Explore essential knowledge about irrigating pea crops efficiently, including methods, timing, and soil considerations. Ideal for learners, growers, and anyone interested in sustainable pea cultivation.
At which growth stage is irrigation most critical for pea crops to ensure high yield?
Explanation: Irrigation during the flowering stage is vital because peas are most sensitive to water stress at this time, directly affecting pod development and yield. While seedlings need moisture, they are less sensitive; harvesting and dormancy do not require significant irrigation, as plants have already matured or ceased growth.
Which soil type generally requires more frequent irrigation when growing peas?
Explanation: Sandy soils drain water quickly and have low water retention, necessitating frequent irrigation for pea crops. Clay soils hold water longer, loamy soils offer balanced retention, and gravelly soils are not typically used for peas due to poor fertility and water-holding capacity.
Which irrigation method is considered most efficient for conserving water and reducing disease risk in pea cultivation?
Explanation: Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the root zone, minimizing evaporation and leaf wetness, which helps prevent diseases. Flood and surface irrigation waste more water and can favor disease development, while sprinkler methods can increase foliar diseases in peas.
Which is a common visible sign of water stress in pea plants during dry periods?
Explanation: Wilting leaves are a typical early symptom of water stress in peas, indicating insufficient soil moisture. Purple flowers and yellow pods are not direct indicators of water stress, and while deeper roots can help plants access water, they are not a visible sign.
What is a potential negative effect of over-irrigating pea crops?
Explanation: Over-irrigation can lead to waterlogged soils, creating conditions for root rot, which damages plants. Increased flowering, better taste, and faster germination are not typical outcomes of excessive watering, and may even be negatively impacted by it.