Agronomy Crop Production and Management 2

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of crop rotation in agronomic systems?

Accepted Answer

Break pest and disease cycles and improve soil health

Answer

Rotating crops disrupts the life cycles of pathogens, insects, and weeds that are host-specific, while diversifying soil nutrient demands.

Question 2

Which soybean growth stage is most critical for final yield determination?

Accepted Answer

R5 (beginning seed fill)

Answer

The R5 stage (beginning seed fill) is most critical because seed size and number are being determined, directly setting final yield.

Question 3

What does the term 'vernalization' mean in crop production?

Accepted Answer

Cold temperature requirement for flowering

Answer

Vernalization is the process by which certain crops require exposure to extended cold temperatures before they can flower and set seed.

Question 4

Which nutrient is most commonly applied as starter fertilizer placed near the seed at planting?

Accepted Answer

Phosphorus

Answer

Phosphorus starter fertilizer placed near the seed promotes early root development and seedling vigor, especially in cold soils.

Question 5

The harvest index (HI) of a crop is defined as what?

Accepted Answer

Ratio of grain yield to total above-ground biomass

Answer

Harvest index is the proportion of total above-ground dry matter that is in the economically valuable grain portion.

Agronomy Practice Test