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Soil water-holding capacity decreases due to long-term mineral fertilizer application. The objective of this study was to determine how replacing mineral fertilizer with maize straw affected the soil water retention curve, soil water content, soil water availability, and soil equivalent pore size. Replacement treatments in which 25% (S25), 50% (S50), 75% (S75), and 100% (S100) of 225 kg ha−1 nitrogen from mineral fertilizer (CK) was replaced with equivalent nitrogen from maize straw were conducted for five years in the Loess Plateau of China. The Gardner model was used to fit the soil water retention curve and calculate the soil water constant and equivalent pore size distribution. The results indicated that the Gardner model fitted well. Replacing nitrogen from mineral fertilizer with nitrogen from straw increased soil specific water capacity, soil readily available water, soil delayed available water, soil available water, soil capillary porosity, and soil available water porosity over time. S25 increased field capacity and wilting point from the fourth fertilization year. S50 enhanced soil readily available water, soil delayed available water, soil available water, and soil available water porosity from the fifth fertilization year, whereas S25 and S75 increased these from the third fertilization year or earlier. Soil specific water capacity, soil readily available water, soil delayed available water, soil available water, soil capillary porosity, and soil available water porosity could better reflect soil water-holding capacity and soil water supply capacity compared with field capacity and wilting point. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Brazilian soils generally exhibit low natural fertility, including forest soils. The study aims to evaluate the initial growth of Eucalyptus benthamii in the plateau region of Santa Catarina, with the application of organic and mineral fertilization sources. The study was conducted in a greenhouse, using a Haplic Cambisol. Each experimental unit consisted of a 2.5 dm³ soil pot. The experimental design used was completely randomized, with four treatments and five replications. The treatments consisted of the following fertilizer sources: control (without fertilizer); mineral fertilizer (NPK 9-33-12, equivalent to 187 mg dm³); poultry litter at a dose equivalent to 2,200 kg ha-1; and eucalyptus wood ash at a dose of 5,500 kg ha-1. The quantity of each fertilizer was applied to provide the equivalent of 50 kg of P2O5 ha-1. Plant height, number of leaf pairs at 90 and 180 days, dry weight of aboveground and root parts, Dickson's quality index, and phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) levels in eucalyptus aboveground parts were evaluated. Fertilization with wood ash resulted in greater height at 90 days after establishment, being similar to mineral fertilizer and control at 90 days and similar to mineral fertilization. At 180 days, wood ash was superior to other fertilizer sources, being similar to mineral fertilization. Dry weight of aboveground parts, dry weight of roots, and N and P content in aboveground parts showed no differences among the fertilizer sources. Poultry litter fertilization inhibited the initial growth of the species; however, fertilization with wood ash could be an alternative for planting Eucalyptus benthamii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between bacterial diversity and the bioavailability of nutrients, toxic metals and the herbicide oxyfluorfen in a tropical vegetable growing area was evaluated. The study was conducted in a vegetable growing area located in the mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), and samples were collected in areas of vegetable cultivation and areas of environmental reserve. Fertility analyses and determination of the pseudototal levels of toxic metals in the soil samples were performed. The profile of the soil bacterial community was determined by amplification of the 16S rRNA gene and separation by DGGE. The results showed that the levels of toxic metals and elements associated with soil fertility were higher in vegetable production areas. These differences in the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil favored the presence of a greater number of OTUs in the cultivation areas (17.3-27 OTUs) than in the areas of environmental reserve (13-22 OTUs). Therefore, this study demonstrates that the presence of toxic metals and the herbicide oxyfluorfen and the increase in fertility in soils in areas with intensive vegetable cultivation resulting from the intensive management adopted in these areas promotes a differentiation of the bacterial profiles in soils in tropical vegetable growing areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nutrition background and optimization of the nutritional regime play an important role in the accumulation of above-ground mass and the corresponding leaf apparatus, the functioning of which depends on the yield