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In cereal production, farmers have a choice of sowing winter or spring varieties - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question Question 1 - 2008
Question Question 1
In cereal production, farmers have a choice of sowing winter or spring varieties. (a) Give any two disadvantages of sowing spring varieties. (b) Give two reasons w... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In cereal production, farmers have a choice of sowing winter or spring varieties - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question Question 1 - 2008
Step 1
Give any two disadvantages of sowing spring varieties.
Answer
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Weather Conditions: Sowing spring varieties can be susceptible to weather conditions that may delay cultivation. For instance, wet conditions can hinder timely sowing, leading to reduced yield.
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Growing Season: The growing season is shorter for spring varieties compared to winter varieties. This can limit yield potential, especially if conditions are less than optimal during the growing season.
Step 2
Give two reasons why winter varieties are sown.
Answer
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Longer Growing Season: Winter varieties have a longer growing season which allows for higher yields to be harvested in favorable weather.
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Less Labor Pressure: Farmers face less labor pressure in spring, as they are under greater constraints in the autumn months when winter cereals are generally planted.
Step 3
What are the main benefits of sowing certified seed?
Answer
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High Purity and Quality: Certified seeds are often free of weed seeds and are of high purity, which contributes to better crop establishment and performance.
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Disease Resistance: Certified seeds are generally treated for disease and may be bred specifically for resistance against certain pests and diseases, leading to healthier crops.
Step 4
Name one pest of cereal crops. Explain how it affects the plant and how it is controlled.
Answer
One pest of cereal crops is the wireworm.
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Effect on Plant: Wireworms damage roots, which can lead to poor plant establishment and reduce overall yield by impairing the plant’s ability to take up nutrients and water.
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Control Methods: Control measures include using traps to monitor wireworm populations, crop rotation, and applying insecticides when necessary to manage their population.
Step 5
Describe three procedures followed to ensure proper storage of cereal grain.
Answer
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Proper Drying: Before storage, grains should be dried to a safe moisture level to prevent mold growth and spoilage.
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Ventilation: Ensuring adequate airflow in storage facilities helps to maintain low humidity levels and prevents moisture buildup which can lead to spoilage.
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Regular Inspection: Routine inspection of stored grain allows for early detection of pests or spoilage, enabling timely action to protect the stored grain.
Step 6