Lay Out a Crop-Specific Planting Plan

Curriculum skill focus: Spatial awareness, functional measurement, problem-solving, transplanting

01 · Learning

Objectives

• Find the spacing information for an identified crop and growing method, or identify that it is missing.
• Measure or direct measurement between planting centers using a consistent unit.
• Follow a place–cover–water sequence when a real transplant and its instructions are confirmed.

02 · Preparation

Materials

Equal numbers of large plant models or empty pots; two trays; ruler or marked spacing strip; the selected crop’s seed packet or growing guide; removable markers; usual AAC. Optional identified approved seedlings, suitable potting mix, blunt scoop and small watering cup.

03 · Practice

Adult project

1. 1

   Name the intended crop, variety and growing method, then find the relevant spacing instruction on its packet or guide. If the information is unavailable, use models only and record what must be checked before real planting.

2. 2

   Compare two arrangements with the same number of models: one crowded and one with more room. Discuss access to light, water, nutrients and growing space without assuming the wider arrangement is the correct distance for every crop.

3. 3

   Read and record the selected guide’s distance in a single unit. Demonstrate measuring from one planting center to the next, and mark the first positions with dots or a prepared strip.

4. 4

   Place or direct the placement of models at the marks. Check two gaps using the same unit, adjust positions as needed and label the layout with the crop and the reference used.

5. 5

   If a real transplant is identified, approved and suitable, follow its planting-depth guidance: place the root ball, cover as appropriate and water according to the plant’s needs. Otherwise rehearse the sequence with empty pots and retain the plan for later use.

6. 6

   Inspect the finished layout and explain one choice that came from the crop guide. Record any unresolved depth, spacing or access question, return tools, contain soil and wash hands after handling.

Participation by choice

Individual access options

• Use empty pots and a dry tabletop layout instead of soil or live plants; direct placement if handling is not preferred.
• Use a prepared spacing strip, large center markers or spoken measurements while retaining the crop-specific distance and chosen unit.
• Choose measuring, marking, checking or directing as your role, with seated access and usual AAC; support can differ at each step.

Review & transfer

Reflect on the work

• Where did the spacing instruction come from, and where did you measure the gap?
• What would you need to change if the crop, variety or growing method changed?