level, already from the initial stages of sunflower growth. Therefore, it is important to study the patterns of growth and development of plants, to develop the most optimal agrotechnological conditions for increasing crop productivity. The aim of the research was to investigate changes in the parameters of leaf surface area, net photosynthetic productivity and yield of sunflower depending on additional nutrition. The research was conducted in 2021-2023 in the fields of the Oil Crops Institute of the National Academy of Sciences. Sowing sunflower hybrids Serpanok, Marshal, Agent and the Camelot variety was carried out in the first decade of May with a row width of 70 cm with a sowing rate of 50,000 similar seeds per hectare. Options application mineral fertilizers: 1. Without fertilizers (control); 2. N30P40; 3. N40P60; 4. N60P90; 5. N60P60K60. Options for using growth regulators: 1. Without application (control); 2. Fulvigrin Stimul (1.5 l/ha) in the phase of 3-4 and 6-8 pairs of leaves; 3. Fulvital Plus (0.45 l/ha) in the phase of 3-4 and 6-8 pairs of leaves; 4. Fulvigrin Stimul (1.5 l/ha) in the phase of 3-4 and 6-8 pairs of leaves + Ceron (1.0 l/ha) in the phase of 8 - 10 pairs of leaves; 5. Fulvital Plus (0.45 l/ha) in the phase of 3-4 and 6-8 pairs of leaves + Ceron (1.0 l/ha) in the phase of 8-10 pairs of leaves. The establishment of the experiment and accounting, measurements, and accompanying observations were carried out according to the method of field experiments on the study of agrotechnical methods of sunflower cultivation and the method of conducting a field experiment. Based on the results of our research is established change indicators square leafy surface and clean productivity photosynthesis of sunflower hybrids and cultivars. In an average of three years, in the cultivation of sunflower against the background of the introduction of mineral fertilizers in combination with foliar fertilization of crops with growth regulators contributed to an increase in the leaf surface area of one plant from: 42.5-44.4 dm² in the Serpanok hybrid; 47.6-49.2 dm² in the Marshall hybrid; 40.3-41.6 dm² in the Agent hybrid; 44.9-46.7 dm² in the Camelot variety on a background without fertilizers to: 47.5-48.3 dm² in the Serpanok hybrid; 53.7-54.3 dm² in the Marshall hybrid; 45.2-46.2 dm² in the Agent hybrid; 51.3-52.7 dm² in the Camelot variety on the background of N30P40; 48.2-49.5 dm² in the Serpanok hybrid; 55.1-56.0 dm² in the Marshall hybrid; 46.5-47.0 dm² in the Agent hybrid; 53.1-53.7 dm² in the Camelot variety on the N40P60 background; 49.5-49.9 dm² in the Serpanok hybrid; 56.6-57.6 dm² in the Marshall hybrid; 48.0-48.6 dm² in the Agent hybrid; 53.7-54.9 dm² in the Camelot variety on the N60P90 background. The largest indicators of the leaf surface area of one sunflower plant were recorded against the background of N60P60K60. Taking into account the density of sunflower plants, the leaf surface area per hectare also increased under the influence of mineral fertilizers and growth regulators. In relation to the control (without fertilizers), its indicators increased by: 1.8-2.2 thousand m² in the hybrid Haze; 2.4-2.8 thousand m² in the hybrid Marshal; 2.1-2.3 thousand m² in the Agent hybrid; 2.2-2.6 thousand m² in the Camelot variety for application of fertilizers in a dose of N30P40; 2.0-2.7 thousand m² in the Serpanok hybrid; 3.2-3.6 thousand m² in the Marshall hybrid; 2.4-2.9 thousand m² in the Agent hybrid; 2.8-3.2 thousand m² in the Camelot variety for application of fertilizers in a dose of N40P60; 2.4-3.2 thousand m² in the Serpanok hybrid; 3.9-4.2 thousand m² in the Marshall hybrid; 3.3-3.6 thousand m² in the Agent hybrid; 3.1-3.6 thousand m² in the Camelot variety for application of fertilizers in a dose of N60P90; 3.2-3.7 thousand m² in the Serpanok hybrid; 4.2-4.9 thousand m² in the Marshall hybrid; 3.8-4.2 thousand m² in the Agent hybrid; 3.6-4.1 thousand m² in the Camelot variety for application of fertilizers in the dose of N60P60K60. The highest values of the indicators of the leaf surface area per hectare were noted against the background of the application of N60P60K60. Under the influence of growth regulators, the indicators of the leaf surface area increased by: 0.1-0.9 thousand m² in the Serpanok hybrid; 0.1-0.6 thousand m² in the Marshall hybrid; 0.1-0.5 thousand m² in the Agent hybrid; 0.1-0.6 thousand m² in the Camelot variety. The net photosynthetic productivity (NPP) of sunflower plants changed both under the influence of mineral fertilizers and growth regulators. In relation to controls - without fertilizers and growth regulators, its indicators increased by: 0.07-0.25 and 0.02-0.07 g/m² x day in the Serpanok hybrid; 0.08-0.26 and 0.03-0.08 g/m² x day in the Marshall hybrid; 0.09-0.30 and 0.04-0.09 g/m² x day in the Agent hybrid; 0.06-0.27 and 0.04-0.10 g/m² x day in the Camelot variety. The highest values of PPF indicators were provided by the cultivation of hybrids and varieties of sunflower against the background of the application