Search

In-vitro rhizobial inhibition by fertilizers commonly used in legume production was assessed with commercial inoculant strains, Bradyrhizobium lupini WU425, Mesorhizobium ciceri CC1192 and Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. viciae WSM1455, and a commercial granular inoculant (WSM1455). Standard bacterial inhibition assays were used with four fertilizers: single superphosphate (SSP), granulated DAP (based on diammonium phosphate) and MAP (monoammonium phosphate), and a compound fertilizer (MAP with ZnSO4). WSM1455 was strongly inhibited by DAP and MAP fertilizers, and moderately by SSP, with DAP being non-lethal. However, CC1192 and WU425 were not inhibited by DAP and were less sensitive to MAP fertilizers, with the effects being bacteriostatic rather than bactericidal. Apart from pH effects (particularly SSP), comparisons with analytical grade products indicated that fertilizer impurities might contribute to this inhibition. Granular inoculant mixed with MAP or DAP rapidly lost moisture and viability (75% within 1 h). The fertilizers were found to inhibit rhizobia with strain by fertilizer interactions, with differences in degree and lethality. Consequently, it is suggested that close placement of inoculated seeds near fertilizer at planting or mixing granular inoculants with fertilizers risks poor nodulation outcomes. These in-vitro findings need field validation but may be considered valuable in providing advice to legume growers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing popularity of cold-brewed coffee has resulted in large amounts of localized spent coffee grounds (SCG) generated from production plants. Spent coffee grounds offer many favorable agronomic properties, but also contain caffeine, tannins and phenolic compounds that may be deleterious to plant growth. There is a growing body of research examining the effects of SCG on plants, but little of which pertains to use in turfgrass systems. The objective of this two-year field study was to evaluate the feasibility of using SCG as an agronomic source of nutrients for turfgrass. Field studies were conducted over two years to characterize performance of 'Riley's Super Sport' (Celebration®) bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) receiving multiple nutrient source treatments including fresh and composted SCG, as well as synthetic, natural organic, and bridge fertilizers, some which included SCG. Soils were analyzed at the conclusion of the study to determine whether SGC provided long-term effects of on soil pH and/or nutrient concentrations. Our results demonstrated that although SCG possesses between 2.3-2.9% N and a favorable C:N ratio, direct SCG applications over two seasons did not produce responses typical of a fertilizer when applied as a topdressing. However, when combined with poultry litter, the SCG-containing organic fertilizer GeoJava produced improved turf quality relative to other organic and synthetic commercial fertilizers in our study, including Milorganite, ammonium sulfate, and URI-PEL S.R. Further, despite the acidic nature of SCG, their repeated application over multiple years did not result in any long-term changes to soil pH. Although early on, SCG treatments caused mild and transient phytotoxicity, these effects were not observed when it was applied in combination with the manure used in GeoJava. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: An importance of tillage, inorganic and organic nutrient sources in the mustard - soybean cropping system lies in their ability to enhance soil fertility, improve nutrient availability, optimize crop growth and yield, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Any cropping system's sustainability could be increased by implementing better management techniques like zero and reduced tillage with residue retention and better nutrient sources. Results: A field experiment was conducted for four consecutive seasons (Winter 2019 to Rainy 2021) to compare the two enhanced management practices, zero and reduced tillage to conventional tillage across four levels of nutrient sources: 75 and 100% recommended dose of nitrogen through FYM and 75 and 100% recommended dose of fertilizers through urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash in a two years experiment. Experiment results were evaluated in terms of nutrient status, profitability and productivity of Mustard-Soybean cropping system. The results show a substantial improvement in yield, nutrient status, and overall yield performance of mustard and soybean when using the full recommended dose of fertilizers combined with reduced tillage and mulching, compared to other treatment methods. The implementation of reduced tillage practices recorded significantly higher yield of mustard and soybean over conventional and zero tillage. Conclusion: System productivity and profitability i.e. mustard equivalent yield, productivity, gross returns, net returns, profitability and B: C (benefit: cost) was found to be improved with reduced tillage and 100% recommended dose of fertilizer under reduced tillage practices. To enhance cropping system productivity in various sub-humid regions worldwide, farmers can adopt reduced tillage techniques combined with the full recommended dose of fertilizers (100% RDF). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proper adjustment of fertilizer dosage is necessary to achieve maximum yield. The use of too little or too much fertilizer can negatively affect plant growth. Nitrogen and phosphorus are two important nutrients in plant nutrition. Research on the combined effect of nitrogen and phosphorus on black cumin is very limited. Therefore, a field study was conducted to determine the effects of different nitrogen and phosphorus doses on the growth, yield and yield components of black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) under Mediterranean conditions during two growing seasons. Five doses (0 kg ha−1or control, 30 kg ha−1, 60 kg ha−1, 90 kg ha−1 and 120 kg ha−1) of nitrogen and four phosphorus doses (0 kg ha−1 or control, 20 kg ha−1, 40 kg ha−1 and 60 kg ha−1) were used as experimental factors. All the parameters except for capsule number were significantly affected by the growing season. Nitrogen dose significantly affected all the examined features except for seed number in capsule, seed weight in capsule and harvest index, while phosphorus dose significantly affected only SY and HI. In general, in the 2021–2022 growing season, black cumin had lower growth, yield and related traits. On the other hand, even though nitrogen fertilization, particularly at 90 kg ha−1 and 120 kg ha−1, had a positive effect on the yield and yield components of black cumin, the optimal nitrogen dose was 90 kg ha−1 for fewer input costs according to the results obtained from the present study. A phosphorus dose of 60 kg ha−1 was determined to be the appropriate dose in terms of seed yield, and this dose can be suggested for maximum seed yield of black cumin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] To explore the influence of density and fertilizer ratio on the yield and their interaction, and screen out the scientific dense fertilizer level, so as to provide theoretical basis and practical experience for the standardized cultivation of Alisma plantago-aquatica. [Method] The effect function of density, nitrogen fertilizer, phosphorus fertilizer, potassium fertilizer and the yield of Alisma plantago-aquatica was established by using four-factor and five-level quadratic orthogonal rotation combination design for field experiment. [Result] The quadratic regression equation R² was 0.9097, and the mathematical model was reliable. The effect of each factor on the yield of Alisma plantago-aquatica Linn. was in the order of density>N>K>P, and the interaction effect between density and fertilizer was significant. According to the optimization of statistical frequency, the optimal agronomic measures for the target yield of diarrhea greater than 3 300 kg/hm² were obtained as follows: the density was 146 900-150 800 plants/hm², nitrogen 219.10-234.50 kg/hm², phosphorus 124.80-150.00 kg/hm² and potassium 152.55179.55 kg/hm². [Conclusion] Both reasonable density and fertilizer application amount can effectively increase the yield of Alisma plantagoaquatica Linn. Density is the best, followed by nitrogen fertilizer, and potassium and phosphate fertilizer have less effect on increasing production. On the basis of ensuring density and nitrogen fertilizer, combining with reasonable phosphate and potassium fertilizer can achieve the goal of high yield of Alisma plantago-aquatica Linn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] In order to investigate the suitable water-fertilizer combination pattern for selenium melon grown under drip irrigation in the arid zone of central Ningxia. [Method] The local main cultivar "Jincheng 5" was used as the test material, and three irrigation gradients and three fertilizer levels were set up, with a total of nine treatments, to determine the growth indexes of selenium squash, fruit longitudinal and transverse diameters, yields and quality indexes of selenium squash under different treatments. The key indexes were screened by principal component analysis to evaluate the combined effects of irrigation volume and fertilizer application on the indexes of selenium melon. [Result] The results show that irrigation volume, fertilizer application rate, and water-fertilizer interaction effect all affected the yield and quality of selenium melon to different degrees, and the water-fertilizer interaction effect was higher than that of irrigation volume and fertilizer application rate. The W2F2 treatment significantly increased the yield of selenium melon, the content of central and marginal soluble solids, reduced the middle and marginal differences, and made the selenium melon sweetness uniform, which improved the taste and quality of selenium melon. Based on the principal component analysis, 12 indicators of quality index, yield, irrigation water use efficiency and fertilizer bias productivity were converted into 2 independent composite indicators, whose cumulative contribution was as high as 89.244%. The W2F2 treatment had the highest composite score of water-fertilizer coupling effect. [Conclusion] The suitable water-fertilizer combination pattern for selenium melon in the central arid zone of Ningxia was an irrigation watering rate of 210 m³/hm² and a fertilizer application rate of 300 kg/hm². [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThroughout much of the world, critical goods and services are provided by parallel public and private distribution systems. However, it is often difficult to causally differentiate the performance of these two channels. In this article, we utilize a policy change in Malawi to estimate the relative efficiency of public and