Certified Crop Advisor Practice Exam

What affects the harvest date of crops?

1. Soil pH

2. Hybrid or variety

3. Seed quality

4. Fertility management

The correct answer is: Hybrid or variety

The harvest date of crops is significantly influenced by the hybrid or variety chosen for cultivation. Different plant hybrids and varieties have unique genetic traits that determine their growth rates, maturity times, and overall development. For instance, some varieties of corn may be bred for earlier maturity to accommodate shorter growing seasons, while others may be designed for maximum yield, requiring more time to reach maturity. Factors like climate and environmental conditions can play a role in how these specific hybrids or varieties perform, affecting their actual harvest timing. Understanding and selecting the appropriate hybrid or variety that aligns with local growing conditions helps farmers optimize their harvest schedule, ensuring they can collect their crops at peak ripeness and market value. While soil pH, seed quality, and fertility management are important aspects of crop production, they primarily influence plant health, growth, and yield rather than directly dictating the timing of harvest. The genetic characteristics of the chosen hybrid or variety are therefore the most critical factor in determining when crops can be harvested.