of complete mineral fertilizer. Treatment of sunflower crops with mixtures of Fulvigrin Stimul in the phase of 3-4 and 6-8 pairs of leaves + Ceron in the phase of 8-10 pairs of leaves and Fulvital Plus in the phase of 3-4 and 6-8 pairs of leaves + Ceron in the phase of 8-10 pairs of leaves was the most effective. Among the studied hybrids and varieties, the Marshall hybrid had the highest PMF values of 6.02-6.34 g/m². When analyzing data on sunflower yield, it was established that, on average, over three years, the increase in yield from the use of mineral fertilizers was equal to: 0.28-0.54 t/ha in the Serpanok hybrid; 0.22-0.48 t/ha in the Marshall hybrid; 0.23-0.50 t/ha in the Agent hybrid; 0.18-0.41 t/ha in the Camelot variety. Under the influence of growth regulators, the yield increased by: 0.07-0.28 t/ha in the Serpanok hybrid; 0.06-0.25 t/ha in the Marshall hybrid; 0.08-0.28 t/ha in the Agent hybrid; 0.04-0.24 t/ha in the Camelot variety. The average yield in the control (without crop treatment) was equal to 3.15 t/ha. When crops were treated with different mixtures of growth regulators, it increased to 3.27-3.34 t/ha. The reaction of hybrids and sunflower varieties to the application of growth regulators was almost the same. A higher level of yield of sunflower hybrids Serpanok (3.66-3.69 t/ha) and Marshal (3.33-3.36 t/ha) was ensured by cultivation against the background of application of mineral fertilizers in doses of N40P60, N60P90 and N60P60K60, and the Agent hybrid (3.56-3.59 t/ha) and the Camelot variety (3.08-3.11 t/ha) against the background of mineral fertilizers in doses of N60P90 and N60P60K60 with spraying of crops with mixtures of growth regulators Fulvigrin Stimul in the phase of 3-4 and 6-8 pairs of leaves + Ceron in the phase of 8-10 pairs of leaves and Fulvital Plus in the phase of 3-4 and 6-8 pairs of leaves + Ceron in phase 8-10 pairs of leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was done in the 2022 growing season on 16-year-old Arbequina olive trees cultivated at 6×6 m apart in clay sandy loam soil under drip irrigation system in a private orchard located at Zakho region, Duhok governorate, Kurdistan region, Iraq, to study the influence of different types of fertilizers on the growth and productivity of olive trees (Olea europaea L.) cv. Arbequina. The experiment consists of twenty-seven treatments (three levels of soil application of chicken manure 0,5, 10 kg tree-1, foliar application of three conc. of seaweed extract (Sea force) 0,10,20 ml L-1 and soil application of three levels of mineral fertilizer Blaukorn NPK (12:12:16) at level (0, 150, and 200g tree-1 ), mineral fertilizer was applied three times per season: First: at vegetative growth stage. Second: at full bloom. Third: after setting of fruits. Results indicate that soil application of chicken manure, especially at 10 kg tree-1, and foliar spraying of Sea force at 20 ml L-1 significantly increased all studied characters (average leaf area, total chlorophyll content, number of flowers/inflorescences, fruit set %, fruit length, fruit width, fruit weight, total yield per tree, fruit total soluble solids (TSS%), Percentage of oil). Soil application of Blaukorn, especially at 200 g tree-1, significantly increased (average leaf area, fruits length, width and weight, and TSS). The binary and triple interactions of the study treatments on all the traits under investigation also showed a significant increase, particularly for the high levels of the study factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conducted studies show that the application of different rates and proportions of mineral fertilizers to wheat plants leads to a change in the structure of its yield, an increase in grain yield and stubble yield to varying degrees according to the experimental variants. The article notes the factors of soil damage. The article also shows the research work carried out on land plots of various regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gradual increase in industrial wastes allowed the utilization of these wastes in different areas. Steel slag, one of the industrial wastes, is formed during the reduction of molten crude iron to molten crude steel in basic oxygen furnaces or scrap to molten crude steel in electric arc furnaces and induction furnaces. Removal, storage, or disposal of steel slag is an important environmental and economic problem. Steel slag offers opportunities to be used as an alternative material in various areas and contributes to the national economies through recycling. This research provides information about the studies and application examples on the use of steel slag as a soil amendment and mineral fertilizer in the world. This usage allows reducing the consumption of natural resources and providing great agricultural, environmental, and economic gain by minimizing the negative environmental effects of steel slag. