Assess your knowledge on the growth factors, management practices, and agricultural factors influencing Bengal Gram yields. This medium-difficulty quiz covers cultivation requirements, pest control, and crop management strategies.
Which type of soil is most suitable for maximizing Bengal Gram growth under typical agricultural conditions?
Explanation: Sandy loam is ideal for Bengal Gram because it provides good drainage and optimal root development. Clayey soils retain too much water, increasing risk of root diseases. Saline soils negatively affect germination and crop growth, while peaty soils are usually too acidic and waterlogged.
When is irrigation most critical for Bengal Gram development to achieve higher yields?
Explanation: Irrigation during flowering and pod formation is essential because it directly influences seed setting and yield. Only irrigating at sowing helps germination but not pod development. After harvesting, irrigation has no effect, and during late vegetative stage alone, the crop may not meet its full yield potential.
Which nutrient should be specially applied to Bengal Gram fields with low soil fertility to promote optimal growth?
Explanation: Phosphorus boosts root and nodule formation, which is critical for legumes like Bengal Gram, especially in low-fertility soils. Magnesium is less frequently deficient, zinc is needed in trace amounts, and sulphur, while beneficial, is secondary compared to phosphorus for Bengal Gram.
Which pest is a major threat to Bengal Gram crops during the pod formation stage?
Explanation: Pod borer feeds on developing seeds inside pods, causing significant yield loss. Stem weevil mainly affects stems, termites target underground parts, and aphids, while sap-suckers, are usually of lesser impact during pod formation than pod borers.
Why is Bengal Gram often grown in rotation with cereals such as wheat or rice in agricultural systems?
Explanation: As a legume, Bengal Gram fixes atmospheric nitrogen, enhancing soil fertility for subsequent cereal crops. Crop rotation does not directly affect waterlogging or sunlight exposure, and while overall resilience can improve, rotation alone does not prevent drought.