Assess your understanding of essential fertilization practices in cumin cultivation, covering nutrients, application timing, and soil management. Explore best practices to support healthy cumin crop growth.
Which nutrient is most commonly supplemented to increase cumin seed yield in nutrient-poor soils?
Explanation: Nitrogen is vital for vegetative growth and seed production in cumin, especially in soils that lack fertility. Calcium and chlorine are essential in much smaller quantities, while aluminum is not used as a fertilizer nutrient. Boosting nitrogen typically results in more abundant foliage and seed yield.
When is the most effective time to apply half of the recommended nitrogen fertilizer to cumin?
Explanation: Applying half the nitrogen at sowing supports robust initial plant development. The other options occur either too late for maximum uptake (after flowering, during harvest), or do not align with the crop's early nutrient needs (after the first irrigation).
What is the primary benefit of applying potassium to cumin crops?
Explanation: Potassium improves disease resistance and overall plant vigor, crucial for healthy cumin crops. Enhanced seed color is not a main function, improved insect pollination is not directly related, and potassium does not slow germination.
For optimal fertilizer uptake, what is the preferred soil pH range for cumin?
Explanation: Cumin grows best with a neutral to slightly alkaline soil pH (6.5–7.5), which aids nutrient absorption. The other options are either too acidic or too alkaline, which can harm cumin and reduce fertilizer efficiency.
Why is farmyard manure often recommended as a basal fertilizer for cumin?
Explanation: Farmyard manure provides gradual nutrient release and enhances soil physical properties. It is not primarily used to directly deter pests, does not directly influence seed size, and does not excessively accelerate flowering.