Reference

Glossary

Course-specific terms with definitions taken directly from lecture notes, presentations, and outlines. Where the source material doesn't define a term explicitly, an AI-written definition derived from the same source is shown in brackets.

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A

A Horizon (Surface Soil): The surface horizon of a soil profile, sitting below the O (organic) horizon and above the B (subsoil) horizon.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Abscisic Acid: Inhibits germination and growth.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Achene: An indehiscent dry fruit with a stiff and leathery pericarp (but not woody). Example: sunflower.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Acid (Chemistry): A compound that releases free hydrogen ion (H+) when released in water. Adding an acid to water will cause the pH to decrease.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Acid Rain: Atmospheric deposition of sulfur compounds that lowers soil pH.; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Acid Soils: Soils become acidic for one of four reasons: rainfall and leaching of base cations, organic matter decay producing organic acids, harvest of crops, or acidic parent material.; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Acidifying Materials: Materials used to lower soil pH. Sulfur is the cheapest and most commonly used — microorganisms convert sulfur into sulfuric acid (takes 6–8 weeks during summer). Other options: peat (1 m³ ≈ 300–650 g of sulfur in acidifying power), acidifying fertilizers (use only when adding nutrients — over-application causes salinity/toxicity), and iron sulfate (don't use regularly: iron reduces phosphorus availability).; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Actinomycetes (Actinobacteria): Gram-positive filamentous bacteria produced by spores — known by their earthy-musty taste and odour. Now often called Actinobacteria.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Active Acidity: Hydrogen ion (H+) activity in the soil solution that is exchangeable on the colloids (clay and organic matter). Has an immediate effect on soil pH.; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Active Organic Matter: Soil organisms continually change organic compounds from one form to another. They consume plant residue and other organic matter, and create by-products, wastes, and cell tissue. Bacteria use simple organic compounds (root exudates, fresh plant residue); fungi use more complex compounds (fibrous plant residues, wood).; Source: Organic Matter (Period 1)
Adhesion (Water): Water molecules' tendency to stick to a surface other than water — for example, sticking to the inside of xylem vessels. The more surface area available to adhere to, the higher water can climb.; Source: Water Relations (Period 1)
Administrative Controls (Safety): A category of hazard control: safe work practices, job procedures, policies, rules; work/rest schedules to reduce exposure; limiting hours of work; scheduling hazardous work when other-worker exposure is limited; and using wet methods instead of dry sanding or sweeping.; Source: Workplace Hazards & Safe Work Practices (Period 1)
Adventitious Roots: Roots that grow from a non-root plant part. In turf, the adventitious roots that come from rhizomes are insulated and protected, giving rhizomatous grasses a competitive advantage in the spring.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Aeration (Soil Process): The process by which soil air is constantly replaced by oxygen-rich air from the atmosphere.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Aeration (Turf): [A turf-management remediation used to alleviate soil compaction by mechanically opening pore space; often serves double duty as a thatch mitigation alongside rototilling.]; Source: Compaction and Thatch Management (Period 1)
Aerobic: Describes organisms that require oxygen for survival.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Aggregate Stability: How well soil aggregates resist breaking up. Unstable aggregates break up easily, are susceptible to compaction, and have weak structure. Stable aggregates do not break up easily and are said to have strong structure.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Aggregates: Clumps of soil particles formed when freezing/thawing or swelling/shrinking push particles together. Sand and silt particles cohere as clay particles coat them and hold them together. Aggregates form via flocculation and are porous, with voids (micropores) between the grains.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Alkaline Soils: Soils become alkaline if they are over-limed, irrigated with alkaline water, the parent material is calcium-rich, or CaCO₃ and MgCO₃ develop in arid conditions. They usually contain calcium and magnesium carbonates; above pH 8.4, usually sodium carbonates and bicarbonates. Carbonates must be dissolved if alkaline soil is to be made neutral.; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Allelopathy: [A chemical control mechanism in which one plant suppresses the growth of competing plants. Quackgrass is described in the turf notes as having alleopathic control as one reason it is so difficult to manage.]; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Alpine (Rocky Mountains Subregion): A subregion of Alberta's Rocky Mountains natural region. Characterized by bare areas, glaciers, and vegetated areas with dwarf shrubs, grasses, and flowering plants.; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Ammonium Nitrate (34-0-0): Synthetic nitrogen fertilizer that dissolves into ammonium (NH₄⁺) and nitrate (NO₃⁻) in water; helps maintain pH. Restricted in Canada in 2008 (not available in pure form for purchase) following massive explosions in Texas (1947, 2013) and Queensland. Coated to prevent caking.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Ammonium Toxicity: An issue particularly with indoor plants in winter (cool temp, low light). If it's too cold, wet, or compacted, ammonium builds up in the growing medium because bacteria are inactive and don't convert it to nitrate. Plants luxuriously consume the ammonium, which causes harm in the storage tissues — they cannot safely store ammonium the way they can store nitrates.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Intro (Period 1)
Anaerobic: Describes organisms that live and function without oxygen (O₂). Some bacteria are anaerobic.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Analysis (Fertilizer): The percent composition of a fertilizer — the percentage of actual mineral in the bag. All bags must have the analysis printed on them.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Angiosperms: Flowering plants — have flowers that develop into fruit, with the seed enclosed in the fruit. Divided into two main groups: monocots and dicots. Most of plant botany course content concerns angiosperms.; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Anion: A negatively charged ion.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Annual Bluegrass (Poa annua): An apple-green grass that stands out against KB/CRF/PR. Considered a weed in our climate and in most applications due to incompatible colour and circular growth habit. Sets seed at low mowing heights, can produce 60 seedlings per square inch, completes its life cycle in 7 weeks, does not enter summer dormancy. Prefers over-watered compacted ground. Poor winter hardiness and shallow roots. To discourage: reduce compaction, aerate before summer, longer/less frequent irrigation, reduce nitrogen, restrict phosphorus, increase mowing heights above 25 mm.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Apetalous: [A floral characteristic meaning 'without petals'. Listed in Salicaceae family characteristics — willows and poplars have apetalous, dioecious catkins.]; Source: Salicaceae (Willow Family) (Period 1)
Arboriculture: The practice and study of care of trees and other woody plants.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Aspect: The downslope direction of a hillside. Hillsides sloping to the south accumulate more heat than those sloping to the north.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Auricle: A grass identification feature — small ear-like projections at the base of the leaf blade. Listed alongside ligule, vernation, and sheath/blade characteristics as a key turfgrass ID marker.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Authority (botanical): The name of the person who first published that plant. Written after the specific epithet as a last name followed by a period.; Source: Plant Properties (Period 1)
Autotroph: An organism that uses CO₂ as its source of carbon to build body tissue.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Auxins: Compounds made by the plants that coordinate the growth of different parts of the plant. Auxins from the top suppress the growth lower down the trunk.; Source: Biology / Pruning Workshop, A. Tree Physiology

B

B Horizon (Subsoil): Main storage for nutrients and moisture in a soil profile.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Bacteria (Soil): Single-celled organisms shaped like rods, spheres, or spirals — less than 1 micron (millionth of a meter) in length. Because of their diversity, some form of bacteria adapts to nearly any soil condition.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Base (Chemistry): A compound capable of reacting with an acid to form a salt. Adding a base to water will cause the pH to rise.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Base Saturation: The extent to which the cation exchange sites are saturated with cations other than H+, expressed as a percentage. The proportion of bases to total cation exchange capacity (TEC) is termed base saturation: the greater the base saturation, the higher the pH (more alkaline). A pH of 7 does not necessarily imply 50% base saturation — the proportion of bases to hydrogen varies by kind of clay and adsorbed cations.; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Bee Turf: A low-maintenance polystand designed to support pollinators. Components: sweet alyssum (attracts predatory insects), clovers (nitrogen fixer, pollinator), fescues (low needs), yarrow (native pollinator plant), Roman chamomile (pollinator).; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Berry: A fleshy simple fruit that usually develops from a compound ovary and often contains more than one seed.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Biological Hazards (Workplace): Workplace hazards from living agents — viruses (COVID, West Nile, hantavirus), bacteria, mold (fungal or bacterial), parasites, and other living organisms (e.g. mouse or animal droppings). Exposure can produce respiratory or systemic illnesses.; Source: Workplace Hazards & Safe Work Practices (Period 1)
Biosolids: Treated waste materials regulated for soil application. In Canada they follow Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) Guidelines and CFIA Compost Regulation. In the US they must meet EPA Part 503 Grade A "exceptional quality."; Source: Organic Matter (Period 1)
Black Layer Disease: A turf-greens disease associated with anaerobic soil conditions, indicated by hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and a black layer in the soil profile. Risk increases with topdressing layering — watch for it when topdressing after core aeration; make sure new material is well worked in.; Source: Aeration & Topdressing (Period 1)
Blade (Grass): The upper, flat portion of a grass leaf. Identified by characteristics including width (wide/narrow), colour, and finish (glossy/dull).; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Blocky Soil Structure: A naturally formed B-horizon structure that provides good conditions for air and water to move into the subsoil.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Blue Seal / Gold Seal Certifications: [Two industry certifications mentioned alongside other specializations available to horticulturists. Blue Seal is identified as a business credential; Gold Seal as a project-management credential.]; Source: Associations (Period 1)
Boreal Forest (Natural Region): The largest natural region in Alberta — 58% of the province. Subregions: Dry Mixedwood, Central Mixedwood, Lower Boreal, Upper Boreal, Peace–Athabasca Delta, Northern Mixedwood, Boreal Subarctic. Expanses of white spruce, balsam fir, aspen, balsam poplar, jack pine, and lodgepole pine forests; extensive wetlands with black spruce and larch. Includes peatlands and supports lynx, snowshoe hare, and is a bird nursery.; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Breaking Strength: The minimum load required to break a rigging component. Used to calculate the Safe Working Load (SWL).; Source: Climbing, Lifting, Rigging & Hoisting (Period 1)
Broadcast Spreader: A seeding tool that broadcasts material in a fan-shaped pattern. Can be used at any scale — by hand from a bucket or crank style, push style, or as a machinery attachment.; Source: Site Prep & Seeding (Period 1)
Buffering Capacity (Soil): The ability of a soil to resist a change in pH. Ensures stability in soil pH and prevents drastic fluctuations. It takes less material to change the pH in a sandy soil.; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Bulk Density: Oven dry weight (g) divided by volume (cm³). As the ratio of weight to volume increases, bulk density increases. Highly compacted soil is better suited as a road base than for planting landscape plants.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)

