Boosting Cumin Yields Quiz Quiz

Explore the role of zinc sulphur application in cumin farming, including nutrient benefits, deficiency symptoms, application timing, and environmental considerations. Perfect for anyone interested in optimizing cumin crop production.

1. Recognizing Zinc Deficiency

   Which symptom most commonly indicates zinc deficiency in cumin plants?

   1. Leaf curling due to pest attack
   2. Wilting during hot afternoons
   3. Yellowing between leaf veins
   4. Purple stem coloration

   Explanation: Yellowing between leaf veins, called interveinal chlorosis, is a typical sign of zinc deficiency in cumin. Purple stem coloration is linked to phosphorus issues, leaf curling may result from pests or environmental stress, and wilting during hot afternoons primarily relates to water deficiency or heat stress, not zinc.

2. Zinc's Role in Plant Growth

   Why is zinc considered essential for cumin yield and quality?

   1. It eliminates all known pests naturally
   2. It replaces the need for nitrogen fertilization
   3. It acts as a major energy source for cells
   4. It activates plant enzymes and aids hormone production

   Explanation: Zinc promotes key enzyme function and hormonal balance, both critical for cumin growth and seed development. It does not serve as an energy source, cannot substitute for nitrogen fertilizers, and does not eradicate all pests.

3. Correct Application Timing

   When should zinc sulphur best be applied to cumin fields for optimal results?

   1. Right before harvest
   2. During land preparation before sowing
   3. After the first irrigation
   4. At the flowering stage only

   Explanation: Applying zinc sulphur during land preparation ensures uniform nutrient availability at early growth stages. Flowering or post-irrigation applications may be late, reducing benefits, and pre-harvest application is too late to affect yield.

4. Sulphur's Impact in Mixtures

   How does sulphur in a zinc sulphur mixture benefit cumin plants?

   1. It increases resistance to drought extreme events
   2. It neutralizes soil pH instantly
   3. It acts as the main phosphorus source
   4. It boosts oil content and helps protein synthesis

   Explanation: Sulphur is important for oil production and protein synthesis in cumin, enhancing crop quality. While it can slightly aid stress tolerance, it's not primary for drought, does not instantly neutralize soil pH, nor supply phosphorus.

5. Environmental Consideration

   What should farmers consider to avoid negative environmental impacts when applying zinc sulphur in cumin cultivation?

   1. Use only during rainy days for better absorption
   2. Mix with any pesticide for combined effect
   3. Apply at recommended rates to prevent runoff and buildup
   4. Increase doses to double for faster crop response

   Explanation: Using recommended rates avoids nutrient runoff and potential accumulation in soil, minimizing environmental risks. Doubling doses can harm soil and plants, rainy day applications increase runoff risk, and indiscriminate mixing with pesticides can cause chemical incompatibility.