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combined application of organic and mineral fertilizers is an appropriate agronomic measure and is particularly important for smallholders who have limited access to mineral fertilizers. However, fertilizer recommendations in terms of crop nutritional value and nutrient efficiency strongly vary in dependence of site-specific conditions. In this study, seven different ratios of bio-waste compost (comp) and mineral fertilizers (MF), consisting of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and sulfur (S), were tested in a two-year field experiment on a Nitisol soil in order to assess their effects on nutritionally important minerals in maize (Zea mays, L. Bako-hybrid) grains as well as the nutrient use efficiency. The application of fertilizers corresponded to an N supply of about 100 kg ha−1, whereby the application of only MF (100 MF) was gradually replaced by compost. Compared to 100 MF the treatments with 40 to 70% of N supply given with compost had a higher concentration of most grain minerals. The most pronounced elevations were found for Fe (570 vs. 304 mg kg‒1) and Mn (70.1 vs. 36.3 mg kg‒1) when 50% of the N was given with compost in comparison to the 100 MF treatment. The P use efficiency increased particularly when compost was part of the nutrient supply. The results suggest that replacing mineral fertilizer with compost accounting for 40 to 70% of the total N supply would be a suitable option for increasing the nutritional quality of maize grains and to efficiently use fertilizers on this Nitisol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presented study sought to use the plant growth-promoting microorganism (PGPM) as a biofertilizer in maize (Zea mays L.) seeds and determine its effects on the growth and productivity of maize, with two levels of mineral fertilizer (25% and 50% of chemical fertilizer) under Iraqi conditions. Laboratory studies confirmed no antagonism between Azotobacter chroococcum and other microorganisms used in this study. Field experiments carried out during crop season 2021 were in two different regions, Mosul (36°20'6"N, 43°7'8"E) and Kirkuk (35°28'5.02"N, 44°23'31.99"E) in the north of Iraq. The result showed biofertilizer superiority when combined with 25% and 50% doses of the recommended mineral fertilizer for maize growth and yield traits in the experiments in both locations. In Kirkuk city, the biofertilizer combined with 25% chemical fertilizer recorded superiority without significant difference from the biofertilizer combined with 50% mineral fertilizer. However, in Mosul city, the biofertilizer combined with 50% chemical fertilizer expressed a more superior and significant difference than other treatments for growth and yield traits in maize. The difference between the two regions might be due to chemical fertilizer residues in the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional intensive cultivation tends to modify the interactions of phosphorus in soil, favoring inorganic forms transformations. The aim of the study was to evaluate the status of inorganic phosphorus and correlate with the chemical, physical and mineralogical soil properties in areas under natural vegetation and different cultivation periods: 1, 17, 22, 28, 32 and 43 years. Soil P was extracted using Chang and Jackson method (Al-P, Fe-P, Ca-P and Residual-P). The micro-chemical map of P concentrations within the representative aggregates was determined by electron probe. Results showed that biofertilizers application in the area under intensive cultivation for 32 years of use significantly increased all soil P fractions (4.249 mg kg−1 in upper soil layer). There was a slight increase in the P at the edges of the aggregates in the first year (0.23%), but at 43 years, there was an increase in contents within the aggregates (0.32%). The intensive cultivation promoted the increase of P content in soil fractions in the arable layer of the soil over time. However, the decline in inorganic P contents after a few years of cultivation suggests that the soils of the studied areas tend to exceed their maximum adsorption capacities in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study identifies the socio-economic factors that influences the use of organic fertilizer by oil palm nursery operators in the face of rising fertilizer prices in the markets. A sample of 80 nursery operators was randomly selected for data collection in two divisions of the Littoral region where the activity is prevalent. A Logit model was used to estimate and to isolate the variables affecting the use of the strategy. The results of the model show a correlation between socio-economic variables and the use of organic manure in the nursery for oil palm seedling production. Thus, variables such as, household size, access to market and access or not to training in setting up an oil palm nursery, are the factors that significantly influence the adoption of organic manure. In addition, sensitivity analysis of the probability of adoption with respect to explanatory variables shows that some socioeconomic variables have