Other special practices in crop production.docx

Other special practices in crop production: 1. Mulching- it is one of the simplest and most beneficial practices in gardening. It provides a protective cover on the top of the soil to prevent soil erosion. Usually, organic materials are used for mulching so it also helps in improving the soil condition. Furthermore, it also helps the soil to be loose and enhance the water infiltration. It also improves the water holding capacity of the soil and it improves root growth. The nutrient coming from the organic matter provides ideal environment for earthworms that helps keep weeds out of the plot.

2. Detopping treatment- this involves the removal of the above ground parts of a crop or the top terminal portion of the crop. It is also used to some crops having indeterminate habit because detopping prevents excessive growth of crops. It also helps reduce sucking pest and ballworms problems. Even though detopping decreases the plant height, it increases the number of sympodials of the crop.