Growing of two or more crops simultaneously on the same field is called ______.
- AOption (a)
Inter-cropping
- BOption (b)
Mixed cropping
- COption (c)
Intra-cropping
- DOption (d)
Mono-cropping
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Correct answer
Mixed cropping
Why this answer is correct
The correct answer is Mixed cropping.
Key Points
- Mixed cropping is an agricultural practice where two or more crops are grown simultaneously on the same piece of land.
- The primary objective of this method is to minimize the risk of total crop failure. If one crop fails due to adverse weather conditions, lack of rainfall, or pest infestation, the other crop ensures some insurance against complete loss.
- In mixed cropping, the seeds of the different crops are typically mixed together and sown in the field without any definite row arrangement or specific spatial pattern.
- Farmers generally choose crop combinations that have different nutrient requirements or different root depths to ensure that they do not compete intensely for the same resources.
- Common examples of mixed cropping in India include combinations such as Wheat + Gram, Wheat + Mustard, or Groundnut + Sunflower.
Additional Information
- Inter-cropping:
- Similar to mixed cropping, it involves growing two or more crops simultaneously, but in a definite row pattern.
- For example, a few rows of one crop may alternate with a few rows of another crop (e.g., Soybean + Maize).
- This method allows for better management of fertilizers and pesticides for individual crops compared to mixed cropping.
- Mono-cropping:
- This refers to the practice of growing only one type of crop on the same piece of land year after year.
- While it allows for specialization and mechanization, it often leads to the depletion of specific soil nutrients and increases the risk of pest outbreaks.
- Crop Rotation:
- It is the practice of growing different types of crops in the same area in sequential seasons.
- For instance, planting a leguminous crop (like pulses) after a cereal crop (like wheat) helps in nitrogen fixation and replenishes soil fertility naturally.
- Benefits of Diverse Cropping Systems:
- These systems improve soil health, increase biodiversity, and provide a varied diet and income source for farmers.
- They are essential components of sustainable agriculture and help in weed control and efficient utilization of solar energy.