the strongest marginal effects. In addition, some variables positively affect the propensity to adopt the strategy, while others negatively affect the propensity. In a context of increase in fertilizer prices in the markets, a strong use of organic manure is necessary and strong actions must be implemented by the stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sorghum is the staple food crop in Assosa area and most important cereal crop next to teff and maize in Ethiopia. However, sorghum productivity is constrained by lack of improved agronomic practices, low soil fertility and associated low soil nutrient availability especially Nitrogen and Phosphorous deficiency and lack of integrated use of nutrient management practices. Objective: The objective of this study was to increase sorghum production and productivity by optimizing integrated use of blended NPS +N and FYM fertilizers in Assosa district, Western Ethiopia. Materials and Methods: The treatments consisted of four rates of FYM (0, 5, 10, and 15 t ha-1) and four rates of NPS (having 19N:38P:7S nutrient ratios) applied at the levels of 0, 50, 100 and 150% ha-1 along with N 46 kg ha-1. The experiment was laid out as a completely randomized block design in a factorial arrangement and replicated three times. The experiment was conducted for a period of two years, from 2020 to 2022. Data were collected on soil chemical properties and crop yield and yield attributes. Results: The results showed that the main effect of FYM and NPS significantly (P < 0.01) affected leaf area index, thousand seed weight and grain yield of sorghum. The integrated use of FYM and NPS significantly (P < 0.05) affected leaf area index, thousand seed weight, grain, and biomass and harvest index of sorghum. The soil pH (5.52 to 5.63), organic carbon (1.57 to 1.93%) and CEC (25 to 31.08 cmol(+) kg-1) were improved in response to the application of 15 t FYM ha-1, whereas some improvement of total nitrogen (0.15 to 0.18%) and available phosphorous (3.32 to 9.64 mg P kg-1) in response to the application of 150% NPS ha-1 + 46 kg N ha-1. The integrated use of 15 t FYM ha-1 and 150% NPS ha-1+ N 46 kg ha-1 resulted in the best improvement of soil organic carbon (0.85% to 2.95%, total nitrogen (0.15 % to 0.20%), available P (3.26 to 10.03 mg P kg-1) and CEC (18.2 to 36.92 cmol(+) kg-1). However, the highest soil pH (5.88) value was recorded in response to the integrated use of 10 t FYM ha-1and 150% NPS ha-1+ N 46 kg ha-1. The highest grain yield (3.98 t ha-1) was obtained from the integrated use of 10 t FYM ha-1 and 150% NPS ha-1 + N 46 kg ha-1. The highest biological yield (5.09 t ha-1) obtained from the integrated use of 15 t FYM ha-1and 150% NPS ha-1 + N 46 kg ha-1. However, the lowest grain yield (0.63 t ha-1) and biological yield (1.07 t ha-1) recorded from the non-treated plots respectively. This implies that the grain yield was increased over by 84.2% and biological yield by 78.9% respectively when compared to the control. Economic analysis also indicated that the application of 10 t farmyard manure ha-1and 150% NPS ha-1 + N 46 kg ha-1 was provided the highest gross and net benefit. Conclusion: It is concluded that the application of 10 t FYM ha-1and 150% NPS ha-1 + N 46 kg ha-1 resulted in the most economical yield and improved soil chemical properties, particularly soil organic carbon and available phosphorous. The highest mean net benefit (24, 640.14 ETB ha-1) was obtained from the application of 10 t FYM ha-1 and 150% NPS ha-1 + N 46 kg ha-1. This implies that combined applying of farmyard manure and mineral fertilizers at the above mentioned rates enhances the grain yield of sorghum accompanied enhanced contents of soil organic carbon and total nitrogen for sustainable production of the crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This paper aimed to evaluate and determine the short-term effectiveness of different fertilizations methods: organic (bovine manure) and inorganic (NPK 15-15-15) on agricultural sites in eastern Algeria. Methods: The study was conducted in three different plots of 100 Ares where we tested three main treatments: mineral fertilizer with a precedent of leguminous cultivation (Min CC), manure inputs with previous manure and without crop rotation (Fum CA), mineral fertilizer with previous bare soil cultivation (MinJ). With the same tillage, the obtained results revealed that the use of cattle manure as a fertilizer is to be recommended because it allows increasing the yield of wheat compared to the soil receiving inorganic fertilization (NPK). Result: Organic fertilizers ensure and maintain soil fertility and agricultural production in the soil studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The long-term extensive application of chemical fertilizers wreaks havoc on soil bacterial structure and function. To reduce the damage caused by chemical fertilizers, a six-year experiment was performed to study the effects of replacing 0% (CK), 25% (S25), 50% (S50), 75% (S75), and 100% (S100) of 