private channels in distributing inputs to smallholder farmers. In the 2015/16 agricultural season, the government allowed a group of private-sector fertilizer dealers to distribute subsidized fertilizer in nine of the country’s 28 districts. We use a panel dataset and a difference-in-differences (DID) strategy to estimate the impact of the pilot reform on a set of variables encompassing the entire process of subsidized fertilizer acquisition and appropriate utilization. We find that households in districts where the private sector distributed subsidized fertilizer were 11 percentage points more likely to acquire it earlier in the planting season (p < 0.01). We also find that households in pilot districts were six percentage points more likely to apply inorganic fertilizer (p < 0.10), but this effect was no longer statistically significant after using household fixed-effects and correcting for multiple hypothesis testing. Additionally, the reform did not affect other outcomes such as timely fertilizer application or maize yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The significance of stabilized use of fertilizers is more populous between the farmers to get higher quality of produce. In integrative agricultural system, integrated nutrient management (INM) provide best way to solve numerous issues regarding sustainability, improving quality, boosting yield and keeping good soil fertility in efficient and economical way. Cabbage is one of the most valued crop among cole group vegetables and it is rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B1, B2 and B3, sulphur, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, sodium etc. Methods: Field experiments were conducted to study the effect of vermicompost, inorganic fertilizers and growth retardant (cycocel) with different spacing in cabbage and carried out in factorial randomized block design at Experimental Farm Bundelkhand University, Jhansi (U.P.) during rabi season 2017-18 and 2018-19. Fertilizers with cycocel treatment increases the accumulation of various minerals and vitamins. Result: Result indicated that quality attributes of cabbage were found to be highest and significant in the treatment where 50% RDF (Inorganic Fertilizer) + 50% Organic (vermicompost) were applied at wider crop geometry (45 cm × 45 cm spacing) along with spraying of 300 ppm cycocel (growth retardant). Head yield of cabbage was positively correlated with various quality attributes. Application of vermicompost along with inorganic in head of the cabbage. The experimental findings indicated that reduction in the amount of inorganic fertilizer was not detrimental to quality of cabbage while applying the vermicompost in proper amount that is 50% in combination with inorganic fertilizers. It is evident that integration of vermicompost and inorganic fertilizer at wider spacing under cycocel treatment enhances the quality of cabbage and also sustaining the fertility of soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the oldest and most widely used crops in the world and is the most important source of human food that grows in a wide range of climatic conditions in the world. In arid and semi-arid regions, water is the main limitation. Iran is a dry and semi-arid country with limited precipitations. Therefore, the mean annual rainfall in Iran is even less than one third of the global average. There are many solutions for sustainability in agriculture, one of which is the use of biological fertilizers. Among these biofertilizers are mycorrhizal fungi. The symbiotic relationship between the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus and the roots of the host plant significantly increases the growth and absorption of plant nutrients. In this research, the aim is to investigate the effect of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus on improving the yield, yield components, and chlorophyll index of wheat by applying water deficit stress through increasing the interval of irrigation cycles. Materials and Methods This factorial experiment was conducted based on a randomized complete block design in four replications in the research farm of the Azad Islamic University of Miandoab, northwestern Iran in 2021. The experimental factors included the application of arbuscular mycorrhiza fungus species in three levels, control (without inoculation), inoculation with Glomus mosseae and inoculation with Glomus intraradices and three levels of irrigation regimes (i.e. irrigation after every 6, 13 and 20 days). Seeds of Elvand wheat cultivar were inoculated with mycorrhizal fungus, then the inoculated seeds were immediately planted into a depth of 3. Before planting, 15 tons/ha of manure and 25 kig of nitrogen fertilizer in the form of urea were uniformly applied to the soil. During the growing season, 50 kg of nitrogen fertilizer in the form of urea was used during the two stages of stem growth and spike formation. To measure wheat grain yield components, 10 plants were harvested and to determine grain yield and plant above- ground dry mass, 0.25 m-2 was taken from each plot. In this way, after removing two rows from each side and half a meter from the beginning and end of all rows as a margin, sampling of experimental units was done. The evaluated traits included the spikes/plant, grains/spike, the thousand-grain weight, plant aboveground dry mass, grain yield, harvest index, and greenness index Results and Discussion Results indicated that the effect of irrigation intervals and mycorrhiza fungus were significant for grains/spike, thousand-grain weight, grain yield, above-ground dry mass, harvest index, chlorophyll index, photosynthetic pigments and proline concentrations. G. mosseae species increased the grains/spike, thousand-grain weight, above-ground dry mass, harvest index, and chlorophyll concentration compared to G. intraradices species by 5.21, 9.73, 8.86, 6.96 and 4.08% and increased the above-mentioned attributes compared to the control by 29.94, 30.28, 39.68, 27.90 and 21.43%, respectively. The highest spikes/plant, grain yield, chlorophyll index and concentration of chlorophyll a belonged to irrigation interval of 6 days and inoculation with G. mosseae species with 6.34, 612.45 g m-2, 62.89 SPAD unit, and 0.306 mg g-1 FW, respectively. Prolongation of irrigation interval by creating water deficit stress caused the sterility of the spikes and significantly reduced the grains/spikes. The irrigation regime had a significant effect on the grain yield and by reducing the irrigation intervals, the grain yield was increased. The drought-induced decrease in grain yield stemmed from the decrease in green index, chlorophyll concentration, spikes/plant and grains/spike, leading to decrease in the harvest index. With increase in the irrigation interval, the concentration of chlorophyll a and b decreased, but the mycorrhizal inoculation led to significant increase in the concentration of chlorophyll a and b under water deficit stress. The plants inoculated with mycorrhizal fungus suffered less from water deficit stress than the non-colonized plants, and as a result, the concentration of proline increased less compared to the plants deprived from mycorrhizal fungus. According to these results, irrigation of wheat plants every 13 days and application of G. mosseae can produce the desirable grain yield, while decreasing water consumption for wheat production. Conclusions Mycorrhizal fungus increased the plant's resistance to drought stress by improving the absorption of water and nutrients under water stress deficit. G. mosseae was more effective in increasing the resistance of wheat against water deficit stress and as a result, it increased the grain yield, yield components, chlorophyll index and chlorophyll concentration of wheat to a greater extent compared to G. intraradices. In order to make the best use of water resources and soil nutrients, irrigation of wheat should be done every 13 days and must be accompanied by inoculation with G. mosseae to achieve an acceptable grain yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural crop production practices are being developed for organic, sustainable, and environmentally friendly farming systems. Developing efficient and resourceful crop fertilizers is significantly important for future agriculture. Various biofertilizers, such as animal manures, composts, and vegetable byproducts, have been successfully applied in agriculture. Anaerobic digestate, organic matter obtained from animal or plant waste processing during anaerobic digestion into biomass, has become popular due to its versatility, multiple purposes, and facile application methods. Digestate has recently been widely used in agriculture to enrich the soil with nutrients and thus increase crop yields. Several studies have shown that anaerobic digestate is a valuable fertilizer that can be used as a biofertilizer in field and greenhouse horticulture. Also, research has been carried out on the use of digestate in hydroponic horticulture. This review presents the research results and discusses the possibilities of using anaerobic digestate in greenhouse horticulture. Its objective is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the application of digestate from various sources and its impact on the growth, progress, yield, and quality of greenhouse-grown vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates a novel method of utilizing Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology for fertilizer production. Unlike traditional Direct Air Carbon Capture and Utilization (DACCU) technologies, Direct Air Carbon Capture for Fertilizers (FDAC) has the potential to produce fertilizers directly. This study aims to assess the feasibility of FDAC-based fertilizer production by examining the current state of traditional DAC technologies, evaluating the CO2 fixation potential of FDAC, and analyzing the decarbonization effect of producing fertilizers using FDAC. Our evaluation results indicate that CO2 emissions from producing 1 ton of conventional chemical fertilizer, FDAC fertilizer (current status), FDAC fertilizer with ingredient adjustment (sodium hydroxide), and FDAC fertilizer with ingredient adjustment (magnesium hydroxide) are 1.69, 1.12, 1.04, and 1.06 tons of CO2, respectively. The FDAC fertilizer (current status) emits 0.57 tons of CO2 per ton less than commercial fertilizers. FDAC fertilizers also have the potential to reduce CO2 emissions further when the fertilizer composition is adjusted, offering a promising solution for lowering the environmental impact of fertilizer production. Significant CO2 reduction can be expected by replacing conventional low-intensity chemical fertilizers with FDAC-produced fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Okra (Abelmochus esculentus L. Moench) has a fairly high nutritional content; every 10 gr of young okra fruit contains 33 calories, 7 gs of carbohydrates, 3.2 gs of fiber, and 81 mg calcium. Okra fruit contains a lot of mucilage due to its high fiber content. This study aimed to determine the effect of rock phosphate doses and types of mycorrhizae and the interaction between these two factors on the growth and yield of okra in saline soil. The research results showed that the dose of mycorrhiza had a very significant effect on the growth and yield of okra plants. The best dose of mycorrhiza was 10 g/plant, and the best type was Acauluspora. It showed that a dose of 10 g/plant with the Acauluspora type on okra yields on Ultiisol soil had given the best results in the vegetative phase, which could be seen in plant height parameters 15 and 30 ADP. The dose of rock phosphate is 150 g, which can be seen in the 300 g planting parameter and in almost all the observed variables. Hyphae in the soil can spread widely, which helps absorb more water. The best yields of okra plants were found by applying a mycorrhizal dose of 10 g on fruit weight variables of plants' mycorrhizal colonization on vase vegetative roots and mycorrhizal colonization on plant roots in the generative phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N) is one of the most important fertilizers in agriculture because it promotes the growth of plants and the uptake of other plant nutrients. This nutrient plays a significant role in determining the yield and nutrient composition of sweet potato root tubers. