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Spring 2002

Our new quiz tests your knowledge on soil pH and conservation tillage issues…
So what's your final answer on soil fertility? Is it a top priority in your crop production system? Or are you "50-50" on this practice? Read on to test how soil savvy you are and learn why you should always consider proper soil fertility as a strategic "lifeline" to success. You won't strike a million overnight, but your crop will come out a winner.


Q - The desirable ___ for optimum plant growth varies among crops, but many grow well in the 6.0 - 7.0 range.

a. Richter scale rating

b. pH range
c. Decibel

Q - The amount of rain you get can really affect pH! Soils formed under conditions of high annual rainfall are more ___ than are soils formed under more arid conditions.

a. Soggy

b. Acid
c. Basic

Q - You'll have to dig deep for the answer to this question: Is the pH of the topsoil usually representative of that of the subsoil?

a. Yes

b. No

Q - Don't fret! You can correct soil acidity by the use of ___.

a. The Sorcerer's Stone

b. A positive attitude
c. Lime

Q - Which is not a Conservation Tillage Practice that focuses on managing crop residues?

a. No-till

b. Mulch-till
c. Ridge-till
d. Moldboard plowing

Q - Conservation tillage is defined by the CTIC as any tillage and planting system that covers ___ percent or more of the soil surface with crop residue, after planting, to reduce soil erosion by water.

a. 25%

b. 30%
c. 50%

Q - Careful… this is a two-part question: In a conservation tillage system, spring soil temperatures are usually ___ compared to other tillage systems due to ____.

a. Higher; global warming.

b. Higher; the insulating effect of residue cover.
c. Lower; the insulating effect of residue cover.

Q - Conservation tillage systems also affect the amount of water stored in the soil profile. What do you think happens to the amount of water stored?

a. Disappears

b. Decreases
c. Increases

Q - True of false? The distribution of fertilizer applications may need to change under different tillage systems.

a. True

b. False

Q - In a conservation tillage program, lime recommendations typically should be ___ .


a. Ignored

b. Increased by 100%
c. Reduced by 50%

 

 
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