Explore key factors that impact mustard crop growth, from soil conditions to pest management, and sharpen your knowledge for better agricultural outcomes.
Which soil type provides optimal conditions for mustard crop growth and highest yield?
Explanation: Well-drained loamy soil supplies good aeration and moisture retention, fostering healthy mustard growth. Heavy clay may cause waterlogging, sandy soil lacks nutrients and water retention, and saline-alkaline soil can hinder plant development due to excessive salts.
In northern India, which is the most suitable period for sowing mustard seeds to maximize crop yield?
Explanation: Sowing in mid-October to mid-November ensures cooler conditions needed for mustard emergence and avoids late-season pests. Sowing in December-January or March is either too late or early, while June-July coincides with unsuitable monsoon conditions.
Which nutrient must be sufficiently available in soil to support strong mustard crop growth and seed development?
Explanation: Sulphur ensures proper oil content and healthy seed formation in mustard. Boron is needed in small quantities, but not as critically as sulphur. Chlorine and aluminium are not primary requirements and can even be toxic in high concentrations.
At which stage does the mustard crop require the most careful irrigation management for optimal yield?
Explanation: Irrigation at flowering and pod formation directly impacts seed setting and yield. Seedling emergence needs moist soil but is less critical, harvesting does not require irrigation, and stubble burning is unrelated to plant growth stages.
Which common fungal disease can significantly reduce mustard crop yields if left unmanaged?
Explanation: White rust is a major disease in mustard, affecting leaves and pods. Powdery mildew can occur but is less damaging, while rice blast and red rot affect other crops such as rice and sugarcane, not mustard.