USACE / NAVFAC / AFCESA / NASA UFGS-32 05 33 (April 2006)
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Preparing Activity: NAVFAC Superseding
UFGS-32 05 33 (April 2006)
UNIFIED FACILITIES GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS
References are in agreement with UMRL dated January 2009
SECTION 32 05 33
LANDSCAPE ESTABLISHMENT
07/06
NOTE: This guide specification covers the requirements for plant material and
irrigation during the establishment period.
Edit this guide specification for project specific requirements by adding, deleting,
or revising text. For bracketed items, choose applicable items(s) or insert
appropriate information.
Remove information and requirements not required in respective project, whether
or not brackets are present.
Comments and suggestions on this guide specification are welcome and should
be directed to the technical proponent of the specification. A listing of technical
proponents, including their organization designation and telephone number, is
on the Internet.
Recommended changes to a UFGS should be submitted as a Criteria Change Request
(CCR).
PART 1 GENERAL
1.1 REFERENCES
NOTE: This paragraph is used to list the publications cited in the text of
the guide specification. The publications are referred to in the text by basic
designation only and listed in this paragraph by organization, designation,
date, and title.
Use the Reference Wizard's Check Reference feature when you add a RID outside
of the Section's Reference Article to automatically place the reference in the
Reference Article. Also use the Reference Wizard's Check Reference feature
to update the issue dates.
References not used in the text will automatically be deleted from this section
of the project specification when you choose to reconcile references in the
publish print process.
The publications listed below form a part of this specification to the extent referenced. The publications are
referred to within the text by the basic designation only.
[AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARDS INSTITUTE (ANSI)ANSI Z133.1(2006) Arboricultural Operations - Safety Requirements for Pruning, Repairing, Maintaining, and Removing Trees, and Cutting Brush][ASTM INTERNATIONAL (ASTM)ASTM D 2103(2008) Standard Specification for Polyethylene Film and SheetingASTM D 5851(1995; R 2006) Planning and Implementing a Water Monitoring ProgramASTM D 6155(2006) Nontraditional Coarse Aggregate for Bituminous Paving Mixtures][U.S. GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL (USGBC)LEED(2002; R 2005) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design(tm) Green Building Rating System for New Construction (LEED-NC)]1.2 DEFINITIONS
1.2.1 Pesticide
Any substance or mixture of substances, including biological control agents, that may pervent, destroy, repel,
or mitigate pests and are specifically labeled for use by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Also,
any substance used as a plant regulator, defoliant, disinfectant, or biocide. Examples of pesticides include
fumigants, herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, nematicides, molluscicides and rodenticides.
1.2.2 Stand of Turf
[100] [95] percent ground cover of the established species.
1.2.3 Planter Beds
A planter bed is defined as an area containing one or a combination of the following plant types: shrubs, vines,
wildflowers, annuals, perennials, ground cover, [and a mulch topdressing] excluding turf. Trees may also be
found in planter beds.
1.3 RELATED REQUIREMENTS
[Section 32 84 24 IRRIGATION SPRINKLER SYSTEM applies to this section for installation of irrigation equipment
requirements, with additions and modifications herein.]
[Section 32 92 23 SEEDING][Section 32 92 23 SODDING][Section 32 92 26 SPRIGGING] applies to this section for
installation of [seed][sod][sprigging] requirements, with additions and modifications herein.
[Section 32 93 00 EXTERIOR PLANTS applies to this section for installation of [trees,] [shrubs,] [ground cover,]
[vines,] and [wildflower,] with additions and modifications herein.]
[Section 32 96 00 TRANSPLANTING EXTERIOR PLANTS applies to this section for transplanting of [trees,] [shrubs,]
[ground cover,] [vines,] and [wildflower,] with additions and modifications herein.]
1.4 SUBMITTALS
NOTE: Submittals must be limited to those necessary for adequate quality control.
The importance of an item in the project should be one of the primary factors
in determining if a submittal for the item should be required.
A “G” following a submittal item indicates that the submittal requires Government
approval. Some submittals are already marked with a “G”. Only delete an existing
“G” if the submittal item is not complex and can be reviewed through the Contractor’s
Quality Control system. Only add a “G” if the submittal is sufficiently important
or complex in context of the project.
