explain how the soil gets affected by the continuous plantation of cro...
The soil gets affected by the continuous plantation of crops in a field because the crop required nitrogen to grow up and that nitrogen is only found in the soil. And that nitrogen plant cannot take directly from the atmosphere,so the soil takes nitrogen from the atmosphere, that nitrogen plant take from soil to grow. But continuous plantation of crops decreases the soil fertility. This is because soil becomes poor in nutrients.
explain how the soil gets affected by the continuous plantation of cro...
The continuous plantation of crops in a field can have several effects on the soil:
1. Nutrient depletion: Different crops have different nutrient requirements. When the same crop is planted continuously in a field, it leads to the repeated uptake of specific nutrients from the soil. Over time, this can deplete the soil of these nutrients, resulting in nutrient deficiencies. This can affect the growth and productivity of crops in subsequent seasons.
2. Soil erosion: Continuous plantation of crops can also lead to soil erosion. This happens when the soil is left bare between crop cycles, especially during heavy rains or winds. Without the protective cover of vegetation, the topsoil can be easily washed or blown away, reducing its fertility and water-holding capacity.
3. Pest and disease buildup: Continuous plantation of specific crops can create favorable conditions for the buildup of pests and diseases that are specific to those crops. Without crop rotation or other measures to break the pest and disease cycles, the population of these organisms can increase over time, leading to higher crop losses and increased dependency on chemical pesticides.
4. Loss of organic matter: Continuous plantation without proper soil management practices can result in the loss of organic matter in the soil. Organic matter is important for maintaining soil structure, moisture retention, and nutrient availability. Without sufficient organic matter, the soil can become compacted, lose its ability to hold water, and suffer from poor nutrient cycling.
To mitigate these issues, farmers can adopt various practices:
1. Crop rotation: Planting different crops in a sequence can help break the pest and disease cycles, reduce nutrient depletion, and improve soil fertility.
2. Intercropping: Growing different crops together in the same field can help diversify the cropping system, enhance nutrient cycling, and reduce pest and disease incidence.
3. Cover cropping and mulching: Planting cover crops or leaving crop residues on the soil surface can help protect against soil erosion, improve soil structure, and add organic matter.
4. Nutrient management: Applying fertilizers judiciously and using organic amendments like compost or manure can help replenish the depleted nutrients in the soil.
By implementing these practices, farmers can minimize the negative effects of continuous plantation and maintain a healthy and productive soil for sustainable crop production.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed Class 8 study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in Class 8.