225 kg ha−1 mineral nitrogen fertilizer with an equivalent amount of nitrogen from maize straw on the soil bacterial community structure, diversity, and function. The results showed that Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Gemmatimonadetes were the dominant soil bacterial phyla after the replacement treatments. Replacing mineral nitrogen fertilizer with an equivalent amount of nitrogen from maize straw significantly reduced the number of Photobacterium and bacterial populations involved in genetic information processing in soil, but significantly increased the number of bacterial populations involved in organismal systems, human diseases, and environmental information processing. Compared with other treatments, the relative abundance of TK10 significantly increased by 33.52–76.36% in S25. The number of subgroup 6, Gram-negative, biofilm-forming, potentially pathogenic, and anaerobic bacteria significantly increased, whereas that of Chloroflexi and Blastocatellia subgroup 4 significantly decreased in S50 and S75 compared with CK. The number of TK10 and Blastocatellia subgroup 4 in S50 and S100, respectively, was significantly lower than that in CK. Bacterial species were significantly more present in S25 than in S75. The diversity of bacterial species in S75 was significantly lower than that in CK. S25 and S100 were more favorable to increasing the number of Gram-positive, aerobic, mobile-element containing, and stress-tolerant bacteria. Rhodobacteraceae, Pyrinomonadaceae, Xanthobacteraceae, Nocardioidaceae, and Vulgatibacteraceae with statistical differences in CK, S25, S50, S75, and S100, respectively, could be used as biomarkers. Chloroflexi, Acidobacteria, and Nitrospirae could be used as the main basis for the bacterial classification of soil samples in the equivalent substitution of nitrogen chemical fertilizer with maize straw. S25 is ideal for increasing soil bacterial species richness and abundance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manure nutrient management can affect soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) fractions. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of long-term manure and mineral fertilizer applications on C and N fractions. This study was conducted for 11 years under corn and soybean rotation. The study rates included low manure (LM (4,194 kg ha−1), based on the crop's phosphorus (P) requirement), medium manure (MM (8,081 kg ha−1), based on the crop's N requirement), high manure (HM (16,162 kg ha−1), two times the rate of MM), medium fertilizer (MF (204 kg N ha−1), recommended), high fertilizer (HF (224 kg N ha−1), high), and control. Soil samples were collected to measure C and N fractions. HM recorded higher particulate C (8%) at 0–10 cm and higher dissolved C (26%) at 10–20 cm compared to LM. All manure rates had higher permanganate oxidizable C compared to mineral fertilizer rates. Carbon management index was higher under MM compared to the HF (17%) and MF (33%). This study suggests that manure application (16,162 kg ha−1 rate and even 8,081 kg ha−1 and 4,194 kg ha−1 rates in some cases) can enhance C and N pools compared to mineral fertilizer application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring environmentally eco-friendly approaches to enhance crop growth and productivity are essential for sustainable agriculture. Therefore, a field trial was conducted during two growing seasons to study the effects of synthetic (nitrogen, N; phosphorus, P; and potassium, K), biogas digestate (BioD), bio-fertilizer (BioF), and their combinations on the growth, yield, and seed quality of faba bean (Vicia faba L.). The number of treatments was seven, as follows: control (zero NPK), NPK (30 kg N ha−1; 45 kg P2O5 ha−1: 48 kg K2O ha−1) as the recommended dose, BioD (2 t ha−1), BioF (plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria; 1 kg ha−1), 50% NPK + 50% BioD, 50% NPK + 50% BioF, and 50% BioD + 50% BioF. The results indicated that all fertilizer sources and their combinations improved the growth, seed yield, and quality of faba bean. However, the highest increase in plant height, leaf area, dry leaf weight, and stem dry weight of faba bean was recorded for the combined application of 50% BioD + 50% BioF. Moreover, the BioD +BioF fertilization enhanced the number of branches, number of seeds, 100 seed weight, and seed yield of faba bean. Similarly, BioD + BioF fertilization enhanced the total chlorophyll and N, P, and K contents of faba bean leaves. BioD fertilization also increased seed quality traits such as N, P, protein, and carbohydrate contents. The outcomes of BioD + BioF fertilization on growth yield and quality parameters of faba bean suggest that the concurrent application of biogas digestate with bio-fertilizer can reduce synthetic fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the productivity, nutritional content, and quality of soybean seeds produced under different nutritional management at sowing. The experimental design used was randomized blocks