For submittals requiring Government approval on Army projects, a code of up
to three characters within the submittal tags may be used following the "G"
designation to indicate the approving authority. Codes for Army projects using
the Resident Management System (RMS) are: "AE" for Architect-Engineer; "DO"
for District Office (Engineering Division or other organization in the District
Office); "AO" for Area Office; "RO" for Resident Office; and "PO" for Project
Office. Codes following the "G" typically are not used for Navy projects.
Submittal items not designated with a "G" are considered as being for information
only for Army projects and for Contractor Quality Control approval for Navy
projects.
Government approval is required for submittals with a "G" designation; submittals not having a "G" designation
are [for Contractor Quality Control approval.][for information only. When used, a designation following the
"G" designation identifies the office that will review the submittal for the Government.] The following shall
be submitted in accordance with Section 01 33 00 SUBMITTAL PROCEDURES:
SD-01 Preconstruction Submittals
Integrated Pest Management Plan[; G, [_____]]
SD-03 Product Data
[Local/Regional Materials; (LEED)
Submit documentation indicating distance between manufacturing facility and the project site.
Indicate distance of raw material origin from the project site. Indicate relative dollar value
of local/regional materials to total dollar value of products included in project.]
[Fertilizer; G, [_____]]
Hose; (LEED)
Mulches Topdressing; (LEED)
Submit documentation indicating percentage of post-industrial and post-consumer recycled content
per unit of product. Indicate relative dollar value of recycled content products to total dollar
value of products included in project.
[Organic Mulch Materials
Submit documentation indicating type of biobased material in product and biobased content.
Indicate relative dollar value of biobased content products to total dollar value of products
included in project.]
SD-07 Certificates
Maintenance inspection report
[Plant quantities; G, [_____]
]
SD-10 Operation and Maintenance Data
Maintenance
SD-11 Closeout Submittals
Tree, staking and guying removal
1.5 DELIVERY, STORAGE AND HANDLING
1.5.1 Delivery
Deliver fertilizer, [gypsum,] [iron] to the site in original containers bearing manufacturer's chemical analysis,
name, trade name, or trademark, and indication of conformance to state and federal laws. Instead of containers,
fertilizer, [gypsum] may be furnished in bulk with a certificate indicating the above information.
1.5.2 Storage
1.5.2.1 Fertilizer, [Lime], [Iron,] [Mulch] Storage
Material shall be stored in designated areas. [Lime and] fertilizer shall be stored in cool, dry locations away
from contaminants.
1.5.2.2 Antidessicants Storage
Do not store with fertilizers or other landscape maintenance materials.
1.5.3 Handling
Do not drop or dump materials from vehicles.
1.6 SUSTAINABLE DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
1.6.1 Local/Regional Materials
NOTE: Using local materials can help minimize transportation impacts, including
fossil fuel consumption, air pollution, and labor. Using materials harvested
and manufactured within a 500 mile radius from the project site contributes
to the following LEED credit: MR5. Coordinate with Section 01 33 29 LEED(tm)
DOCUMENTATION. Use second option if Contractor is choosing local materials
in accordance with Section 01 33 29 LEED(tm) DOCUMENTATION. Use second option
for USACE projects. Army projects shall include option only if pursuing this
LEED credit.
[Use materials or products extracted, harvested, or recovered, as well as manufactured, within a [500][_____]
mile [800][_____] kilometer radius from the project site, if available from a minimum of three sources.][See
Section 01 33 29 LEED(tm) DOCUMENTATION for cumulative total local material requirements. Landscaping materials
may be locally available.]
1.7 MAINTENANCE
Submit Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Manuals for planting materials. Include instructions indicating procedures
during one typical year including variations of maintenance for climatic conditions throughout the year. Provide
instructions and procedures for watering; promotion of growth, including fertilizing, pruning, and mowing; and
integrated pest management. O&M Manuals shall include pictures of planting materials cross referenced to
botanical and common names, with a description of the normal appearance in each season.
Develop a water monitoring program for surface and ground water on the project site in accordance with ASTM D 5851
and consistent with the water management program utilized during construction operations.
PART 2 PRODUCTS
2.1 POST-PLANT FERTILIZER
NOTE: Check with the local Agriculture County Extension Service Office for
recommended fertilizer mixture for local conditions.
Fertilizer for groundcover, wildflowers, and grasses is not permitted. Fertilizer for trees, plants, and shrubs
shall be as recommended by plant supplier, except synthetic chemical fertilizers are not permitted. Fertilizers
containing petrochemical additives or that have been treated with pesticides or herbicides are not permitted.