C

C Horizon (Substratum): The carbonate layer / parent material in a soil profile, sitting below the B horizon and above bedrock.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
C:N Ratio (Carbon:Nitrogen): Ratio of carbon to nitrogen in organic material. Typical values: plant tissue and farm manure 20:1, straw 100:1, sawdust 400:1, soil organisms 4:1–9:1. Material decomposes faster when nitrogen is available to decomposing microorganisms. Compost added to soil should have C:N ≈ 33:1 to ensure nitrogen for plant roots as it decomposes further; high C:N causes nitrogen drawdown.; Source: Organic Matter (Period 1)
Calcareous Material: Soils with calcium carbonates. They will effervesce (fizz) when a few drops of 10% HCl are added.; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Calcium (Plant Element): An immobile secondary macronutrient transported in the xylem (water stream). A structural nutrient found in cell walls — no new cells without it. Influences growth of the apical meristem and prevents leaching of salts. Deficiency: terminal bud and root tip failure, weak stems, leaf spotting, new growth curling, poor fruit development (blossom-end rot, spotting, bitter pit). Excess can raise pH; high pH does not mean calcium is available; excess ammonium can inhibit uptake.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Intro (Period 1)
Cambium: The primary meristem producing radial growth. A thin layer of cells that produces xylem to the interior and phloem to the exterior of the trunk.; Source: Biology / Pruning Workshop, Tree Biology (Jones, Illinois Arborist Assoc.)
Canadian Shield (Natural Region): An Alberta natural region with one subregion: the Kazan Upland. Granite rock outcrops (cliffs) and pockets (crevices); numerous lakes and wetlands; open forest with jack pine on uplands and black spruce in wet areas. Understory of bearberry, common blueberry, bog cranberry, labrador tea, mosses, lichens, ferns. Fauna: chickadee, moose, beaver, gray wolf, lynx.; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Cankers: Dead wood and bark — sunken, discoloured appearance with oozing sap.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Caprifoliaceae: The Honeysuckle Family. Various species of flowering shrubs or vines, most native to North America. Leaves opposite; bark thin and flaky; flowers regular (bilateral symmetry) with 4–5 fused sepals and 4–5 fused petals forming a funnel; ovary inferior. Includes Symphoricarpos species (snowberry, buckbrush).; Source: Caprifoliaceae / Cornaceae / Cupressaceae (Period 1)
Carbohydrates: A class of energy compounds found in living organisms — carbon chains together with hydrogen (H+) and oxygen (O). Examples: sugar, starch. A component of active organic matter.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Caryopsis (Grain): An indehiscent dry fruit in which the seed coat and pericarp are fused together. Example: wheat kernel.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Cation: A positively charged ion.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Cation Exchange: The reciprocal movement of cations between soil solution and negatively charged adsorption sites on colloid surfaces.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC): The reservoir for plant-available nutrient storage in a soil. Organic matter contributes to CEC and enhances soil structure needed for gaseous diffusion, water movement & storage, and root penetration. Project soils are usually low in organic matter, so supplementation is often necessary.; Source: Organic Matter (Period 1)
Catkins: Pendulous, often spike-like flower clusters. In Salicaceae (willows and poplars), the catkins are apetalous and dioecious. Poplar flowers are dioecious catkins, with stamens often coloured.; Source: Salicaceae (Willow Family) (Period 1)
Cementation: When a component makes soil aggregates more stable. Stabilization comes from agents such as bacteria and fungi released from organic matter breaking down — the organic matter "glues and gums" to make aggregates more stable.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Chemical Hazards (Horticulture): Workplace hazards from chemical products commonly used in horticulture — pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers. Direct contact with skin or eyes can cause irritation, skin sensitization, dermatitis, and chemical burns.; Source: Workplace Hazards & Safe Work Practices (Period 1)
Chernozems: Alberta grassland soils with a thick, dark-coloured surface horizon — developed under prairie vegetation on sedimentary bedrock scoured into glacial till, lacustrine, and fluvial deposits.; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Chinooks: [Warm, dry föhn winds that blow down the eastern slopes of Alberta's Rocky Mountains. Noted as a climate factor in the Foothills Parkland (warming influence) and in the Foothills natural region.]; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Chlorosis: Yellowing of plant tissue (especially leaves) due to nutrient deficiency. Iron deficiency, for example, produces chlorosis on bluegrass in irregular patterns; interveinal chlorosis (between the leaf veins) is a classic sign of iron deficiency.; Source: Troubleshooting (Period 1)
Chroma: The relative purity, strength, or saturation of a colour (used in soil colour assessment).; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Clone: A group of plants originating from a single individual and therefore genetically identical.; Source: Plant Properties (Period 1)
Clover (Low-Maintenance Legume): A low-maintenance legume used in bee-turf and erosion blends. Provides low-level nitrogen fixation, has long-lived seeds, sweet flowers, and is a bee turf plant.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
CNLA (Canadian Nursery and Landscape Association): Provides training and qualifications, advocates federally on behalf of the landscape and horticulture industry, supports horticulture research (plant health, water conservation, green roofs, nutrient management), and provides networking for professionals, customers, and suppliers.; Source: Associations (Period 1)
Co-Dominant Stems: Two stems of close to equal diameter both trying to be the dominant stem. The union between them will have included bark.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
CODIT: Compartmentalization of Decay in Trees — the tree's defence system. Trees do not heal, they seal: CODIT uses four walls to contain decay. Wall 1 blocks the xylem above and below the wound; Wall 2 closes off latewood cells inward; Wall 3 blocks decay laterally using ray cells; Wall 4, formed by the cambium after wounding, is the strongest and blocks decay from spreading into new wood.; Source: A. Tree Physiology, Compartmentalization of Decay in Trees (Fraedrich)
Cohesion (Water): Water molecules' tendency to stick together. Water molecules at the surface have a stronger bond (fewer neighbours to cohere with), creating a 'stronger hold' on the surface — known as surface tension.; Source: Water Relations (Period 1)
Cohesion-Tension Theory: The mechanism by which water rises through xylem vessels: cohesion (water molecules stick to each other) combined with adhesion (water sticks to the xylem walls) and tension generated by transpiration pulls water columns upward from roots to leaves.; Source: Water Relations (Period 1)
Collenchyma: Storage/support plant tissue that is both flexible and provides structural support. Found just under the epidermis. Cell walls are thicker than parenchyma but still resilient and flexible.; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Columnar Soil Structure (Solonetzic): A B-horizon structure influenced by sodium that provides poor infiltration, percolation, and root penetration.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Common Name (plant): The everyday English name for a plant. Often varies from region to region.; Source: Plant Properties (Period 1)
Compaction: Compacted soils restrict water, air, and nutrients available to the plant.; Source: B. Tree Establishment and Independence
Components of Soil: Water 25%, Air 25%, Organic Matter 5%, Mineral 45%. The mineral fraction dictates soil chemistry and influences soil pH, salinity, fertility, and structure.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Compost Maturity: A criterion that measures the acceptability of compost for planting and growth — assessed via seed germination tests, pot tests, and root elongation tests. These tests detect the presence of volatile fatty acids, alcohols, soluble salts, heavy metals, or ammonia (the first two produced under anaerobic conditions).; Source: Organic Matter (Period 1)
Compost Stability: The stage of compost decomposition. CO₂, heat, and water vapour are produced during decomposition; a stable residue results when little further decomposition occurs. Measured via the self-heating test (heat evolution from a moist sample) or by measuring CO₂ evolution from a sample.; Source: Organic Matter (Period 1)
Core Aeration (Hollow Tine): A turf-management practice that removes soil cores, leaving holes in the turf. Benefits: same as solid tine plus stimulated root growth within the holes, increased shoot growth, more rental machine availability. Disadvantages: surface disruption, longer recovery, increased weed development (e.g. Poa annua). Coring equipment is either piston (linking vertical and forward motion — expensive, usually sports turf) or drum rollers (tines on a rotating shaft, quicker but can tear grass). Core handling options: leave cores (cheap but adds to thatch — best in fall), core dispersal (break up cores so cavities are filled), or core removal + topdressing (allows soil amendments). Only ~3% surface disruption — texture amendment takes multiple treatments.; Source: Aeration & Topdressing (Period 1)
Cornaceae: The Dogwood Family. Mostly trees and shrubs (one herbaceous). Leaves simple, opposite, with entire margins; veins follow the leaf margins.; Source: Caprifoliaceae / Cornaceae / Cupressaceae (Period 1)
Creeping Bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera): A turfgrass species used on sports turf (greens, tees, fairways, tennis courts, lawn bowling) as a monostand. Germination 10–14 days. Excellent low-temperature and ice-damage tolerance, most tolerant of continuous close mowing, fine textured. Vigorous stolon growth with roots at nodes for good recuperative capacity. Cons: extremely high cultural intensity, high disease susceptibility, prone to herbicide injury (especially 2,4-D — use mecoprop only), tendency to thatch. Mowing 4–20 mm, frequent irrigation, N 0.25–0.75 per 100 m²/month, topdressing for thatch, verticutting to control grain.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Creeping Red Fescue (Festuca rubra ssp. rubra): A turfgrass species. Germination 7–14 days. Outstanding for drier, shaded locations and grows well in full sun. Slower leaf growth, fine-textured, high shoot density. Weak rhizomes and slow growth reduce recuperative capacity; thatch decomposes slowly due to high lignin in leaf sheath; does not tolerate wet, poorly drained soils. Often mixed with Poa pratensis (KB). Mowing 20–50 mm (shorter than KB). N 0.1–0.25 kg per m²/month. Seeding rate 1.6–2.0 kg/100 m².; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Crested Wheatgrass (Agropyron): An invasive agricultural / ditch grass used as pasture grass and for erosion control. Do not use next to natural areas without checking first.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Cross Directional Seeding: [A seeding application technique in which seed is applied in two perpendicular passes to even out coverage. Listed alongside walking at a consistent speed and keeping eye-on-the-horizon as a determinant of seeding quality.]; Source: Site Prep & Seeding (Period 1)
Cultivar: A plant clearly distinguished by specific characteristics, produced in cultivation by selective breeding. Generally propagated asexually or by seed through repetitive crossing. Written with single 'quotation' marks (or 'cv.' in the name), not underlined. The first letter of each word in the cultivar name is capitalized.; Source: Plant Properties (Period 1)
Cultural Intensity (Turf): The amount of work required to grow a particular grass — varies by function of the turf stand and by whether the stand is a monostand or polystand.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Cupressaceae: The Cypress Family. All are trees or shrubs, erect or prostrate. Some species are important for timber and many are used as ornamentals. Genera include Juniperus, Thuja, and Cupressa. Leaves needle-like, awl- or awn-shaped, closely adpressed to the branch. Flowers monoecious or dioecious; cones ovulate and usually woody (but Juniperus cones have fleshy scales).; Source: Caprifoliaceae / Cornaceae / Cupressaceae (Period 1)
Cut and Fill: Dumping and spreading soil to raise it to a higher grade. Part of grading work; tends to mix several soil layers, which may 'average out' the textures and destroy soil structure.; Source: Soil Structure (Period 1)
Cuticle (Plant): Layer formed when cutin coats the outer surface of the epidermis. Helps limit water loss. Desert plants would have a thick cuticle; roots would have a very thin cuticle.; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Cytokinins: Promote cell division.; Source: A. Tree Physiology

