Question

The crown root initiation (CRI) stage for irrigation is related to a crop:

• A. Rice
• B. Wheat
• C. Maize
• D. Cotton

Hint:

Always remember: In wheat, the CRI stage (20–25 DAS) is the most critical for irrigation. Missing this irrigation may reduce yield by up to 35%.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding CRI stage.
The Crown Root Initiation (CRI) stage in wheat generally occurs around 20–25 days after sowing.
This is the most critical growth stage for wheat because it is the time when permanent or crown roots start developing.
The crown roots are responsible for water and nutrient absorption for the entire life cycle of the crop.
Step 2: Importance of irrigation at CRI stage.
At this stage, if the soil does not have enough moisture, root growth will be hindered.
Poor root growth results in poor tillering, which directly affects the number of ear heads formed.
Therefore, irrigation at CRI stage ensures strong root establishment, better tillering, and ultimately a higher yield.
Step 3: Analysis of options.
- (A) Rice: Rice requires frequent irrigation at transplanting and later stages, but CRI stage is not relevant to rice.
- (B) Wheat: Wheat specifically requires its first irrigation at CRI stage, which is the most critical stage.
- (C) Maize: Maize has critical stages like tasseling and silking, but CRI stage does not apply here.
- (D) Cotton: Cotton requires irrigation mainly at flowering and boll development stages.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Thus, the crown root initiation stage for irrigation is specifically related to wheat crop.