Which crop type generally requires a higher nitrogen application rate?

The correct choice is grains because these crops typically require a higher nitrogen application rate compared to the other options listed. Grains, such as corn and wheat, are demanding in terms of nitrogen for optimal growth and yield because nitrogen is a vital nutrient that supports vegetative growth, protein synthesis, and overall productivity in cereal crops.

In contrast, legumes naturally enrich the soil with nitrogen through a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, resulting in lower dependence on external nitrogen applications. Root vegetables typically require less nitrogen as they focus on developing storage organs, and fruit trees have different nutritional needs that are less nitrogen-intensive, often benefiting more from balanced nutrient applications that include potassium and phosphorus alongside nitrogen. Thus, grains stand out as the crop type that generally demands higher nitrogen rates for successful cultivation.