Mixed cropping involves growing:

Crops of different heights together
Crops of the same family together
Crops of long and short durations together
High-value and low-value crops together

The correct answer is: a) Crops of different heights together.

Mixed cropping is a farming practice in which two or more crops are grown together in the same field. This can be done for a variety of reasons, such as to improve soil fertility, reduce pests and diseases, or increase crop yields.

When crops of different heights are grown together, they can provide each other with shade and support. This can help to reduce the risk of weeds and pests, and can also help to improve the efficiency of water use. Additionally, mixed cropping can help to improve soil fertility by providing a variety of nutrients to the soil.

There are a number of different ways to practice mixed cropping. One common method is to plant a row of tall crops, such as corn, followed by a row of short crops, such as beans. This type of mixed cropping is known as intercropping. Another common method is to plant a mixture of different crops in the same field. This type of mixed cropping is known as polyculture.

Mixed cropping can be a beneficial practice for both farmers and the environment. It can help to improve crop yields, reduce the use of pesticides, and improve soil health. Additionally, mixed cropping can help to create a more diverse landscape, which can provide habitat for a variety of wildlife.

Here is a brief explanation of each option:

  • Option a: Crops of different heights together. This is the correct answer because mixed cropping involves growing two or more crops together in the same field. When crops of different heights are grown together, they can provide each other with shade and support. This can help to reduce the risk of weeds and pests, and can also help to improve the efficiency of water use. Additionally, mixed cropping can help to improve soil fertility by providing a variety of nutrients to the soil.
  • Option b: Crops of the same family together. This is not the correct answer because mixed cropping involves growing two or more crops together in the same field. It is not necessary for the crops to be of the same family.
  • Option c: Crops of long and short durations together. This is not the correct answer because mixed cropping involves growing two or more crops together in the same field. It is not necessary for the crops to have the same duration.
  • Option d: High-value and low-value crops together. This is not the correct answer because mixed cropping involves growing two or more crops together in the same field. It is not necessary for the crops to have the same value.