GRADE 9 Agriculture – STORAGE OF CROP PRODUCE Quiz

1. What is the optimal humidity level for storing maize in Kenya?

50%
80%
20%
95%
Explanation:

The optimal humidity level for storing maize in Kenya is around 80%. This helps prevent mold growth and maintain the quality of the maize.

2. Which of the following is NOT a common storage pest for grains in Kenya?

Cockroaches
Lice
Weevils
Rats
Explanation:

While weevils, rats, and cockroaches are common storage pests for grains in Kenya, lice are not typically associated with grain storage.

3. Why is it important to regularly inspect stored crops in Kenya?

To detect pests and diseases
To reduce humidity levels
To prevent theft
To increase crop yields
Explanation:

Regularly inspecting stored crops in Kenya is important to detect any pests or diseases early on, allowing for prompt treatment and preventing damage to the crops.

4. What is a common method of pest control in crop storage facilities in Kenya?

Increasing temperature
Using insecticides
Fumigation
Adopting cats
Explanation:

Fumigation is a common method of pest control in crop storage facilities in Kenya as it helps eliminate pests without causing harm to the crops if done correctly.

5. Which of the following is a suitable material for storing potatoes in Kenya?

Baskets
Cardboard boxes
Plastic bags
Metal drums
Explanation:

Baskets are a suitable material for storing potatoes in Kenya as they allow for ventilation, preventing moisture buildup and rotting of the potatoes.

6. What can happen if grains are stored in direct sunlight in Kenya?

Increased insect activity
Loss of nutrients
Mold growth
Spoilage
Explanation:

Storing grains in direct sunlight in Kenya can lead to loss of nutrients due to exposure to light and heat. It is important to store grains in a cool, dark place to maintain their nutritional value.

7. How can farmers in Kenya prevent post-harvest losses when storing crops?

Use excessive pesticides
Store crops in open areas
Regularly monitor storage conditions
Ignore storage pests
Explanation:

Farmers in Kenya can prevent post-harvest losses by regularly monitoring storage conditions to ensure proper humidity levels, temperature, and pest control measures are maintained.

8. What is the ideal temperature range for storing beans in Kenya?

15-20°C
0°C
35-40°C
Above 30°C
Explanation:

The ideal temperature range for storing beans in Kenya is around 15-20°C. This helps maintain the quality and freshness of the beans during storage.

9. Why is it important to properly clean storage containers before storing crops in Kenya?

To prevent contamination
To increase crop yields
To attract pests
To reduce humidity levels
Explanation:

Properly cleaning storage containers before storing crops in Kenya is important to prevent contamination from previous crops or debris, which can affect the quality and safety of the stored crops.

10. Which of the following is a common method of drying crops for storage in Kenya?

Microwaving
Boiling
Freezing
Sun drying
Explanation:

Sun drying is a common method of drying crops for storage in Kenya as it is cost-effective and helps reduce moisture content, preventing mold growth during storage.

11. What is the ideal humidity level for storing maize in Kenya?

75%
60%
90%
50%
Explanation:

The ideal humidity level for storing maize in Kenya is around 60%. This helps prevent mold growth and maintain the quality of the maize.

12. Which of the following is NOT a suitable storage structure for keeping potatoes fresh?

Plastic buckets
Metallic silo
Traditional mud hut
Purdue Improved Crop Storage (PICS) bags
Explanation:

A traditional mud hut is not a suitable storage structure for keeping potatoes fresh because it lacks proper ventilation and insulation, leading to spoilage.

13. What is a common pest that attacks stored grains like wheat and barley in Kenya?

Termites
Weevils
Cockroaches
Ants
Explanation:

Weevils are a common pest that attacks stored grains like wheat and barley in Kenya. They feed on the grains and can cause significant losses if not controlled.

14. Which of the following is a method for controlling pests in stored grains?

Maintaining high humidity levels
Mixing grains with water
Covering grains with airtight bags
Fumigation with toxic chemicals
Explanation:

Covering grains with airtight bags is a method for controlling pests in stored grains as it suffocates any existing pests inside and prevents new infestations from occurring.

15. What is the recommended temperature range for storing tomatoes to maintain their quality?

Below freezing point
50°C
10°C-15°C
30°C-35°C
Explanation:

The recommended temperature range for storing tomatoes to maintain their quality is between 10°C-15°C. This helps slow down ripening and reduces spoilage.

16. Which of the following is a suitable method for drying crops like beans for storage?

Indoor storage without ventilation
Using a solar dryer
Drying on damp ground
Direct exposure to sunlight
Explanation:

Using a solar dryer is a suitable method for drying crops like beans for storage as it helps maintain the quality of the produce by controlling temperature and humidity levels.

17. What should be done to prevent contamination of stored grains with aflatoxins in Kenya?

Regularly inspecting grains for mold growth
Storing grains in damp conditions
Exposing grains to direct sunlight
Mixing grains with contaminated soil
Explanation:

Regularly inspecting grains for mold growth is important to prevent contamination of stored grains with aflatoxins in Kenya. Moldy grains should be removed immediately to avoid spreading toxins.

18. Which of the following storage containers is commonly used for storing cereals like maize and wheat in rural Kenya?

Glass jars
Plastic containers
Metallic drums
Gunny bags
Explanation:

Gunny bags are commonly used for storing cereals like maize and wheat in rural Kenya due to their affordability, breathability, and ease of handling.

19. What is the primary reason for drying harvested crops before storage?

To reduce weight
To prevent spoilage
To improve color
To increase sweetness
Explanation:

The primary reason for drying harvested crops before storage is to reduce moisture content and prevent spoilage caused by mold growth or pest infestation.

20. What is a suitable method for reducing post-harvest losses of fruits like mangoes during storage?

Storing at high temperatures
Use of refrigeration
Spraying with pesticides
Adding extra moisture
Explanation:

The use of refrigeration is a suitable method for reducing post-harvest losses of fruits like mangoes during storage as it slows down the ripening process and inhibits microbial growth.