The correct option is (b).
Explanation
Coffee is a tropical plantation crop that requires specific climatic and physiographic conditions, primarily thriving in warm and humid environments with distinct wet and dry spells.Statement 1 is Incorrect: Coffee generally requires a hot and humid climate, not a cool and dry one. The ideal temperature range is typically between 15°C and 28°C. It is sensitive to extreme cold and cannot tolerate frost. While a short dry spell is beneficial for the ripening of berries, the primary growth phase requires significant moisture and warmth.
Statement 2 is Correct: Well-drained loamy soil rich in humus and organic matter is most suitable for coffee cultivation. The soil should be deep and fertile to support the crop's root system.
Statement 3 is Incorrect: Hill slopes are the most suitable terrain for coffee cultivation, rather than flat plains. This is because coffee plants are highly susceptible to water stagnation. Sloped terrain ensures natural drainage, preventing waterlogging which can cause root rot.
Key Takeaway: Coffee cultivation demands a tropical climate with moderate to heavy rainfall, protection from frost, and well-drained loamy soils situated on hill slopes to ensure effective drainage.