D

De-Icing Salts: Salts applied to surfaces in winter that contribute to soil salinity. Once temperatures warm up in spring, plants try to absorb water but uptake is limited by the salt concentration left behind in the soil.; Source: Soil Salts (Period 1)
Debris Rake: A mechanical raking option that freshens the lawn — distinct from a power rake (thatch control) or slicing (light aeration). Used to break up dead leaves and debris from winter.; Source: Aeration & Topdressing (Period 1)
Decompaction (Turf Prep): A site preparation step for turf installation. Avoidance is best; otherwise use one-time tillage or soil conditioners such as 'rockhounds' or other mechanized rakes.; Source: Site Prep & Seeding (Period 1)
Deep Tine Aeration: Solid-tine aeration to greater depths. Advantages: breaks through soil profiles, disrupts layering, amends soil profiles deeper, gas exchange throughout the soil profile, water penetration and increased sub-surface drainage, increased rooting depth. Disadvantages: disruption to play, must topdress afterwards, requires healthy turf to perform.; Source: Aeration & Topdressing (Period 1)
Deflocculation: The separation of soil aggregates caused by sodium (Na+) pushing particles apart, destroying soil structure.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Deglaciation: Down-melting of glaciers.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Dehiscent Dry Fruits: Dry fruits whose mesocarp is totally dry when mature, and which split apart at maturity to release seeds.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Dicots: One of the two main groups of angiosperms. Include herbaceous plants as well as woody species.; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Diffuse Porous: A wood structure in which xylem vessels are more evenly distributed, giving moderate conductivity year-round. Examples: Acer, Betula, Tilia, Populus, Salix, Cornus, Aesculus.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Diffusion: Movement of molecules from a region of higher concentration to a region of lower concentration. Molecules move along a diffusion gradient until equilibrium is reached.; Source: Water Relations (Period 1)
Dioecious: [Having separate male and female plants. Salicaceae catkins are described as apetalous and dioecious, and Populus balsamifera (Balsam Poplar) flowers are 'pendulous catkins, dioecious' — meaning each tree produces only male or only female flowers.]; Source: Salicaceae (Willow Family) (Period 1)
Discharge Zone: An area where groundwater moves to the soil surface, bringing soluble salts with it. Usually found along hillsides or hill bottoms.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Dispersion (Soil): The breaking up of soil aggregates into individual sand, silt, and clay particles.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Divalent Cations: Linking cations that hook onto the negative charges of clay and link together soil aggregates (Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺).; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Dolomitic Limestone: Ground limestone containing calcium and magnesium carbonates — used to raise soil pH when there is also a magnesium deficiency.; Source: Adjusting Soil pH (Period 1)
Dormant Seeding: Seeding done before the dormant season that may give a jumpstart for the following spring's establishment.; Source: Site Prep & Seeding (Period 1)
Drainage: The loss of water from a soil due to gravity. May refer to movement of water over the soil surface or downward through the soil profile.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Drop Spreader: A seeding tool that drops the seed straight down. Can be used at any scale — hand-operated or as a machinery attachment.; Source: Site Prep & Seeding (Period 1)
Drupe: A fleshy fruit with all three pericarp layers; the endocarp is a 'stone' that encloses a single seed (stone fruits).; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Dry Fruits: Fruits with the mesocarp totally dry when mature. Classified into two groups: indehiscent (do not split open) and dehiscent (split open at maturity).; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Dynamic Equilibrium: A natural chemical process that establishes a steady relationship between the amounts of a given cation on adsorption sites and the amounts of mobile cations in soil solution.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)

E

Elaeagnaceae: The Oleaster Family. Small trees and shrubs, often thorny. Leaves simple, covered with either silvery brown or golden hairs. Flowers have no petals — 2 to 8 fused sepals make a tube. Fruit: achene or drupe. Includes Elaeagnus commutata (Wolf Willow / Silverberry) and Elaeagnus angustifolia (Russian Olive); both are nitrogen fixers.; Source: Elaeagnaceae / Pinaceae (Period 1)
Electrical Conductivity (EC): How soil salts are measured. EC measures the soil's capacity to conduct an electrical current — expressed in deciSiemens/meter (dS/m) or milliSiemens/cm (mS/cm). A direct function of salt content.; Source: Soil Salts (Period 1)
Eluviation: The transportation of fine soil material in suspension or in solution within the soil by the downward or lateral movement of water.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Emergency Response Plan: OHS-required plan developed by the employer that may require rescue or evacuation. Site-specific and used as a tool in hazard assessment. Once informed of the plan, workers are responsible for keeping it current and reporting worksite changes that may require updates. Should be reviewed regularly.; Source: Workplace Hazards & Safe Work Practices (Period 1)
Endocarp: The inner boundary around the seed in a fruit's pericarp. Can be hard and stony (e.g. peach pit) or papery (e.g. apples).; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Endophyte (Turf): A beneficial organism that lives within a grass plant. Endophyte-enhanced seed is available for perennial ryegrass and improves drought resistance and insect tolerance (especially against surface-feeding insects).; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Engineering Controls (Safety): A category of hazard control: Elimination, Substitution, Redesign, Isolation, and Automation.; Source: Workplace Hazards & Safe Work Practices (Period 1)
Eolian Deposits: Soil parent material where the wind has resorted material — like sand dunes (fine sand, silts, clays).; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Epidermis: A surface plant tissue, usually only one cell thick, that protects the plant from the outside environment. Cutin coats the outer surface to form a 'cuticle' which helps limit water loss.; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Ergonomic Hazards: Workplace hazards from improperly designed job and tool procedures — produce back injuries, repetitive strain injuries, strained muscles, and fatigue.; Source: Workplace Hazards & Safe Work Practices (Period 1)
Erosion: The wearing away of the land surface by running water, wind, ice, or other geological agents.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Essential Nutrient: A chemical element necessary for the normal growth and reproduction of plants.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Ethylene: A plant hormone that causes fruit ripening and leaf drop (senescence). (Note: the abbreviation EPDM in water-feature material refers to a separate compound — Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer pond liner.); Source: A. Tree Physiology, A2. Water Feature Materials
Evapotranspiration: A combination of water evaporating from the soil and transpiring out from the leaves — the way water leaves the soil-plant system.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Exchange Complex: The zone surrounding soil colloids where adsorption and exchange of nutrients into soil solution occurs.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Exocarp: The skin (outer layer) of a fruit's pericarp.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)

F

Factors Affecting Nutrient Uptake: Four key factors: 1) Health and vigor of the root system — must be actively growing for uptake to occur. 2) Soil moisture and air content. 3) Soil pH — alkaline soils lead to decreased uptake of Mn, Fe, Zn, B, Cu, P; ideal pH is 6.5–7.5. 4) Soil and air temperatures.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Fall Protection Plan: A workplace safety plan that an employer must put in place if a worker is not protected by guard rails and could fall 3 or more meters. Required by OHS for working aloft. Specifies the PPE used, ensures it suits the work environment, and ensures equipment will not be damaged by sharp edges, corrosive materials, or abrasive surfaces.; Source: Climbing, Lifting, Rigging & Hoisting (Period 1)
Family (botanical): A level in the plant taxonomic hierarchy, named with the suffix '-aceae'. Families group plants by structure, chemical composition, physiology, ecology, genetics, evolution, and geographical distribution.; Source: Plant Properties (Period 1)
Fertilization (Plant): The event that occurs after pollination — necessary for the development of the fruit and seed. Flowering plants undergo double fertilization.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Fertilizer Burn: Most fertilizers are salts; salts cause desiccation. Through roots: wilting and death. Through cells: dead leaves. Fertilizers provide necessary nutrients but can also be toxic in the wrong proportions.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Fertilizer Fillers: Materials that make up the non-active volume of a fertilizer bag. Include salts, sand, ground corn cob, and other inert materials.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Fertilizer Formulation: What a fertilizer is made of. Key factors are release timing and release mechanism. Two broad categories: synthetic fertilizers (man-made salts — soluble crystal, prill, granule, including coated variants) and organic fertilizers (carbon formations).; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Field Capacity: The capacity of soil to hold water. When at field capacity, water is classified as available water.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Fine Texture: The texture of soil containing large quantities of silt and clay — includes all the textural classes of clay loams (moderately fine) and clays.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Flaccid Cell: [A plant cell that has lost internal water pressure (turgor) — the opposite of a turgid cell. Loss of cell turgor is the mechanism by which guard cells close stomata when soil water is unavailable.]; Source: Water Relations (Period 1)
Fleshy Fruits: Fruits whose mesocarp is at least partly fleshy. Simple fleshy fruits develop from a flower with a single pistil. Types include berry, pome, drupe, pepo, and hesperidium.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Flocculation: Formation of soil aggregates ("like a flock of birds") — particles of various sizes come together as soil wets and dries, during freezing and thawing, with help from cations in the soil (such as calcium), or from the action of roots and animals.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Fluvial Deposits: Soil parent material laid down where rivers once flowed — sand and gravel deposited by flowing water. Fast streams deposit gravel first, then sands as stream speed lessens.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Foliar Fertilizers: Fertilizers absorbed via osmosis through stomatal openings on leaves. Provide a rapid response (hours). Mainly nitrogen — not all types can be taken in through stomata due to particle size. Susceptible to leaching and mixing error. Expensive (15–40% more). Applied at 1/10 the rates of normal root applications to avoid salt burning.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Foothills (Natural Region): An Alberta natural region — about 10% of the province. Lower and Upper Foothills subregions. Forested hills (lodgepole pine and white spruce in upper; aspen and other deciduous trees and shrubs in lower), rolling grasslands, and broad river valleys. Climate: moist and cool, short wet summers, cold frosty winters, Chinooks, strong winds, 350–450 mm precipitation. Fauna: red squirrel, flying squirrel, cougar, elk, pileated woodpecker.; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Foxtail Barley: A weed grass — animals cannot eat it. Bunch-type growth, spreads via seeds.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Free Lime: Ca or Mg carbonates present in a soil horizon that effervesce (bubble) when dilute HCl is added.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Fresh Residue (Soil): Dead roots, leaves, other plant parts, and bodies of animals (macro and micro) added to the soil — the starting point in the cycle of soil organic matter transformation.; Source: Organic Matter (Period 1)
Fruit: An ovary and its accessory parts that have developed and matured. All fruits develop from flower ovaries, so fruits are found exclusively in angiosperms. Fruits most often contain seeds; sometimes other flower parts are included. Functions: protects the seed, assists in spread of the seed, and may assist in timing of germination. Botanically, many 'vegetables' that contain a plant's seeds are fruits.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Full Body Harness: Fall protection PPE that the employer must inspect, approve to appropriate standards, and re-certify per manufacturer. Must be taken out of service if defective (frayed, burn marks), if it contacts excessive heat or substances (paint, grease), or if it has stopped a fall — and cannot be returned to service until certified safe by a professional engineer or manufacturer's rep. Once removed it must be destroyed or returned to the manufacturer.; Source: Climbing, Lifting, Rigging & Hoisting (Period 1)
Fungi: A huge group of single- or multi-celled organisms associated with decomposition of organic matter in the soil. Mold, mildew, smut, and mushrooms are examples.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)

