GRADE 8 Agriculture – Crop harvesting Quiz

1. Which of the following factors does NOT affect the timing of crop harvesting?

Variety of crop
Type of fertilizer used
Market demand
Availability of labor
Explanation:

The type of fertilizer used does not directly affect the timing of crop harvesting. Factors like availability of labor, market demand, and variety of crop play a more significant role in determining when to harvest.

2. Why is it important to consider weather conditions when deciding on the timing of crop harvesting?

To attract more customers
To prevent crop damage
For aesthetics
To increase crop yield
Explanation:

Considering weather conditions is important to prevent crop damage during harvesting. Bad weather like heavy rain or strong winds can ruin the crops if harvested at the wrong time.

3. Which equipment is commonly used for harvesting maize in Kenya?

Tractor
Hand sickle
Hoe
Combine harvester
Explanation:

In Kenya, maize is commonly harvested using a combine harvester, which is a machine that can efficiently harvest, thresh, and clean the maize crop.

4. What is the purpose of drying harvested crops?

To reduce moisture content
To attract pests
To increase weight
To improve taste
Explanation:

Drying harvested crops is important to reduce moisture content, which helps prevent mold growth and spoilage. It also aids in storing crops for longer periods without deterioration.

5. Which crop is typically hand-harvested in Kenya?

Wheat
Rice
Beans
Tomatoes
Explanation:

Beans are typically hand-harvested in Kenya due to the delicate nature of the crop and the need for careful handling to avoid damaging the pods.

6. Why is it important to use sharp harvesting tools?

To discourage birds
To increase workload
To reduce efficiency
To minimize crop damage
Explanation:

Using sharp harvesting tools helps minimize crop damage by making clean cuts, reducing the risk of bruising or tearing the crops during harvest.

7. What care should be taken during the storage of harvested maize to prevent spoilage?

Keep in damp environment
Protect from pests
Mix with wet grains
Store in open area
Explanation:

To prevent spoilage, harvested maize should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area and protected from pests. Proper storage conditions help maintain the quality of the crop over time.

8. What factor does NOT contribute to determining the method of crop harvesting?

Soil type
Farmer's age
Farm location
Crop variety
Explanation:

The age of the farmer does not directly influence the method of crop harvesting. Factors like crop variety, farm location, and soil type are more relevant in determining the appropriate harvesting method.

9. Which of the following is a benefit of using a combine harvester for crop harvesting?

Encourages soil erosion
Increases labor costs
Saves time
Decreases efficiency
Explanation:

Using a combine harvester saves time during crop harvesting as it can efficiently cut, thresh, and clean the crop in a single operation. This reduces the time and labor required for harvesting.

10. Why is it important to have a well-trained team for crop harvesting?

To delay harvest
To lower productivity
To improve efficiency
To increase accidents
Explanation:

A well-trained team for crop harvesting can improve efficiency by ensuring that the harvesting process is done correctly and quickly, leading to higher productivity and minimal crop losses.

11. Which crop requires the use of a sickle for harvesting in Kenya?

Tea
Soybeans
Maize
Sugarcane
Explanation:

Tea leaves are typically harvested using a sickle in Kenya due to the need for precision cutting and careful handling of the delicate leaves to maintain their quality for tea production.