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the optimum application rate of N in sweet potatoes to maximize yields and increase growth efficiency. Four levels of N (50, 100, 150, and 200 kg/ha) were applied as treatments. A randomized complete block design was used, and each treatment was replicated five times. Vine length, leaf length, stem thickness, and chlorophyll content were measured weekly, and the storage root yield was determined at the end of the experiment. The results showed a significant effect of the N treatments on plant growth, chlorophyll content, vine length, leaf area index and storage root yield. The chlorophyll content and vine length increased with an increase in the N rate. However, an inverse relationship was observed between storage root yield and N rates; the highest yield was recorded for the 50 kg/ha N treatment and the lowest yield was recorded for the 200 kg/ha N applied. Therefore, a rate of 50 to 100 kg/ha N is recommended for the production of orange-fleshed sweet potatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work is a synthesis of suitable hydrogel to produce slow‐release fertilizer using recycled cellulose which is obtained from waste paper. For this purpose, initially, we extracted alpha cellulose from waste paper and modified it to obtain carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). Then, the CMC was converted to a suitable hydrogel through in situ graft copolymerization of acrylic acid and vinyl acetate in the presence of methylene bisacrylamide as a crosslinker. The various factors that affect hydrogel synthesis, such as the amounts of CMC, monomers, initiator, and crosslinker, were evaluated. In the optimized formulation, the weight ratio of monomers to CMC is 7, the molar ratio of monomers to each other is 1, and the crosslinker is used as 3 molar percent of monomers. The products were characterized using Fourier transform infrared, thermal gravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscope analyses. The swelling behavior of the synthesized hydrogels was evaluated in different environments, such as distilled water, tap water, salt water, and different pH levels. The swelling ratio increases with an increase in pH level. Between the synthesized hydrogels, the best one was selected for slow‐release fertilizer production and loaded with 20‐20‐20 fertilizer (NPK), and the release behavior was evaluated. In an alkaline pH, there was a long time for NPK release within a slow‐release medium and even after 361 h, the release process was continued. Also, the performance of the fertilizer‐loaded hydrogel in soil using water holding capacity and water retention ratio tests were evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global warming delays the harvest of kharif crops, which delay the subsequent sowing of Indian mustard, especially in northwestern India and also causes dry winters that exacerbate challenges for the timely sowing of rabi-crops. To check this, a field experiment was conducted during the Rabi-seasons of 2018–19 and 2019–20 to assess the influence of sowing dates, irrigation, and fertilizer levels under late-sown conditions. A split-plot design was used with two sowing dates, two irrigation levels and four fertilizer levels (87.5%, 100%, 112.5% and 125% RDF; Recommended-fertilizers-dose). Crop sown in the 4th week of November significantly reduced seed (46.79 and 38.77%) and stover yield (43.72 and 41.62%) as compared to the 2nd week of November sowing during 2018–19 and 2019–20, respectively. Uptake of NPK by seed and stover was higher with the 2nd week of November sowing. The 2nd week of November sowing resulted in significant increase in water productivity by 63.72% and Benefit cost ratio (B:C) by 75.45% over the 4th week of November sowing. Irrigation at flowering stage increased the seed yield, water productivity and B:C by 11.94%, 1.72% and 9.17%, respectively, as compared to No post-sown irrigation. The biological yield of the Indian mustard increased with every increase in fertilizer doses but the response was significant up to 112.5% RDF (90 kg N, 33.75 kg P2O5 and 22.5 kg K2O ha−1). Application of 112.5% RDF increased the seed, stover yield, water productivity and B:C by 16.17%, 9.29%, 15.66% and 11.27%, respectively, over 87.5% RDF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the wall thickness and specific surface area (SBET) of ammonium nitrate(V) samples of varying provenance. The research focuses on both fertilizer-grade ammonium nitrate(V) and three porous prill samples obtained from different manufacturers. The samples were analyzed using tomography scanning and two distinct porosimetry methods. The wall thickness analysis revealed that fertilizer-grade ammonium nitrate(V) possesses thicker walls, ranging from 0.05 to 0.40 mm, compared to porous prill-type ammonium nitrate(V), which predominantly exhibited wall thicknesses between 0.05 and 0.025 mm, with occasional thicker regions up to 0.040 mm. These variations in wall thickness are likely attributable to differences in manufacturing processes and prilling conditions specific to the ammonium nitrate(V) porous prill-type samples. The specific surface area (SBET), derived from nitrogen adsorption measurements, indicated that the samples exhibited surface areas ranging from 0.011 to 0.466 m2·g, suggesting that these samples do not exhibit particularly high absorption capacities. However, the SBET values obtained from the mercury intrusion method suggested significantly higher absorption capacities, falling within the range of 4.87–18.29 m2·g. These findings suggest that mercury porosimetry may provide a more accurate assessment of the porosity and absorption potential of ammonium nitrate(V) samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil organic carbon (SOC) plays an important role in maintaining or increasing soil fertility and quality in paddy field, but there is limited information about how SOC mineralization responds to different fertilizer managements under the double-cropping rice system in southern China. Therefore, this study was designed to explore changes in SOC content, soil enzyme activities, SOC mineralization at 0–10 cm and 10–20 cm layers, and its relationship with long-term fertilizer managements in a double-cropping rice system of southern China. The experiment included four fertilizer treatments: chemical fertilizer alone (CF), rice straw and chemical fertilizer (RS+F), 30% organic manure and 70% chemical fertilizer (OM+F), and without fertilizer input as a control (Con). These results showed that SOC and labile organic carbon contents at 0–10 cm and 10–20 cm layers in paddy field with RS+F and OM+F treatments were increased, compared to CF and Con treatments. Compared with Con treatment, SOC mineralization rate and accumulation with CF, RS+F, and OM+F treatments were increased. SOC accumulation and potential mineralization at 0–10 cm and 10–20 cm layers with RS+F and OM+F treatments were increased, compared with CF and Con treatments. SOC mineralization rate and accumulation at 0–10 cm layer with CF, RS+F, OM+F, and Con treatments were higher than that of 10–20 cm layer. These results indicated that soil invertase, cellulose and urease activities in paddy field with RS+F and OM+F treatments were significantly higher than that of CF and Con treatments. There was a significant positive relationship between SOC accumulation and SOC content, soil invertase, cellulose, urease activities but were significant negative correlated with soil pH, bulk density. As a result, these were beneficial practices for improving SOC content and SOC mineralization in a double-cropping rice field of southern China by combined application of rice residue or organic matter with chemical fertilizer managements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agronomy biofortification is an important crop management strategy to enhance concentrations of micronutrients in edible portions. The availability of micronutrients for plant uptake is reduced by the high salinity, pH, and lime of soils. Hence, this study aimed to determine the most appropriate time and the best ratio of zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) consumption during the wheat growth stages in a saline and calcareous soil. The experiment consisted of two factors with four levels; 0, 30, 60, and 120 kg Zn ha−1 as Zn0, Zn1, Zn2, and Zn3 respectively, and 0, 2.5, 5, and 7.5 kg Fe ha−1 as Fe0, Fe1, Fe2, and Fe3 respectively, in a randomized complete block design with four replications. The results showed that the interaction effects of Fe and Zn fertilizers application were significant on the wheat yield indices and concentration of Fe and Zn in wheat shoots and grain. The simultaneous application of 120 kg Zn ha−1 and 5 kg Fe ha−1 caused significant improvement (p < 0.05) in thousand kernel weight (9.1%) and subsequently grain yield (23.4%) compared to the control treatment. The Zn concentration in the wheat shoot during tillering (37.0–58.2 mg Zn kg−1) was higher than the other two growth stages (elongation (29.2–40.8 mg Zn kg−1) and booting (20.0–31.0 mg Zn kg−1)). While the highest Fe concentration in wheat shoots was observed at the stem elongation stage (98.5–268.8 mg Fe kg−1), then the booting stage (91.0–150.8 mg Fe kg−1) and finally the least absorption was at the tillering (80.0–120.0 mg Fe kg−1). Because of the high calcium carbonate, salinity and