Organic Agriculture Production NC II: Leguminous and Grass Plants

Flashcards covering the characteristics, examples, agricultural importance, comparison, and practical farm integration of leguminous and grass plants for Organic Agriculture Production NC II.

What plant family do leguminous plants belong to?

Fabaceae

What is nitrogen fixation in leguminous plants?

A natural process that helps make nitrogen available to plants through a partnership between legumes and beneficial bacteria housed in root nodules.

What three factors determine the effectiveness of biological nitrogen fixation in legumes?

The plant, the bacteria, and growing conditions.

What are root nodules on leguminous plants?

Small rounded structures that appear on the roots of legumes when compatible nitrogen-fixing bacteria are present.

How is the mung bean (monggo) described in organic farming?

A short-season grain legume.

What unique growth characteristic distinguishes the peanut plant?

It produces edible seeds underground.

What are kakawate (madre de cacao) and ipil-ipil, and how are they used in agriculture?

They are leguminous trees often used for green manure, fodder, or farm support.

What organic farming tip is given regarding the use of legumes as a nutrient source?

Use suitable legumes as part of a whole soil-management plan, not as the only source of plant nutrients.

What plant family do grass plants belong to?

Poaceae

What are the key morphological features of grass plants?

Narrow leaves with parallel veins, fibrous root systems, and stems with joints called nodes.

Which grass plant is commonly grown specifically as livestock forage?

Napier grass

Which two grass plants are identified as being used for pasture and ground cover?

Bermuda grass and Guinea grass

What specific environmental function is Vetiver grass used for?

To help stabilize soil.

How do the root systems of leguminous plants differ from those of grass plants?

Legumes often have a main root, whereas grasses usually have fibrous roots.

How do the leaves of leguminous plants differ from grass plants?

Legumes often have broader leaves, whereas grasses usually have narrow, blade-like leaves.

How do grass plants assist in reducing soil erosion on slopes?

Their fibrous roots hold the soil, and planting grass strips along slopes slows runoff when properly designed and maintained.

What memory rule is provided to easily remember the difference between legumes and grasses?

Legumes: think beans and pods. Grasses: think grains, blades, and fibrous roots.

What critical factors must be managed when intercropping legumes and grasses?

Spacing and competition for light, water, and nutrients.

Give an example of how a farmer can integrate legumes and grasses together on a farm.

A farmer may rotate a grain crop with a suitable legume, and then use grass strips on erosion-prone boundaries.

What are five basic planting and care practices recommended for crops?

1. Select healthy seeds or planting materials from a reliable source. 2. Prepare the site and ensure appropriate drainage. 3. Plant at recommended depth and spacing. 4. Water during establishment and manage weeds early. 5. Observe crops regularly for nutrient deficiencies, pests, and diseases.