G

Genus: A taxonomic level grouping plants that are closely related, containing more than one species. The first letter is capitalized, and the genus is underlined (handwritten) or italicized (typed).; Source: Plant Properties (Period 1)
Gibberellins: Plant hormone responsible for germination and growth.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Girdling Roots: Roots that wrap around the tree trunk and inhibit its growth, causing a weak point at ground level.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Glacial Till: A soil parent material consisting of an unsorted mixture of clay, silt, sand, sharp gravel, stones, and boulders deposited by glaciers.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Glaciation: Huge masses of ice moved by their own weight. The ice grinds the rock below it and redistributes it across the continent.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Glacier: A large mass of ice formed on land by the compaction and recrystallization of snow, which remains from year to year. A glacier moves downslope or outward from its center due to the stress of its own weight.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Gleying: A soil-forming process that occurs under poor drainage conditions. Identified by the presence of gray soil colour, and sometimes by bright red or yellow splotches.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Gleysols: Nutrient-poor Alberta soils that form in wetlands where decomposition is hindered by flooding.; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Granular Soil Structure: Rounded soil aggregates less than 1 cm. Allows good water movement and airflow, and resists soil erosion. Found in the topsoil of grassland soils.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Grassland Vegetation Adaptations: Grasses are adapted to survive cold winters and summer moisture deficit: deep roots, growing points close to ground surface, narrow leaves, small wind-pollinated flowers, tough stems and leaves. Lichens, mosses, and broad-leafed plants — mostly perennials (better competitors) — show deep taproots or storage roots and leaf adaptations such as hairs, thick epidermis, narrow or compound leaves to reduce surface area, and toxic substances.; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Grasslands (Natural Region): An Alberta natural region occupying approximately 14% of the province. From French 'prairie' meaning meadow. Four subregions: Northern Fescue, Foothills Fescue, Dry Mixed Grassland, Mixed Grassland. Flat to gently rolling plains, few major hill systems. Low precipitation (semi-arid), hot summers, freezing-cold winters — warmest and driest region in Alberta with the longest growing season. Mostly grasses, small trees and shrubs, perennials and annuals. Grasslands are among the most productive and diverse of earth's ecosystems.; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Gravitational Water: Water that is pulled down from the macropore space into the micropore space. The macropores it vacates are then filled with air.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Ground Limestone (CaCO₃): The primary material used to raise pH in humid-region soils. The required amount can be calculated by a lab based on the known pH, soil texture, and organic matter content.; Source: Adjusting Soil pH (Period 1)
Guard Cells: Cells that flank the stomata and regulate their opening and closing. Guard cells photosynthesize. Potassium controls opening and closing — more potassium lowers water potential, water flows in to equalize, and the guard cell opens. To close, potassium leaves and water follows. When soil water is unavailable, guard cells decrease their turgor; the hormone ABA (abscisic acid) changes the water potential in the stomata to close them.; Source: Water Relations (Period 1)
Gymnosperms: Conifers — including spruce and pine. Do not have flowers; instead they have cones that bear 'naked seed' (not enclosed in fruit).; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Gypsum: Calcium sulfate — used as a soil amendment to lower soil pH (alongside elemental sulfur, ferrous sulfate, ammonium sulphate, and acidic organic matter such as sewage sludge).; Source: Adjusting Soil pH (Period 1)

H

Hand Texturing: A method of estimating the textural class of a soil by feel. Tests include the dry consistence test, the moist cast test, and the ribbon test.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Hardiness Zone: [A regional rating that indicates which plants can survive the typical winter low temperatures of a given area. Listed in plant-properties source material as a core environmental condition alongside light requirements and soil.]; Source: Plant Properties (Period 1)
Hazard Assessment (Worksite): Required by OHS — the employer must conduct a worksite hazard assessment to identify any hazards when manual material handling is required, including hazards related to lifting and handling loads. Should consider the weight, size, shape of the load, the number of times it will be moved, and the technique used.; Source: Climbing, Lifting, Rigging & Hoisting (Period 1)
Health and Safety Committee: A communication link between workers and management. Helps promote awareness and interest in health and safety on the work site. Meets regularly (monthly) to identify and help solve health and safety concerns.; Source: Workplace Hazards & Safe Work Practices (Period 1)
Heartwood: Dead xylem that does not conduct water.; Source: Tree Biology (Jones, Illinois Arborist Assoc.)
Hesperidium: A fleshy fruit easily recognized by a leathery rind with oil glands. The carpels can be removed into segments. Found in the citrus group.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Heterotroph: An organism that obtains its carbon from organic sources. Important in the decomposition of organic matter.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Horizons / Soil Profile: Layers and composition of soil: O (organic topsoil) — less dense, more decaying organic matter; A (surface); B (subsoil) — main storage for nutrients and moisture; C (substratum) — carbonate layer / parent material; R (bedrock) — more dense.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Hue (Soil Colour): The tint of colour in terms of red, yellow, blue, etc., determined by the wavelength of light.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Humus: The stable form of soil organic matter. Not readily decomposed; physically protected within aggregates as a binding agent; chemically too complex to be used by microorganisms. Soil Organic Matter = Humus + Active Organic Matter. Humic acid has the empirical formula C₁₈₇H₁₈₆O₈₉N₉S₁.; Source: Organic Matter (Period 1)
Hybrid (plant): A plant produced by sexual crossing of two parent species (usually from the same genus). Written like a species name but with an 'X' between the genus and specific epithet.; Source: Plant Properties (Period 1)
Hydrolysis: The process by which a substance such as a salt is split by a water molecule to form two end products. e.g. NaCl = NaOH + HCl.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Hydroseeding: Spraying a seed slurry uniformly over an area. Essential ingredients: seed and water. Often mulch (wood fibre), fertilizer (high phosphorus for rooting), and a tackifier are added. Preferred on large, low-maintenance, or utility sites — additives increase seedling survival and reduce erosion, with a logistics advantage on slopes. Quick, covers large areas, allows access to inaccessible terrain; but expensive, specialized, and poor quality control if the slurry isn't right.; Source: Site Prep & Seeding (Period 1)
Hydroxyl Ion (OH⁻): The negatively charged OH⁻ ion consisting of one atom of hydrogen and one atom of oxygen.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Hygroscopic Water: Water that is adhered to soil particles but not available to plants.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)

I

IBDU (Isobutylidene Diurea): A slow-release urea fertilizer. Speed of release is determined by particle size; controlled by chemical reaction (pH) and water. Not affected by temperature.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Immobilization (Soil): The removal of plant-available nutrients from the soil by soil microbes. Mineral compounds (those that do not involve carbon chains) are immobilized as the microbes use them to construct the organic tissues needed for their growth.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Indehiscent Dry Fruits: Dry fruits that do not split apart at maturity. Types include achene, grain (caryopsis), nut, schizocarp, and samara.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Infiltration: The entry of water into the soil by gravity.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Inorganic Compound: Material composed of matter other than plant or animal origin (mineral) — a chemical compound which does not usually contain carbon.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Insoluble Salts: [Salts that do not dissolve readily in water (relative to gypsum, CaSO₄). In contrast to soluble salts, they have less immediate effect on soil quality and plant growth.]; Source: Soil Salts (Period 1)
Interveinal Chlorosis: Chlorosis (yellowing) of leaf tissue between the veins while the veins themselves remain green — a classic visual sign of iron deficiency in plants.; Source: Troubleshooting (Period 1)
Ion: An atom or group of atoms that carries either a positive or negative electrical charge.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Ion Adsorption: The ability of soil colloids to hold ions near their surfaces, temporarily restricting their movement through the soil.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
ISA (International Society of Arboriculture): International organization with chapters around the world that promotes arboriculture and controls the process of becoming a certified arborist. Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba are part of the Prairie Chapter.; Source: A. Tree Physiology

K

Kentucky Bluegrass (Poa pratensis): A turfgrass species. Germination 21 days. High-quality, fine to medium textured turf under medium-to-high management. Excellent wear tolerance; rapid repair due to aggressive rhizomes. More prone to summer dormancy during extended drought; doesn't tolerate excessive acidic infertile soils; slow to germinate; low seedling vigor and poor competitive ability with weeds. Uses: general purpose lawns, parks, cemeteries; athletic fields; golf courses (all except greens); commercial sod (mono or polystand with red fescue). Dominates in full sun. pH 5–7. Mowing 20–75 mm. Medium-to-high fertility; 0.25–0.75 N per 100 m² per growing month.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)

L

Lacustrine Deposits: Soil parent material laid down where glacial lakes once stood — fine materials like silts and clays deposited in lakes that later drained away.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Ladder Duty Ratings: Maximum load ratings for portable ladders. Different types (stepladder, double stepladder, extension) are designed for different heights and uses. Never work from the top two rungs, cleats, or steps of any portable ladder unless permitted by the manufacturer.; Source: Climbing, Lifting, Rigging & Hoisting (Period 1)
Landscape Alberta (Nursery Trades Association): Formerly LANTA. Promotes current practices in industry, sponsors Skills competitors, lobbies on behalf of Landscape and Nursery Trades, works with the PAC, publishes lists of members, and hosts conferences and workshops (Green Industry Show).; Source: Associations (Period 1)
Landscape Architect Technologist (LAT): A 2-year diploma that begins landscape architecture training. Continues to a Bachelor degree in Landscape Architecture and potentially a Master's (limited Canadian universities offer this — University of Calgary is one).; Source: Associations (Period 1)
Lateral Roots: Roots that grow outwards from the tree.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Lawn: Organic ground cover, usually mowed. Distinct from 'turf' — a lawn can include species other than grasses.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Layering (Topdressing): Distinct horizontal layers that form in the soil profile through use of different topdressing materials over time. Can cause perched water tables, drainage problems, and Black Layer disease. Especially watch for layering when topdressing after core aeration — make sure new material is well worked in.; Source: Aeration & Topdressing (Period 1)
Leaching: The removal of salts and fine particles from the upper portion of the soil profile by the downward movement of soil water.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Legumes (Low-Maintenance): Plants whose root systems contain bacteria that form nodules capable of fixing free nitrogen — used to compensate for poor soil quality. Intolerant to herbicides.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Lenticels: [Pore-like raised structures on tree bark that allow gas exchange. Listed as a prominent feature of young poplar bark in the Salicaceae notes ('smooth and white to off white when young with prominent lenticels').]; Source: Salicaceae (Willow Family) (Period 1)
Lignin: A component of soil organic matter that is hard to degrade. Some fungi can use it as food.; Source: Organic Matter (Period 1)
Ligule: A grass identification feature — a small projection at the inside junction of the leaf blade and sheath. Whether the ligule is prominent or not is used in keying turfgrass.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Liming: Raising soil pH by adding lime (calcium and magnesium carbonates). Rate of application depends on the soil's CEC, texture, and initial pH. More finely ground lime changes pH more rapidly.; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Loams: Soils with a wide range of compositions and properties — some set like concrete, some like powder, some form surface crusts.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Luxury Consumption (Nitrogen): When a plant takes up more nitrogen than it needs. Causes delayed maturity, rank growth (succulent, soft growth), low tolerance to temperature/moisture variability, and proneness to insect and disease attacks. Beware on indoor plants in winter when nitrate conversion is impaired.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Intro (Period 1)