Zn- deficient soil of the experimental site, the Zn concentration in wheat grain was obtained in a range of 3 to 19 mg kg−1. The results clarified that the fertilizer application of 30 kg Zn ha−1 and 2.5 kg Fe ha−1 can be proportionally and simultaneously increased the concentration of Fe and Zn in wheat grain by 100%. Therefore, the soil application of 30 kg Zn and 2.5 kg Fe per hectare proposed for improvement in quantitative (619 kg ha−1 increase in wheat grain yield) and qualities (100% increase in grain Zn and Fe concentration and 8% increase in thousand kernel weight) indices of wheat yield in calcareous and saline soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the steelmaking slag, secondary metallurgy slag (SMS) is the most problematic to be recycled. Several attempts to recover such slag as lime replacement, slag flux, pozzolanic materials have been made for long time with pros and cons. However, the amount of recyclable slag is limited and often their employment requires higher energy demand than traditional materials. Nevertheless, the use of SMS in agriculture is poorly or never considered. In this article, the legal and technical evaluation of SMS as raw material for fertilizers production is investigated. Compliance of technical specification, toxic metals concentration, and leaching behavior allows to confirm the technical feasibility of SMS use as a raw material for fertilizers manufacture. Both from the literature data and the experimental results on 16 industrial SMS samples, the requirements for calcium‐magnesium‐sulfur‐based fertilizers, soil correctives and for sanitizing agricultural sewage sludge, appear fully satisfied. The CaO concentration in SMS (35–60 wt%) is abundantly higher than the requirements (≥15 wt%) and CaO is present in most part as water‐soluble complexes such as calcium aluminates (70 wt%), silicates (10 wt%), and sulfide (4 wt%). The pH of the SMS samples leachate is comparable to that of fresh lime (12.35 vs 12.46), highlighting a better behavior for sewage sludge sanitation with respect to limestone (9.98). The measured toxic metals and leachate elements concentration over the corresponding admittable threshold are always lower than 0.5 and 1.0 (mg kg−1/mg kg−1) for liming materials. Finally, these results lead to officially approve the use of SMS as soil corrective according to the Italian Fertilizer Regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus is considered one of the essential elements for legumes as it increases nitrogen fixation due to nodulation. Hence, for high productivity in legumes, it should be added as inorganic or organic fertilizer to soils containing insufficient phosphorus. Especially in recent years, using inorganic and organic fertilizers together has gained importance in terms of sustainable agriculture, considering plant growth and soil and environmental health together. The effects of three different doses of phosphorus fertilizer (0, 50, 100 kg P2O5 ha-1), and two different doses of poultry manure (0, 3 t ha-1) applications with two different doses (B0 or B1) of phosphorus solubilizing bacteria (Bacillus megaterium M-3) inoculation on hay yield and yield components of common vetch were examined in this study. In fact, while the highest hay yield and crude protein rate were obtained by bacterial inoculation together with phosphorus fertilizer application, the effect of poultry manure application on yield and yield parameters was variable. Instead, the applications had no significant effect on the number of main branches, ADF and NDF rates. Consequently, the application of 100 kg P2O5 ha-1 together with Bacillus megaterium inoculation can be recommended for high hay yield in common vetch under irrigated conditions in areas with poor or medium soils in terms of phosphorus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was carried out under field conditions to determine the effect of PGPB on the yield and quality of Pulsar F1 eggplant variety under Igdir ecological conditions in 2021. The experiment was conducted with 8 treatments (Brevibacillus reuszeri strain IT 119, Kluyvera cyrocrescens strain IT 160, IT 119 + IT 160, IT 119 + Fertilizer, IT 160 + Fertilizer, IT 119 + IT 160 + Fertilizer, Fertilizer and Negative Control) with 3 replications according to the randomized block design. Bacterial strains were applied by inoculating 100 ml (106 cfu/ml) to the root zone of the plants during seedling stage. PGPB treatments increased total yield, discard yield, marketable yield, plant height, plant stem thickness, number of leaves, plant root wet weight, plant root dry weight, stem wet weight, stem dry weight, number of fruits per plant, fruit wet weight, fruit dry weight and root length compared to negative and positive control groups. The treatments had no effect on fruit diameter. Although both strains were found to be successful, especially Kluyvera cyrocrescens strain IT 160 alone and in combination showed positive effects in terms of the parameters examined in eggplant plants and has the potential to be used as biofertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mined rock phosphate is expected to become a scarce resource within the next few decades as global phosphorus (P) deposits are declining. As a result, mineral P fertilizer will be less available and more expensive. Therefore, improved knowledge is needed on other P resources, for example, apatite fertilizers derived from the by‐products of iron mining. Forestry is a potential future consumer of apatite‐rich products with the aim of obtaining more wood per hectare. The actual P availability in apatite to plants has so far been barely quantified. We therefore examined tree P uptake using 33P apatite under chamber‐grown and outdoor conditions. We examined the P uptake for the two main conifer species spruce (Picea abies) and pine (Pinus sylvestris) used in Fenno‐Scandinavian forestry. We synthesized 33P‐enriched apatite and applied it to mesocosms with growing seedlings of spruce and pine. The P uptake from 33P‐labelled hydroxylapatite was subsequently traced by (bio)imaging of radioactivity in the plants and by liquid scintillation counting (LSC) upon destructive harvest in all plant fractions (leaves, stem and roots) and rhizosphere soil. Two climatic conditions were compared, one at natural outdoor conditions and one set as 5°C warmer than the climate record from the previous years. Plant P uptake from 33P‐labelled hydroxylapatite was enhanced in chamber‐grown compared with outdoor seedlings for both tree species. This uptake was manifested in the clear radioactive images obtained over ca. 1 month after soil apatite application. Furthermore, all aboveground plant fractions of both spruce and pine seedlings showed a higher P uptake in warmer than colder daytime environments. The observed quantities and rates of P uptake from 33P‐labelled hydroxylapatite by spruce (18 Bq g−1 hour−1) and pine (83 Bq g−1 hour−1; averages in chamber condition) are as to our knowledge unique observations. Natural forest soils in Sweden are often P‐poor. Our research suggests that apatite‐based P fertilization of spruce and pine forests can increase wood production by overcoming any existing P limitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effects of chemical fertilizers and fertilizers containing microorganisms on broccoli yield were examined. It is aimed to reduce the amount of chemical fertilizer by using microorganisms. Mundo F1 Broccoli variety was used as plant material. The research was established according to the randomized block trial design with 3 treatments and 3 replications, and 20 plants were used in each replication. Applications: 1. Control: 100% chemical fertilization (U1), 2. Treatment II: 70% chemical fertilization + Microorganisms (U2), 3. Treatment II: 100% chemical fertilization + Microorganisms (U3). The aim of the study is the effects of chemical fertilizers and microorganisms on plant growth and development; To examine the effect of plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves and yield. It was concluded that the number of leaves, plant height and stem diameter generally increased in the plots where microorganisms were applied. When the results were evaluated in terms of yield compared to the control treatment, U2 treatment increased yield by 20% and U1 treatment increased yield by 15%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural environmental pollution needs to be reduced in our future. The biggest obstacles to preventing this situation are that agricultural inputs such as synthetic fertilizers increase product yield and scattered agricultural areas. This study involves the optimization of the production process of an easy-to-apply organic fertilizer with high nutritional value by subjecting bat guano, one of the valuable organic fertilizers, to anaerobic digestion together with cattle manure. Response surface method Box-Behnken design, a statistical model, was used for process optimization. The process input parameters were temperature, cattle manure, and bat manure, and the response value was considered as 2% total nitrogen. As a result of the optimization for a total nitrogen value of 2%, the optimum mixture ratio was determined as cattle manure 77.0448%, bat manure 12%, and temperature 40 °C. Analysis results showed that the addition of bat manure increased the N, P, K, and humic and fulvic acid values in the fertilizer. The study revealed that strong organic fertilizers can be used to increase the value of cattle manure organically. It also offers very promising results based on reducing agricultural pollution and ensuring agricultural sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Comparison of different physical and enzymatic OFMSW pre-treatments. • Study of the pre-treatment effects on both the AD products: biogas and digestate. • Evaluation of the most energetically sustainable AD configurations. • Analyses of digestate quality in terms of nutrient content for the application as fertilizer. • UPP2 and cavitation are the best enzymatic and physical pre-treatments, respectively. This study optimized the anaerobic digestion (AD) of separated collected organic fractions of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) to produce energy and digestate as biofertilizer. Due to OFMSW's partial recalcitrance to degradation, enzymatic (UPP2, MCPS, USC4, USE2, A. niger) and physical (mechanical blending, heating, hydrodynamic cavitation) pre-treatments were tested. Experimental and modeling approaches were used to compare AD performance regarding energy sustainability and digestate quality. Digestate was separated into solid and liquid fractions, and then chemically and physically characterized by investigating the nutrient release mechanisms. Principal Component Analysis was applied, equally weighing energy and digestate productions. Unlike previous studies focusing