(a) Explain the following terms as used in crop production: (i) floriculture; (ii) taungya farming; (iii) ley farming. (b) State eight uses of ornamental pl...

Answer Details

(a) Explanation of terms:

• (i) Floriculture: This is the branch of horticulture concerned with the cultivation, management and marketing of flowers and flowering (ornamental) plants for beauty and decoration.
• (ii) Taungya farming: This is a system of agro-forestry in which arable food crops are grown in between young forest tree seedlings on the same land, the farmer tending both until the trees form a canopy.
• (iii) Ley farming: This is a system in which land is put under grasses and legumes (pasture, called a ley) for a few years to graze livestock and restore fertility, then ploughed and used for arable crops in rotation.

(b) Eight uses of ornamental plants to man:

1. For beautification and decoration of homes, offices and surroundings.
2. For landscaping of gardens, parks and recreation grounds.
3. As live fences, hedges and screens for privacy.
4. To provide shade around buildings and along roads.
5. As a source of income when sold as cut flowers and potted plants.
6. To check soil erosion and serve as ground cover.
7. For religious, ceremonial and social occasions (bouquets, wreaths, gifts).
8. To purify and improve the environment and provide a pleasant micro-climate.

(c) Four fibre crops grown in the country:

• Cotton
• Jute
• Kenaf
• Sisal (hemp is also acceptable)