(a)(i) Define vegetative propagation. [2 marks] (ii) Give three advantages and three disadvantages of vegetative propagation. [6 marks] (b) State four cultu...

(a)(i) Vegetative propagation

Vegetative propagation is the method of raising new plants from the vegetative parts of a parent plant such as the stem, root, leaf or bud (for example cuttings, suckers, tubers, bulbs, budding and grafting), without the use of seeds. The new plants are genetically identical to the parent.

(a)(ii) Advantages and disadvantages of vegetative propagation

Advantages:

1. The new plants keep exactly the good qualities of the parent plant.
2. Plants mature and bear fruit earlier than those raised from seed.
3. It is useful for propagating crops that produce few or no viable seeds.

Disadvantages:

1. It does not allow production of new/improved varieties (no genetic variation).
2. Diseases of the parent plant are easily passed on to the offspring.
3. The plants lack a tap root, are less vigorous and cannot be stored or transported over long distances as easily as seeds.

(b) Four cultural methods of controlling crop pests

1. Crop rotation.
2. Regular weeding and keeping the farm clean (field sanitation).
3. Early planting and early harvesting to escape pest attack.
4. Use of resistant varieties and proper spacing (destroying crop residues after harvest is also acceptable).

(c) Four harmful effects of chemical pest control

1. Chemicals may kill useful organisms such as bees, natural enemies and soil organisms.
2. They pollute the soil, water and air (environmental pollution).
3. Chemical residues on crops are poisonous and harmful to human and animal health.
4. Continuous use makes pests develop resistance to the chemicals.