Photo AI
A farmer knows that land for agricultural production may be limited by a number of soil factors - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 2
A farmer knows that land for agricultural production may be limited by a number of soil factors. The farmer recognized a few of those factors when he purchased land.... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A farmer knows that land for agricultural production may be limited by a number of soil factors - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
Identify FOUR soil production factors in the paragraph above that will limit the use of this piece of land for agricultural purposes.
Answer
- Slope of land: The presence of dongas and variations in elevation can hinder cultivation.
- Soil texture: The rocky surface affects soil quality and water retention.
- Soil depth: Limited depth of topsoil restricts root growth, necessitating more nutrients.
- Soil erosion: The formation of dongas indicates erosion, making it difficult to maintain productive soil.
Step 2
Name THREE ways in which the crop farmer could overcome the problem of slope as a limiting factor.
Answer
- Contour ploughing: This technique involves ploughing along the contours of the land to reduce soil erosion and runoff.
- Vegetation strips/Strip cropping: Planting strips of vegetation can help stabilize the soil and reduce erosion.
- Minimum Tillage: This method reduces soil disturbance, helping maintain soil structure and moisture retention on slopes.