2.1.1 Granular Fertilizer
Organic, granular controlled release fertilizer containing the following minimum percentages, by weight, of plant
food nutrients:
[_____] percent available nitrogen
[_____] percent available phosphorus
[_____] percent available potassium
[_____] percent sulfur
[[_____] percent iron]
2.2 WATER
NOTE: When water is Government furnished, locate the source. Recycled or reclaimed
irrigation water may be available through a tertiary treatment plant on or off
site. It is preferred that this type of water be used for irrigation whenever
possible. Check project specific conditions.
Unless otherwise directed, water shall be the responsibility of the Contractor.
Water source shall be potable or non-potable. Non-potable is preferred. If
non-potable edit specification accordingly. Source of water shall be approved
by the Contracting Officer and shall be of suitable quality for irrigation,
containing no elements toxic to plant life.
Coordinate information presented here with Section 01500, "Temporary Facilities
and Controls."
NOTE: Reduction of potable water consumption for irrigation contributes to
the following LEED credit: WE1.
Source of water shall be approved by the Contracting Officer, and be of suitable quality for irrigation. Use
collected storm water or graywater when available.
2.2.1 Hose
NOTE: Garden and soaker hoses are EPA designated products for recycled content.
See Section 01670 RECYCLED/RECOVERED MATERIALS and include recycled content
options unless designer determines that justification for non-use exists. Use
of materials with recycled content, calculated on the basis of post-industrial
and post-consumer percentage content, contributes to the following LEED credit:
MR4. Coordinate all recycled content products with Section 01 33 29 LEED(tm)
DOCUMENTATION.
Hoses used for watering shall be a minimum of [60][65][70][_____] percent post-consumer rubber or plastic.
2.3 MULCHES TOPDRESSING
NOTE: Check with the local Agriculture County Extension Service Office for
recommended and locally available mulch material. Specify only one type of
mulch for the project.
Free from noxious weeds, mold, pesticides, or other deleterious materials.
2.3.1 Inert Mulch Materials
NOTE: Use inert mulch materials only when organic mulch is not available, or
when site is located in a dry climate.
NOTE: Designer must verify that products meeting the indicated minimum recycled
content are available, preferably from at least three sources, to ensure adequate
competition. If not, write in suitable recycled content values that reflect
availability and competition. Use second recycled content option if Contractor
is choosing recycled content products in accordance with Section 01 33 29 LEED(tm)
DOCUMENTATION.
[Recycled porcelain, concrete, stone, or other recycled material complying with ASTM D 6155] [riverbank stone]
[crushed pit-run rock] [granite chips] [marble chips] [crushed bricks] [volcanic rock] [_____] ranging in size
from [_____] to [_____] mm inches. Provide materials from site and construction waste to the greatest extent
possible. [Mulch shall contain a minimum of [5][10][_____] percent post-consumer recycled content, or a minimum
of [20][40][_____] percent post-industrial recycled content.][See Section 01 33 29 LEED(tm) DOCUMENTATION for
cumulative total recycled content requirements. Mulch may contain post-consumer or post-industrial recycled
content.]
2.3.2 Organic Mulch Materials
NOTE: For projects at Camp Lejeune and New River, use pine straw mulch only.
Delete all other options.
NOTE: The 2002 Farm Bill - Section 9002, Federal Procurement of Biobased Products,
requires each Federal Agency to develop a procurement program which will ensure
that items composed of biobased products will be purchased to the maximum extent
practicable and which is consistent with applicable provisions of Federal procurement
law.
NOTE: Hydraulic mulch is an EPA designated product for recycled content. See
Section 01670 RECYCLED/RECOVERED MATERIALS and include recycled content options
unless designer determines that justification for non-use exists.
[Wood cellulose fiber] [wood chips] [ground or shredded bark] [shredded hardwood] [bark peelings] [pine straw
mulch] [pine needles][recycled] [_____] from site when available. Biobased content shall be a minimum of [100][_____]
percent. Wood cellulose fiber shall be processed to contain no growth or germination-inhibiting factors, dyed
with non-toxic, biodegradable dye to an appropriate color to facilitate visual metering of materials application.
Paper-based hydraulic mulch shall contain a minimum of [100][_____] percent post-consumer recycled content.
Wood-based hydraulic mulch shall contain a minimum of [100][_____] percent recycled material.
