Sugarcane Weed Warriors Quiz Quiz

Challenge your understanding of effective weed control strategies in sugarcane cultivation, including timing, methods, and impacts on crop yield. This quiz covers identification, management, and best practices for maintaining weed-free sugarcane fields.

1. Critical Period of Weed Control

   During which stage is the critical period of weed control most important for sugarcane to avoid significant yield loss?

   1. Last 30 days before harvest
   2. At the time of flowering
   3. During ratoon initiation
   4. First 90 days after planting

   Explanation: The first 90 days after planting is the critical period for weed control in sugarcane, as competition from weeds during this time can drastically reduce yields. The last 30 days before harvest have less impact, and controlling weeds only at flowering or ratoon initiation misses the most sensitive phase. Early control sets the foundation for healthy crop establishment.

2. Mechanical Weed Control

   Which of the following mechanical weed control methods is commonly used in sugarcane fields to manage weeds between crop rows?

   1. Flood irrigation
   2. Broadcast burning
   3. Inter-row cultivation with a hoe
   4. Aerial spraying

   Explanation: Inter-row cultivation with a hoe is commonly practiced to manage weeds between sugarcane rows, disrupting their growth. Broadcast burning and aerial spraying are not standard mechanical methods, and flood irrigation is mainly for watering, not direct weed control.

3. Pre-emergence Herbicide Use

   What is the main advantage of using pre-emergence herbicides in sugarcane weed management?

   1. They increase the sweetness of cane juice
   2. They instantly kill all pests
   3. They fertilize the soil directly
   4. They prevent weed seed germination before emergence

   Explanation: Pre-emergence herbicides form a barrier in the soil that stops weed seeds from sprouting, reducing early competition. They do not affect cane juice sweetness, do not function as pest killers, and do not act as fertilizers.

4. Impact of Weeds on Sugarcane Yield

   If weeds are not controlled in a newly planted sugarcane field, what is the most likely consequence?

   1. Enhanced pest resistance in the crop
   2. Increased number of tillers
   3. Significant reduction in sugarcane yield
   4. Improved soil fertility

   Explanation: Uncontrolled weeds compete for nutrients, water, and sunlight, significantly reducing sugarcane yield. Weeds do not increase soil fertility, pest resistance, or tiller count in the crop.

5. Integrating Cultural Practices

   Which cultural practice helps suppress weed growth naturally in sugarcane fields?

   1. Spraying chemical fertilizers
   2. Delaying field irrigation
   3. Using high plant population density
   4. Applying cane trash after harvest

   Explanation: Planting sugarcane at high density shades the soil surface, naturally suppressing weed expansion. Chemical fertilizers do not target weeds directly, delayed irrigation can stress the crop, and cane trash application is more related to mulching than population density.