Explore the essential soil requirements for successful cumin cultivation, including texture, fertility, drainage, and pH preferences. Test your understanding of key factors influencing cumin yield and health.
Which type of soil texture is most suitable for growing cumin crops to promote healthy root development and yield?
Explanation: Sandy loam soils are preferred for cumin as they offer good drainage and aeration, supporting healthy root growth. Clay soils retain excess water, which can harm cumin. Silty clay is often too dense, and peat is too acidic and moisture-retentive for this crop.
In which pH range does cumin grow best for optimal nutrient availability and plant health?
Explanation: Cumin thrives in slightly alkaline to neutral soils with a pH of 6.8–8.3, which aids in nutrient uptake. Extremely acidic (4.0–5.0, 5.1–6.0) or highly alkaline (8.5–9.5) conditions can reduce nutrient availability and hinder cumin growth.
Why is good soil drainage important for cumin cultivation?
Explanation: Cumin is sensitive to waterlogging, which can cause root rot and spread soilborne fungi. Compaction and constant shade do not benefit cumin, and waterlogged conditions actually harm this crop rather than support it.
Which soil fertility condition most benefits cumin cultivation for robust growth and seed production?
Explanation: Cumin prefers moderately fertile soils with lower nitrogen, as too much nitrogen promotes leafy growth instead of seeds. Extremely poor soils lack nutrients, while high nitrogen and excessive organic matter can encourage diseases.
A farmer is planning to grow cumin but the field is heavy clay with poor drainage. What is the main problem with this soil for cumin?
Explanation: Heavy clay soils tend to retain excess moisture, leading to waterlogging that damages cumin roots. Cumin does not require acidic peat, heavy clay does not improve flavor, and the crop does not prefer high salinity.