“The crop is subtropical in nature. A hard frost is injurious to it. It requires at least 210 frost-free days and 50 to 100 centimeters of rainfall for its growth. A light well-drained soil capable of retaining moisture is ideally suited for the cultivation of the crop.” Which one of the following is that crop?
Explanation
The climatic and pedological conditions described precisely match the agronomic requirements of Cotton:
– Frost-free period: Cotton requires a minimum of 210 frost-free days; frost kills the vegetative plant and ruins the boll.
– Climatic parameters: It thrives in tropical and subtropical warm climates with temperatures around 21 to 30 degrees Celsius and requires moderate annual precipitation of 50 to 100 cm.
– Soil conditions: It grows best in deep, moisture-retentive black basaltic soils (Regur) or light, well-drained loams capable of retaining moisture.
Therefore, the crop is Cotton — Option A.