Crop Production and Management Flashcards

What is the purpose of a soil test before planting a cash crop?

Answer: Guide fertilizer and lime recommendations

Soil testing identifies nutrient levels and pH so farmers can apply the correct type and rate of fertilizer and lime for optimal crop production.

Which corn growth stage is characterized by the silks emerging from the ear?

Answer: R1

R1 is the silking stage in corn, when silks emerge from the husks and are ready for pollination.

What is the benefit of narrow row spacing (15 inches vs. 30 inches) in soybean production?

Answer: Faster canopy closure and weed suppression

Narrow rows allow soybean canopy to close faster, suppressing weeds and capturing more sunlight earlier in the season.

What does 'test weight' measure in grain marketing?

Answer: Weight per bushel volume (grain density)

Test weight measures the weight of a bushel of grain (lbs/bu), indicating grain density, quality, and often end-use value.

Which agronomic practice most directly increases water use efficiency in dryland farming?

Answer: Fallow periods and residue management

Strategic fallow periods and leaving crop residue on the surface help capture and retain precipitation for the subsequent crop.

What is the primary advantage of using certified seed over saved farm seed?

Answer: Guaranteed genetic purity, germination rate, and freedom from weed seeds

Certified seed is tested and guaranteed to meet standards for genetic purity, germination percentage, and freedom from noxious weed seeds.