Agricultural Practices in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico, with a population of over 3 million, relies heavily on imported food, yet agriculture remains vital. The island has transitioned from sugar plantations to diverse crops like corn, rice, and bananas. Plantains are cultivated with insecticides to combat tropical pests. Mangoes, the top fruit crop, are grown year-round, with most exported to Europe. Agriculture, including sugar, coffee, and fruit, significantly contributes to Puerto Rico's economy.

What is a major reason Puerto Rico imports most of its food?

• Lack of agricultural land

• High population density

• Limited local food production

• Poor soil quality

Which crops are currently grown on land that once had sugar plantations?

• Wheat and barley

• Grapes and olives

• Corn, rice, and bananas

• Soybeans and peanuts

How are plantains protected from tropical insects and diseases?

• Through genetic modification

• By planting them in greenhouses

• With regular insecticide spraying

• By using organic fertilizers

What natural resource supports the growth of crops like plantains in Puerto Rico?

• Desalinated seawater

• Mountain streams and rivers

• Underground aquifers

• Artificial reservoirs

What is Puerto Rico's number one fruit crop?

• Bananas

• Papayas

• Pineapples

• Mangoes

Where is the majority of Puerto Rico's mango production exported?

• Africa

• South America

• Europe

• Asia