Horticulture Practices & Plant Health Flashcards

What is the goal of integrated pest management (IPM)?

Answer: Balancing pest control with minimal environmental impact

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) aims to control pest populations using a combination of methods, including biological, cultural, physical, and chemical strategies. The goal is to achieve effective pest control while minimizing risks to human health, beneficial organisms, and the environment.

Which factor is essential for healthy plant root development?

Answer: Adequate oxygen and drainage

Healthy plant root development relies heavily on adequate oxygen and proper drainage. Roots need oxygen for respiration, and well-drained soil prevents waterlogging, which can suffocate roots and lead to rot, ensuring they can effectively absorb water and nutrients.

Why is pruning important in horticulture?

Answer: It enhances health and structure

Pruning is essential for enhancing a plant's health and structural integrity. By removing dead, diseased, or overcrowded branches, pruning improves air circulation, light penetration, and redirects energy to stronger growth, promoting overall vigor and often improving flowering or fruiting.

Which nutrient primarily supports leaf growth in plants?

Answer: Nitrogen

Nitrogen is a primary macronutrient vital for vigorous vegetative growth, particularly in leaves and stems. It is a key component of chlorophyll, essential for photosynthesis, and proteins, which are fundamental for plant structure and function.

What is a symptom of fungal plant disease?

Answer: Leaf spots or powdery mildew

Fungal plant diseases often manifest with distinct visual symptoms on plant foliage. Common indicators include leaf spots, which are discolored lesions, or powdery mildew, appearing as a white, powdery coating on leaves and stems, both of which can impair plant health.

Which method conserves soil moisture and prevents weed growth?

Answer: Mulching

Mulching involves applying a layer of material over the soil surface, which is highly effective in conserving soil moisture. This layer reduces evaporation and also suppresses weed growth by blocking sunlight, thereby minimizing competition for water and nutrients.

How can overwatering harm plants?

Answer: Causes root rot and nutrient leaching

Overwatering can severely harm plants by depriving roots of essential oxygen, leading to root rot where roots decay and cannot absorb water or nutrients. Additionally, excessive water can leach vital nutrients from the soil, making them unavailable to the plant.

Which practice supports biodiversity in a garden?

Answer: Planting native plant varieties

Planting native plant varieties is a key practice for supporting local biodiversity. These plants provide essential food and habitat for native insects, birds, and other wildlife that have co-evolved with them, helping to maintain a balanced and resilient ecosystem.

When is the best time to water most plants?

Answer: Early morning

The best time to water most plants is in the early morning. This allows the water to penetrate the soil before the heat of the day causes significant evaporation, and it gives the foliage time to dry before nightfall, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.