3c) State TWO reasons why proper land preparation is important in crop production. (2 marks)

Here are the answers to the questions: 3c) State TWO reasons why proper land preparation is important in crop production. (2 marks) 1. It creates a fine, firm, and level seedbed suitable for seed germination and root development. 2. It helps in controlling weeds that compete with crops for nutrients, water, and sunlight. 4. In areas prone to soil erosion, farmers are encouraged to adopt conservation tillage practices a) Define conservation tillage. (2 marks) Conservation tillage is a method of soil cultivation that leaves at least 30% of the soil surface covered with crop residue after planting. Its primary goal is to reduce soil erosion and conserve soil moisture. b) Describe TWO conservation tillage practices used in crop production. (2 marks) 1. No-till (Zero tillage): This practice involves planting crops directly into undisturbed soil, leaving all previous crop residues on the surface. No plowing or disking is done. 2. Minimum tillage: This practice reduces the number of tillage operations compared to conventional methods. It involves less intensive soil disturbance, leaving a significant amount of crop residue on the soil surface. c) Explain FOUR benefits of conservation tillage to the farmer and the environment. (4 marks) 1. Reduced soil erosion: The crop residue cover protects the soil from the impact of rain and wind, significantly reducing soil loss. 2. Improved soil moisture retention: The residue acts as a mulch, reducing evaporation from the soil surface and helping to conserve water, which is beneficial for crops, especially in dry periods. 3. Increased soil organic matter: Less soil disturbance allows organic matter to accumulate, improving soil fertility, structure, and water-holding capacity over time. 4. Reduced fuel and labor costs: Fewer passes with machinery for tillage operations lead to lower fuel consumption and less labor required for fieldwork. 5a) Describe the process of pruning tomato plants. (3 marks) Pruning tomato plants involves removing specific parts of the plant to improve fruit quality, increase air circulation, and manage plant growth. The main steps include: 1. Identifying suckers: These are small shoots that grow in the "axil" (the V-shaped junction) between the main stem and a leaf branch. 2. Removing suckers: When suckers are small (1-4 inches), they are typically pinched off with fingers or cut with clean pruners close to the main stem. This directs the plant's energy towards fruit production on the main stem. 3. Removing lower leaves: Any leaves touching the ground or showing signs of yellowing or disease are removed to prevent soil-borne diseases and improve air circulation. Send me the next one 📸