2.3.3 Recycled Organic Mulch
Recycled mulch may include compost, tree trimmings, or pine needles with a gradation that passes through a 65
by 65 mm2-1/2 by 2-1/2 inch screen. It shall be cleaned of all sticks a minimum 25 mm1 inch in diameter and
plastic materials a minimum 75 mm3 inch length. The material shall be treated to retard the growth of mold and
fungi.
2.4 PESTICIDES
NOTE: Integrated pest management, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture
- Agricultural Research Service, is the judicious use and integration of various
pest control tactics of the associated environment of the pest in ways that
complement and facilitate the biological and other natural controls of pests
to meet economic, public health, and environmental goals. The national goal
of implementing integrated pest management methods on 75 percent of the nation's
cropland was jointly announced by USDA, the U.S. EPA, and the FDA in September
1993. This goal represents a commitment by the federal government to work with
its state and private sector partners to develop and implement ecologically-based
pest management approaches that rely less on synthetic chemical pest controls
and are more sustainable. Specify use of native beneficial insects and appropriate
companion plants, such as those with natural pyrethrums.
Pesticides and herbicides are not permitted. [Use black sheet polyethylene conforming to ASTM D 2103, minimum
thickness 4 mm5/32 inch.] Submit an Integrated Pest Management Plan, including [weed and pest management strategies]
[proposed alternatives to herbicides and pesticides]. Use biological pest controls as approved in the Plan.
PART 3 EXECUTION
3.1 EXTENT OF WORK
NOTE: Typically native plants will require less maintenance than non-native
plants and turf. Verify maintenance requirements appropriate to the species
and climate.
Provide landscape construction maintenance to include [irrigation equipment cleaning and adjustments,] [mowing,]
[edging,] [overseeding,] [aeration,] [fertilizing,] [watering,] [weeding,] [pruning,] [stake and guy adjusting,]
[and] [_____] for all [newly installed] [renovated] landscape areas [and existing plant material], unless indicated
otherwise, and at all areas inside or outside the limits of the construction that are disturbed by the Contractor's
operations.
[3.1.1 Policing
The Contractor shall police all landscaped areas. Policing includes removal of leaves, branches and limbs regardless
of length or diameter, dead vegetation, paper, trash, cigarette butts, garbage, rocks or other debris. [Policing
shall extend to both sides of fencing or walls.] Collected debris shall be promptly removed and disposed of at
an approved disposal site.
][3.1.2 Drainage System Maintenance
The Contractor shall remove all obstructions from surface and subsurface drain lines to allow water to flow unrestricted
in [swales,] [gutters,] [catch basins,] [storm drain curb inlets,] [and] [yard drains]. Remove grates and clear
debris in catch basins. Open drainage channels are to be maintained free of all debris and vegetation at all
times. Edges of these channels shall be clear of any encroachment by vegetation.
][3.2 IRRIGATION ESTABLISHMENT PERIOD
The irrigation establishment period will commence on the date that inspection by the Contracting Officer shows
that the [new] [repaired] irrigation equipment furnished under this contract have been satisfactorily installed
and is functional and shall continue for a period of [365] [_____] days.
3.2.1 Maintenance During the Irrigation Establishment Period
Begin maintenance immediately after irrigation equipment has been installed and is functional. Inspect irrigation
equipment at least [once a week][_______] during the installation and establishment period and perform needed
maintenance promptly. Automatic controllers not equipped with rain shut-off sensors shall be turned off during
periods of rain that exceed twelve hours of continuous rainfall in one day or during rain storms of one day or
more. Once the rain has subsided timers shall be reactivated. Irrigation controllers shall be inspected and
reprogrammed after power outages. Contractor shall be responsible for winterization and startup. Sprinkler
heads shall direct water away from buildings and hard surfaced areas.
3.2.2 Water Restrictions
The Contractor shall abide by state, local or other water conservation regulations in force during the establishment
period. Automatic controller shall be adjusted to comply with the water conservation regulations schedule.
3.2.3 Fire Hydrants
NOTE: Coordinate information presented here with Section 01500, "Temporary
Facilities and Controls."
To use a fire hydrant for irrigation, the Contractor shall obtain prior clearance from the Contracting Officer
and provide the tools and connections approved for use on fire hydrants. If a fire hydrant is used, Contractor
shall provide a reduced pressure backflow preventer for each connection between hose and fire hydrant. Backflow
preventer used shall be tested once per month by a certified backflow preventer tester.
