Flashcards on Fundamentals of Crop Production and Yield

Fundamentals of Crop Production and Yield: A Student's Guide

1 / 8

Why do people grow crops commercially?

To provide food for people and animals, and other products (energy, flowers, materials); growers aim to make a profit by producing beyond family needs

Tap to flip · Swipe to navigate

Crop production / Agriculture

8 cards

Card 1

Question: Why do people grow crops commercially?

Answer: To provide food for people and animals, and other products (energy, flowers, materials); growers aim to make a profit by producing beyond family needs

Card 2

Question: List the basic requirements plants need to grow successfully mentioned here.

Answer: Water and mineral ions from the soil, carbon dioxide and light (and water) for photosynthesis, and a temperature warm enough for enzyme activity.

Card 3

Question: How can growers increase the yield of their crops?

Answer: By manipulating factors plants need (water, minerals, CO2, light, temperature) and reducing losses from pests, weeds and disease.

Card 4

Question: What role do polytunnels play in crop production?

Answer: Polythene tunnels provide a protected environment that alters conditions (temperature, humidity, protection) so crops can grow in extreme climates.

Card 5

Question: Give two examples of extreme conditions where polytunnels are used in the images described.

Answer: Hot, dry (almost desert-like) conditions in Almeria, Spain; and snowy winter conditions on a small organic farm in Eastern England.

Card 6

Question: What kinds of crops can be grown inside polytunnels as described?

Answer: Salad crops (including winter salad crops) are mentioned as being grown inside polytunnels.

Card 7

Question: Besides manipulating growth conditions, what is another way to improve crop yields at harvest time?

Answer: Reduce losses of the crop caused by pests, weeds and disease.

Card 8

Question: Why has there been a long-term need to increase crop yields?

Answer: Human populations have increased, creating a need for more food to feed people.