only on biogas, this study evaluated the effects of pre-treatments on both biogas and digestate production, viewing AD as a biorefinery process for urban waste valorization. Results showed that all pre-treatments were energetically sustainable, but enzymatic pre-treatments yielded digestates richer in nutrients (increase of 80% N, 200% P and 150% K as compared to OFMSW) and with greater organic matter degradation compared to physical pre-treatments. The liquid fraction of digestate from enzymatic pre-treatments had higher nutrient concentrations, while those from physical pre-treatments had more balanced nutrient content, making them more suitable for fertigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Increasing periodic aeration rate reduced irreversible fouling of GDM. • Reclaimed wastewater was feasible for hydroponic vegetable cultivations. • Plants grown with treated water were comparable to those with fertilizer. • Shifting nutrient level and operation mode influenced plant growth profile. • Basil grown in reclaimed water had less health risk impact compared to lettuce. In this study, a gravity-driven membrane (GDM) filtration system and hydroponic system (cultivating basil and lettuce) were combined for nutrient recovery from primary municipal wastewater. The GDM system was optimized by increasing the periodic air sparging flow rate from 1 to 2 L/min (∼15 hr per 3–4 days), resulting in a ∼52% reduction of irreversible fouling. However, the total fouling was not alleviated, and the water productivity remained comparable. The GDM-filtrated water was then delivered to hydroponic systems, and the effects of hydroponic operation conditions on plant growth and heavy metal uptake were evaluated, with fertilizer- and tap water-based hydroponic systems and soil cultivation system (with tap water) for comparison. It was found that (i) the hydroponic system under batch mode facilitated to promote vegetable growth with higher nutrient uptake rates compared to that under flow-through feed mode; (ii) a shift in nutrient levels in the hydroponic system could impact plant growth (such as plant height and leaf length), especially in the early stages. Nevertheless, the plants cultivated with the GDM-treated water had comparable growth profiles to those with commercial fertilizer or in soils. Furthermore, the targeted hazard quotient levels of all heavy metals for the plants in the hydroponic system with the treated water were greatly lower than those with the commercial fertilizer. Especially, compared to the lettuce, the basil had a lower heavy metal uptake capability and displayed a negligible impact on long-term human health risk, when the treated water was employed for the hydroponic system. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combination of hydrogel and fertilizer as slow release fertilizer hydrogel (SRFH) has become one of the most promising materials to overcome the shortcomings of conventional fertilizer by decreasing fertilizer loss rate, supplying nutrients sustainably, and lowering the frequency of irrigation. The hydrogel based on carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and polyacrylic acid (PAA) (CMC/PAA) was synthesized. All materials, Vinasse, hydrogel (CMC/PAA) and (Vinasse/CMC-PAA) were characterized by FTIR, XRD, and SEM. The formed hydrogel was applied to control the salinity of Vinasse to use it as a cheap and economical fertilizer. The results showed that using the prepared hydrogel with Vinasse (V/CMC-PAA) as a slow-release organic fertilizer decreased the EC value through the first six hours from 1.77 to 0.35 mmohs/cm. Also, using V/CMC-PAA can control and keep the potassium as fertilizer for 50 days. The productivity per feddan from the sugar cane crop increased by about 15%, and the number of irrigations decreased from 5 to 4 times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Agriculture is the linchpin of the Indian economic system which extraordinarily dependent on soil, use of fertilizer and climate conditions. Soil fertility depletion is a reason for the problem of Indian agriculture. Not only the usage of plant vitamins per hectare is fairly low and imbalanced, but also the Indian farmers are still using the traditional method to spread the fertilizer in the field which is the predominant reason for low crop yields. It also influences people via consumption. So, there should be a precision and constancy tracking mechanism in agricultural merchandise and use of fertilizers inside the farm. In this paper, the implemented system presents a method for the distribution of required fertilizer for crop acreage. To optimize this, the wireless sensor gives a systematic answer for fertilizer distribution using Lagrange's Interpolation (LI). Methods: The experiment was carried out in the MIT Academy of Engineering's Agrotech Farm in Pune over the last one year (2019-2020). The readings were taken from the tomato crop. We used the LI to evaluate the values between Standard, Conventional and Actual, which delivers the optimal value and reduces fertilizer waste and farmers' financial burden. These LI may result in a decrease in the number of sensor nodes in the agricultural field. The decrease in sensor nodes lowers total operating costs. Result: With an equally and unequally spaced approach, in comparison to a conventional strategy the implemented system saves nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) by just giving the crop with the required amount of fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sewage sludge is an important soil conditioner, and source of nutrients with a potential for use in agriculture. However, such benefit needs to be weighed against the risks due to the presence of heavy metals, and other substances that may endanger human health, plants, soil and the ecosystem. This research had the objective of evaluating the agricultural potential of sewage sludge together with the risks that may be present in use. Samples of sewage sludge from seven wastewater treatment plants in Eswatini were analyzed for selected physical and chemical parameters, and heavy metal concentrations using commonly established laboratory procedures. The analysis results indicated that, sludge samples exhibited high organic matter content, cation exchange capacity, macro nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus and micro nutrients (trace metal elements) needed for plant growth. Anaerobically digested sludge samples showed higher carbon to nitrogen ratio because of biomass loss in the form of methane and carbon dioxide. The heavy metal concentrations are all within safe limits except the sludge from Matsapha area that had levels of chromium, and nickel above regulatory limits. With respect to their heavy metal contents, most of the sludge samples would qualify as Class A sludge ready to be used as organic fertilizer for agriculture without regular monitoring of heavy metals in the soil to which they are applied. The study results indicated the importance of sewage sludge for their agricultural potential through supplementation of both micro and macro nutrients needed for plant growth, for improving the soil properties such as water holding capacity and permeability, through the increase of organic matter content, and retention of nutrients due to the high cation exchange capacity. All these benefits are realized with sewage sludge being a lower cost alternative to commercial fertilizers. Moreover, the low concentration of heavy metals present in the sludge presents lower risk that may arise in the course of utilizing the sludge as agricultural supplement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat (Triticum aestivum, L.) producers have the choice to retain or remove residue from the cropping system following grain harvest. In the U.S. Pacific Northwest and other regions, wheat residue is often sold to increase operational profitability, especially from higher-yielding systems. But there are several benefits to retaining residue, including recycling of mineral nutrients contained therein, though this is understudied. Therefore, the primary objectives of this research were to collect and analyze a large and diverse dataset on wheat residue nutrient uptake (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu), develop tools to estimate nutrient amounts in residue, and make economic estimates of the fertilizer replacement value of those nutrients. This was accomplished by conducting replicated variety trials on five classes of wheat across many Pacific Northwest sites over two years, then collecting and analyzing data on wheat residue biomass, residue nutrient concentrations, and grain yield. The results showed that wheat residue contained a significant amount of nutrients, but was particularly concentrated in K. Production environment had the most substantial effect on residue mineral uptake amounts, due to site differences in yield and soil nutrient availability. To enable simple estimation of residue nutrient uptake across a broad range of wheat production levels, two estimation tools are presented herein. Economic analysis showed the substantial monetary value of residual nutrients. For example, in a high-yielding wheat crop (9 Mg ha−1), the average fertilizer replacement value of just residue N, P, K, and S was similar to the entire fertilizer budget to grow the crop (~$211 vs. $205 ha−1), not considering micronutrients in the residue or any nutrients removed through grain harvest. In making residue management decisions, wheat producers should consider the tradeoff between the immediate economic gains of residue sale and the multifaceted benefits of residue retention, including savings on future nutrient costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Hybrid rice is grown by millions of Asian farmers and has normally higher yields compared to inbred varieties. However, hybrid rice has been associated with high damage from herbivores. This susceptibility could be due to the physiology of the hybrid plant type or due to a limited availability of male sterile parents that are necessary for hybrid seed production. We examined how plant type and breeding affect the relative susceptibilities of hybrid and inbred rice by exposing 32 rice genotypes to the brown planthopper, whitebacked planthopper, and yellow stemborer in controlled environments and field plots. We compared insect fitness on the plants and related this to the type and genetic similarity of genotypes. Despite their diverse origins (China, Colombia, India, and the Philippines), the hybrids and inbreds formed two distinct genetic groups, thereby confounding plant type and phylogeny. Hybrids were generally more susceptible to stemborers but not to planthoppers. Relative herbivore fitness was strongly influenced by plant origin (i.e., breeding program) with one group of related genotypes being relatively