Boosting Bengal Gram: Fertilizer Facts Quiz Quiz

Sharpen your understanding of effective fertilizer management for Bengal gram cultivation. Explore nutrient needs, timing, and application techniques crucial for optimal yields.

1. Nitrogen Requirements in Bengal Gram

   Which of the following best describes the nitrogen needs of Bengal gram (chickpea) during cultivation?

   1. Nitrogen fertilizers should be applied only after flowering.
   2. Bengal gram requires heavy nitrogen fertilization at sowing for best results.
   3. Bengal gram fixes most of its nitrogen through symbiotic bacteria, requiring minimal nitrogen fertilizer application.
   4. Bengal gram benefits equally from urea and potash applied together at high rates.

   Explanation: Bengal gram, a legume, fixes atmospheric nitrogen through root nodules, so high nitrogen fertilization is unnecessary. Heavy fertilization wastes resources and may hinder nodulation. Applying nitrogen only after flowering overlooks early crop needs. Potash and urea have different roles, and applying both together at high rates is inefficient.

2. Phosphorus Application Timing

   At what stage is phosphorus fertilizer most effectively applied to Bengal gram crops?

   1. During crop harvest.
   2. Only after pod formation.
   3. As a foliar spray during flowering.
   4. At sowing, incorporated into the soil.

   Explanation: Phosphorus is most beneficial when applied at sowing, as it supports early root development and crop establishment. Applying it as a foliar spray or after pod formation is less efficient since phosphorus uptake early on is critical. Application during harvest is too late to affect yield.

3. Micronutrient Deficiency Symptoms

   A Bengal gram crop shows interveinal chlorosis on young leaves. Which micronutrient is most likely deficient?

   1. Iron
   2. Nitrogen
   3. Calcium
   4. Potassium

   Explanation: Interveinal chlorosis on young leaves is a classic symptom of iron deficiency. Potassium deficiency usually causes marginal scorching, nitrogen deficiency affects older leaves, and calcium deficiency manifests in new growth but with different symptoms.

4. Potash Usage in Bengal Gram

   Which statement about potash (potassium) application in Bengal gram is CORRECT?

   1. Potash is recommended if soil test indicates deficiency.
   2. Potash is not required at any stage of Bengal gram growth.
   3. Potash should be applied only after harvest.
   4. All Bengal gram crops need high doses of potash regardless of soil type.

   Explanation: Potash should be applied based on soil test recommendations; unnecessary application wastes resources. Not all soils require potash supplementation, and applying it after harvest is ineffective. Saying it's never required ignores variable soil needs.

5. Biofertilizer Use in Bengal Gram

   What is the main benefit of using Rhizobium biofertilizer when sowing Bengal gram?

   1. Provides protection against insect pests.
   2. Acts as a weed suppressant in the field.
   3. Directly supplies phosphorus to the crop.
   4. Enhances root nodulation and atmospheric nitrogen fixation.

   Explanation: Rhizobium biofertilizer aids root nodulation and nitrogen fixation, reducing the need for synthetic nitrogen fertilizers. It does not supply phosphorus, nor does it protect against pests or control weeds.