depth of 150mm.

Q. The Contractor shall provide 200 mm depth of crushed gravel and permeable filter membrane fabric in tree pits, and under lawn areas

R. The Contractor shall mix topsoil mixtures at the place of the work only, using specified materials. Do not mix topsoil mixtures during unsuitable weather. Premixed off-site topsoil will not be accepted




November 2011

S. No planting shall be carried out during periods of heavy rain, sandstorms, heavy winds, or during intense daytime heat. Plants and trees shall only be moved or planted in the cooler winter months between mid September and mid May. Palms and lawns can be installed in the more humid months late May to early September. When special conditions warrant a variance to the planting times above, a proposed planting schedule shall be submitted to the Engineer for review and approval. In such cases, the planting will be installed at no additional cost and all conditions and obligations such as maintenance and warranty remain the responsibility of the Contractor.

T. Planting of trees and shrubs shall be carried out prior to lawn planting. U. All planting shall be carried out only after the irrigation system is fully operational. V. Where possible, prior to planting, all plant materials shall be acclimatised on site for a minimum of

one week and protected against drying at all times. This is only possible if facilities are available on site to do so. Otherwise immediate planting is recommended. In such cases required acclimatisation shall have been fulfilled in the nursery to overcome any transplanting shock later. Under any circumstances, the Contractor shall provide facilities for on-site acclimatisation of all plants.

W. Palm trees shall be planted immediately upon arrival on site. If palms have to be held for longer than twelve hours before planting they shall be heeled-in in trenches which are kept moist at all times.

X. Plant material shall be lifted or moved in such a manner that the roots are not disturbed. Plant materials shall be lifted by handling the container and not the above ground portion of the plant. Root systems of all plants shall not be allowed to dry out at any time and shall not be exposed to excessive or artificial heat or to freezing temperatures. During transportation all plants shall be packed adequately to ensure protection for climatic or physical injuries. Tarpaulins or other covers shall be placed over plants when they are transported by open trucks or freight cars. Plants are not to be piled on top of one another. All plants shall be treated with anti-desiccant prior to transportation.

3.2 Palms

A. Prior to transporting to site, and immediately upon lifting all suckers, flowering and fruiting parts and approximately thirty percent of fronds shall be removed. The remaining fronds shall:

a. Be sprayed with approved anti-desiccant 48 hours prior to transplanting b. Lifted to enclose and protect the growing tip c. Wrapped in hessian and securely tied in position

B. The roots of non- container grown palms shall be pruned and the root ball shall be protected with tied hessian bands. Hessian bands shall be 750mm wide and to lengths necessary for the additional wrapping tree trunks and main fronds.

C. When planted in their final location, palms shall be set and maintained plumb to Engineers approval.

D. Imported palms shall have been acclimatized for at least six months before removal from the nursery and incorporation in the Works.

3.3 Planting Medium A. The Contractor shall mix the soil additives with agricultural soil at the rates and composition

specified. The planting medium shall be mixed mechanically by an approved method to create a homogeneous mixture. For individual pits of tree and shrub planting, planting medium shall be prepared in situ by mixing the specified quantity of each ingredient for each pit. A 1 kilogram sample of each batch shall be submitted to the Engineer for approval prior to spreading.

3.4 Planting Depths & Pits A. Unless otherwise specified, planting beds and pits are to be the following minimum dimensions:

Location Size / depth

Palm / Tree pits 2000 x 2000 x 2000 mm

Small Tree pits 1500 x 1500 x 1500 mm




November 2011

Large Shrub pits 1000 x 1000 x 1000 mm

Small Shrub pits 750 x 750 x 750 mm

Shrub beds 600 mm depth

Ground cover beds 300 mm depth

Lawn areas 300 mm depth

B. Paving may cover a small percentage of the planting pits area. The planting pit however is to be maintained at the minimum dimensions shown above.

C. The planting medium depth from top level of pit shall be 1.5 times or more than the total root ball depth and in no cases shall it be less than 1/3rd of the pit depth.

3.5 Percolation Tests

A. Percolation tests shall be carried out at a minimum rate of 1 test per 50 plants with respect to individual species or as directed by the Engineer at a higher frequency. The test shall be carried out using the following procedure: a. Fill the plant pit with irrigation water and mark the level reached. b. Monitor the rate of percolation over a period of one hour. If the water level drops by more than

20mm then the pit has passed the test. c. If the plant pit fails the test, bore holes shall be augured at the bottom of the pit to achieve

appropriate percolation to the approval of the Engineer.

3.6 Planting Sequence A. Planting shall be carried out only once the installation of irrigation system has been completed in all

respects, planting area have been prepared properly and the work has been approved by the Engineer. The Contractor shall proceed with complete planting operations as per the approved planting program and methods and as portions of the site become available, working within seasonal limitations for each type of landscape work required.

B. Prior to spreading of any planting medium, the sub-grade shall be filled or excavated to the appropriate levels. The sub-grade shall then be raked level and cleared of all debris and rock to reveal a smooth clean sub-base at levels required to accommodate the specified depths of planting medium and mulch.

C. Agricultural soil shall be installed to achieve tolerances specifi