Explore essential knowledge about plant wound management in horticulture, covering causes, healing processes, and best care practices. Ideal for gardeners and aspiring horticulturists seeking fundamental plant care skills.
Which of the following is a common cause of plant wounds in horticultural settings?
Explanation: Pruning cuts are a frequent source of plant wounds as cutting branches or stems creates openings in the tissue. Daily watering does not cause physical injury, applying fertilizer mainly affects nutrient levels, and low humidity is primarily a stress factor, not a direct cause of wounds.
What is the first response a plant makes after being wounded?
Explanation: Plants typically respond to wounds by forming a protective barrier, such as callus tissue or resin, to prevent pathogen entry. Producing new flowers, growing roots, or releasing seeds are unrelated to the immediate wound response.
Which substance do many trees produce at wound sites to defend against pathogens?
Explanation: Resin is produced by many trees at wound sites to block pathogens and insects. Chlorophyll is a pigment for photosynthesis, starch is a storage carbohydrate, and auxin is a plant hormone, none of which act as a direct wound barrier.
Why is applying heavy wound dressings like tar generally not recommended for pruning cuts?
Explanation: Heavy dressings like tar may trap moisture, hindering natural healing and increasing decay risk. They do not improve sunlight exposure, leaf growth, or fruit flavor, which are unrelated to wound dressings.
Which practice helps minimize plant wounds during horticultural maintenance?
Explanation: Clean, sharp tools create precise cuts and reduce tissue damage, aiding faster healing. Pruning randomly, using rusty blades, or breaking stems increases injury and infection risk.