Certified Crop Advisor Practice Exam

Which condition typically leads to higher crop yields?

1. excessive nitrogen

2. adequate water supply

3. poor soil management

4. high pest pressures

The correct answer is: adequate water supply

Adequate water supply is critical for achieving higher crop yields because water is essential for plant growth and physiological processes. It facilitates nutrient uptake, photosynthesis, and overall plant health. When crops receive sufficient water, they are able to maintain turgor pressure, which is important for cell structure and function. This availability of water ensures that the plants can effectively complete their life cycles, leading to increased biomass production and ultimately higher yields. In contrast, an excessive nitrogen supply can lead to nutrient imbalances, where plants may focus on vegetative growth rather than reproductive growth, which can negatively affect yield. Poor soil management practices can degrade soil health, reduce fertility, and negatively impact moisture retention, all of which serve to limit crop productivity. High pest pressures can result in crop damage and reduced yields due to the loss of plant health and vigor. Therefore, adequate water supply serves as a foundational element that significantly enhances the potential for higher crop yields.