Mango Booster Quiz Quiz

Enhance your understanding of effective mango fertilization practices in horticulture. Learn how nutrients and timing impact healthy mango growth and fruit production.

1. Primary Nutrient for Early Mango Growth

   Which nutrient is most essential for the initial vegetative growth phase in mango trees?

   1. Potassium
   2. Zinc
   3. Nitrogen
   4. Magnesium

   Explanation: Nitrogen is crucial for vegetative growth, promoting healthy leaf and shoot development in mango trees. Potassium supports fruit quality rather than early growth. Magnesium is vital for chlorophyll but less influential at this phase. Zinc, although necessary, aids in hormone regulation more than primary biomass production.

2. Timing of Fertilizer Application

   When is the most appropriate time to apply the main dose of fertilizers to mango trees for optimal fruiting?

   1. Just before flowering
   2. After fruit harvest
   3. During flowering
   4. At fruit ripening

   Explanation: Applying fertilizers just before flowering ensures essential nutrients are available during fruit set and development. Applying after harvest or at fruit ripening is too late to influence yield. During flowering, root uptake is reduced, making it a less optimal time.

3. Nutrient Deficiency Symptoms in Mango

   Yellowing of mango leaves with green veins is most likely a deficiency of which nutrient?

   1. Sulfur
   2. Boron
   3. Iron
   4. Calcium

   Explanation: Interveinal chlorosis, or yellowing between green veins, commonly indicates iron deficiency in mango leaves. Calcium deficiency leads to death of growing tips. Boron shortages affect flower and fruit development, while sulfur deficiency results in uniform overall yellowing.

4. Fertilizer Split Application

   Why is it recommended to split the total fertilizer dose into two or more applications during the mango growth cycle?

   1. To prevent pest infestation
   2. To enhance nutrient uptake and reduce loss
   3. Because mango trees grow only in winter
   4. To increase soil acidity

   Explanation: Splitting fertilizer improves plant nutrient access and minimizes losses from leaching or volatilization. Mango trees do not restrict growth to just winter. Increasing soil acidity is not the goal, and fertilizer application alone does not directly prevent pest infestation.

5. Organic vs. Chemical Fertilizers

   What is one benefit of using organic fertilizers such as farmyard manure for mango trees?

   1. Is always pest-free
   2. Improves soil structure
   3. Acts as an instant nutrient source
   4. Requires no mixing before use

   Explanation: Organic fertilizers add organic matter, enhancing soil structure and moisture retention. They release nutrients slowly, instead of being instant sources. They may sometimes carry pests, and usually require mixing or composting before safe use.