Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

What is a significant benefit of proper irrigation practices?

1. Increases pest susceptibility

2. Decreases soil erosion

3. Reduces nutrient leaching

4. Limits plant growth

The correct answer is: Reduces nutrient leaching

Proper irrigation practices play a crucial role in maintaining soil health and plant vitality, and one of the significant benefits is reducing nutrient leaching. When irrigation is managed effectively, water is applied in a manner that allows the soil to absorb nutrients rather than washing them away. Over-irrigating can lead to excess water moving through the soil, which may carry away valuable nutrients that plants need for growth. By minimizing the leaching of nutrients, proper irrigation helps ensure that the plants receive adequate nourishment, which is essential for their development and yield. This focus on efficient water use ultimately supports sustainable agricultural practices, promotes better plant health, and enhances the overall productivity of the landscape. In contrast to nutrient leaching, options such as increasing pest susceptibility and limiting plant growth do not reflect the positive outcomes associated with effective irrigation methods. Decreasing soil erosion is also a benefit of good irrigation, but nutrient retention is often a more direct concern when discussing irrigation efficiency.