Concept:Intercropping involves growing two or more crop species together on the same land, which improves resource efficiency and reduces pest/disease problems compared to single-crop farming.
Explanation:Intercropping allows different crops to use soil nutrients from different depths and in different proportions, leading to more efficient overall nutrient utilisation and reduced competition.
The presence of multiple crops disrupts the life cycles of pests and pathogens, limiting their spread and reducing crop loss.
Legumes in intercropping fix atmospheric nitrogen, improving soil fertility and reducing the need for chemical fertilisers.
Complementary growth patterns often result in higher total yield per unit area than monocropping.
Biodiversity increases, attracting beneficial insects and improving ecological balance.
Incorrect options: Option A (Increases irrigation needs) is wrong because intercropping can actually reduce water wastage through better root zone coverage.
Option B (Reduces labour cost) is wrong because managing multiple crops often increases labour for planting, weeding, and harvesting.
Option C (Requires less land) is wrong because intercropping optimises the use of the same land area; it does not reduce the total land needed.
Only option D correctly states two key benefits: efficient nutrient use and disease prevention.
Answer:Option D: Utilises nutrients efficiently and prevents spread of diseases.