Describe how strong winds can influence crop production negatively - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1

Strong winds can have several detrimental effects on crop production. First, they can physically damage plants by uprooting them or breaking their stems and branches. This damage reduces the overall yield as some plants may not survive, while others might produce less fruit or flowers. Additionally, if the wind leads to more transpiration, crops may experience increased water loss, which can induce stress and further decrease production. Moreover, strong winds can interfere with the pollination process, reducing the likelihood of successful fertilization and, consequently, fruit set. Lastly, prolonged exposure to high winds can lead to smaller plant growth and abnormal development, ultimately reducing crop quality and yield.