Certified Crop Advisor Practice Exam

Which of the following is not a limitation of cover or companion crops?

1. Increased soil erosion

2. Higher insect populations

3. Small seed size

4. Decreased sunlight penetration

The correct answer is: Increased soil erosion

Cover or companion crops are primarily used to improve soil health, enhance crop diversity, and provide benefits such as weed suppression and erosion control. The correct response identifies that increased soil erosion is not a limitation of these practices. In fact, one of the main benefits of cover crops is their ability to reduce soil erosion. Their root systems create a network that stabilizes the soil, improves its structure, and reduces the potential for erosion caused by water or wind. While higher insect populations, small seed size, and decreased sunlight penetration can be seen as potential limitations when using cover or companion crops, they do not necessarily negate the overall benefits these crops provide. For instance, higher insect populations may lead to increased pest pressure, but they can also promote a more balanced ecosystem and support beneficial insects. Small seed size could complicate sowing, particularly when planted alongside larger seed crops, potentially leading to uneven emergence or difficulty in management. Decreased sunlight penetration can occur when companion crops grow taller than the main crop, potentially reducing photosynthesis; however, this is often mitigated by selecting appropriate companion species. Therefore, the assertion that increased soil erosion is a limitation is inaccurate, as cover crops are designed specifically to address and minimize erosion risks.