M

Macrofauna: Large animals that are visible to the naked eye.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Macroflora: Large visible plants that use chlorophyll to convert sunlight into chemical energy.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Macronutrients: Essential plant nutrients required in large amounts, usually measured as a percent weight of plant dry matter.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Macropores: The larger pores that exist between soil aggregates. Most of the water movement and root growth occurs in macropores.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Magnesium (Plant Element): A mobile secondary macronutrient — the centre mineral element in chlorophyll and a plant enzyme activator. Deficiency: interveinal chlorosis in older leaves, leaves curl upwards on margins, marginal yellowing. Toxicity is rare but interferes with trace-element absorption.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Intro (Period 1)
Manual Material Handling: Lifting, moving, and transferring equipment and materials at the worksite. If lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, holding, dragging, or supporting objects is not done correctly, it can cause musculoskeletal injuries (MSI) to bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and other soft tissue.; Source: Climbing, Lifting, Rigging & Hoisting (Period 1)
Marginal Necrosis: [Death of leaf tissue at the leaf margin (edges). Listed in the fertilizer intro as a visible sign of potassium (K) deficiency.]; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Intro (Period 1)
Massive (Soil Structure): A structureless soil condition. Soils that are moved or worked when wet tend to lose their structure: after being dug up, transported, spread, graded, and compacted, the soil may fail to drain or support plant growth. Water infiltrates very slowly and doesn't drain fast enough to allow roots to have oxygen. Plants drown out under high rainfall and dry out under dry conditions because roots cannot penetrate deeply.; Source: Soil Structure (Period 1)
Mat (Turf): A thatch-like derivative formed when thatch integrates with the soil surface. Provides surface resiliency and stabilizes turf against impact.; Source: Compaction and Thatch Management (Period 1)
Media (Growing): Material used by gardeners as a soil substitute. Examples: peat, vermiculite, perlite.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Medium Texture: The texture of soil between fine- and coarse-textured soils — includes very fine sandy loam, loam, silt loam, and silt.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Meristematic Cells: Cells that divide. They sit at the start of the cell → tissue → organ pathway, before differentiation into dermal (epidermis), vascular (xylem/phloem), or cortex-type tissue (parenchyma, collenchyma, sclerenchyma).; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Mesocarp: The often-fleshy tissue between the endocarp and the exocarp of a fruit. The endocarp and mesocarp are not necessarily distinct from one another.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Methylene Urea: A slow-release urea fertilizer — a combination of methylated urea and formaldehyde. Released by soil microbes; as long as they are active, release rate is predictable.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Microfauna: Animals too small to be seen without a microscope.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Microflora: Plants that are too small to be seen without a microscope.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Micronutrients: Plant nutrients required in small amounts: iron (Fe²⁺, Fe³⁺), copper (Cu²⁺), zinc (Zn²⁺), manganese (Mn²⁺), molybdenum (MoO₄²⁻), boron (BO₃³⁻, H₃BO₃), and chlorine (Cl⁻). Most soluble at lower pH; less soluble at higher pH (except molybdenum).; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Micropores: The smaller voids inside soil aggregates. Smaller pores create tortuous routes for water to move.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Mineral: A naturally occurring inorganic element or compound having an orderly internal structure and characteristic chemical composition, crystal form, and physical properties.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Mineralization: The conversion of organic compounds (those involving carbon chains) into plant-available mineral compounds by microbial decomposition. Common mineral plant nutrients include ammonium (NH₄⁺), phosphate (H₂PO₄⁻), and sulfate (SO₄²⁻).; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Monocots: One of the two main groups of angiosperms — grass-like plants such as iris, palm trees, and grasses.; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Monostand: A turf stand made up of a single grass species. Used for sports turf — particularly creeping bentgrass greens.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Montane (Rocky Mountains Subregion): A Rocky Mountains subregion characterized by a pattern of open forest and grasslands.; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Mottles / Mottling: Distinct spots or blotches of different colour (or shades of colour — e.g. yellowish-red/rusty spots) interspersed with the dominant colour. Usually found in wet, poorly drained soils.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
MSI (Musculoskeletal Injury): Injuries to bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and other soft tissue that result from incorrect manual material handling — lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, holding, dragging, or supporting objects improperly.; Source: Climbing, Lifting, Rigging & Hoisting (Period 1)
Muck: Highly decomposed organic material in which the original plant parts are not recognizable.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Mycorrhizae: A symbiotic relationship between fungi and tree roots ("fungus root"). Benefits include absorption of water and nutrients, physical protection against pathogenic fungi, and secretion of fungistatic substances that inhibit pathogens. Types: ectomycorrhizae and endomycorrhizae.; Source: A. Tree Physiology, Tree Biology (Jones, Illinois Arborist Assoc.)

N

Natural Fertilizer: A fertilizer derived from a living source — such as manure, composts, and legumes incorporated into the soil.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Nitrifying Bacteria: Soil bacteria responsible for converting ammonium into nitrate. Inhibited when soil pH drops below 5.5.; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Nitrogen (Plant Element): A vital primary macronutrient — 'new growth' element, needed more in early stages for vegetative growth and tissue development. Active within plant — moves to new growth. Not reliable on soil tests due to leaching (NO₃⁻ or NH₄⁺). Can volatilize if the formulation is not correct. N₂ is released by O₂-loving bacteria; ammonia is released from urea. Deficiency: yellowing of basal (older) leaves with dark-green upper growth.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Intro (Period 1)
Nitrogen Drawdown: When high-C:N-ratio material (sawdust, straw, etc.) is added to soil, decomposing microorganisms pull nitrogen from the soil, temporarily reducing what's available to plant roots.; Source: Organic Matter (Period 1)
Nitrogen Mineralization: The nitrogen in organic matter being converted into inorganic material — ammonium (NH₄⁺). Correlated with soil pH.; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Nut (botanical): An indehiscent dry fruit with a single seed and a hard, woody pericarp. Example: acorn.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
N₂ Fixing (Nitrogen Fixing): The ability of certain plants — via root-nodule bacteria — to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants. Listed as a maintenance feature of Elaeagnus species (Wolf Willow, Russian Olive) and as a defining trait of low-maintenance legumes used to compensate for poor soil quality.; Source: Elaeagnaceae / Pinaceae (Period 1), TESM Notes (Period 1)

O

O Horizon (Organic Topsoil): The uppermost layer of a soil profile — less dense than deeper layers, with more decaying organic matter.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Organic (Soil): Material derived from living organisms such as peat and humus.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Organic Compounds: Compounds composed of matter derived from living things. A chemical compound which contains carbon.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Organic Fertilizers: Fertilizers derived from natural sources, broken down by soil microorganisms into a usable form (slow in cold temperatures). Not readily soluble. Longer residual response with less leaching, no foliar burn, but higher cost and lower nitrogen analysis (often under 10%).; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Organic Matter (Soil): Residues from plants, animals, and microbes. Influences a soil's fertility by improving water-holding capacity, increases the diversity of pore size, and is the primary food source for soil microorganisms. Improves soil structure but does not change texture.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Ornamental Grasses: Grasses (native to Alberta and/or introduced) grown for their attractive inflorescence or foliage. Good for low- or no-mow boulevards and island beds. Mat-forming versus clumping. Be sure to contain them.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Osmosis: The diffusion of water through a differentially permeable membrane from a region where water is more concentrated to a region where it is less concentrated.; Source: Water Relations (Period 1)
Oxidation: The combination of an element or compound with oxygen.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)

