1. Know The Importance Of Site Selection For Outdoor Food Production In A Garden Or Allotment

Question 1

State the factors to be considered when selecting a site -

Answer 1

Soil depth, texture and structure - light and easily worked soil. Different crops like different soil types.
Drainage - adequate free drainage for aeration for good root growth.
pH - will effect what can be grown. Acidic soils can have lime added to grow most crops.
Aspect - choose a southerly aspect for warmer soil for a longer time. Maximum light levels.
Slope - can create frost pockets at the bottom. Can be difficult to work on if steep. A slight slope allows for water to drain easily. Steep sites should b terraced to prevent soil erosion from water run off. A small slope facing south is best. A level site is also ideal.
Susceptibility to frost and wind - frost pockets occur in valley hollows and also walls and hedges that can trap cold air at the bottom of hills.
Area of land available - select site of appropriate size for crops to be grown.
Availability of water - water available effects how much labour is needed to bring water to the site.

Question 2

Describe the reasons for providing shelter for an outdoor food production area

Answer 2

Wind reduction reduce damage from strong winds. When wind speed is reduced, overall yield is increased as the temperature increases.
Frost potential - Frost pockets are created through trapped cold air, so air circulation is important to stop frost pockets appearing by wind breaks, especially at the bottom of a slope.
Influences upon pollination - excessive wind reduces the activity of pollinators and reduce the amount of fruit set. Appropriate wind breaks ensure that pollinators are unhindered in the activity.

Question 3

State the benefits and limitations of living and non-living windbreaks

Answer 3

The characteristics of effective living windbreaks - Can filter winds effectively but take up space, encourage beneficial organisms but can also harbour pests and diseases, require time to establish and need to be maintained.
Non living windbreaks - take less space but require more frequent replacement.

Question 4

Name 4 plant soecies suitable for a living windbreak

Answer 4

Fagus sylvatica
Carpinus betulus
Pinus nigra
X Cuprocyparis leylandii
Crataegus monogyna

Question 5

Name 4 types of non-living permeable windbreak

Answer 5

Plastic mesh
Webbing
Fencing
Trellis
Hurdles