Question

The initial step for cultivation of crops is
a. Sowing
b. Preparation of soil
c. Irrigation
d. Harvesting

Answer 1

Hint: Agriculture refers to raising both crops and animals whereas cultivation is particular only for crops. It is key to the development and rise of human civilization. Cultivation is an important prerequisite for farming and gardening. It is required for site preparation and it facilitates regeneration of the site by a chosen method of tilling.

Complete answer:
- Cultivation is the process of loosening the soil. This process is also referred to as tilling.
- The major steps involved in farming are crop selection, land preparation, seed selection, seed sowing, irrigation, crop growth, fertilizing, and harvesting.
- The soil is cultivated in order to destroy the weeds present and increase soil aeration and water infiltration.

The various steps that underlie tilling are:-
> Ploughing which helps to cut, break and invert the soil. Various manures and soil supplements are incorporated along with the soil.
> Harrowing is done to smoothen the soil. The weeds are pulled out and moisture is added.
> Leveling is done to improve the value of the land.
- It allows better rooting and helps the sun rays to penetrate deep into the soil.
- It helps to reactivate the microbial fauna of the soil and maximizes the capacity for vegetative growth. It increases its defenses and improves the performance of the fertilizers.
- Tillage is a costly process. The alternative methods are minimum tillage and zero tillage.
- The initial step for the cultivation of crops is the preparation of soil. This facilitates the seeds to be sown well deep in the field and establish itself.

Hence, the correct answer is option (B).

Note: In recent times, tractors have been established for tilling. Manual and animal tillages are also practiced in many rural areas. Crops can be raised for several years without tilling by the use of herbicides and by employing equipment that can plant seeds without really digging the soil. This is referred to as no-till farming.