P

PAC (Provincial Advisory Committee): Every trade has one. Acts as the industry representative body to Alberta's apprenticeship authority (AIT). Develops curriculum content and works with the AIT board to upgrade trade standards and certifications. Comprised of journeyman employer and employee members (volunteer committee). Large trades also have LACs.; Source: Associations (Period 1)
Parenchyma (Tissue): Storage/support plant tissue that is very flexible and does not provide structural support. Functions mainly as storage tissue — storing sugars produced from photosynthesis. Roots cannot produce food, so they have abundant parenchyma to store food. Parenchyma, if required, can become meristematic and can live for decades.; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Parenchyma Cells: Living cells in tree tissue that store starch (carbohydrates). When they "balloon" during tylosis, they block the flow of sap as a first line of defence against decay.; Source: Tree in 3-D Lab, A. Tree Physiology
Parent Material: The geological starting material of a soil. In the interior plains of North America, repeated floods over several hundred million years resulted in sedimentary bedrock formation. Soils are not identical provincially because parent material varies by location.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Parkland (Natural Region): An Alberta natural region occupying approximately 10% of the province — the most densely populated region. Subregions: Foothills Parkland, Central Parkland, Peace River Parkland. A transition between grassland and forest. Moister climate than grassland, rich black soil, rolling terrain, abundant wetlands. Combination of grassland, aspen forests, and wetlands provides a rich diversity of trees, shrubs, and perennial plants. Winters are cooler in the Peace River subregion (polar influence) and warmer in the Foothills Parkland (Chinooks).; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Peat: Unconsolidated (loose) soil material consisting of partly decomposed organic matter from mosses, sedges, shrubs, trees, and other plants that grow in bogs or other wet places.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Peatlands: Extensive boreal wetlands characterized by limited oxygen, low nutrients, and acidic soil — supporting bog-loving plants.; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Ped: The basic natural unit of soil structure such as a prism, block, or granule — in contrast to a clod, which is formed artificially by operation such as cultivation.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Pepo: A fleshy fruit mostly from the pumpkin family. Most distinctive feature is the tough leathery rind that is difficult to separate from the flesh.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Perched Water Table: Water that sits on top of a soil interface (an abrupt boundary that roots and water have difficulty penetrating).; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Perennial Ryegrass (Lolium perenne): A turfgrass species. Germination 5–7 days. Seeds germinate rapidly with excellent seedling vigor — beneficial for erosion control on new seedbeds and hills. Best low-soil-temperature germination of all turfgrasses (5–8 °C). Endophyte-enhanced seed available. Improved drought resistance and surface-insect tolerance. Very little thatch development; better road-salt tolerance than KB. Cons: irregular upright growth; reflection contrast and low density; mixed reports on winter hardiness; shredded tips after mowing. Uses: nurse-grass for KB/RF mixes; quick cover crop; spring overseeding; shaded heavy-wear areas. Mowing 20–75 mm (same as KB), low N 0.1–0.5 per 100 m²/month, seeding 3.2–4.0 kg/100 m².; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Pericarp: The body of a fruit — divided into three regions: exocarp (skin), mesocarp (often fleshy middle layer), and endocarp (inner boundary around the seed).; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Periderm: A surface tissue that protects the plant from the outside environment. As woody plants increase in diameter (girth) the original epidermis 'splits off' as bark is produced. Bark has meristematic tissue (phellogen / cork cambium) to protect the stem.; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Permanent Wilting Point (PWP): The point at which water has been depleted from the soil water pores — only hygroscopic water (which plants cannot use) remains.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Phellogen (Cork Cambium): The meristematic tissue inside bark that produces protective layers as woody plants grow in girth.; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Phloem: Vascular tissue made of sieve-tube cells, produced by the cambium toward the exterior of the trunk.; [Carries the sugars produced by photosynthesis from the leaves to the rest of the tree. Sits opposite the xylem across the cambium layer.]; Source: Tree Biology (Jones, Illinois Arborist Assoc.)
Phosphorus (Plant Element): A mobile primary macronutrient. Drives rapid development of roots, respiration, photosynthesis, cell division and differentiation. Used within the plant for energy transfer (ATP); backbone of DNA (phosphate and sugar). Hastens maturity, forms flowers and seed. Poor establishment is an indicator of low P. Toxicity may show as a dark green leaf. Iron and calcium tie up phosphorus; release mechanism in soil is microbial activity. pH is often the reason for poor P availability; cold temperatures also produce signs of P deficiency.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Intro (Period 1)
Photosynthesis: The process by which a tree's leaves manufacture its food, producing sugar. Tree topping starves a tree because it removes the leaves that perform photosynthesis.; Source: 5 Reasons to Stop Topping, Tree Biology (Jones, Illinois Arborist Assoc.)
Physical Hazards (Workplace): Workplace hazards including noise, vibration, temperature extremes, radiation, fire, and high pressures. May result in hearing loss, heat stress, frostbite, hypothermia, etc.; Source: Workplace Hazards & Safe Work Practices (Period 1)
Pinaceae: The Pine Family. Trees or shrubs, resinous evergreen. Leaves needle-shaped, linear, spirally arranged, single or in groups. Includes Picea glauca (White Spruce, native across North America to ~30 km of the Arctic Circle) and Picea pungens (Colorado Spruce).; Source: Elaeagnaceae / Pinaceae (Period 1)
Pollination: When pollen has landed on the stigma. Distinct from fertilization, which is the subsequent event necessary for the development of fruit and seed.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Polymer Coated Urea: A coated slow-release urea fertilizer. The polymer coat is semi-permeable: water moves in and out. Examples: Nutricote, Nutri-Pak, Osmocote, Polyon. Release times vary by temperature — Nutri-Paks can last up to 5 years; others 2–9 months.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Polystand: A turf stand made up of multiple grass species. Used for lawn and utility turf.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Pome: A fleshy fruit from an inferior ovary, with a papery or leathery endocarp. The bulk of the flesh comes from an enlarged receptacle. Example: apple.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Pore Space: The diameter of soil pores, ranging from several millimeters down to less than 0.001 millimeter. Large pores allow rapid movement of water; small pores create tortuous routes.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Pores (Soil): The small spaces between the soil components of a soil that are usually occupied by water and air. Also called voids.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Porosity: The total volume of pore space expressed as a percentage of soil volume.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Potassium (Plant Element): A highly mobile primary macronutrient — a soluble salt in the plant. Controls water movement between cells and thickening of cell walls; regulates stomatal opening. Deficiency shows as marginal necrosis. Luxury consumption may occur, leading to soil nutrient depletion and hindered magnesium uptake.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Intro (Period 1)
Power Rake / Verticutter: Used interchangeably for turf mechanical-raking equipment. A verticutter is used to slice stolons and relieve minor compaction. A rake blade can be used (puts strain on engines). Aggressive use can remove the entire thatch profile — evaluate the maintenance 'stool' if you're seeing that much thatch buildup.; Source: Aeration & Topdressing (Period 1)
PPE (Personal Protective Equipment): Equipment that protects a worker from injury. Required for working aloft per OHS. For manual handling, includes gloves, steel-toed boots, safety headgear, and air-filtering devices when working around hazardous materials.; Source: Climbing, Lifting, Rigging & Hoisting (Period 1)
Precipitation (Chemical): The process whereby dissolved salts combine to form solid crystals — usually brought about by evaporation.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Primary Macronutrients: The three primary plant nutrients: nitrogen (NH₄⁺, NO₃⁻), phosphorus (H₂PO₄⁻, HPO₄²⁻), and potassium (K⁺).; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Primary Minerals: Sand and silt — unchanged in composition since they formed in cooling lava. Have a coarse particle size and contribute to air and water movement. Examples: iron oxides, gypsum, quartz, feldspars, dolomite, apatite.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Prismatic Soil Structure: A naturally formed B-horizon structure that provides good conditions for air and water to move into the subsoil.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Profile (Soil): A vertical section of the soil through all its horizons and extending into the parent material.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Protein: A class of organic compounds found in all living organisms. Contains a wide range of plant nutrients including nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and sulfur (S). Proteins are readily decomposed by soil microbes.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Protozoa: Single-celled microscopic organisms which include amoeba, flagellates, and ciliates. They feed on organic matter, including bacteria and fungi.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Pruning: The selective removal of branches or parts of a tree. Proper pruning improves the health and beauty of a tree, needs less maintenance, and costs less in the long run; poor pruning practices (untrained people leaving open wounds, topping) are a common cause of tree defects.; Source: 5 Reasons to Stop Topping, A. Tree Physiology
Pubescent / Tomentose: [Botanical surface descriptors meaning hairy ('pubescent') or densely woolly with matted hairs ('tomentose'). Used as poplar winter-key distinguishers — for example, 'Buds and upper twigs downy-pubescent — white tomentose' separates P. alba from species whose buds and twigs are not pubescent or tomentose.]; Source: Salicaceae (Willow Family) (Period 1)

Q

Quackgrass (Elymus repens): A perennial noxious weed. Has allelopathic control; 95% of lateral buds are dormant; rhizomes can travel more than 3 m underground and invade other areas, even crossing under sidewalks. Once established, very difficult to control due to lack of selective herbicides. Can be controlled at the 3–4 leaf stage with non-selective systemic herbicide; consider 'weed and feed' or hand-painting leaves; repeat monthly. Keep new areas clean of rhizomes; use mulch in shrub beds.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Quaternary: The most recent geological time period — began 2–3 million years ago. Includes the Pleistocene (glacial) era and the Holocene (historical) era, which began only 8,000 years ago.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)

R

R Horizon (Bedrock): The bedrock layer at the base of a soil profile — more dense than the layers above.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Rams Horning: When a tree is sealing off a wound it can grow in an "in-curling form".; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Rank Growth: [Soft, succulent over-growth of a plant — the result of nitrogen luxury consumption. Associated with delayed maturity and lower tolerance to temperature and moisture variability, plus insect/disease susceptibility.]; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Intro (Period 1)
Recharge Zone: An area where groundwater is replenished due to the downward movement of moisture from the soil surface to the water table. Usually found in upland areas.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Regosols: Weakly developed Alberta soils associated with sand dunes, flood plains, and steep slopes.; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Representative Soil Sample: A soil sample that accurately reflects the average conditions of the field soil that was sampled.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Reproductive Organs (Plant): Plant organs concerned with reproduction: flowers, fruit, and seeds. Distinct from the vegetative organs (roots, stems, leaves).; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Reserve Acidity: Hydrogen ions (H+) bound by organic matter and clays — held "like barnacles to rock." Provides a pool of acidity that resists rapid pH change.; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Resistant Organic Matter: Organic compounds difficult for microbes to decompose, including fats, waxes, and lignins. These make up a large portion of the long-term soil humus.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Rhizobium: A group of nitrogen-fixing bacteria that form symbiotic relationships with the roots of legume plants. Rhizobium converts atmospheric N₂ into NH₃, available to the plant. In return the plant root hosts the bacteria in specialized root cells called nodules where they receive carbohydrates.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Rhizomes (Turf): Underground horizontal stems with adventitious roots and shoots. In turf, typically provides the best recuperative capacity — adventitious roots are insulated and protected, giving rhizomatous grasses the competitive advantage in spring.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Rigging Hardware: The hardware components used to attach a load to a hoisting or lifting device. Properly rigging a load involves determining the weight, center of gravity, start location, and final destination of the load; selecting equipment with capacity to lift; and the proper method for attaching the load.; Source: Climbing, Lifting, Rigging & Hoisting (Period 1)
Ring Porous: A wood structure with distinct earlywood and latewood vessels, giving high conductivity in the earlywood. Examples: Quercus, Fraxinus, Ulmus, Hippophae.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Rocks: A natural-formed aggregate of two or more minerals.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Rocky Mountains (Natural Region): An Alberta natural region — approximately 7.4% of the province. Three subregions: Montane (open forest + grasslands), Subalpine (closed forests of Engelmann spruce, subalpine fir, lodgepole pine, white spruce, false azalea, bearberry, buffaloberry), and Alpine (bare areas, glaciers, vegetated areas with dwarf shrubs, grasses, flowering plants). Short cool wet summers and long cold winters with heavy snow. Abundance of streams.; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Root Exudates: Soluble sugars, amino acids, and other compounds secreted by plant roots. Easily digested by bacteria — a key food source for soil microbes.; Source: Organic Matter (Period 1)
Root Flare: [The widening at the base of a tree trunk where roots begin to spread outward. Used alongside root hairs and mycorrhizae when describing the structure of a tree's root system.]; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Root Zone (Turf): The soil layer of a turf stand — soil containing organic matter and microorganisms in which the grass root system grows.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)