organized in a factorial scheme with 3x3 (cultivars x nutritional managements at the sowing base) with four replications. The genotypes AMS Tibagi RR, NA 5909 RG, and BMX Tornado RR were used, and submitted to nutritional management in sowing with mineral fertilizer, organomineral (broiler litter 5th to 6th batch, and mineral fertilizer) and organic (broiler litter 5th to 6th batch). The different nutritional managements at sowing did not influence soybean yield regardless of the cultivar used. The potassium content in the seeds was not influenced by nutritional management, however, the highest levels of this nutrient were found in the shoot tissue when organic and organomineral fertilization was used. The response of nutritional management on seed quality depends on the genotype used. In this study, the cultivar AMS Tibagi RR presented better performance when submitted to chemical fertilization management followed by organic fertilization. In general, cultivars NA 5909 RG and BMX Tornado RR show greater stability of the studied characters, regardless of nutritional management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The shelf life of orange ‘Thomson Navel’ (Citrus sinensis var. Thomson Navel) is low. One of the important factors in maximum increase of fruit quality and its nutritional value is the presence of calcium and potassium in fruit tissue. Absorption of essential elements from the soil by the roots and their transfer to the aerial part of the plant, including entry into the fruit tissue are important challenges. Calcium deficiency in citrus fruits is possible due to reduced absorption from soils. The application of these elements in the form of foliar application solves this challenge. The aim of this study was to determine the appropriate frequency of combined treatment of calcium and potassium (one to four times), before and after harvest, on shelf life and fruit quality of Thomson Novell cultivar, including calcium, vitamin C and soluble solids (°Brix). Materials and Methods: Treatments were without foliar application of calcium, once foliar application of calcium (in June), twice foliar application of calcium (in June and July), three times foliar application of calcium (in June, July and September), four times foliar application of calcium (in June, July, September and October), without foliar application of potassium, once foliar application of potassium (in June) and twice foliar application of potassium (in June and July), alone or in combination with a week distance and before harvesting fruits. After harvesting, all fruits were treated with 3 per 1000 calcium for 5 minutes as plunging. Fruits without foliar application of calcium and potassium were considered as controls. Calcium foliar application was performed at a constant rate of 3 per1000 and potassium foliar application at a rate of 2 per 1000. The last stage of treatment of fruits with calcium was done after harvest and by immersion in a solution of 3 per 1000. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized block design with three replications in Kharik village of Sari city. The fruits were stored at the temperature of 5°C and 85% relative humidity for 3 months. Traits of length, diameter, skin diameter, weight, juice volume, decay, vitamin C, calcium, total solid soluble (TSS), titration acidity (TA) and acidity (pH) of fruits were measured after 3 months’ storage. Results: The results showed that the most vitamin C (97.69 mg/100 ml fruit juice), fruit weight (242.20 g) and fruit juice volume (115.70 ml) were obtained in fruits treated with twice foliar application of calcium (in June and July at a rate of 3 per1000) together with twice foliar application of potassium (in June and July at a rate of 2 per1000). The highest diameter (78.92 mm) and the lowest decomposition were obtained in fruits treated with twice calcium (June and July at a rate of 3 per1000) together with once potassium (June at a rate of 2 per1000). The highest amount of fruit calcium (165.30 g/kg DW) was calculated in the treatment of 3 times foliar application of calcium (in June, July and September at a rate of 3 per1000) together with once foliar application of potassium (in June at a rate of 2 per1000). Conclusion: In general, based on the findings of this study, foliar application of Thomson Novell cultivar through twice calcium (in June and July, at a rate of 3 per 1000) and once with potassium (in June at a rate of 2 per1000) and twice with potassium (in June and July, at a rate of 2 per1000) before harvest along with plunging into 3 per 1000 of calcium after harvest (for all oranges) is suitable for maintaining the quantity and quality of fruits during storage and this treatment is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the research is to determine the effect of ammonium nitrate fertilizer on the growth and yield of Origanum vulgare L. essential oil grown in Northern Kazakhstan. One-factor analysis proved that the introduction of ammonium nitrate positively affected the growth