Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

When is the best time to water nursery crops to help reduce disease?

1. Early in the morning

2. At night

3. With overhead sprinklers

4. Late in the afternoon

The correct answer is: Early in the morning

Watering nursery crops early in the morning is the best practice for several reasons related to disease prevention. In the morning, temperatures are cooler and humidity levels are typically higher, which allows plants to absorb moisture without the stress of high temperatures. Watering at this time ensures that the foliage has a chance to dry out during the day, reducing the likelihood of prolonged leaf wetness, which is a primary factor in the development of various fungal diseases. Additionally, watering in the morning helps maintain healthy soil moisture levels throughout the day, promoting optimal growth for the plants while minimizing stress. This timing also allows for efficient water usage and better absorption by the plants, as less evaporation occurs compared to watering during hotter times of the day or at night. Watering at night can lead to cooler temperatures and prolonged moisture on foliage, creating an environment conducive to disease. Late afternoon watering can similarly result in lingering moisture during cooler evening temperatures. Using overhead sprinklers can also lead to a wet canopy and prolonged foliar moisture, posing risks for disease development. Therefore, the practice of watering early in the morning is strategically advantageous for maintaining healthy nursery crops and minimizing disease occurrence.