susceptible to all three herbivores. Our results indicate that hybrids are not inherently more susceptible than inbreds to insect herbivores and that careful screening with the elimination of the most susceptible genotypes is necessary to reduce herbivore damage to hybrid and inbred rice in Asia. Several studies have reported higher damage from insect herbivores to hybrid compared to inbred (pure line) rice. We used a collection of 20 hybrid and 12 inbred genotypes from diverse origins to test the hypotheses that hybrid rice susceptibility is due to (a) the hybrid plant type and/or (b) rice phylogeny. We challenged the genotypes with Nilaparvata lugans (BPH), Sogatella furcifera (WBPH) and Scirpophaga incertulas (YSB) in greenhouse and screenhouse bioassays and monitored herbivores in field plots. We used single nucleotide polymorphic (SNP) markers to assess genetic similarities between the genotypes and found that the hybrids and inbreds formed two distinct clusters regardless of origin. In the screenhouse, hybrids were more susceptible than inbreds to YSB; however, resistant hybrids and susceptible inbreds were also apparent from both the screenhouse and field plots. Plant biomass was the best predictor of susceptibility to YSB. Plant origin had a greater effect than plant type on susceptibility to BPH and WBPH. WBPH was the most abundant planthopper in the field plots where numbers were highly correlated with planthopper fitness in the greenhouse bioassays. Our results provide evidence that high-yielding hybrids that are relatively resistant to herbivores can be achieved through careful breeding. The avoidance of susceptible genotypes during breeding should remain a key element of integrated rice pest management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internet of Things (IoT) frameworks generates data for large and remote agricultural areas through sensors and use this data for crop predictions by several machine learning algorithms. Farming is the practice of producing crops, rearing of livestock, cultivation of soil and it is important for economic development of the country. Farmers have been following traditional farming practices till now. These techniques were imprecise and reduced productivity and time consumption. Determining the steps that essential for practicing at its appropriate season helps to increase the productivity of precision farming. In this research, the primary objectives are to enhance precision farming practices by introducing a comprehensive IoT-based framework and employing advanced machine learning algorithms. Therefore, this research work introduces crop recommendation and disease prediction that helps farmers to increase productivity and reduce manual labor. The proposed Multi-level Kronecker Guided Pelican Convolutional Neural Network (MKGPCNN) focuses on crop recommendation, providing forecasts for suitable crops in the agricultural sector. Simultaneously, the Combined Graph Sample and Aggregate Attention Network (CGSAAN) are introduced for crop disease identification and recommending appropriate fertilizers to manage diseases and enhance harvests. The evaluation of both systems on publicly accessible datasets, namely the crop recommendation dataset and the new plant diseases dataset, demonstrates higher accuracy rates of 99% and 98%, precision of 99.5% and 99%, recall of 99.6% and 98.9%. The results suggest that the introduced system have the potential to significantly assist farmers in smarter crop management and harvesting, contributing to increased productivity and reduced manual labor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The resource pool diversity hypothesis (RPDH) posits that organic systems that include diverse crop rotations, green manure and organic fertilizers have a greater diversity of resource pools that can alleviate weed–crop competition compared to conventional systems. To test the RPDH, wheat (Triticum aestivum) and wild oats (Avena sterilis) in winter, and maize (Zea mays) and Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) in summer, were grown in pots in soils from organic (ORG) and conventional (CONV) fields, with contrasting number of estimated resource pools. A replacement series design with proportions of crop: weed of 0:1, 0.25:0.75, 0.5:0.5, 0.75:0.25 and 1:0 was used. Half of the pots received an organic‐mineral fertilizer (F) and the other half did not (NF). Aerial biomass of all plants was measured. Relative Crowding Coefficient (RCC) and the product of RCC (RCCP) for each crop and weed biomass were estimated by modelling the biomass across crop: weed proportions. RCCP larger than one was used as an indicator of overyielding. In the winter experiment, wheat always outcompeted wild oats and we did not detect overyielding across fields with different number of pools, system or fertilizer. In the summer experiment, we found overyielding in ORG NF fields. Functionally different species like maize and Palmer amaranth may have been extracting nutrients from diverse pools in organic NF fields whereas with the addition of fertilizer, Palmer amaranth outcompeted maize. Biomass of monoculture crop and weed in both experiments were positively correlated with number of estimated pools, even if none of the competition indexes were. Our results provide some support for the RPHD in species that are functionally different but also question the definition and nature of the nutrient pools, as well as emphasize the need for more research in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoscale geranium waste (GW) and magnesium nanoparticle/GW nanocomposites (Mg NP/GW) were prepared using green synthesis. The Mg NP/GW samples were subjected to characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-FT). The surface morphology of the materials was examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and their thermal stability was assessed through thermal gravimetric analysis (TG). The BET-specific surface area, pore volume, and pore size distribution of the prepared materials were determined using the N2 adsorption–desorption method. Additionally, the particle size and zeta potentials of the materials were also measured. The influence of the prepared nanomaterials on seed germination was intensively investigated. The results revealed an increase in seed germination percent at low concentrations of Mg NP/GWs. Upon treatment with Mg NP/GW nanoparticles, a reduction in the mitotic index (MI) was observed, indicating a decrease in cell division. Additionally, an increase in chromosomal abnormalities was detected. The efficacy of GW and Mg NP/GW nanoparticles as new elicitors was evaluated by studying their impact on the expression levels of the farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FPPS1) and geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GPPS1) genes. These genes play a crucial role in the terpenoid biosynthesis pathway in Sinapis alba (S. alba) and Pelargonium graveolens (P. graveolens) plants. The expression levels were analyzed using reverse transcription–quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis. The qRT-PCR analysis of FPPS and GPPS gene expression was performed. The outputs of FPPS1 gene expression demonstrated high levels of mRNA in both S. alba and P. graveolens with fold changes of 25.24 and 21.68, respectively. In contrast, the minimum expression levels were observed for the GPPS1 gene, with fold changes of 11.28 and 6.48 in S. alba and P. graveolens, respectively. Thus, this study offers the employment of medicinal plants as an alternative to fertilizer usage resulting in promoting environmental preservation, optimal waste utilization, reducing water consumption, and cost reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The productivity of rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Ethiopia is below the potential due to spatial and temporal soil fertility variability and sub-optimal fertilization. This on-farm study was conducted in 2019 and 2020 to determine yield-limiting nutrients, quantify yield gaps, and determine indigenous soil nutrient supply (ISNS) for lowland rice in Fogera floodplain of Northwest Ethiopia. The study comprised the following treatments; NPKSZnB, -N (PKSZnB), -P (NKSZnB), -K (NPSZnB), -S (NPKZnB), -Zn (NPKSB), -B (NPKSZn), and Zero fertilizer (F0). The treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design considering farmers' fields as replications. The results revealed that the growth and yield of rice were significantly affected by the -N and F0 treatments. However, the other nutrient omissions did not significantly influence the mentioned parameters. The highest (2299.5 kg ha−1) yield response was recorded from the -N treatment. However, very low and insignificant yield responses were recorded from the other nutrient omissions. The average agronomic N use efficiency was 16.7 kg kg−1, which indicated a high probability of yield response to the application of N fertilizer. The lowest (42.4%) ISNS was found for N, while the highest ISNS (>90%) were recorded for P, K, S, Zn, and B. The yield gaps due to the omission of N was 57.6%, while the yield gaps due to the omission of P, K, S, Zn, and B were very low. Therefore, N was found to be the most yield-limiting and most deficient nutrient for the lowland rice production in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractResearch on peat-free substrates is increasing due to the environmental concerns associated with peat extraction and with the aim of promoting sustainable horticultural practices. Previous research has shown that green compost mixed with coconut coir dust and stabilized wood fiber can be a valuable peat-free alternative for growing media. This study extends this knowledge by exploring the possibility of reducing fertilization levels by exploiting the nutrient content of green compost. In this paper we tested two ornamental herbaceous perennial plants, Leucanthemum vulgare Lam. and Dianthus barbatus L. For each species, we carried out five different substrate mixtures: 1) peat:pumice 70:30 v v−1; 2) coconut coir dust:pumice 70:30 v v−1; 3) coconut coir dust:green compost 55:45 v v−1; 4) green compost:stabilized wood fiber 60:40 v v−1; and 5) coconut coir dust:green compost:stabilized wood fiber 40:30:30 v v−1. For each mixture, we explored three different levels of fertilization: i) no fertilizer application; ii) low dosage of a controlled-release fertilizer at 2 g L−1; and iii) high dosage of the same controlled-release fertilizer at 4 g L−1. Plant biomass, biometric parameters, eco-physiological parameters, and plant mineral content were measured as performance indicators. The results showed that the nutrient surplus provided by the peat-free substrate, particularly when it contains green compost, can enhance the growth potential of the plants. Adding green compost to non-peat substrates can be an opportunity