3.2.4 Final Acceptance
[Upon completion of the irrigation establishment period and final acceptance of groundcover and exterior plants,
irrigation equipment shall be removed.][Operation and coverage test is acceptable if system operates through
at least one complete cycle for areas to be irrigated and all leaks or repairs have been completed.]
3.2.5 Controller Charts
Provide one chart for each controller supplied. Indicate in chart area controlled by the automatic controller.
The chart is a reduction of the actual plan[s] that will fit the maximum dimensions inside the controller housing.
Use a black line print for the chart and a different pastel or transparent color to indicate each station zone
of coverage. After chart is completed and approved for final acceptance, seal chart between two 0.5 mm 20 mil
pieces of clear plastic.
]3.3 GROUNDCOVER ESTABLISHMENT PERIOD
Groundcover establishment period will commence on the date that inspection by the Contracting Officer shows that
the [new] [renovated] turf furnished under this contract has been satisfactorily installed to a [______][[95
percent][100 percent] stand of coverage. The establishment period shall continue for a period of [365] [_____]
days.
3.3.1 Frequency of Maintenance
Begin maintenance immediately after turf has been [installed] [fully renovated]. Inspect area[s] [once a week][_____]
during the installation and establishment period and perform needed maintenance promptly.
3.3.2 Promotion of Growth
Groundcover shall be maintained in a manner that promotes proper health, growth, natural color.Turf shall have
a neat uniform manicured appearance, free of bare areas, ruts, holes, weeds, pests, dead vegetation, debris,
and unwanted vegetation that present an unsightly appearance. Mow, remove excess clippings, eradicate weeds,
water, fertilize, [overseed,] [aerate,] [topdress] and perform other operations necessary to promote growth,
as approved by Contracting Officer and consistent with approved Integrated Pest Management Plan. Remove noxious
weeds common to the area from planting areas by mechanical means.
3.3.3 Mowing
NOTE: Check with the local Agriculture County Extension Service for turf mowing
heights as this requirement may vary due to local conditions and species specified.
3.3.3.1 Turf
Turf shall be mowed at a uniform finished height. Mow turfed area[s] to a minimum average height of [76][102][____]
mm[3][4][_____] inches when average height of grass becomes [____] mm inches for spring/summer maintenance and
to a minimum average height of [76][102][_____] mm[3][4][_____] inches when the average height of grass reaches
[_____] mm inches for fall [winter] maintenance. The height of turf is measured from the soil. Mowing of turf
shall be performed in a manner that prevents scalping, rutting, bruising, uneven and rough cutting. Prior to
mowing, all rubbish, debris, trash, leaves, rocks, paper, and limbs or branches on a turf area shall be picked
up and disposed. Adjacent paved areas shall be swept/vacuumed clean.
3.3.3.2 Native Grasses
[Mow above height of native grass seedlings (approximately 3.5 to 4 inches89 to 102 mm). Mow during spring or
early summer. Do not mow after early summer during the second growing season.]
3.3.3.3 Wildflowers
[Mow three times per season above height of the wildflowers (approximately 12 to 15 inches305 to 381 mm).]
3.3.4 Turf Edging and Trimming
Perimeter of planter bed edges, sidewalks, driveways, curbs, and other paved surfaces shall be edged. Uniformly
edge these areas to prevent encroachment of vegetation onto paved surfaces and to provide a clear cut division
line between planter beds, turf, and ground cover. Edging is to be accomplished in a manner that prevents scalping,
rutting, bruising, uneven and rough cutting. Edging shall be performed on the same day that turf is mowed.
Use of string line trimmers is permitted in "soft" areas such as an edge between turfgrass and a planter bed.
Care shall be exercised to avoid damage to any plant materials, structures, and other landscape features.
Trimming around [trees,] [fences,] [poles,] [walls,] [irrigation valve boxes] and other similar objects is to
be accomplished to match the height and appearance of surrounding mowed turf growth. Trimming shall be performed
on the same day the turf's mowed. Care shall be exercised to avoid "Girdling" trees located in turf areas.
The use of protective tree collars on trees in turf areas may be utilized as a temporary means to avoid injury
to tree trunks. At the end of the plant establishment period Contractor will be responsible for removing all
protective tree collars.
3.3.5 Post-Fertilizer Application
NOTE: Check with the local Agriculture County Extension Service for type of
fertilizer, time intervals, and application rate as these requirements may vary
due to local conditions and specie specified.
