Crop

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Crop is a term used in agriculture to refer to plants that are grown and harvested on a large scale for various purposes, including food, fiber, fuel, or ornamental use. The term can also refer to the yield of such plants within a specific period or area.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Crops are typically classified into two main types: food crops and non-food crops. Food crops are grown for consumption, either by humans or livestock, and include grains, vegetables, fruits, and nuts. Non-food crops, on the other hand, are grown for other purposes, such as for producing biofuel, fiber, medicinal plants, or ornamental plants.

Types of Crops[edit | edit source]

Food Crops[edit | edit source]

Food crops are the most common type of crops and are grown for human consumption. They include:

  • Grains: These are small, hard, dry seeds that can be eaten whole or milled into flour. Examples include wheat, rice, corn, and barley.
  • Vegetables: These are plants whose parts, such as leaves, stems, roots, or flowers, are used for food. Examples include lettuce, spinach, carrots, and broccoli.
  • Fruits: These are the mature ovaries of flowering plants, usually containing seeds. Examples include apples, oranges, bananas, and berries.
  • Nuts: These are hard-shelled fruits that contain a single, large seed. Examples include almonds, walnuts, and pecans.

Non-Food Crops[edit | edit source]

Non-food crops are grown for purposes other than human consumption. They include:

  • Biofuel crops: These are plants used to produce biofuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel. Examples include corn, sugarcane, and soybeans.
  • Fiber crops: These are plants used to produce natural fibers, which can be used in the manufacture of textiles, rope, and paper. Examples include cotton, flax, and hemp.
  • Medicinal plants: These are plants used in the production of pharmaceuticals. Examples include foxglove, which is used to produce the heart medicine digitalis, and willow, which is used to produce aspirin.
  • Ornamental plants: These are plants grown for their aesthetic appeal, rather than for food or other practical uses. Examples include roses, tulips, and daffodils.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Crop Resources
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