Chapter 8 Quiz

Question 1

In order to be considered an organic soil, how much organic matter must be present?

Answer 1

At least 20%

Question 2

Which of the following is NOT a function of soil in terms of plant growth?

• stores/provides water
• provides carbon
• provides anchorage/support
• stores/provides nutrients

Answer 2

-provides carbon

Question 3

Which is NOT one of the three particle sizes used to determine the texture of a mineral soil?

• sand
• clay
• silt
• dust

Answer 3

-dust

Question 4

excessively well-drained; require frequent irrigation; subject to leaching; low in organic matter

Answer 4

sandy soils

Question 5

mostly sand, but enough silt and clay to hold water and nutrients; warm quickly in spring; works great for veggies and fruits

Answer 5

sandy loam soil

Question 6

“ideal” soil texture; mellow soils; balance of all the best characteristics; preferred soil type

Answer 6

loam soils

Question 7

poorly aerated; poorly drained; easily compacted; warm slowly in spring

Answer 7

clay soils

Question 8

flour-like, smooth texture; usually profitable soils, 50%+ silt

Answer 8

silty loam soils

Question 9

Which soil pH range is the best for providing all of the necessary plant nutrients?

Answer 9

6.2 to 6.8

Question 10

Which of the following is NOT true about soil pH?

• Soil pH affects some plant diseases
• Soil pH is difficult to change
• Soil pH is determined as a soil forms in response to the climate and the parent material
• Soil pH has very little impact on nutrient availability

Answer 10

-Soil pH has very little impact on nutrient availability

Question 11

What are some ways that horticulturists can reduce or prevent soil erosion?

• wind breaks
• cover crops
• all of these
• mulches

Answer 11

-all of these

Question 12

T/F: There is no way to improve drainage in a soil.

Answer 12

False

Question 13

Why does the media used for containers rarely contain actual field soil?

Answer 13

Field soil is too poorly drained

Question 14

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a good plant container?

• Must be made of an earth-friendly material
• Must have drainage
• Of sufficient volume to provide water and support to the plant
• Must be shippable

Answer 14

-Must be made of an earth-friendly material

Question 15

Which of the following is NOT true about girdling roots?

• Root pruning before planting will help to break up circling roots and prevent girdling
• Circling roots only occur if you leave plants in containers for way too long
• Girdling roots are a common problem in many containerized crops
• Some containers are effective at preventing the circling of roots

Answer 15

-Circling roots only occur if you leave plants in containers for way too long