Sesamum Soil Savvy Quiz Quiz

Sharpen your understanding of nutrient management practices in sesamum cultivation and learn how soil health impacts oilseed yields. Explore best practices, fertilizer recommendations, and challenges unique to sesame farming.

1. Ideal Soil pH for Sesamum

   What is the optimal soil pH range for maximizing sesamum (sesame) growth and nutrient uptake?

   1. 6.0–7.5
   2. 4.5–5.5
   3. 5.5–6.0
   4. 7.8–8.5

   Explanation: Sesamum performs best in soils with a pH of 6.0–7.5, which allows for balanced nutrient availability. A lower pH like 4.5–5.5 makes some nutrients less accessible, while 7.8–8.5 may cause micronutrient deficiencies. pH 5.5–6.0 is slightly acidic but not ideal for optimal growth.

2. Nitrogen Requirement in Sesamum

   A farmer wants to apply the recommended nitrogen dose per hectare for sesamum; what is the most suitable amount?

   1. 70–90 kg/ha
   2. 100–120 kg/ha
   3. 30–40 kg/ha
   4. 10–15 kg/ha

   Explanation: Sesamum typically requires 30–40 kg nitrogen per hectare; higher amounts can cause excessive vegetative growth and lodging. 100–120 kg/ha is too high and usually reserved for more demanding crops. 70–90 kg/ha also exceeds the standard recommendation, while 10–15 kg/ha would be insufficient for optimal yield.

3. Significance of Phosphorus in Sesame

   Why is phosphorus application particularly important in sesame cultivation?

   1. It directly controls pest resistance.
   2. It delays flowering for higher biomass.
   3. It increases leaf turgor pressure.
   4. It promotes root development and improves seed setting.

   Explanation: Phosphorus enhances root growth and is critical for seed development in sesamum. Increasing leaf turgor is more related to water management. While nutrients affect plant health, phosphorus does not directly control pests. Delaying flowering is not desirable in sesamum and is not a phosphorus effect.

4. Micronutrient Deficiencies in Sesamum

   Which micronutrient deficiency is most commonly associated with reduced seed yield in sesame grown on alkaline soils?

   1. Calcium
   2. Sulfur
   3. Boron
   4. Zinc

   Explanation: Zinc deficiency is common in sesame on alkaline soils, often reducing yield and causing leaf symptoms. Calcium and sulfur deficiencies are less prevalent in alkaline soils for sesamum. Boron can be deficient in certain conditions but is not as consistently problematic as zinc.

5. Best Organic Amendment for Nutrient Retention

   Adding which organic amendment most effectively improves both nutrient retention and soil structure in sesamum fields?

   1. Fresh crop residues
   2. Well-decomposed farmyard manure
   3. Sawdust with no composting
   4. Inorganic urea

   Explanation: Well-decomposed farmyard manure increases organic matter, enhances nutrient retention, and improves soil structure. Fresh crop residues can tie up nitrogen and decompose slowly. Inorganic urea provides nitrogen but does not benefit soil structure. Uncomposted sawdust can immobilize nutrients and may harm seedling growth.