4. How is the soil prepared for sowing or planting? 5. How are the plants provided nutrition in addition to what they get from the soil? 6. How can plants be protected from any kind of harm from animals and pests?
Answer (1)
How is the soil prepared for sowing or planting? Soil preparation is a crucial step in gardening and farming as it sets the foundation for healthy plant growth. Here's how soil is prepared:
Clearing the Land: The first step involves removing weeds, stones, and any debris that could hinder the growth of plants.
Tilling: This process involves turning the soil to break it up. Tilling helps in aerating the soil and making it loose, which provides easy access for roots to spread.
Leveling: After tilling, the soil is leveled. This prevents water from accumulating in certain parts of the field, which can cause root rot.
Adding Organic Matter: Compost or well-rotted manure is mixed into the soil to improve its fertility and water retention ability.
How are the plants provided nutrition in addition to what they get from the soil? Besides the natural nutrients available in the soil, additional nutrition can be provided through several methods:
Fertilization: Using chemical or organic fertilizers can supply specific nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium which are essential for plant growth.
Compost: Adding compost improves soil structure and supplies a steady release of nutrients.
Mulching: A layer of mulch made of straw, leaves, or wood chips can keep the soil moist and gradually supply nutrients as it decomposes.
Foliar Feeding: Spraying nutrients directly onto plant leaves allows for quick absorption through their pores.
How can plants be protected from any kind of harm from animals and pests? Protecting plants from pests and animals is crucial to ensure healthy growth and higher yields. Here's how you can protect plants:
Physical Barriers: Fences, nets, or row covers can keep animals and larger pests away from plants.
Companion Planting: Planting certain plants together can naturally repel pests; for example, marigolds are known to deter nematodes and other bugs.
Natural Predators: Introducing helpful insects like ladybugs can reduce the number of harmful pests.
Pest Repellents: Using natural repellents like neem oil or garlic spray can deter pests without harming plants.
Regular Monitoring: Inspecting plants regularly for signs of pest infestation allows for early intervention before any severe damage occurs.
