Medicinal Herbs - Qp1

Explanation
The statement suggests that herbs are generally difficult to grow and that many varieties offer aesthetic appeal. However, this is not entirely true. While some herbs may require specific growing conditions or care, many herbs are relatively easy to grow and can thrive in various environments. Additionally, not all herbs are grown for their visual appeal, as some are primarily cultivated for their culinary or medicinal uses. Therefore, the correct answer is false.

Explanation
Perennial herbs last for multiple years, unlike annual or biennial herbs which have a shorter lifespan. Growing perennial herbs from seed requires more patience as they take longer to establish, but once established, they continue to grow and produce for many years. Taking cuttings from perennial herbs is often a more efficient method of propagation compared to starting from seed.

Explanation
Most annual seeds should not be sown in summer. This is because summer temperatures can be too hot for the seeds to germinate and grow successfully. Instead, annual seeds are typically sown in the spring or fall when the temperatures are more moderate and favorable for growth. Sowing seeds in the summer may result in poor germination rates or the seeds may not survive the extreme heat. Therefore, the correct answer is False.

Explanation
Germination is the process by which a seed begins to sprout and grow into a new plant. Warmth is necessary for this process, as it helps to activate enzymes that break down stored nutrients in the seed and promote growth. The advised temperature for germination is up to 20°C, as this provides an optimal environment for the seeds to start growing. Temperatures below this may slow down or inhibit germination, while temperatures above this may cause the seeds to dry out or become damaged. Therefore, maintaining a temperature of 20°C is ideal for successful germination.

Explanation
Softening off is actually the process of gradually acclimating indoor pot-grown young plants to the outdoor environment. This is done by slowly exposing them to outdoor conditions such as sunlight, temperature, and wind. The purpose of softening off is to prevent shock and stress to the plants, allowing them to adjust and thrive in their new environment. Therefore, the correct answer is False as the explanation contradicts the statement.

Explanation
The statement is true because in order for a cutting to successfully grow into a new plant, it needs to be of sufficient length (around 7.5cm or 3in) to have enough nodes for root and shoot development. Additionally, the cutting should be healthy and free from flowers because the energy of the plant would be focused on flower production rather than root development.

Explanation
The statement is false because the general guideline for pruning herbaceous herbs is not to prune them back to around 20cm high when using aerial parts. The correct pruning technique for herbaceous herbs varies depending on the specific plant and its growth habit. Pruning should be done based on the plant's individual needs and characteristics, rather than a one-size-fits-all guideline.

Explanation
Feeding is not essential if the plants are contained in healthy soil because healthy soil provides the necessary nutrients for plant growth. Therefore, additional feeding is not required in this case.

Explanation
Good air circulation and light are essential for the health of plants because they play crucial roles in photosynthesis and respiration. Adequate air circulation helps in preventing the buildup of excess moisture, which can lead to the growth of fungi and other pathogens. It also helps in the exchange of gases, allowing plants to take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Additionally, proper air circulation helps to strengthen the plant's stems and prevent the development of weak and spindly growth. Light is necessary for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy to fuel their growth and development. Without sufficient light, plants may become weak, pale, and unable to produce enough food for themselves. Therefore, good air circulation and light are indeed necessary for the health of plants.