Do not fertilize wildflowers, groundcover, and grasses. Apply turf fertilizer in a manner that promotes health,
growth, vigor, color and appearance of cultivated turf areas. The method of application, fertilizer type and
frequencies shall be determined by the laboratory soil analysis results the requirements of the particular turf
species. [Organic fertilizer shall be used. In the event that organic fertilizer is not producing the desired
effect, the Contractor shall contract the Contracting Officer for approval prior to the use of a synthetic type
of fertilizer.] Fertilizer shall be applied by approved methods in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
3.3.6 Turf Watering
The Contractor shall perform irrigation in a manner that promotes the health, growth, color and appearance of
cultivated vegetation and that complies with all Federal, State, and local water agencies and authorities directives.
The Contractor shall be responsible to prevent over watering, water run-off, erosion, and ponding due to excessive
quantities or rate of application. The Contractor shall abide by state, local or other water conservation regulations
or restrictions in force during the establishment period. [Irrigation controllers shall be adjusted to comply
with the water conservation regulations schedule].
[3.3.7 Turf Aeration
Upon completion of weed eradication operations and Contracting Officer's approval to proceed, aerate turf areas
by approved device. Core, by pulling soil plugs, to a minimum depth of [_____] mm inches. Leave all soil plugs
that are produced in the turf area. [After aeration operations are complete, topdress entire area [6.35] [12.70]
mm [1/4] [1/2] inch depth with the following mixture:
[[____] percent sand]
[[____] percent humus]
[[____] percent gypsum]
[[____] percent lime]
Blend all parts of topdressing mixture to a uniform consistency throughout.] Keep clean at all times at least
one paved pedestrian access route and one paved vehicular access route to each building. Clean all soil plugs
off of other paving when work is complete. This work shall commence [_____] days prior final acceptance of the
maintenance establishment period.
][3.3.8 Turf Clearance Area
Trees located in turf areas shall be maintained with a growth free clearance of[ 450 mm 18 inches][______] from
the tree trunk base. The use of mechanical weed whips to accomplish the turf growth free bed area is prohibited.
]3.3.9 Replanting
Replant in accordance with [Section 32 92 23 SEEDING][Section 32 92 23 SODDING][Section 32 92 26, SPRIGGING]
and within specified planting dates areas which do not have a satisfactory stand of turf. Replant areas which
do not have a satisfactory stand of other groundcover and grasses.
3.3.10 Final Inspection and Acceptance
Final inspection will be make upon written request from the Contractor at least 10 days prior to the last day
of the turf establishment period. Final turf acceptance will be based upon a satisfactory stand of turf. Final
acceptance of wildflower and grass areas will be based upon a stand of 95 percent groundcover of established
species.
3.3.11 Unsatisfactory Work
When work is found to not meet design intent and specifications, maintenance period will be extended at no additional
cost to the Government until work has been completed, inspected and accepted by Contracting Officer.
]3.4 EXTERIOR PLANT ESTABLISHMENT PERIOD
NOTE: It is advisable to coordinate the Planter Bed Establishment Period Time
Frame with the Guarantee Period.
The exterior plant establishment period will commence on the date that inspection by the Contracting Officer
shows that the [new plants][transplanted plants] furnished under this contract [has][have] been satisfactorily
installed and shall continue for a period of [365] [_____] days.
3.4.1 Frequency of Maintenance
Begin maintenance immediately after plants have been installed. Inspect exterior plants at least [once a week][_____]
during the installation and establishment period and perform needed maintenance promptly.
3.4.2 Promotion of Plant Growth and Vigor
Water, prune, fertilize, mulch, adjust stakes, guys and turnbuckles, eradicate weeds and perform other operations
necessary to promote plant growth, and vigor.
3.4.3 Planter Bed Maintenance
Planter beds shall be weeded, fertilized, irrigated, kept pest free, turf free, pruned, and mulch levels maintained.
Planter beds will not be allowed to encroach into turf areas. A definite break shall be maintained between turf
areas and planter beds. Fertilize exterior planting materials to promote healthy plant growth without encouraging
excessive top foliar growth. Remove noxious weeds common to the area from planting areas by mechanical means.
3.4.3.1 Shrub Selective Maintenance
In addition to the above requirements, shrubs shall be selectively pruned, and shaped for health and safety when
the following conditions exist: Remove growth in front of windows, over entrance ways or walks, and any growth
which will obstruct vision at street intersections or of security personnel; Remove dead, damaged or diseased
branches or limbs; where shrub growth obstructs pedestrian walkways; where shrub growth is found growing against
or over structures; where shrub growth permits concealment of unauthorized persons. All pruning debris shall
be disposed of in a proper manner.
