Perfect Timing for Peas Quiz Quiz

Discover essential facts about optimal irrigation practices for pea crops, including timing, methods, and impact on growth. This quiz covers key aspects to help ensure healthy peas and efficient water use.

1. When is the most critical stage for irrigating pea plants?

   During which growth stage do peas need the most careful irrigation to maximize yield and pod formation?

   1. After harvesting
   2. Seedling emergence stage
   3. Late maturity stage
   4. Flowering and pod filling stage

   Explanation: The flowering and pod filling stage is critical because water stress here can significantly reduce pod set and seed development. While seedling emergence needs water too, it is less sensitive than flowering. Irrigation during late maturity or after harvesting has minimal benefit, as plants require less water at these stages.

2. What is a sign that pea plants may need irrigation?

   Which observable sign on pea plants suggests it is time to irrigate in the absence of recent rainfall?

   1. Wilting leaves during midday
   2. Yellowing lower leaves caused by aging
   3. Pods fully dried on the plant
   4. New shoot growth

   Explanation: Wilting leaves, especially at midday, indicate water stress and the need for irrigation. New shoots suggest healthy growth, not a need for water. Yellowing lower leaves can be natural aging rather than drought. Fully dried pods mean the plant is at harvest, past irrigation requirements.

3. Which irrigation method is generally most efficient for pea cultivation?

   Among common techniques, which irrigation method is considered water-efficient and gentle for pea fields?

   1. Overhead sprinklers
   2. Submergence irrigation
   3. Drip irrigation
   4. Flood irrigation

   Explanation: Drip irrigation delivers water directly to roots, reducing waste and foliar diseases. Flood irrigation uses more water and increases the risk of fungal problems. Overhead sprinklers can wet foliage unnecessarily, while submergence irrigation is not suitable for peas as it can harm their growth.

4. How often should peas generally be irrigated in well-drained soils during dry spells?

   If rainfall is absent and soil drains well, how frequently is irrigation usually recommended for actively growing peas?

   1. Once every 7–10 days
   2. Twice a season only
   3. Only at harvest
   4. Every day

   Explanation: Irrigating once every 7–10 days maintains optimal soil moisture without overwatering. Daily irrigation can lead to waterlogging. Only irrigating twice a season or at harvest misses critical moisture periods and can limit yield.

5. What risk is increased by excessive irrigation of pea crops?

   Overwatering peas can lead to which significant problem affecting plant health and yield?

   1. Faster pod drying
   2. Root rot and disease outbreak
   3. Increased photosynthesis
   4. Better drought resistance

   Explanation: Too much water can create conditions for root rot and opportunistic fungi to thrive, harming pea roots. Overwatering does not improve drought resistance, speed up pod drying, or increase photosynthesis. Instead, it can reduce plant vigor and yield.