Safeguarding Bhendi Quiz Quiz

Assess your understanding of effective bhendi (okra) plant protection strategies, from pest identification to appropriate control measures. This quiz covers core agricultural practices to maintain healthy bhendi crops.

1. Identifying the Shoot and Fruit Borer in Bhendi

   Which common symptom indicates a bhendi plant is infested by the shoot and fruit borer insect, often observed in fields during the flowering period?

   1. White powdery spots on leaves
   2. Wilting due to root tunneling
   3. Bores on young shoots and fruits with frass
   4. Leaf curling with black sooty mold

   Explanation: Shoot and fruit borer larvae bore into young shoots and fruits, leaving visible holes and frass (caterpillar excreta). Leaf curling with sooty mold is typical of aphid or whitefly infestations. Wilting due to root tunneling generally points to root borers or nematodes. White powdery spots are a sign of powdery mildew, a fungal disease, not an insect pest.

2. Managing Aphid Infestations in Bhendi

   When aphids are detected feeding on okra (bhendi) leaves and excreting honeydew, which cultural practice can help control their population?

   1. Spraying leaves with lime water
   2. Regular removal of infested plant parts
   3. Increasing field irrigation frequency
   4. Applying urea fertilizer heavily

   Explanation: Physically removing infested parts helps reduce aphid numbers and slow their spread. Increased irrigation does not control aphids and may promote fungal issues. Lime water is not a recognized method for aphid control. Excessive urea can make plants more succulent and attractive to aphids, worsening infestations.

3. Powdery Mildew Management in Bhendi Crops

   A farmer observes white powdery growth on bhendi leaves, particularly during dry weather. What primary method should be considered for managing powdery mildew?

   1. Increase nitrogen application to boost growth
   2. Flood the field to wash off spores
   3. Spray recommended fungicide at early symptom appearance
   4. Use insect traps throughout the crop

   Explanation: Applying fungicide at first sign of symptoms is a standard management step for powdery mildew. Flooding is ineffective and may harm the crop. Insect traps target insect pests, not fungal diseases. Increasing nitrogen can sometimes enhance disease susceptibility rather than protect against it.

4. Role of Crop Rotation in Disease Prevention

   Which one of the following crop rotation practices reduces the risk of soil-borne diseases in bhendi cultivation?

   1. Growing bhendi after another solanaceous crop
   2. Alternating bhendi with non-host crops like cereals
   3. Growing bhendi continuously for several seasons
   4. Intercropping bhendi with cucurbits every year

   Explanation: Rotating bhendi with non-host crops breaks pest and disease cycles. Continuous cultivation increases disease risk. Intercropping with cucurbits or following solanaceous crops can harbor similar pathogens or pests, so these are less effective for risk reduction.

5. Safe Pesticide Use in Bhendi Fields

   What important practice should be followed to ensure safe application of pesticides for bhendi pest control?

   1. Spray during windy afternoons for better coverage
   2. Apply twice the recommended dose for faster action
   3. Follow label instructions regarding dose and waiting period
   4. Harvest immediately after spraying

   Explanation: Following label directions ensures effectiveness and safety for crops, applicators, and consumers. Doubling the dose is unsafe and unnecessary. Spraying during windy times leads to drift and poor effectiveness. Harvesting just after spraying can result in produce with unsafe pesticide residues.