Theory question 104
Crop Husbandry(a) Give four reasons why each of the following farm operations is important: (i) pruning of cocoa trees; (ii) parboiling of paddy rice.
(b) A farmer abandoned a plot of land due to low soil fertility. After three years, it was discovered that guinea grass has invaded the land. Suggest five ways by which the farmer can eradicate the grass.
(c) State five uses of ornamental plants.
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(a)(i) Pruning cocoa (any four): removes diseased and dead branches; lets in light and air, reducing black pod; shapes the tree for easy harvesting; removes chupons that waste food; improves pod yield.
(ii) Parboiling rice (any four): loosens the husk for milling; reduces breakage during milling; moves vitamins from bran into the grain; hardens grains against storage pests; improves keeping and cooking quality.
(b) Any five: slash and dig out the clumps/rhizomes; deep ploughing and harrowing to expose and dry roots; apply a systemic herbicide (e.g. glyphosate); repeated hoeing; plant a smothering cover crop; mulch heavily; burn the gathered debris; crop rotation with close planting.
(c) Any five: beautify homes and surroundings; hedges and fences; shade and windbreaks; erosion control; source of income; decorations and gifts; some are medicinal; reduce noise and dust.
Four points for each operation in (a).