Trees are the forgotten giants of our gardens because stature-wise they are often out of sight, and therefore out of mind. However, trees can cause significant problems compared to other plants, simply because of their bulk (especially if they fall over!). That’s why arboriculture – the science of how trees grow and respond to their environment – is so valuable. This course is ideal for gardeners, farmers, horticulturalists, arborists or those who simply love trees!
The Certificate of Arboriculture is an online program that will teach you the techniques and practices used to cultivate healthy trees as well as diagnose and treat tree disorders.
In this professional development course, you will learn about tree biology, arboricultural equipment, planting techniques, tolerant plant species, and how to establish a tree plantation.
You will also study how to prune and fell trees, diagnose and control tree problems including soil issues, strengthen weak trees and perform tree surgery safely.
On completion of this course, you will know how to care for and nurture a variety of tree types, which will give you the confidence to extend your tree-loving career or even plant your own tree plantation!
Course Structure
Arboriculture I
Unit 1 – Introduction to arboriculture
- Trees in the garden
- Choosing plants
- Varieties
- Planting trees
- Transplanting a tree
- Tree reports
Unit 2 – Tree physiology
- Tree growth
- Photosynthesis
- Respiration
- Transpiration
- Vernalisation
- What make foliage change colour in autumn?
- Tree physiology
- How a tree grows
- Compartmentalisation – How a tree rots
- Water and plant growth
- Factors affecting growth
- Tree terminology
Unit 3 – Soil in relation to trees
- Fertilising
- Compacted soils
- Tree health and drainage
- Treating soil over winter
- Changed soil levels around trees
- Measuring pH
- Measuring soil organic content
- Measuring water content
- Determining fertiliser solubility
- Testing affect of lime on soil
- Laboratory testing of soils
- Soil texture
- Measuring salinity
- Soil horizons
- Soil names and nutrition
- Fertilisers, etc
Unit 4 – Diagnosing tree problems
- Tree health disorders
- Frost protection
- Minimising frost and wind damage
- Mulch and frost
- Missletoe
- Diagnosing problem
- Conducting a tree inspection
Unit 5 – Tree surgery
- Tree surgery-do you need it
- Review of techniques
- Tree surgery safety
- Safety and the worker
- Public safety
- Safety regulations
- Cavity treatments
- Bracing
- Cabling
- Propping
- Bark wounds
- Tree climbing techniques
- Knots
- Anchoring points
Unit 6 – Pruning of trees
- Pruning objectives
- Removing branches
- Crown cleaning and thinning
- Crown reduction and
- Crown lifting and renewal
- Fruit tree pruning
- Felling a tree
- Terminology
Unit 7 – Arboriculture equipment
- Secateurs
- Hand saws
- Power tools
- Safety with electricity
- Engine and tool maintenance
- Chain saws
- Hedge trimmers
- Ladders, harnesses and ropes,
- Pole belt Spurs
Unit 8 – Workplace health and safety
- Duty of care
- Lifting & manual handling
- Protective equipment
- Handling tools and machinery
- Auditing tools and equipment
Study Hours
Estimated duration 50 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no entry requirements or pre-requisites for entry into this program.
How long will it take to complete this course?
The approximate study hours for this course is 50 hours. We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply).
Can I purchase optional printed materials?
While printed materials are not available for purchase, PDF copies are available for download and self-printing for this program.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
Will I receive a certificate upon completion of this course?
Yes! You will receive a Certificate of Attainment upon successful completion of your assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our e-learning system and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and Direct Deposit
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional Development for:
- Arborists
- Gardner’s
- Landscapers
- Tree Assessors
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