S

Safe Working Load (SWL): An important safety factor when selecting rigging — calculated by taking a fraction of the breaking strength of the weakest component of the rigging equipment.; Source: Climbing, Lifting, Rigging & Hoisting (Period 1)
Salicaceae: The Willow Family. Family characteristics: simple, alternate leaves; apetalous dioecious catkins; woody species; many with medicinal properties. Members include Willow (Salix) — have 1 bud scale — and Poplar (Populus) — have many bud scales.; Source: Salicaceae (Willow Family) (Period 1)
Saline Soil: A soil that contains enough soluble salts to interfere with the growth of most crops.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Saline Soil (EC Definition): A soil high in salts — electrical conductivity greater than 4 mS/cm.; Source: Soil Salts (Period 1)
Salinization: The process by which salts accumulate in the soil over time. Most severe in irrigated soils: water dissolves salt from the soil and fertilizer; as the soil dries out, salts are left behind and can accumulate to toxic levels. Flushing with high-quality water lowers salt levels — provided dissolved salts can drain out of the soil.; Source: Soil Salts (Period 1)
Salt (Chemical): A chemical compound made of a positive ion (cation) and a negative ion (anion) that is at least slightly soluble in water.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Salt Effects on Plants: Excess salts may break down soil structure (sodium), create surface crusting that reduces infiltration, destroy microbial life, and cause decline and death (particularly in trees). Salt absorbed by the plant can cause leaf scorch or bud deformity, and reduces the plant's ability to take in water — producing drought conditions even in moist soil.; Source: Soil Salts (Period 1)
Salt Index (Fertilizer): A measure of the salt concentration contributed by a fertilizer. High salt index + high temperatures = high foliar burn. Saline soils become more saline with high salt index.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Salt Tolerance in Plants: Determined by type of plant, type of soil, time of year, weather cycles when salt is applied, how quickly it is leached away, and the health of the plant before application. A stressed tree in confined, compacted soil may die from a small dose; a healthy tree in generous well-drained soil might not be affected by large dosages.; Source: Soil Salts (Period 1)
Samara: An indehiscent dry fruit — a winged achene whose pericarp is extended into a papery wing. Example: maple key.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Sand Dunes: Wind-built ridges and hills of sand formed in the same manner as snow drifts. An obstruction (bush, fence) causes an eddy where the wind velocity lessens and the sand is deposited. Once begun, the dunes themselves offer further resistance and grow.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Saturation (Soil): When all the pores of soil are filled with water.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Scaffold Systems: Worksite platforms used to elevate workers. Two common types: Elevating Working Platforms (height adjustable) and Framed Scaffolds (fixed height). Light-duty scaffolds support up to 122 kg/m² with max plank span 3.0 m; heavy-duty support 122–367 kg/m² with max span 2.3 m. Scaffolds must be designed to support at least 4× the load that may be imposed on them.; Source: Climbing, Lifting, Rigging & Hoisting (Period 1)
Schizocarp: An indehiscent dry fruit that separates into two one-seeded fruitlets at maturity. Example: carrot seed.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Sclerenchyma: Plant tissue that provides structural support. Cells are dead at maturity; cell walls are tough, thick, and impregnated with lignin. Subtypes: scleroids (randomly distributed among other tissues) and fibres (occur in specific zones in stems, leaves, and fruits).; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Screened Loam: Topsoil installed over the subgrade during rough-graded site preparation, applied to a minimum depth of 15–30 cm for turf.; Source: Site Prep & Seeding (Period 1)
Secondary Macronutrients: Plant nutrients required in moderate amounts: calcium (Ca²⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺), and sulfur (SO₄²⁻).; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Secondary Minerals (Clays): Minerals resulting from the decomposition of a primary mineral. Forms sheets or layers that hold most minerals for plant growth. Fine particle size <0.002 mm; good water-holding capacity and fertility; very high surface area.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Secretory Tissues: Tissues that secrete substances produced within a cell and moved to the outside of the cells. Examples: resin, latex, nectars, and oil.; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Sedimentary Bedrock: Layered bedrock formed by the compression of ancient materials that accumulated at the bottom of great inland seas and lakes (e.g. sandstone, shale, limestone).; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Seeding Factors for Success: Timing: roots are most active at soil temperatures of 10–18 °C. Perennial Rye allows for some earlier seeding. Late spring or early summer is best (rain + full season of growth); mid-summer suffers from low moisture; fall seeding can suffer from early winter weather reducing overwintering potential. Quality of seed: select fresh, high-quality seed and store it cool and dry.; Source: Site Prep & Seeding (Period 1)
Senescence: [Plant aging — observed as fruit ripening and leaf drop — triggered by the hormone ethylene.]; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Sheath (Grass): The lower portion of a grass leaf that wraps around the stem. Sheath characteristics — colour, whether overlapping or split — are used in turfgrass identification.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Simple Fruits: Fleshy fruits that develop from a flower with a single pistil.; Source: Fruit (Period 1)
Site Preparation (Softscape): Steps for softscape installation: (1) Issuance of Lot Grading Certificate (usually by home builder). (2) Check the subgrade for settling, construction debris, large rocks. (3) Rough grading. (4) Installation of screened loam over subgrade (15–30 cm minimum for turf). (5) Avoid compaction by starting at the home and working toward the gate, leaving an avenue on subgrade for machine access, and walking on plywood after completion. (6) Install drainage materials and services (weeping tile/PVC, catch basins, irrigation, gas, power for fire/water features).; Source: Site Prep & Seeding (Period 1)
Skills Alberta: A non-profit organization that promotes careers in skilled trades and technologies. Provincial Training Committee of industry representatives; organizes the skills competition and supporting events. Presented to the PAC; includes Landscape Alberta (formerly LANTA).; Source: Associations (Period 1)
Smooth Brome (Bromus): An invasive agricultural / ditch grass. Do not use next to natural areas without checking first.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Sodic Soil: A soil high in sodium — pH greater than 8.5 and Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR) greater than 12. If more than 15% of the exchange sites are occupied by sodium the soil is sodic; soil structure is altered and there is a loss of mineral nutrients. Sodium causes deflocculation — disintegration of soil structure and production of fine particles that enter pore space, reducing aeration and promoting compaction.; Source: Soil Salts (Period 1)
Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR): The ratio of sodium ions to calcium and magnesium ions in the soil — a measure of sodium hazard.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Soil Air: Air in soil pores — not interconnected, with composition varying from place to place. Some gases are consumed by plants and some are released. CO₂ concentration is often 100× higher in soil than in the atmosphere. Low water content allows for more air; high water content traps air in small pockets where microbes may produce toxic gases.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Soil Buffer Compounds: Soil components such as clay and humus that enable the soil to resist a change in pH when acidic and alkaline materials are added.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Soil Colloid: Clay or humus with very small particle size (usually <0.002 mm diameter) and a very large surface area per unit of mass.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Soil Compaction: Occurs as the volume of a fixed amount of soil decreases, resulting in an increase in bulk density. Soil aggregates are pushed together and crushed, filling the pore spaces (especially macropores). The same amount of soil now occupies a lower volume because air has been pushed out, increasing resistance to root penetration.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Soil Formation: The development of soil from parent material through the influence of climate, living organisms, topography, and time.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Soil Interface: An abrupt boundary between soil layers that roots and water have difficulty penetrating.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Soil Organic Matter (SOM): Includes dead plant material, animal and other organic substances, organic compounds (food for microorganisms), root exudates, lignin, and humus. Provides a source of energy for soil organisms; supplies most of the natural soil nitrogen, half the phosphorus, a major portion of sulfur, and many organic compounds. SOM = Humus + Active Organic Matter.; Source: Organic Matter (Period 1)
Soil pH (Soil Reaction): A measure of the hydrogen ion concentration in the soil solution. Water dissociates into H+ and OH⁻ ions; in pure water these concentrations are equal (neutral, pH 7). pH < 7 means greater H+ (acid); pH > 7 means more OH⁻ (alkaline/basic). The number is the negative logarithm of hydrogen concentration. Soil pH is a master variable that affects soil chemical and biological properties — solubility of nutrients, organism populations and activity, organic matter decomposition, nitrogen mineralization, and base saturation. Most desirable pH for nutrient solubility is about 6.5 to 7.5.; Source: Soil Reaction: pH (Period 1)
Soil Salinity: The measure of the amount of salts dissolved in a soil solution. Usually expressed in terms of electrical conductivity of the solution, which is a direct function of salt content.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Soil Separates: The individual mineral particles, less than 2.0 mm in diameter, that make up the soil. The main soil separates are sand, silt, and clay.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Soil Solution: The liquid component of a soil — water and all the materials dissolved in the water.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Soil Structure: The formation of aggregates based on mineral content.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Soil Texture: Determined by the percentage of sand, silt, and clay (Sand + Silt + Clay = 100%). Signifies air, water, nutrients, and erodibility. Adding organic matter does not change texture but does improve structure; adding clay or sand will turn the soil to cement.; Source: Soils Notes (Period 1)
Solid Tine Aeration: Aeration with solid tines that punch holes without removing cores. Advantages: may be done on entire surface or selected areas; minimal disruption to play (can be done anytime); quick solution to compaction, air and water infiltration; varying depths available. Disadvantages: only provides temporary relief; tool not usually available for rent.; Source: Aeration & Topdressing (Period 1)
Solonetzic Soils: Alberta soils that develop where sodium salts occur close to the surface — associated with columnar soil structure in the B horizon and characterized by poor infiltration, percolation, and root penetration.; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Solubility: The extent to which a solid salt compound will separate into positive and negative ions and thereby dissolve in water.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Soluble Salts: Salts that dissolve easily in water (relative to gypsum, CaSO₄). Have the greatest effect on soil quality and plant growth.; Source: Soil Salts (Period 1)
Solum: The A and B horizons of a soil profile — where the most soil development has occurred. The 'active' portion of the soil profile.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Specific Epithet: The species half of a plant binomial name — the distinct essential feature used in identification. All letters are lowercase, and the specific epithet is always underlined or italicized (same as the genus).; Source: Plant Properties (Period 1)
Spiking: A shallow form of solid-tine aeration — minimal disruption, quick recovery, temporary fix. May be done several times a month if needed. Tines vary in depth from spiking depth (2.5 cm) up to 30 cm.; Source: Aeration & Topdressing (Period 1)
Sports Turf: Turf used on athletic fields. Less dense than ornamental lawn. Often a monostand chosen for wear tolerance and recuperative capacity.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Stabilized Urea: Urea fertilizer treated with urease inhibitors that stop the enzyme, slowing the ammonium conversion process.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Stolons (Turf): Above-ground horizontal stems that produce adventitious shoots. May not be very well rooted; can cause patchy or circular growth. Like rhizomes, stoloniferous grasses regenerate most of their root system each spring.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Stomata: Pores on plant leaves through which water vapour exits during transpiration and gas exchange occurs. About 90% of the water entering a plant evaporates through the stomata; usually less than 5% escapes through the cuticle. Regulated by guard cells.; Source: Water Relations (Period 1)
Structureless / Amorphous Soil: Soil that lacks the naturally formed aggregate structures (granular, prismatic, blocky, columnar). Can be either single-grain (loose, no aggregation) or massive (large coherent mass with no defined structure).; Source: Soil Structure (Period 1)
Subalpine (Rocky Mountains Subregion): A Rocky Mountains subregion of closed forests — Engelmann spruce, subalpine fir, lodgepole pine, white spruce — with understory including false azalea, bearberry, and buffaloberry.; Source: Ecosystems of Alberta (Period 1)
Subgrade: The compacted base layer beneath topsoil at a softscape site. Must be checked for settling, construction debris, and large rocks before installing loam.; Source: Site Prep & Seeding (Period 1)
Sulfur (Plant Element): An immobile secondary macronutrient used in the photosystems (photosynthesis). Deficiency holds back growth and produces chlorosis similar to nitrogen — but in new growth first, not older leaves.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Intro (Period 1)
Sulfur Coated Urea (SCU): A coated slow-release urea fertilizer. Sulfur is slowly soluble; coat thickness determines the time delay. Polymer/Sulfur Coated Urea has inner layer S, outer layer polymer — slower release that also requires microbial activity.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Symbiosis: The living together of two dissimilar organisms, each of which depends for its existence on the other — such as the fungus and algae composing lichen.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Symptoms of Compaction (Turf): One of the most serious problems in turfgrass management — shows up as poor vegetation health, standing water, bare ground, and Poa annua invasion.; Source: Compaction and Thatch Management (Period 1)
Synthetic Immediate Release Fertilizers: Usually dyed blue, in powder or crystal form. Immediately available with limited residual response. Cheap per unit nitrogen. Dissociate into respective ions in solution. Plants absorb roughly 0.15 kg N of any application (the rest is leached). Lasts roughly 2 weeks during active growth.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Synthetic Slow Release Fertilizers: Release mechanisms and time vary by formation and coating. Nitrogen release is controlled to combat the 0.15 kg absorption rule. Water-insoluble; usually relies on microorganisms or chemical processes. Slowly soluble — requires a constant presence of water to dilute and move through permeable membranes. Available in prills and granular form. Coated variants release as the coating cracks.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)

