Question

Contrast between crop rotation and mulching.

Answer 1

Contrast between crop rotation and mulching:

1. Crop Rotation:
   1. Definition: Crop rotation is the practice of cultivating different types of crops in the same location throughout specific seasons.
   2. Purpose: It helps to preserve soil fertility, reduce soil erosion, manage pests and diseases, and increase crop yields.
   3. Process: Planting different crops in a particular sequence, such as alternating legumes and grains.
   4. Impact: Encourages balanced nutrient utilisation in soil, minimises the demand for chemical fertilisers, and enhances soil health over time.
2. Mulching: 
   1. Definition: Mulching is the process of covering the soil's surface with organic or inorganic materials like straw, leaves, or plastic.
   2. Purpose: Its purpose is to conserve soil moisture, reduce weed growth, and avoid erosion.
   3. Process: Mulch is applied directly to the soil surface around crops.
   4. Impact: It retains soil moisture, stabilises soil temperature, prevents erosion, and decomposes to contribute organic matter (if organic mulch is applied).