to optimize plant nutrition while reducing the presence of peat in plant nurseries and the use of chemical fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The long-term use of phosphorous deposits in the Karatau basin has led to depletion of reserves of rich ores containing P2O5. Therefore, obtaining the necessary materials by methods of enriching the composition of phosphorites in the presence of reagents is an urgent problem. The aim of the work is to obtain a product with fertilizing properties by mechanochemical activation of a mixture of phosphogypsum and phosphorite Karatau based on acid salt. Obtaining the required product by mechanical activation of phosphate raw materials is of great scientific and practical importance. Therefore, it is very important to study the patterns of changes in the production of products with fertilizing properties by mechanochemical activation in the presence of phosphogypsum and phosphorite Karatau and acid salt (Na2SO4). A mixture of phosphogypsum and Karatau phosphorite was modified with acid salt with different ball sizes and a 10:1 mass ratio of the ball and mixture (phosphogypsum-phosphorite Karatau-acid salt). To determine the phase composition of modified phosphogypsum in the presence of an acid salt (NaHSO4) of Karatau phosphorite and identify the resulting product, methods of X-ray phase analysis (XRF), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and energy dispersive analysis (EMF) were used. It was found that the optimal conditions for obtaining a product with fertilizing properties obtained by mechanochemical activation (MHA) from the Phosphogypsum-Karatau Phosphorite-NaHSO4 (3:6:1) system are 20-minute processing in a planetary mill: P2O5total=55%, P2O5 lem. acid=44%, P2O5 cite. sol.,=82%. X-ray phase analysis showed that silicon dioxide, sodium-calcium hydroxophosphate carbonate, calcium hydrophosphate with bicolecular water and sodium-calcium sulfate with tricolecular water and calcium hydrophosphate (CaPO3(OH)·2H2O) fertilizer with bicolecular water were formed as the reaction product. Phosphogypsum-Karatau Phosphorite - NaHSO4 system (3:6:1) due to solid-phase processes occurring as a result of 20-minute MOSS, the results of scanning electron microscopic analysis clearly show structural changes in the initial sample. The particle sizes range from 0.5 microns to 10 microns. As a result of energy-dispersed spectroscopic analysis, it was found that the content of elemental phosphorus is 4.97%, oxygen is 46.87%. That is, the product obtained in the environment undergoes some changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of controlled release fertilizers (CRF) is a green technology that not only reduces nitrogen loss, caused by volatilization and leaching, but also alters the kinetics of nitrogen release, which, in turn, provides nutrients to plants at a pace that is more compatible with their metabolic needs. With an increasing awareness towards human health and environmental protection, there is a rapid shift towards the development of eco-friendly fertilizers based on natural resources. Majority of the literature on CRF pertains to organic and inorganic material based coatings on fertilizers and among them in the case of neem oil coated urea (NCU) most of the literature is confined to the elucidation of coating effect on increasing the crop yield and plant growth. However, literature lacks any comprehensive study on NCU as a CRF, covering major aspects such as its characterization, determination of nutrient release rate, and comparison with other CRF. The present work is an attempt to fill this gap in scientific knowledge about NCU. In the present study, neem oil coated urea (NCU) was prepared to achieve the controlled release mechanism necessary to meet crop requirements. The characterizations of the uncoated urea (UCU) and NCU were done using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR), refractive index (RI) and crushing strength test. To establish the superior behaviour of NCU as a CRF, the results were also compared to the literature data of other CRF, namely phosphate slimes (PCU) and bentonite coated (BCU) with chitosan as a binder. The nutrient release experiments showed that NCU gave a release of 1.03 and 45.03 % at the first day and day 30, respectively. The crushing strength test was carried out for the same size particles, and the results showed that NCU has better mechanical strength as compared to UCU, PCU and BCU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize (Zea mays L.) is a perennial crop that is widely cultivated in Indonesia and is the second important food commodity after rice. Purple corn plant is one type of corn plant cultivated in Indonesia. Purple corn has many advantages, which contains anthocyanins that function as antioxidants in the body so as to prevent various diseases. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of giving a combination of Urea and NPK treatment on the growth and yield of purple corn plants. The research was carried out in Codrowangsan Hamlet, Leak Village, Buluspesantren District, Kebumen, Central Java from January to March 2024. The design used is a Factorial Group Random Design (RAK) with 2 treatment factors repeated 2 times. The first factor is the application of Urea fertilizer with 4 levels, namely: U0 = 0 gr / plot, U1 = 120 g / plot, U2 = 90 g / plot, and U3 = 60 g / plot. The second factor is the application of NPK fertilizer with 4 levels, namely: N0 = 0 gr / plot, N1 = 150 g / plot, N2 = 120 g / plot, and N3 = 90 g / plot so that 16 treatment combinations were obtained. The results showed that the combination of Urea and NPK treatment affected plant height, root length, root wet weight, root dry weight, number of seeds in one purple corn cob and had no effect on other characters. The best combination is given in the combination of U1N1 treatment (200kg/ha Urea + 250ha/ha NPK) showing the best plant height of 114.2 cm, root length 36.92 cm, root wet weight 36.8 gr, root dry weight 14.2 gr and number of seeds per cob 612.6 pieces compared to other treatment combinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrient run-off from agriculture causes water pollution and eutrophication. Polysaccharide hydrogels with controlled release of nutrients have been developed to minimize nutrient leaching and run-off. This review compares the loading and release of different nutrients from polysaccharide hydrogels for fertilizing purposes. Urea was encapsulated into polysaccharide hydrogels through blending, adsorption, and coating to minimize fast hydrolysis and possible volatilization. Urea release could be controlled by incorporating inorganic fillers, increasing polymer density, and reducing pore size. Early works incorporated polysaccharides into synthetic polymer hydrogel. Cellulose, cellulose derivatives, starch, chitosan, and alginate were later used as the composite hydrogel in urea encapsulation. The controlled release of other nitrogen sources such as KNO3, NH4NO3, NH4Cl, and leather waste was also studied. Phosphate release was reduced using copolymers containing Arabic gum, carboxymethyl cellulose, and starch-rich waste besides chitosan and carboxymethyl cellulose hydrogels. Potassium release from polysaccharide hydrogel containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium could be electrostatically controlled. Polysaccharide hydrogels containing micronutrients, humic acids, and sucrose were also developed. Most of the polysaccharide hydrogels did not fulfill the nutrient release standards. Besides controlling the release of multiple nutrients, further reduction of cost using polysaccharide-rich waste and nutrients in the wastewater should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) holds significant importance among grain legumes, particularly in terms of its production and productivity. Over the years, the decline in the cultivation area of this crop has become increasingly evident due to its persistently low yields. Many technologies are being implemented to improve the yield, and nipping is one of them. The main objective of this paper was to standardize the nipping timing and graded levels of nitrogen (N) application on growth and seed yield in blackgram cultivars under irrigated conditions. A study with three blackgram cultivars (cv.), three levels of N, and three intervals of nipping was taken up during the winter and monsoon seasons of 2018 and 2019, respectively. The study revealed that blackgram cv. VBN8 recorded a higher plant height of 49.52 cm, a higher number of branches (4.08), a higher number of pods per plant (47.75), a higher seed yield of 882 kg.ha−1, and a benefit cost ratio (B:C ratio) of 2.49. Among the graded levels of nutrients, applications of 125% N and 100% phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) recorded the highest growth and yield attributes, with a B:C ratio of 2.33. Nipping at 25 days after sowing (DAS) registered a higher number of branches (4.08), more pods per plant (48.14), and a seed yield of 902 kg.ha−1 with a B:C ratio of 2.36. Higher N, P, and K uptake was observed in blackgram VBN8, with an application of 150% recommended N and 100% P and K and nipping at 25 DAS. To conclude, application of 125% recommended N and 100% P and K and nipping at 25 DAS were found to be significant in enhancing the productivity of blackgram and NPK uptake, and resulted in 14% more profit than no nipping treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus is one of the major constraints to karst grassland productivity. Understanding the effects of different fertilization practices on soil phosphorus dynamics is essential for enhancing phosphorus bioavailability and rational management of soil phosphorus in karst grasslands. Here, we investigated the effects of fertilizers and manures on soil bioavailability of phosphorus fractions and explored the relationship between soil properties and soil phosphorus fractions. The four fertilizer application designs were as follows: control (CK; no fertilizer or manure); fertilization (F); manure application (M); fertilization and manure application (FM). The results showed that total phosphorus (TP) concentration was elevated by 23%, 1%, and 42% in F, M, and FM treatments, respectively, compared with CK. F and FM treatments enhanced the total inorganic phosphorus (Pi) concentration by 65% and 66%, respectively, while M and FM treatments enhanced the total organo-phosphorus (Po) concentration by 21% and 35%, respectively. FM treatment elevated bioavailable P, active Po, secondary mineral P, primary mineral P, and occluded P by 69%, 39%, 50%, 31%, and 41%, respectively. Fertilizers inhibited soil acid phosphatase activity, whereas alkaline phosphatase did not respond significantly to fertilizer management in low-latitude karst regions. SOM, TN, AP, and MBP are the key factors affecting the