Crop Production I - JSS2 Agricultural science Past Questions and Answers - page 2

Land preparation is crucial in crop production as it creates an optimal environment for seed germination, root development, and nutrient absorption. Proper land preparation involves activities such as ploughing, harrowing, and levelling, which help break up soil compaction, improve soil aeration, and facilitate water infiltration. This promotes seed-to-soil contact, allowing seeds to germinate efficiently.

Water management plays a critical role in crop production as it directly influences plant growth, development, and yield. Providing an optimal amount of water ensures that crops receive sufficient moisture for metabolic processes like photosynthesis, transpiration, and nutrient uptake. Water deficiency can lead to stunted growth, reduced yields, and even crop failure, while excess water can cause root suffocation, waterlogging, and nutrient leaching.

Seed selection is a critical aspect of crop production, with factors such as seed viability, purity, and disease resistance playing key roles in successful crop cultivation. Seed viability refers to the ability of seeds to germinate and produce healthy plants under favourable conditions, ensuring a high germination rate and uniform crop establishment. Seed purity ensures that seeds are free from contaminants, ensuring genetic integrity and uniformity in crop characteristics. Disease-resistant seeds contain genetic traits that protect plants from common pathogens, reducing the risk of crop loss due to diseases.

Weed control is essential in crop production as weeds compete with crops for resources such as sunlight, water, and nutrients, reducing crop yields and quality. Effective weed control methods, including mechanical, cultural, and chemical techniques, help prevent weed interference and minimise crop yield losses. Mechanical methods such as hand weeding and cultivation physically remove weeds from the field, while cultural practices like crop rotation and mulching suppress weed growth and promote crop competitiveness. Chemical weed control involves the use of herbicides to selectively target and control weeds while minimising crop damage.

Crop husbandry practices play a crucial role in maintaining crop health and productivity in agriculture. Practices such as proper crop rotation, timely planting, and balanced fertilisation promote soil fertility, nutrient availability, and overall plant vigour, reducing susceptibility to pests and diseases. Pest and disease control measures, including cultural, biological, and chemical methods, help manage pest populations and reduce disease incidence, minimising crop damage and yield losses.