Nutri-Wise Arecanut Quiz Quiz

Challenge your understanding of proper nutrient management practices in arecanut cultivation. This quiz covers fertilizer recommendations, nutrient deficiency symptoms, and best management strategies for healthy arecanut palms.

1. Recommended Basal Fertilizer Application

   What is the recommended annual basal dose of N:P2O5:K2O (kg/palm/year) for a mature arecanut palm in most Indian growing regions?

   1. 1.0:0.4:1.5
   2. 1.6:0.4:1.6
   3. 0.1:0.04:0.16
   4. 0.16:0.04:0.16

   Explanation: The recommended annual dose is 1.0 kg N, 0.4 kg P2O5, and 1.5 kg K2O per mature palm, based on research and regional soil responses. The other options either have incorrect nutrient ratios or are too low for mature plants; for example, 0.16:0.04:0.16 is below the recommended rate, and 1.6:0.4:1.6 is an unusually high dose not typically advised.

2. Symptom of Potassium Deficiency

   Which visible symptom is most typical of potassium deficiency in arecanut palms?

   1. Bronze-colored spots on the rachis
   2. Leaf tip necrosis on younger leaves
   3. Purpling of leaf bases
   4. Interveinal chlorosis in older leaves

   Explanation: Potassium deficiency in arecanut commonly appears as interveinal chlorosis on older leaves. Leaf tip necrosis on younger leaves is more typical of boron or calcium deficiency. Purpling of leaf bases is not a classic potassium symptom. Bronze-colored spots on the rachis are not specific to potassium shortage.

3. Timing of Fertilizer Application

   When is it best to apply fertilizers to arecanut palms to maximize nutrient uptake and efficiency?

   1. During peak rainy season
   2. Only in the dry season
   3. Twice a year at the onset and end of monsoon
   4. Every month regardless of weather

   Explanation: Splitting fertilizers into two applications, at the start and end of the monsoon, improves nutrient availability and reduces losses from runoff. Applying only during the dry season limits nutrient movement and root absorption. Monthly applications are inefficient and unnecessary. Peak rainy season applications risk leaching.

4. Micronutrient Management in Arecanut

   Which micronutrient, when deficient, is most likely to cause 'hook leaf' or distorted leaf tips in arecanut palms?

   1. Manganese
   2. Boron
   3. Zinc
   4. Copper

   Explanation: Boron deficiency is associated with 'hook leaf' symptoms and malformed leaves in arecanut. Zinc and manganese deficiencies generally lead to chlorosis and small leaves, while copper deficiency affects leaf color but rarely causes leaf tip distortion.

5. Role of Organic Manures

   Why is the application of organic manures like compost or farmyard manure important in the nutrient management of arecanut?

   1. They improve soil structure and supply macro- and micronutrients
   2. They supply only micronutrients
   3. They make the soil acidic
   4. They replace the need for all chemical fertilizers

   Explanation: Organic manures enhance soil structure, increase water retention, and provide a range of nutrients, supporting healthy root growth and microbial activity. They do not supply only micronutrients nor completely replace chemical fertilizers. They generally help buffer soil pH rather than acidify it excessively.