12.Crop Mg done.docx

Crop Production and Principles Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) is responsible for seed certification in Ireland. Most crops are involved in this certification. Certified seeds must have a minimum germination rate of 85%, and have a purity rate of 98% and must be treated with fu...

Crop Production and Principles Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) is responsible for seed certification in Ireland. Most crops are involved in this certification. Certified seeds must have a minimum germination rate of 85%, and have a purity rate of 98% and must be treated with fungicide/pesticide Advantages of certified seeds: High germination rate guaranteed increased profits. Less qualitative issues Advantages of winter sowing: it is easier for farmers undergoing mixed farming (livestock & tillage). It allows Work can be spread out throughout the year. Their is increased profits due to longer growing season. Crop rotation Is a system of tillage rotation where crop families are grown in a defined sequence this is to prevent build up of pests in a crop over time as well as preventing the soil being depleted of certain nutrients and maintaining soil structure. Nutrient management Different crops absorb different nutrients. If a crop remains in a field yearly then it will remove all the nutrients that it requires. By changing the crop family you allow the build up of the nutrients again. Common pests, weeds and diseases Leaf Blotch is a fungal disease spread by rain. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that turns the underside of leaves yellow Leaf rust is a fungal disease that causes premature death of leaves Barely dwarf virus BYDV is a viral disease transmitted by aphids Leatherjackets are crane fly larvae that feed on the crop reducing yield Wireworms are click beetle larvae that hatch and feed on crops Direct control The use of chemicals to control or eradicate pests, diseases and weeds. 3 main types: Herbicide: A chemical that kills plants or inhibits their growth Fungicide: A chemical that kills or inhibits the growth of fungi Pesticide: A chemical used to kill pests. Mode of action: Contact herbicide: can only affect plant if it comes in contact with it. Diligent spraying is important here. Translocated herbicide: the chemicals are absorbed by roots of plant and translocated to stem, leaves & flower. Very effective. Fungicides liquid spray and are very similar to herbicides except these target fungi Contact fungicide: can only affect fungi if it comes in contact with it. Systemic fungicide: similar to translocated herbicide. Pesticides come in Solid, liquid or gaseous form. And Works by ingestion of chemical by pest. Bait is also used to kill rats, slugs, etc.