Discover key insights into effective water management practices for cumin crops. Improve your agricultural strategies by understanding crucial aspects of cumin irrigation.
Which irrigation practice is generally recommended for cumin cultivation to enhance yield while minimizing disease risk?
Explanation: Irrigating cumin at critical growth stages like germination, flowering, and seed formation helps maximize yields and reduce disease risk because cumin is sensitive to excessive moisture. Daily or flood irrigation typically leads to waterlogging or disease. Overhead irrigation can promote foliar diseases by wetting foliage excessively.
Approximately how much total water (in mm) is usually needed by cumin throughout its growth period under typical field conditions?
Explanation: The total water requirement for cumin is generally in the range of 200–250 mm, which supports healthy growth without causing waterlogging. 500–600 mm and 900–1000 mm are too high for this drought-tolerant crop, while 50–75 mm is usually insufficient for a full season.
What is a likely consequence of over-irrigating cumin fields, especially in poorly drained soils?
Explanation: Over-irrigation can lead to waterlogged conditions, making cumin roots susceptible to rot and fungal diseases. Larger seed size and faster maturity are not typically associated with overwatering, and excessive moisture actually reduces, rather than increases, drought tolerance.
Which irrigation method is recommended for cumin to lower the risk of foliar diseases?
Explanation: Furrow irrigation delivers water to the base of the plants, reducing foliar wetting and lowering disease risk. Overhead and drip onto leaves both wet aboveground plant parts, which can worsen disease, while flood irrigation increases the risk of root diseases.
Which symptom most reliably indicates water stress in cumin plants during flowering?
Explanation: Water stress during flowering in cumin is marked by wilting and the dropping of flowers, directly impacting yield. Yellow seed color is more related to maturity, thick stems and large leaves do not indicate water deficiency, and may result from other factors.