Soil Science & Fertilization Flashcards
6 cards from real CHT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Soil Science & Fertilization flashcards as text
What soil pH range is generally considered optimal for most horticultural crops?
Answer: 5.5–7.0
A pH of 5.5–7.0 supports nutrient availability and microbial activity optimal for most horticultural plants.
Which macronutrient is primarily responsible for promoting leafy, vegetative growth?
Answer: Nitrogen (N)
Nitrogen (N) drives chlorophyll production and cell division, making it the key driver of vegetative, leafy growth.
A soil test result shows a CEC of 25 meq/100g. What does this indicate?
Answer: High clay or organic matter content
A high CEC (cation exchange capacity) indicates abundant clay or organic matter, which holds more nutrient cations for plant uptake.
Which fertilizer analysis number represents phosphorus content?
Answer: Second number
The N-P-K label lists nitrogen first, phosphorus (as P₂O₅) second, and potassium (as K₂O) third.
Slow-release fertilizers are preferred in professional horticulture primarily because they:
Answer: Reduce leaching and provide sustained nutrition
Slow-release fertilizers reduce nutrient leaching, lower burn risk, and supply steady nutrition over weeks or months.
Which soil texture allows the best balance of drainage and water retention?
Answer: Loam
Loam is a balanced mix of sand, silt, and clay that provides good drainage while retaining adequate moisture and nutrients.