"The crop is subtropical in nature. A hard frost is injurious to it. ...
The correct answer is Cotton.
Key-Points - Cotton is grown on a variety of soils across the world.
- Deep fertile soil with adequate humus and high water holding capacity and good internal drainage is best suited for growing cotton.
- Cotton can be grown in places wherever at least 180-200 frost-free days are available.
- The optimum temperature for germination 20-30 degrees Celsius.
- Germination will be delayed if the temperature is less than 180 degrees Celsius.
- Hence the correct answer is Cotton.
Important Point - The climatic condition required for cotton
- Cotton is a tropical crop, and it is raised in India as a Kharif crop.
- Cotton requires uniformly high temperatures between 21 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.
- During October, the day temperature should be above 26 degrees Celsius, which helps the ripening and bursting cotton balls under the sunny skies.
- Along the growing period of at least 200 frost-free days is also necessary for the plant to mature.
- Rainfall should be moderate, ranging between 50-75 cm.
- The cotton plant needs sufficient rainfall in the early stages of growth, but sunny and dry weather is required after flowering.
The climatic condition required for Jute - The suitable climate for growing jute is a warm and wet climate, which is offered by the monsoon climate during the fall season, immediately followed by summer.
- Temperatures ranging to more than 25 °C and relative humidity of 70%–90% are favorable for successful cultivation.
- Jute requires 160–200 cm of rainfall weekly, with extra needed during the sowing period.
- River basins or alluvial or loamy soils are best for jute cultivation.
- Plainland or gentle slope, or low land is ideal for jute cultivation.
- Since the jute seeds are small in size, land should be prepared for fine tilling.
The climatic condition required for Sugarcane - Sugarcane needs a hot and humid climate.
- Temperature ranging between 21°C to 27°C.
- Very high temperature is harmful to its growth.
- Cool temperature is needed at the time of ripening.
- It grows best in areas receiving 75 cm to 100 cm of rainfall.
- Too heavy rainfall results in low sugar content.
- Sugarcane grows on well-drained fertile soil.
- It can grow on a variety of soils, including black, alluvial, loamy, and reddish loam.
The climatic condition required for Tea - Tea needs a wet and humid climate with good rainfall.
- Tea requires a temperature ranging from 21°C to 29°C.
- Tea grows well in the regions which receive rainfall between 150-200 cm.
- The soil should be well-drained for better productivity of tea.
- Many high-quality tea plants are cultivated at elevations of up to 1,500 m.
"The crop is subtropical in nature. A hard frost is injurious to it. ...
The Crop and its Characteristics
The crop described in the passage is subtropical in nature, which means it grows in warm and humid climates. It is also sensitive to frost, requiring at least 210 frost-free days for its growth. Additionally, it needs a moderate amount of rainfall, between 50 to 100 centimeters, for optimal growth. The crop also needs a specific type of soil to thrive, which should be light, well-drained, and capable of retaining moisture.
Identification of the Crop
Based on the characteristics described in the passage, the crop in question is cotton. Cotton is a subtropical crop that requires warm temperatures, adequate rainfall, and well-drained soil for its growth. It is also sensitive to frost and requires a long growing season, which is reflected in the requirement of at least 210 frost-free days.
Conclusion
In summary, the crop described in the passage is cotton. Its subtropical nature, sensitivity to frost, rainfall requirements, and soil preferences are all indicative of cotton cultivation.