3.4.3.2 Tree Maintenance
Tree maintenance shall include adjustment of stakes, ties, guy supports [and turnbuckles], watering, fertilizing,
pest control, mulching, pruning for health and safety [and fall leaf cleanup]. Fertilize exterior trees to promote
healthy plant growth without encouraging excessive top foliar growth. Stakes, ties, guy supports [and turnbuckles]
shall be inspected and adjusted to avoid girdling and promote natural development. All trees within the project
boundaries, regardless of caliper, shall be selectively pruned for safety and health reasons. These include but
are not limited to removal of dead and broken branches and correction of structural defects. Prune trees according
to their natural growth characteristics leaving trees well shaped and balanced. Pruning of all trees including
palm trees shall be accomplished by or in the presence of a certified member of the International Society of
Arboriculture and in accordance with ANSI Z133.1. All pruning debris generated shall be disposed of in a proper
manner.
[3.4.4 Slope Erosion Control Maintenance
The Contractor shall provide slope erosion control maintenance to prevent undermining of all slopes in [newly
landscaped] [and] [natural growth areas]. Maintenance tasks include immediate repairs to weak spots in sloped
areas, [and] [maintaining clean, clear [culverts,] and graded [berms,] [and] [terraces] to intercept and direct
water flow to prevent development of large gullies and slope erosion] [and] [during periods of extended rainfall,
irrigation systems shall be secured.] Eroded areas shall be filled with amended topsoil and replanted with the
same plant species. [Erosion control [netting] [blankets] damaged due to slope erosion shall be reinstalled.]
]3.4.5 Removal of Dying or Dead Plants
Remove dead and dying plants and provide new plants immediately upon commencement of the specified planting season,
and replace [stakes,] [guys,] mulch and eroded earth mound water basins. No additional plant establishment period
will be required for replacement plants beyond the original warranty period. A tree shall be considered dying
or dead when the main leader has died back, or a minimum of 20 percent of the crown has died. A shrub or ground
cover shall be considered dying or dead when a minimum of 20 percent of the plant has died. This condition shall
be determined by scraping on a branch an area 2 mm1/16 inch square, maximum, to determine the cause for dying
plant material and shall provide recommendations for replacement. The Contractor shall determine the cause for
dying plant material and provide recommendations for replacement.
3.4.6 Tracking of Unhealthy Plants
Note plants not in healthy growing condition, as determined by the Contracting Officer, and as soon as seasonal
conditions permit, remove and replace with plants of the same species and sizes as originally specified. Install
replacement plantings in accordance with Section 32 93 00 EXTERIOR PLANTS.
3.4.7 Final Inspection
Final inspection will be made upon written request from the Contractor at least 10 days prior to the last day
of the establishment period. Final inspection will be based upon satisfactory health and growth of plants and
on the following:
3.4.7.1 Total Plants on Site
Plants have been accepted and required number of replacements have been installed.
3.4.7.2 Mulching and Weeding
Planter beds and earth mound water basins are properly mulched and free of weeds.
[3.4.7.3 Tree Supports
[Stakes] [guys] guys and turnbuckles are in good condition.
]3.4.7.4 Remedial Work
Remedial measures directed by the Contracting Officer to ensure plant material survival and promote healthy growth
have been completed.
3.4.8 Unsatisfactory Work
When work is found to not meet design intent and specifications, maintenance period will be extended at no additional
cost to the Government until work has been completed, inspected and accepted by Contracting Officer.
3.5 FIELD QUALITY CONTROL
3.5.1 Maintenance Inspection Report
Provide maintenance inspection report to assure that landscape maintenance is being performed in accordance with
the specifications and in the best interest of plant growth and survivability. Site observations shall be documented
at the start of the establishment period, then quarterly following the start, and at the end of establishment
period. Results of site observation visits shall be submitted to the Contracting Officer within 7 calendar days
of each site observation visit.
[3.5.2 Plant Quantities
The Contractor shall provide Contracting Officer with the number of plant quantities. In addition, provide total
exterior area of hardscape and landscaping such as turf and total number of shrubs.
]3.5.3 Tree Staking and Guying Removal
The Contractor shall provide a certified letter that all stakes and guys are removed from all project trees at
the end of the establishment period.