​Which of the following methods is/are used for covering the soil around plants with organic wastes?
​1. Staking
​2. Mulching
​3. Pruning
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

Correct option is D

The correct answer is: (d) Only 2

Explanation:

• Mulching – Correct: Mulching involves covering the soil around plants with organic materials like straw, leaves, grass clippings, or compost. This helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, suppress weeds, and enrich the soil as the material decomposes.

• Staking – Incorrect: Staking is the process of providing physical support to plants using sticks or poles to prevent them from toppling. It does not relate to soil coverage.

• Pruning – Incorrect: Pruning involves the selective removal of plant parts, such as branches, buds, or roots, to improve growth or shape. It is unrelated to covering or enriching the soil.

Information Booster:

• Mulching helps to reduce soil erosion and improve soil fertility over time.

• It is effective in conserving soil moisture by reducing evaporation from the soil surface.

• Organic mulches gradually decompose, adding nutrients back into the soil, enhancing soil health.

• This practice is widely used in sustainable agriculture and horticulture.

•  Mulching also plays a role in controlling weed growth naturally, reducing the need for chemical herbicides.