Discover key facts about effective irrigation practices for pea crops to support healthy growth and yield. Explore how timing, techniques, and environmental factors influence water management in agricultural pea cultivation.
When is the most critical stage to provide irrigation to pea crops for maximum yield?
Explanation: The flowering and pod formation stage is crucial for pea yield, as water stress here can severely reduce production. While some water after sowing helps germination, it's not as critical as at flowering. At maturity, irrigation is not recommended due to risk of diseases. Seed storage is not related to field irrigation.
Which is a major advantage of using drip irrigation for peas over traditional surface irrigation methods?
Explanation: Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the root zone, conserving water and keeping foliage dry, which can reduce disease. Surface irrigation often wastes water through evaporation. Drip systems usually save labor, not increase it. While drip irrigation can help nutrient management, it does not guarantee higher nutrient concentration in peas.
What is a likely consequence of over-irrigating pea fields during growth?
Explanation: Over-irrigation can cause waterlogging, reducing oxygen availability and increasing root disease risk. It does not accelerate flowering, nor does it improve pest resistance. Uniform pod color relies on genetics and proper maturity, not excess irrigation.
If rainfall is expected in the next two days, what is the recommended approach to irrigating pea crops?
Explanation: Waiting for rainfall prevents overwatering and conserves both water and labor. Ignoring forecasts or doubling irrigation risks waterlogging. Ceasing irrigation for the entire season can harm crop growth, especially if the rainfall is insufficient.
Which type of soil most efficiently uses irrigation water for pea cultivation?
Explanation: Loamy soil efficiently holds moisture for plant roots while allowing excess water to drain, reducing risk of diseases. Clay soils can waterlog; sandy soils lose moisture too quickly. Saline soils can harm peas and reduce water absorption efficiency.