bioavailability of phosphorus fractions. The combined application of fertilizer and manure is the most beneficial measure for enhancing soil phosphorus bioavailability. This research helps deepen our understanding of soil phosphorus dynamics in the karst areas and provides a basis for further enhancement of nutrient availability and vegetation productivity of grassland ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving sustainable agricultural development is a vital concern as soil degradation poses a growing threat to the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in the developing world. Previous literature has highlighted the potential for rural population growth to exacerbate this concern by leading to smaller farm sizes and crop production on marginal land. This paper uses a theoretical model to demonstrate a countervailing effect consistent with the work of Esther Boserup: Smaller farm sizes can encourage greater intensification and investment in the soil. Using panel data from the Tanzania National Panel Survey, I test the model and find some evidence consistent with this effect. Smaller farms are associated with greater organic, but not inorganic, fertilizer application, and higher levels of some soil quality proxies. These results suggest that if key resource and information constraints are overcome, population growth need not be an obstacle, and can be a boon, to sustainable agricultural development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Simple Summary: We attempted to establish a strategy for environmentally friendly treatment and resource utilization of residual organic sludge generated from bioenergy facilities (BF-rOS) using Hermetia illucens (black soldier fly) larvae (BSFL). Mixing BF-rOS with food waste (FW) was necessary for its environmentally friendly treatment and utilization. Furthermore, BSFL reared with the BF-rOS/FW mixture could be used as ingredients in animal feed. Therefore, this study demonstrates that the preparation of BF-rOS/FW mixtures is an effective strategy for the environmentally friendly treatment and resource utilization of BF-rOS using BSFL. Residual organic sludge generated from bioenergy facilities (BF-rOS) is often disposed instead of recycled, thus contributing to further environmental pollution. This study explored the resource utilization of BF-rOS using Hermetia illucens larvae (BSFL). When BF-rOS was fed to BSFL for two weeks, the dry weight per individual BSFL was approximately 15% of that of BSFL that were fed food waste (FW). However, the dry weight increased by approximately two-fold in BSFL that were fed effective microorganism (EM)-supplemented BF-rOS containing 60% moisture. However, under both conditions, the BSFL did not mature into pupae. In contrast, the highest dry weight per BSFL was observed with the BF-rOS/FW (50%:50%) mixture, regardless of EM supplementation. Furthermore, the highest bioconversion rate was observed when the BSFL were fed the BF-rOS/FW (50%:50%) mixture, and the frass produced by the BSFL contained fertilizer-appropriate components. In addition, the nutritional components of the BSFL exhibited a nutrient profile suitable for animal feed, except for those fed BF-rOS only. In conclusion, this investigation demonstrates that BF-rOS should be recycled for fertilizer production by mixing it with FW as a BSFL feed, which generates the valuable insect biomass as potential nutrition for animal feeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The processes of determining the efficiency of Dawex Marathon WBA anionites in removing phosphates from water and creating waste-free processes for their regeneration were studied. In the course of an experimental study of sorption, model solutions of polluted water containing phosphates in a concentration of 40-100 mg dm-3 were passed through the low-based Dawex Marathon WBA anionite in chloride form. The dependence of TDEC on pH and temperature was established when filtering through low-base anionite DOWEX MARATHON WBA in chloride form. An important aspect of the research was the determination of the principles of extracting phosphates in the form of mineral fertilizer during repeated use of regeneration solutions. The processes of anionite regeneration have been studied. Regeneration of anionite was carried out with two solutions, in parallel, namely - 10 % solutions of sodium chloride, 10 % solution of ammonium chloride. It should be noted that the degree of regeneration is 97 - 98 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient use of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) is essential to reduce fertilizer costs and nutrient pollution and to lower the carbon footprint of agriculture. This requires a better understanding of N and P limitations on photosynthesis and biomass generation in one of the world's most important crops, wheat (Triticum aestivum). In a fully factorial nutrient experiment, we find that the limiting nutrient, N or P, at a Redfield‐like N:P ratio (21N:1P molar) produces the 'effective dose of fertilizer' for the generation of above‐ground biomass (seed or vegetative). Best‐fit structural equation models showed that neither N nor P applied in excess of 21N:1P led to any increase in biomass. The light (qP, NPQ) and dark (Amax, Vcmax, Jmax) reactions of photosynthesis are also constrained by the limiting nutrient at the 21N:1P Redfield‐like ratio. Beyond this ratio, 'excess N' or 'excess P' had no effects. The direct effects of the 'effective dose of fertilizer' on the accumulation of biomass were stronger than its indirect effects via photosynthesis, likely driven by the N and P costs in building nucleic acids needed for cell division, cell maintenance and RNA transcription. Modern composite fertilizers are typically provided at a much higher P content than a 21N:1P ratio, potentially resulting in a huge global wastage of P, a finite resource, with all the concomitant costs to the farmer, consumer and the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to conduct a comprehensive economic and energy efficiency analysis of selected digestate management methods, considering their implications on operational costs and resource management. To achieve this aim, the study focuses on a comparative assessment of different digestate management methods, including land application, mechanical separation, the composting process and pellet production. The economic analysis involves the evaluation of the initial investment, operational expenses, and potential revenue streams associated with each method. The most economical and popular solution of digestate management is direct use as fertilizer, with total costs of 1.98 EUR·Mg−1. All of the other methods involve higher digestate management costs, respectively; for separation it is 2.42 EUR·Mg−1, for composting it is 2.81 EUR·Mg−1. The process that is the most energy-intensive, but profitable, is the production of pellets from digestate, resulting in profits of 334,926 EUR·year−1. It should be noted that the other analyzed methods of digestate management also bring many environmental benefits, affecting sustainability and reducing emissions. The results of this research will contribute unique data on the feasibility of managing the digestate and its fractions. The calculations of economic and energy values for different strategies will allow for the optimization of the overall performance of the biogas plant, thus promoting a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field experiment was conducted during kharif season of 2022 at Forage Research Farm of Department of Genetics & Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar to study the effect of nano urea on sorghum for sustainable fodder production. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design keeping eleven treatments consisting of nitrogen fertilizers combinations of conventional and nano urea with three replications. There was significant difference among treatments in respect of growth, green and dry fodder yield of single cut forage sorghum. The maximum plant height (248.4 cm), number of leaves (14), leaf: stem (0.29), dry matter accumulation (153.62 g), leaf area index (7.55), green fodder yield (541.9 q/ha) and dry fodder yield (144.1 q/ha) were recorded with the application of 100% RDN by urea fertilizer (75 kg) as followed by 100% RDN: 50% as basal by urea fertilizer + 50% through nano-urea in two sprays at 30 and 45 DAS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green algae Cladophora spp. inhabit waters with wide ranges of salinity and temperature, and their productivity is much higher than terrestrial plants. In natural waters, including hypersaline, they occupy large areas producing large biomass. Summing up and analyzing data from about 273 published articles, the review demonstrates the high production potential of Cladophora spp. and the diverse rich biochemical content of their biomass giving the prosperous possibility of their wide applications in agri–/aquaculture. As a fertilizer, they can be utilized by different methods (biochar, dry algae powder, etc.). Their extracts are effective growth stimulants for different cultivated plant species. Biomass is a promising fount of carbohydrates, vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, proteins, essential microelements, and other biologically active compounds for the nutrition of animals and humans. Now their biomass is used in the feeding of livestock and chickens. It is also a valuable feed supplement for a variety of fish species, which may substitute up to 28% artificial feed in fish/shrimp cultivation. Cladophora co–farming with fish/shrimp reduces the use of artificial feed increasing commercial profitability. A wide use of Cladophora in agri–/aquaculture is economical and also mitigates environmental problems by reducing needs in agrarian land, and freshwater use, and likewise diminishing the emission of greenhouse gas methane by livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture is an essential part of human life. The crop productivity is based on the soil and environmental factors. Different crops are cultivated in different areas. Nowadays, the crop productivity level is affected by the climate change and diseases in the crops. Due to this pest infestation, the crop growth is heavily affected. To overcome this problem, the right fertilizer for a particular crop has to be chosen and fertilizer helps farmers to improve the crop productivity rate. This process can be done by using various machine learning techniques. In this work, various features selection techniques with classifiers used to predict the suitable fertilizer for a crop. The experimental results show that recursive feature elimination along the proposed Heterogeneous Stacked Ensemble classifier gives better prediction rate than other methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]