Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

What is one common feature of a micro-climate?

1. It remains at the same temperature as the surrounding area

2. It is isolated from changes in weather

3. It can provide different water retention levels than its surroundings

4. It is always warmer than the macro-climate

The correct answer is: It can provide different water retention levels than its surroundings

One common feature of a micro-climate is its ability to provide different water retention levels than its surroundings. Micro-climates often occur in localized areas where specific conditions can lead to variations in moisture levels, soil type, and vegetation. For example, areas with dense vegetation might retain more moisture compared to adjacent open spaces, which can affect plant growth and health. This variability is due to factors such as topography, elevation, and human-made structures that influence water drainage and retention. The other options describe characteristics that do not fully capture the essence of a micro-climate. For example, a micro-climate does not remain at the same temperature as the surrounding area; in fact, it can have significant temperature differences due to localized conditions. Similarly, a true micro-climate is influenced by and can respond to changes in weather, so it cannot be entirely isolated from those changes. Lastly, while it's possible for a micro-climate to be warmer than the surrounding macro-climate, it is not a defining characteristic, as micro-climates can also be cooler depending on various factors.