T

Tackifier (Hydroseed): A bonding agent in hydroseed slurry that creates a mat-like layer. Keeps seed in contact with the mulch material and prevents the entire seed/mulch mat from blowing away.; Source: Site Prep & Seeding (Period 1)
Tap Roots: Roots that grow downward.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Taxonomic Hierarchy: The classification levels for plants: Kingdom → Division/Phylum (phyta — vascular or non-vascular) → Subdivision (gymnosperm/angiosperm) → Class (opsida — monocots/dicots) → Order (-ales) → Family (-aceae) → Genus → Species (Genus + specific epithet).; Source: Plant Properties (Period 1)
Texture Triangle: A diagram that illustrates the soil textural classes. A triangular shape indicating clay percentage on the vertical axis and sand percentage on the horizontal axis.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Thatch: Layer of dead and decaying (living) tissue located between the green vegetation and the soil surface — the upper stratum of the medium that supports turfgrass growth. Newly added materials are largely undecomposed at the top; materials at the bottom in contact with soil are at a more advanced stage of decomposition. Thatch develops when rate of accumulation exceeds rate of decomposition: any factor that stimulates shoot growth increases accumulation; any factor that reduces microbial activity impairs decomposition. Benefits: increased wear tolerance, resiliency, moderated soil temperature, reduced compaction potential, reduced water loss, reduced weed germination. Rule of thumb for healthy depth: half the mowing height.; Source: Compaction and Thatch Management (Period 1)
Three D's (Dead, Damaged, Diseased): The categories of tree defects that should be included in any pruning plan: Dead, Damaged, and Diseased branches.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Tillers (Turf): Vertical shoots arising from the base of a grass plant. May form bunchy growth. Has fewer regenerative resources than rhizomatous or stoloniferous grasses — scalping can be devastating. Regenerates most of its root system each spring.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Tilth: The physical condition of the soil as it relates to tillage. Soils with good tilth form good seed beds after tillage — they hold moisture while allowing emergence of seedlings and penetration by roots.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Tissues (Plant): Collections of cells that perform specific functions. Permanent tissues are cells that have 'matured' and developed specialized features to enable them to carry out specific tasks.; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Topdressing: [A turf-management practice in which a thin layer of soil or sand is spread over the turf surface. Required on creeping bentgrass to control thatch.]; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Topdressing (Detailed): 'The practice by which a thin layer of soil (or other material) is applied to an established turf or a new turfgrass planting.' Reasons: post-aeration (heal surface disruption); crown protection from winter injury / ice; adding organic matter (clay-based soils benefit, especially if compaction prone); improve CEC and microbial activity in sand root zones; improve putting-surface quality; thatch-prevention on greens; post-sod desiccation. Rate: never cover more than 60% of leaf blade; 0.05–0.1 cubic yards per 100 m² = 5–10 mm depth (KB lawn at 50 mm mowing height: max 30 mm coverage). Light, frequent topdressing on golf greens at 1–3 week intervals controls thatch.; Source: Aeration & Topdressing (Period 1)
Topdressing Materials: If existing soil is favourable, choose something as close as possible (consider stockpiling soil during construction). If unfavourable: compost, aged manure, peat moss (sphagnum), zeolites, calcined clay particles, diatomaceous earth materials. Check particle size before buying (especially for greens / sand soils). Texture change takes many applications.; Source: Aeration & Topdressing (Period 1)
Topography: The surface features of a district or region — such as the relief and contours of the land.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Trace Elements (Plant): Micronutrients required in small amounts. Iron (Fe) — respiration and chlorophyll formation; needs Mn, Zn, Cu in balance; deficiency shows as interveinal chlorosis (pH-driven). Boron (B) — role not fully understood; deficiency can produce witches' broom. Manganese (Mn) — absorbed in leaves; deficiency mimics interveinal chlorosis. Zinc (Zn) — applied as root or foliar sprays/fungicides; deficiency causes stunted growth and poor seed formation. Molybdenum (Mo) — used in the nitrogen cycle.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Intro (Period 1)
Transpiration: Water regulation and gas exchange — more than 90% of the water entering a plant passes into leaf air spaces and evaporates through the stomata into the atmosphere. Guard cells regulate transpiration; ABA (abscisic acid) changes the water potential in the stomata.; Source: Water Movement, Tree Biology (Jones, Illinois Arborist Assoc.)
Transpirational Pull: The mechanism that draws water up through a plant. Xylem vessels are normally full of water. Water evaporates out of the stomata, creating a lower water potential than the adjacent cells, which creates tension on the water columns — drawing water from one molecule to the next throughout the entire span of xylem cells.; Source: Water Relations (Period 1)
Tree Defects: Structural problems with a tree: the Three D's (Dead, Damaged, Diseased), cracks, cankers, co-dominate stems, included bark, girdling roots, rams horning, trimmer damage, and poor pruning practices.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Tree Morphology: Tree structure — looking at the trunk, branches, leaves, and roots, and assessing whether anything is wrong with any of them.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Tree Protection: Doing what we can to prevent damage to any part of a tree in a landscape.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Tree Risk Assessment: The process used to identify, analyze, and evaluate tree risk.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Trimmer Damage: Damage to the base of the trunk from string trimmers getting too close and cutting into the wood.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Turf: Vegetation in which only grass species are used and mowed at a regular frequency (including the thatch). Made up of root zone (soil with organic matter and microorganisms), thatch (dead and decaying material plus some vegetative tissues), and vegetation (sheath and leaf material; inflorescence not included).; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Turgid Cell: [A plant cell that is firm and swollen with water under internal pressure (turgor). Stomata open when guard cells become turgid; they close when guard cells lose water and become flaccid.]; Source: Water Relations (Period 1)
Tylosis: When parenchyma cells "balloon" and block the flow of sap — the first line of defence against decay.; Source: A. Tree Physiology

U

Unconsolidated Material: Soil or sediment that is loosely aggregated and whose particles are not cemented together — occurring either at the surface of the earth or at depth.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Urban Foresters: Serve communities by maintaining and improving the environment using trees and other woody plants. Their work includes managing the costs and risks of having trees in the urban environment.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Urban Forestry: The collection of all trees, woody plants, and vegetation in an urban center. It includes planning, planting, maintaining, removal, and protection.; Source: A. Tree Physiology
Urban Soils — General Characteristics: Urban soils typically show great vertical and spatial variability; modified soil structure leading to compaction; presence of soil crusting on bare soil (usually hydrophobic); and elevated pH. Urban soil profiles often mix sandy-loam fill, silty-loam fill, clay fill, sandy fill, concrete refuse, weathered rock, organic layer, deep clay, and the original topsoil over bedrock.; Source: Soil Structure (Period 1)
Urea (46-0-0): A common synthetic nitrogen fertilizer. Subject to volatilization of ammonia (NH₃). Apply during tilling or in solution; when mixing, ensure granular size match to avoid striping. Converts to ammonium and then to nitrates. Dog urine contains urea (do not fertilize dog patches — water them in instead). Ammonia gas is hazardous: it burns foliage and humans.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)
Utility Turf: Turf used for dust control and to prevent soil erosion in functional rather than ornamental settings — ditches, airports, and similar areas.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)

V

Value (Soil Colour): The relative brightness of a colour between the extremes of white or black. Value could be compared to the brightness function on a computer.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Variety (botanical): A group of plants subordinate to a species that can reproduce in the wild and displays marked differences from the species. Written the same as a specific epithet (underlined or italicized) and always after it; may have 'var.' before it.; Source: Plant Properties (Period 1)
Vascular Tissue: Plant tissue that transports materials — xylem moves water and minerals upward from roots, while phloem moves sugars (products of photosynthesis) in all directions throughout the plant.; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Vegetative Organs (Plant): Plant organs concerned with growth and survival: roots, stems, and leaves. Distinct from reproductive organs (flowers, fruit, seeds).; Source: Cells, Tissues and Organs (Period 1)
Vernation: A grass identification feature describing how the youngest leaf is arranged within the sheath as it emerges — folded or rolled. Used in keying turfgrass alongside ligule, auricle, and sheath/blade characteristics.; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Verticutting: [Shallow vertical mowing and brushing of turf used to control grain. Listed as a creeping-bentgrass management practice alongside topdressing and power-raking.]; Source: TESM Notes (Period 1)
Volatilization (Ammonia): Loss of ammonia gas (NH₃) from surface-applied urea fertilizer. Mitigated by applying during tilling, in solution, or with water.; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Formulations (Period 1)

W

Water Potential: [A measure of the potential energy of water in a system, used to predict the direction water will move. In plants, water flows from areas of higher to lower water potential — into guard cells when potassium accumulates, and out through stomata during transpiration. ABA changes the water potential in the stomata to close them under drought.]; Source: Water Relations (Period 1)
Water Table: The groundwater surface or elevation — the upper surface of a completely saturated soil zone.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Weathering: The physical and chemical disintegration and alteration of rocks and minerals at or near the earth's surface by agents such as wind, water, temperature change, and chemical reactions.; Source: Soils Glossary (Period 1)
Witches' Broom: [An abnormal growth pattern producing a dense cluster of small shoots that resembles a broom. Listed in the fertilizer intro as a possible visible sign of boron (B) deficiency.]; Source: LHAP 106 Fertilizer Intro (Period 1)
Worksite Hazard Identification and Assessment: Key activities in the prevention of accidents — identifying existing and potential hazards. Increasing awareness leads to prevention of workplace accidents and illnesses. Employers must assess the worksite each time it is new or whenever site conditions, operations, or processes change.; Source: Workplace Hazards & Safe Work Practices (Period 1)

X

Xylem: Vascular tissue produced by the cambium toward the interior of the trunk. When no longer active and not conducting water, xylem becomes heartwood.; [Carries water and dissolved minerals from the roots upward through the tree. CODIT Wall 1 contains decay by blocking xylem above and below a wound.]; Source: Tree Biology (Jones, Illinois Arborist Assoc.), A. Tree Physiology