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In relation to a named root crop, describe the approaches a farmer might take to control weeds effectively - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 3 - 2007
Question 3
In relation to a named root crop, describe the approaches a farmer might take to control weeds effectively. (b) Describe the physiological changes occurring in a ba... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In relation to a named root crop, describe the approaches a farmer might take to control weeds effectively - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 3 - 2007
Step 1
In relation to a named root crop, describe the approaches a farmer might take to control weeds effectively.
Answer
A common named root crop is the potato. Farmers can control weeds effectively through several approaches:
- Rotation: Implementing crop rotation helps disrupt the lifecycle of weeds.
- Deep Ploughing: This practice buries weeds resulting in a reduction in their growth.
- Earthing Up: This technique prevents weed growth by covering them with soil.
- Spraying: Utilizing herbicides such as glyphosate after crop emergence helps manage weed populations.
- Inter-row Cultivation: This involves the mechanical removal of weeds between rows of potatoes.
- Stubble Cleaning and Hand Weeding: These methods provide targeted weed control, especially in areas where herbicides are not practical.
Step 2
Describe the physiological changes occurring in a barley plant during the ripening process.
Answer
During the ripening process of barley, the following physiological changes occur:
- Grain Development: Grains swell and become heavier as they accumulate starch and moisture.
- Moisture Decrease: As the grains mature, moisture levels reduce, which contributes to grain hardening.
- Food Movement: Nutrients move from the green parts of the plant to the grains, allowing for increased starch storage.
- Starch Stabilization: The starch content stabilizes, which is crucial for maintaining grain quality as it prepares for harvest.
Step 3
Mention two tests a merchant might carry out when purchasing grain from a farmer.
Answer
Merchants often carry out several tests to ensure the quality of grain, including:
- Moisture Test: This assesses the moisture content to ensure it falls within acceptable limits for storage and sale.
- Purity Screening: This test evaluates the percentage of pure grain compared to impurities (like other grains or seeds) to confirm quality.
Step 4
Describe the production of a named catch crop on a tillage farm.
Answer
A suitable catch crop could be kale. The production of kale on a tillage farm involves:
- Sowing: Kale is typically sown in the late summer or early autumn after the main crop has been harvested.
- Cultivation: Farmers may employ three cultivation procedures, including tilling the soil to prepare a seedbed.
- Harvesting: Kale is harvested in the late fall or winter when it is ready for market.
- Animal Feed: Some farmers grow kale specifically for use as animal fodder, especially during winter months when other feed sources may be scarce.