14 Questions
What is the primary purpose of growing a cash crop?
For profit and to be sold in the market.
What type of soil does kale prefer for growth?
Free-draining loam or sandy soil with a pH of 6-7.
How long does it take for kale to mature?
5-6 months.
What is the recommended ratio of kale to silage/hay in an animal's diet?
70% kale, supplemented with 30% silage/hay.
What is the main advantage of using kale as a fodder crop?
Reduces winter feed and housing costs.
What is the primary method used to control the Flea Beetle pest in kale crops?
Contact insecticide.
What is the primary purpose of growing an energy crop?
To produce energy, such as bioethanol or biogas
What is the benefit of using kale as a catch crop?
It provides a fast-growing crop for animal feed between main crops
What is the main difference between zero grazing and strip grazing?
Zero grazing involves cutting the crop, while strip grazing involves grazing in situ
What is the name of the stored kale product?
Kaleage
What is the soil-borne fungus that affects kale crops?
Club Root
How does kale help the environment?
It prevents soil erosion, reduces nitrogen leaching, and increases soil organic matter
What is a major disadvantage of using kale as a fodder crop?
It is susceptible to pests and diseases
What is the benefit of kale in terms of animal feed costs?
It reduces winter feed and housing costs
Study Notes
Types of Crops
- Cash crop: Grown for profit and sold in the market.
- Catch crop: Fast-growing crop grown between main crops, often used for animal feed.
- Energy crop: Grown for energy production, processed into fuels like bioethanol or biogas.
Kale Characteristics
- Prefers free-draining loam or sandy soil with a pH of 6-7.
- Sowing period: April to July.
- Growing time: Takes 5-6 months to mature.
Kale Usage
- Typically grazed as a fodder crop.
- Harvesting: Usually grazed in situ by cattle or sheep using a strip grazing system.
Grazing Methods
- Zero grazing: Crop cut by farmer and brought to housed animals.
- Strip grazing: Popular method; land must be suitable to avoid poaching.
Kale Diet
- Should be 70% Kale, supplemented with 30% silage/hay.
Kale Storage
- Ensiling: Stored as bales of 'kaleage'.
Advantages of Kale
- Reduces winter feed and housing costs.
- High in crude protein.
- Prevents soil erosion.
- Reduces nitrogen leaching.
- Increases soil organic matter.
- Enhances biodiversity.
Disadvantages of Kale
- Susceptible to pests and diseases.
- Risk of land poaching if grazed in situ.
Kale Pests and Diseases
- Club Root: Soil-borne fungus controlled by crop rotation and resistant varieties.
- Flea Beetle: Controlled by contact insecticide.
Types of Crops
- Cash crop: Grown for profit and sold in the market.
- Catch crop: Fast-growing crop grown between main crops, often used for animal feed.
- Energy crop: Grown for energy production, processed into fuels like bioethanol or biogas.
Kale Characteristics
- Prefers free-draining loam or sandy soil with a pH of 6-7.
- Sowing period: April to July.
- Growing time: Takes 5-6 months to mature.
Kale Usage
- Typically grazed as a fodder crop.
- Harvesting: Usually grazed in situ by cattle or sheep using a strip grazing system.
Grazing Methods
- Zero grazing: Crop cut by farmer and brought to housed animals.
- Strip grazing: Popular method; land must be suitable to avoid poaching.
Kale Diet
- Should be 70% Kale, supplemented with 30% silage/hay.
Kale Storage
- Ensiling: Stored as bales of 'kaleage'.
Advantages of Kale
- Reduces winter feed and housing costs.
- High in crude protein.
- Prevents soil erosion.
- Reduces nitrogen leaching.
- Increases soil organic matter.
- Enhances biodiversity.
Disadvantages of Kale
- Susceptible to pests and diseases.
- Risk of land poaching if grazed in situ.
Kale Pests and Diseases
- Club Root: Soil-borne fungus controlled by crop rotation and resistant varieties.
- Flea Beetle: Controlled by contact insecticide.
Explore different types of crops, including cash crops, catch crops, and energy crops. Learn about the soil suitability and growing requirements of kale, a popular crop used for animal feed and more.
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