Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

What is a major advantage of producing nursery stock in containers?

1. Requires less water and fertilization than field-grown crops

2. Requires less labor than field-grown crops

3. Allows for transplanting any time during the growing season

4. Is less expensive than growing in nursery fields

The correct answer is: Allows for transplanting any time during the growing season

Producing nursery stock in containers offers the significant advantage of allowing for transplanting at any time during the growing season. This flexibility is particularly valuable in the nursery landscape industry, as container-grown plants have a reduced risk of transplant shock when moved. The root system of container-grown stock is often more developed and contained within the pot, which means that the plants can be replanted or sold without being as dependent on specific seasonal planting schedules. This versatility enables growers to meet demand more efficiently and adapt to various market conditions. The option regarding water and fertilization requirements is less applicable because container plants often require more attention in these areas due to the limited volume of media they have compared to field-grown crops. Similarly, while labor requirements can vary, container production typically involves significant procedures such as potting, watering, and maintaining the proper environment in benches, which may not necessarily mean less labor overall. Lastly, growing nursery stock in containers generally incurs higher production costs compared to field-grown alternatives due to the materials, labor, and management involved in container production. Thus, the flexibility in transplanting timing stands out as a major benefit of container production.