Which statement describes the difference between annual and perennial crops in terms of irrigation?

The distinction between annual and perennial crops primarily lies in their life cycles. Annual crops are those that complete their life cycle—from germination to seed production—within a single growing season, typically lasting one year. This characteristic means that they often require a concentrated amount of water within that short time frame to establish themselves, grow, and produce seeds.

In contrast, perennial crops have a life cycle that extends over multiple years. They are established once and can continue to grow and produce for several seasons without needing to be replanted each year. Because perennial crops are more established in the soil, they generally have deeper root systems that can access moisture from the soil more effectively, allowing them to survive and thrive during dry periods.

Understanding this fundamental difference is crucial for managing irrigation practices appropriately. It informs how much water is needed and when irrigation should be applied for each type of crop to optimize growth and yield.