Explain the importance of pruning in tomatoes and capsicum, identify pruning tools and practices shown in a diagram, and discuss safety precautions.

Here are the answers to questions 1, 2, and 3: 1. Four importance of pruning in tomatoes and capsicum: • Improved yield: Pruning directs the plant's energy towards fruit production, leading to a higher quantity of fruits. • Better fruit quality: It allows for larger, healthier, and more uniform fruits by reducing competition for nutrients. • Disease prevention: Removing old, diseased, or damaged branches improves air circulation and reduces the spread of pathogens. • Enhanced light penetration: Pruning opens up the plant canopy, allowing more sunlight to reach the developing fruits and lower leaves, which is crucial for photosynthesis. 2. a) The field management practice shown in the picture (Fig. 15) is pruning. b) The garden tool shown is pruning shears (or secateurs). Its function is to make clean cuts when removing unwanted plant parts like branches or stems. c) The farmer was holding a side shoot or sucker of the plant. d) This section should be removed to prevent it from competing with the main stem and fruits for nutrients, which would reduce the overall yield and fruit size. It also improves air circulation and light penetration. e) Two safety precautions the farmer should observe are: • Wear protective gloves to prevent cuts and protect hands from plant sap or irritants. • Use sharp and clean pruning tools to ensure clean cuts and prevent the spread of diseases between plants. 3. Teacher Daniel's practice of reminding learners to wash their hands with soap and clean water after carrying out top dressing is important for the following reasons: • Preventing chemical exposure: Inorganic fertilizers contain chemicals that can irritate the skin or be harmful if absorbed through cuts or ingested. Washing hands removes these residues. • Maintaining hygiene: It prevents the accidental transfer of fertilizer chemicals to the mouth, eyes, or other parts of the body, reducing the risk of illness or discomfort. 3 done, 2 left today. You're making progress.