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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 recognised a few of those soil factors when he purchased ... 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 hill's incline may pose challenges for planting and irrigation.
- Soil texture: The presence of rocky soil affects rooting and water retention.
- Soil depth: The shallow plough layer of only 5 cm limits the depth available for root growth.
- Soil erosion: The dongas formed can be indicative of erosion, which depletes soil quality.
Step 2
Name THREE ways in which the crop farmer could overcome the problem of slope as a limiting factor.
Answer
- Contour ploughing: This method involves ploughing across the slope, reducing soil erosion and improving water retention.
- Vegetation strips/Strip cropping: Planting strips of vegetation or alternating crops can stabilize the soil and reduce erosion.
- Terracing: Creating terraces can help to flatten the slope for better irrigation and cultivation.