Deepen your understanding of sapota (chikoo) cultivation with this quiz on essential nutrition, fertilizer management, and soil health. This set covers key nutritional requirements and practical field scenarios for effective horticultural practices.
Which primary nutrient is required in the largest quantity for healthy growth and fruit development of sapota plants?
Explanation: Nitrogen is vital for vegetative growth and is needed most during early stages. Potassium is also important but mainly for fruit quality, not initial growth. Phosphorus supports root development but not as abundantly as nitrogen. Calcium, though essential, is required in smaller quantities.
A sapota orchard shows yellowing between the veins of younger leaves. Which micronutrient is most likely deficient?
Explanation: Iron deficiency typically causes interveinal chlorosis in young leaves, a common symptom in sapota. Magnesium deficiency affects older leaves first, not younger ones. Zinc and copper deficiencies present differently, often with stunted growth or distorted leaves.
Applying well-rotted farmyard manure (FYM) annually in a sapota orchard primarily improves which aspect of the soil?
Explanation: FYM enhances soil structure and supports beneficial microbes, leading to better nutrient availability. While it slightly adds to potassium, its main role is not an immediate nutrient supply. FYM generally does not raise soil pH or directly cause soil compaction.
For mature sapota trees, the majority of annual fertilizer is best applied at which stage for optimal nutrient uptake?
Explanation: Applying fertilizers pre-monsoon ensures nutrients are available when sapota growth resumes with rains. After fruit harvest and during flowering, nutrient demand is lower. Mid-winter application is not effective due to slow uptake in cool conditions.
Leaf analysis from a mature sapota tree shows consistently low potassium levels. Which management step is most appropriate?
Explanation: Applying muriate of potash supplies potassium, correcting the deficiency. Extra nitrogen will not address low potassium and may create imbalance. Reducing irrigation does not help with nutrient supply, and lime is mainly for pH correction, not potassium.