Challenge your understanding of ragi nutrient management with these medium-difficulty questions, covering critical agricultural practices for optimal growth and yield.
Which macronutrient is most commonly required in higher amounts for healthy ragi (finger millet) growth in soils low in organic content?
Explanation: Nitrogen is crucial for vegetative growth in ragi and often needs supplementation in low-organic soils. Potassium and calcium are also important, but generally required in smaller or more variable quantities. Sulfur is needed in lesser amounts compared to nitrogen for ragi.
When is the most effective time to apply the major portion of nitrogen fertilizer to a ragi field for optimal crop use?
Explanation: Split application of nitrogen at sowing and tillering supports better uptake and growth. Applying all at sowing risks loss through leaching and inefficient use. Before harvest or after flowering is too late, as the majority of plant growth has already occurred.
A farmer observes yellowing between the veins of young ragi leaves. This symptom most likely indicates a deficiency of which micronutrient?
Explanation: Iron deficiency typically causes interveinal chlorosis (yellowing between veins) in young leaves. Zinc and boron deficiencies show different symptoms, like stunted growth or malformed leaves. Magnesium deficiency generally affects older, not younger, leaves.
Incorporating farmyard manure (FYM) into ragi fields is recommended primarily because it:
Explanation: FYM enriches soil organic content, enhancing structure and slow nutrient release. It does not act as a herbicide or provide instant nutrients. Its effect on soil pH is mild and rarely causes significant acidity.
For medium fertility soils, what N:P:K (Nitrogen:Phosphorus:Potassium) application ratio is generally recommended for ragi per hectare?
Explanation: A 50:40:30 NPK ratio per hectare aligns with research-based recommendations for ragi on moderately fertile soils. Higher ratios like 100:60:40 or 80:80:80 may risk nutrient wastage, while 20:20:20 may be insufficient for optimal yield.