Which of the following conditions is/are essential for wheat cultivation ?
- 1. Optimum temperature during growing period is around 30°C
- 2. A frost-free period of about 100 days
- 3. Light clay or heavy loam soil
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
1, 2 and 3
1 and 2 only
2 and 3 only
1 only
Answer is Wrong!
Answer is Right!
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CAPF – 2019
1. Optimum temperature during growing period is around 30°C: Wheat is typically a cool-season crop (Rabi crop in India). While temperatures around 25-30°C are favourable for ripening, the optimum temperature for the main growing period (vegetative growth, tillering) is much lower, around 15-20°C. Stating 30°C as the optimum for the “growing period” is inaccurate for the entire cycle.
2. A frost-free period of about 100 days: Frost can severely damage wheat, especially during flowering and grain filling. A sufficient frost-free period (typically the duration of the growing season) is essential. 100 days is a reasonable minimum for the main growth phase. This statement is generally correct.
3. Light clay or heavy loam soil: Wheat grows best in fertile, well-drained soils. Loamy soils (including heavy loams) and clay loams are considered suitable due to good water retention and nutrient content. This statement is generally correct.
Based on the analysis, conditions 2 and 3 are essential/correct, while condition 1 is not accurate for the optimum temperature throughout the primary growing period.
– Frost is detrimental to wheat cultivation.
– Fertile loamy soils are preferred.
– Ideal temperature for vegetative growth is 15-20°C.
– Ideal temperature for ripening is 20-25°C, possibly up to 30°C.
– The soil should be well-drained to prevent waterlogging.