Challenges of Farming on the Plains Flashcards

Why did low rainfall on the Great Plains make farming difficult?

There was little rain. Crops lacked water and often failed.

What was the sod and why did it make ploughing hard?

Thick grass roots bound the soil into tough sod. Old ploughs could not cut it.

How did extreme temperatures affect farms on the Plains?

Summers were very hot and baked the soil. Winters were very cold and killed plants and animals.

Why were strong winds a problem for farmers?

Winds dried the soil and blew away seeds and topsoil. They also spread fires fast.

Why did the lack of trees on the Plains cause problems?

There was little timber. Farmers struggled to build homes and fences and had little fuel.

Why was finding water for people, animals, and crops difficult?

Rivers and streams were far apart and often dried up in summer. Groundwater lay deep, so wells were hard to dig and use.

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What danger did prairie fires pose to Plains farms?

Dry grass could catch fire easily. Fires raced across the land and burned crops and buildings.

What happened during grasshopper swarms?

Millions of insects arrived and ate crops and seed. They could destroy a harvest in days.

Why was fencing fields difficult for early farmers?

Wood and stone were scarce. Without fences, cattle and other animals trampled crops.

Why was isolation a challenge for homesteaders?

Farms were far apart. Getting help, supplies, or a doctor took a long time.

How did sudden storms like hail and blizzards affect farming?

Hail could smash crops in minutes. Blizzards trapped people and killed livestock.

Why did many traditional crops from the East fail on the Plains?

They needed more rain and a longer season. The Plains climate did not suit them.

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