Preparation of Soil
- The process of turning and loosening the soil is a vital part of agriculture as it helps the roots go deep into the ground. This activity also makes it easier for them to breathe, which helps plants access the nutrients they need from the Earth.
- Loosened soil is beneficial to the farmer since it facilitates the growth of earthworms and microbes. These organisms further turn and loosen the soil, adding humus to it.
- Turning and loosening the soil is vital in farming, as only the shallowest layers of the earth contain the nutrients needed for plants to grow. This practice brings these essential elements to the top level, providing sustenance for crops.
- Tilling or ploughing refers to the activity of loosening and turning over the soil.
- Ploughing is a tedious task, but it’s an essential part of cultivation. The plough itself can be made from wood or iron and the soil must sometimes be watered beforehand to soften it.
- Once complete, large chunks of dirt known as ‘crumbs’ may need to be broken down before you can continue further.
- Evenly leveling the land is beneficial both for sowing and irrigation. This task can be done utilizing a leveler. Some agriculturists may add manure to the soil before tilling to ensure proper distribution.
For more information read: Preparation of Soil
Agricultural Implements
Preparing the soil before sowing is essential to ensure high yields. Tools like plough, hoe, and cultivator are used for this purpose by breaking up the soil clumps.
Plough
For many centuries, the use of a plough has been a key agricultural process. It involves applying fertilizers to the soil, getting rid of weeds, and preparing the land for planting.
- It is built of wood and is pulled by two bulls or other creatures, such as horses and camels.
- It has a ploughshare and a sturdy triangular iron strip.
- A plough usually consists of a long wooden shaft called a ploughshare, on one end of which there is a handle. The other end is attached to a beam that sits on the backs of two bulls.
- The plough can be easily driven by a man and a single pair of bulls.
- Iron ploughs are currently displacing native wooden ploughs in greater numbers.
Hoe
This straightforward tool is used to clear weeds from the soil and loosen it.
- It has a protruding wood or iron rod.
- One of its ends has an iron plate attached that is robust, wide, and bent; this plate functions as a blade.
- Animals are used to pull it.
Cultivator: Modern farming methods often involve the use of a tractor-driven cultivator, which can significantly reduce both labor and time requirements.
For more information read: Agricultural Implements
NCERT Notes Class 8 Science Chapter – 1: Crop Production and Management
NCERT Notes for Class 8 Science Chapter 1: Crop Production and Management: Crop production and management is a crucial aspect of agriculture. It involves the methods and techniques used to cultivate crops and ensure their proper growth, to obtain maximum yield. The process of crop production and management involves various elements such as soil preparation, sowing, irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and harvesting. Farmers and agriculturalists employ various scientific methods and technologies to ensure optimal crop production and management.
NCERT Class 8 Crop Production and Management: Effective crop production and management techniques are essential to ensure the highest possible yield while maintaining the quality of the crops. It is a vital aspect of agriculture as it plays a critical role in providing food and raw materials for various industries. In this regard, farmers and agricultural experts must constantly improve their knowledge and skills to ensure sustainable and profitable crop production and management practices. Through these notes, the students will be able to revise the NCERT Grade 8 chapter Crop Production and Management with ease.