Mastering Bordeaux Sprays Quiz Quiz

Discover essential facts about the use, preparation, and benefits of Bordeaux mixture in agricultural practices. Gain practical insights into how this classic fungicide protects crops and its correct application methods.

1. Purpose of Bordeaux Mixture

   Which primary agricultural problem is Bordeaux mixture commonly applied to prevent or control in crops?

   1. Soil erosion
   2. Insect infestations
   3. Fungal diseases
   4. Weed growth

   Explanation: Bordeaux mixture is primarily used to control fungal diseases in crops, making it effective against issues like downy mildew and blight. It does not target insect infestations, which require insecticides, nor is it used for weed control or for preventing soil erosion.

2. Main Ingredients

   What are the two essential chemical components combined to create Bordeaux mixture for field application?

   1. Iron oxide and gypsum
   2. Calcium nitrate and sulfur
   3. Sodium chloride and potassium
   4. Copper sulfate and lime

   Explanation: Bordeaux mixture is prepared by mixing copper sulfate and lime, which together form a potent fungicide. Calcium nitrate and sulfur, sodium chloride and potassium, or iron oxide and gypsum are not used to make Bordeaux mixture.

3. Preparation Process

   When preparing Bordeaux mixture on the farm, what is a basic safety step that should always be taken?

   1. Prepare the mixture only at night
   2. Always use iron utensils for mixing
   3. Wear protective gloves and goggles
   4. Mix hot water with chemicals

   Explanation: Protective gloves and goggles are essential when preparing Bordeaux mixture to prevent skin and eye irritation from the chemicals involved. Mixing with hot water, using iron utensils (which can react with the chemicals), or preparing only at night are not necessary or correct safety practices for this task.

4. Correct Application Timing

   At what stage should Bordeaux mixture generally be sprayed on crops for maximum effectiveness?

   1. During heavy rain
   2. Before disease symptoms appear
   3. At midday under full sun
   4. After harvest

   Explanation: Bordeaux mixture works best as a preventive spray, applied before disease symptoms appear, to protect plants from infection. Spraying after harvest, during heavy rain, or at midday when it is hot can reduce its effectiveness or harm plants.

5. Potential Drawback

   What is a common drawback of repeated Bordeaux mixture use in the same fields over several years?

   1. Stunted root elongation
   2. Rapid weed growth
   3. Decreased sunlight for plants
   4. Copper buildup in soil

   Explanation: Continuous use of Bordeaux mixture can lead to copper buildup in the soil, which may harm beneficial microorganisms and plant health over time. It does not directly cause rapid weed growth, decrease sunlight, or always stunt root elongation, though excessive copper can indirectly affect plant growth.