Explanation

• Deep-rooted crops can access water from deeper soil layers, reducing the need for frequent irrigation.
• Examples: Sugarcane, Cotton, and Sorghum.

Additional information:

• Shallow-rooted crops like Lettuce and Radish need more frequent watering.

Last verified on 31-01-2026

Explanation

• Plant quarantine refers to laws and regulations that prevent the introduction and spread of pests and diseases through seeds, plants, or plant products.
• Ensures healthy crops and protects local agriculture.
• Involves inspection, certification, and restricted import/export of plants and seeds.

Last verified on 31-01-2026

Explanation

• Smut infects wheat spikes, reducing grain quantity and quality.
• On average, it causes around 7% global wheat yield loss.

Additional information:

• Other major wheat diseases: Rust, Blight, Powdery Mildew
• Prevention: Use resistant varieties, seed treatment, and fungicides

Last verified on 25-01-2026

Explanation

• Cotton leaf curl virus is a major viral disease affecting cotton in Pakistan.
• Causes leaf curling, stunted growth, and reduced yield.
• Spread by whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci).

Additional information:

• Resistant cotton varieties and integrated pest management (IPM) help control it.
• First major outbreak in Pakistan occurred in the 1990s, and it remains a serious threat.

Last verified on 31-01-2026

Explanation

• Developing virus-resistant potato varieties is difficult.
• Because viruses multiply quickly and are transmitted by insects.
• Virus infections can reduce potato yield by up to 80%.
• Use of certified seed and crop rotation helps manage virus spread.

Last verified on 30-01-2026

Explanation

• Salinity refers to the accumulation of salts in the soil, which reduces crop growth and yield.
• It affects wheat, sugarcane, and rice, as all are sensitive to high salt levels in soil.

Additional information:

• Salinity can be reduced by proper irrigation, leaching, and salt-tolerant varieties.
• Common in arid and semi-arid regions of Pakistan like Sindh and southern Punjab.

Last verified on 30-01-2026

Explanation

• Diffusion of adoption refers to the process by which new agricultural ideas, practices, or technologies spread among farmers.
• It helps improve productivity, efficiency, and modern farming practices.

Additional information:

• The process often involves extension workers, farmer groups, and demonstrations.
• Rapid diffusion accelerates rural development and food security.

Last verified on 30-01-2026

Explanation

• Anthracnose is a fungal disease of mango caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides.
• It causes black spots on leaves, flowers, and fruits, reducing yield and quality.
• Proper irrigation management and avoiding wetting foliage reduces disease spread.

Last verified on 30-01-2026

Explanation

• Controlling stored grains requires proper drying, use of insecticides, and hermetic storage to prevent pest infestation and spoilage.
• These strategies help maintain quality, weight, and nutritional value of grains.

Additional information:

• Hermetic storage also reduces fungal growth and mycotoxin formation.

Last verified on 30-01-2026

Explanation

• Organic mulch is made from natural materials like straw, leaves, compost, or grass clippings.
• It decomposes over time, adding nutrients to the soil and improving fertility.

Additional information:

• Organic mulch also reduces soil erosion and conserves moisture.
• Commonly used in vegetable gardens, orchards, and flower beds.

Last verified on 30-01-2026