Explore important facts about seasonal crop sowing in agriculture, focusing on what, how, and why certain crops are planted in January across different regions.
Which of the following crops is commonly sown in January as a Rabi crop in many regions?
Explanation: Wheat is a typical Rabi (winter) crop sown in January in many countries with suitable climates. Rice is usually sown during warmer monsoon seasons, cotton is typically a summer crop, and soybean is generally planted in late spring or early summer.
Why is it ideal to sow certain cereal crops like barley in January?
Explanation: Barley and other cereals thrive when sown in cool, moist conditions typical of January in temperate regions. Hot, dry conditions and heavy monsoon rains do not support their early growth, while frozen soil can actually prevent seed germination.
In northern regions with frost, which crop is least likely to be sown outdoors in January?
Explanation: Maize requires warmer temperatures and is sensitive to frost, making it unsuitable for outdoor sowing in cold January climates. Oats, chickpea, and mustard tolerate cooler conditions and are more commonly sown in winter.
What is a common seed treatment applied before sowing wheat in January to improve crop health?
Explanation: Fungicide coating helps prevent seedborne diseases that thrive in cool, moist January soils. Simply exposing seeds to sunlight or using only rainwater soaking does not effectively target pathogens, and skipping treatment increases risk of crop failure.
What is one main benefit of sowing Rabi crops like chickpea at the appropriate time in January?
Explanation: Sowing chickpea in January allows plants to utilize available winter moisture for optimal growth, leading to higher yields. Reduced sunlight is not beneficial, timely sowing usually decreases pest pressure, and immediate harvesting is not possible as crops need months to mature.