Crop Production and Management

Definition of Crop

• A crop is defined as plants of the same kind grown in a large area.
• Example: A crop of wheat refers to all wheat plants grown in a field.

Importance of Food

• Food is a basic necessity for all living organisms.
• It is essential for growth, development, and body repair.

Historical Context

• Early humans were hunters and gatherers.
• They later learned to grow plants, shifting toward food production.
• Settled in fertile plains near rivers, agriculture became integral to life.

What is Agriculture?

• Agriculture (from Latin 'ager' meaning field and 'colo' meaning cultivate) is the practice of growing crops and raising animals for human benefit.
• Includes production of crops, poultry, fishing, and sericulture.

Horticulture

• Horticulture (from Latin 'Hortus', which means garden) is a branch of agriculture focused on growing vegetables, fruit, and ornamental plants.

Growing Demand for Food

• Population growth increases food demand.
• Efforts like the Green Revolution were made to address hunger needs.

Cropping Patterns

• Cropping patterns vary by region.
• The product of cultivated plants is termed crop produce.

Research Suggestions

• Explore various agricultural practices online.
• Investigate how cash crops contribute to the economy.

Questions for Reflection

• Is cropping pattern uniform across different regions?
• Can survival be possible with only one crop type produced?