Basic Agriculture Study Material

 Professional Agriculture Notes By:

 Muhammad Tayyab Siddique — BS (Hons) Agriculture

Contact: 0326‑0188566

1. Introduction to Agriculture

Define:

Agriculture is the science and art of cultivating plants and livestock. It is one of the oldest professions, forming the backbone of Pakistan's economy. Over 65% of the country's population is directly or indirectly involved in agriculture. It provides food, raw materials, and employment to millions.

2. Branches of Agriculture

1. Agronomy: Study of field crops and soil management.

2. Horticulture: Production of fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.

3. Forestry: Management of forest resources.

4. Animal Husbandry: Breeding and caring of farm animals.

5. Agricultural Engineering: Application of engineering in farming operations.

6. Soil Science: Study of soil properties and its role in agriculture.

7. Entomology: Study of insects affecting crops.

8. Plant Pathology: Study of plant diseases and their control.

3. Major Crops of Pakistan

Crop Season Province Uses

Wheat Rabi Punjab Staple food

Rice Kharif Sindh, Punjab Export and local food

Cotton Kharif Punjab, Sindh Textile industry

Sugarcane Annual Punjab, KP Sugar and ethanol

Maize Both Punjab Food and fodder

4. Types of Farming in Pakistan

1. Subsistence Farming: For family consumption.

2. Commercial Farming: Large scale, profit-oriented.

3. Organic Farming: Without synthetic inputs.

4. Mixed Farming: Combination of crops and animals.

5. Urban Agriculture: Cultivation in cities and towns.

5. Modern Agricultural Practices

1. Mechanization: Use of tractors, harvesters, planters.

2. Precision Agriculture: GPS, drones, and sensors.

3. Hydroponics & Aeroponics: Soil-less crop production.

4. Climate Smart Agriculture: Practices that reduce emissions and improve resilience.

6. Irrigation Methods

1. Canal Irrigation: Traditional and widely used.

2. Tube Wells: For underground water extraction.

3. Drip Irrigation: Water-efficient for orchards.

4. Sprinkler Irrigation: Uniform water distribution.

5. Laser Land Leveling: Reduces water waste.

7. Fertilizer Management

Fertilizer Nutrient Purpose

1. Urea Nitrogen (N) Leaf and shoot growth

2. DAP Phosphorus(P) Root development and flowering

3. SOP/MOP Potassium(K) Fruit quality and disease resistance

👁 Tip: Always perform soil testing before applying fertilizers.

8. Pest & Disease Control

1. IPM (Integrated Pest Management): Combines biological, cultural, and chemical methods.

2. Biological Control: Use of natural predators.

3. Crop Rotation: Helps break pest cycles.

4. Chemical Pesticides: Use responsibly and with PPE.

9. Profitable Crops in Pakistan

1. Garlic (Lehsun): High demand, good export value.

2. Mushrooms: Can be grown indoors.

3. Chilies: Used in local food and export.

4. Medicinal Herbs: Like moringa, mint, aloe vera.

5. Off-Season Vegetables: High market prices.

10. Agricultural Marketing in Pakistan

1. Local Mandis (Markets): Primary sale points.

2. Online Platforms: Increasing popularity among young farmers.

3. Middlemen: Common but reduce farmers' profits.

4. Cooperatives: Help in collective bargaining and selling.

11. Government & NGO Support

1. Subsidies on Seeds and Fertilizers

2. Loans through ZTBL and other banks

3. Training by Agriculture Extension Departments

4. Free Soil & Water Testing Labs

5. Agri Clinics and Mobile Apps

Exercise Experience:

1. Define the Agriculture and their Types?

2. Write the name of Agriculture types?

3. Difference between Plant Pathology and Animal Husbandry?

4. Difference between Agronomy and Horticulture? 

5. Difference between Forestry and Entomology?

5. Write the name of Major Crops in Pakistan? 

6. Difference between Rabi season and Kharif season Crops? 

7. Write the types of Farming in Pakistan and also their Management?

8. what are the Modern technologies in agriculture?

9. What are the irrigation systems and their Methods? 

10. Which is useful irrigation Method in Pakistan?

11. Which is the oldest method of irrigation? 

12. Give you suggestion for best method of irrigation?

13. What are the benefits of fertilizer and also explain?

14. Which is most important a d most profitable Crops in Pakistan?

15.Do you want to Agricultural Marketing in  Local Mandis?

16. Do you know about NGOS and their work?

17. Explain you suggestion for best method of irrigation and Farming system?

______________________________________________

Notes:

Agriculture is not only a profession but the heart of Pakistan’s economy. With education, modern practices, and innovative approaches Professional Agriculture Notes By: Muhammad Tayyab Siddique — BS (Hons) Agriculture. The future lies in smart,sustainable,and profitable farming. 

Contact: 03260188566

                        End of Notes