Question

Different crops grown in alternate rows in a cultivated field is an example of

• A. Crop rotation
• B. Combined Cropping
• C. Alternate cropping
• D. Intercropping

Hint:

When multiple crops are grown simultaneously in the same field in a systematic spatial arrangement (such as alternating rows), the system is classified as intercropping.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Cropping systems can be modified in space and time to optimize land use efficiency, improve soil health, and reduce pest and disease pressure.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us define each of the cropping terms to identify the correct practice:
- Crop rotation (A) is the practice of growing a series of different types of crops in the same area across sequential growing seasons, which represents a temporal variation rather than spatial row alignment.
- Intercropping (D) is the practice of growing two or more crops simultaneously on the same field in close spatial proximity.
When these different crops are planted in systematic, alternating rows, it is called row intercropping.
This spatial arrangement reduces inter-specific competition while maximizing the utilization of environmental resources like sunlight, water, and soil nutrients.
- Alternate cropping (C) and combined cropping (B) are general terms that do not specifically describe this systematic spatial row configuration.
Therefore, growing different crops in alternate rows is a classic example of intercropping.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option is (D).