and yield of O. vulgare L., the yield of essential oil and the content of its individual components. Plant height increased by 19.3%, bush size - by 17.4%, yield - by 11.8%. Essential oil output of O. vulgare L. at the experimental site, compared to the control site, increased by 20% and the yield of extraction reached 0.60% and 0.48%, respectively. The largest number of components was related to monoterpenes (52.57% in the experimental section, -50.10% in the control section), the most common were γ-Terpinene, ß-Sabinene, Carvacrol and trans-ß-Ocimene. Sesquiterpene content in the experimental sample was 37.19%, compared to 38.5250% in the control sample, in which Germacrene D and Caryophyllene were the most common components. Cluster analysis showed that the essential oil composition of O. vulgare L. from Kazakhstan is similar to the composition of the essential oil of plants from Moldova, Poland, Turkey (Anatolia), Latvia and Russia. Germacrene D, Carvacrol and ß-Sabinene were the binding components of plants from Kazakhstan and Moldova. The similarity between plants from Kazakhstan and other countries in the same cluster was due to the Germacrene D content (cluster's average value was 10.1%) and the content of Spathulenol (4.9%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thanks to increasing the resistance of plants to adverse environmental factors (high and low temperatures, lack of moisture, phytotoxic effects of pesticides, damage by pests and diseases) due to the action of growth regulators significantly increases productivity and improves product quality. Therefore, there is a need to develop the latest technologies that provide for a wide range of doses and ratios of macro- and micro-fertilizers in the fertilization system. The purpose of the research was to study the influence of the use of micro and macro fertilizers on the formation of yield and fat yield of safflower varieties Zhyvchyk and Sonyachny. The research was conducted in the fields of the Oil Crops Institute of the National Academy of Sciences in 2011--2013. The soil of the experimental site is ordinary, medium-strength chernozem low-humus, with a content of humus in the arable layer up to 30 cm -- 3.5 %, available nitrogen -- 7.2--8.5, mobile phosphorus -- 9.6--10.3, mobile phosphorus -- 15.2--16.9 mg/100 g of soil, the pH of the soil solution is 6.5--7.0. Sowing of safflower varieties Zhyvchyk and Sonyachny was carried out with a row width of 70 cm and a seed sowing rate of 230000/ha. The predecessor is cereals, the main tillage is plowing to a depth of 22-25 cm, the depth of seed wrapping is 4-5 cm. Scheme of drug use: 1 - control (water treatment); 2 - seed treatment with reacom grain reac (3.0 l/t); 3 - foliar top dressing of urea (12 kg/ha); 4 - seed treatment with reacom grain (3.0 l/t) + foliar fertilizing with urea (12 kg/ha); 5 - seed treatment with reacom grain (3.0 l/t) + foliar top dressing with a tank mixture of urea (12 kg/ha) and crystallon (3 kg/ha). For seed treatment, chelated microfertilizer reacom grain was used, which includes P2O5, K2O, Zn, Cu, B, Mo, Co; for foliar feeding in the phase of 8-10 leaves, nitrogen fertilizer urea (46.2%) and crystalon - a water-soluble complex fertilizer with a balanced ratio of macro- and microelements on a chelate basis (N - NO3, N - NO4, N - NO2, N, P2O5, K2O, Mg, S). According to the results of the research carried out at the Institute of Oil Crops, a change in plant height indicators of safflower varieties was determined depending on the fertilizer option. The height of safflower plants of the Zhivchyk and Soniacny varieties varied from 59.2 to 62.0 cm and from 61.7 to 64.0 cm, respectively. To a lesser extent, plants of safflower varieties reacted to the treatment of seeds with the drug Reac grain. In relation to the control, the height of the plants increased by 1.0 cm in the Zhivchyk variety and by 0.6 cm in the Sonyachny variety. The highest height of the safflower varieties Zhivchyk - 62.0 and Sonyachny - 64.0 cm was noted for seed treatment with reacom grain and foliar fertilizing with a mixture of urea + crystallon. Under the influence of additional nutrition, the number of baskets on one plant and the number of seeds in one basket also changed. Under the influence of fertilizers, the indicators of the number of baskets on the plant increased by 0.3-0.8 pcs. in the Zhivchyk variety and 0.1-0.7 pcs. in the Sonyachny variety. The maximum number of baskets per plant of safflower varieties Zhivchyk is 7.8 pcs. and Sonyachny 7.3 pcs. noted in the variant with seed treatment with reacom grain and foliar fertilization with a mixture of urea + crystallon. It should be noted that with the lower height of plants of the Zhivchyk variety, the number of baskets on them was greater compared to the Sonyachny variety. As the number of baskets on the plant increased under the influence of additional fertilizer, the number of seeds in the basket decreased. Yes, according to the number of seeds in the basket under control, 23.9 pcs. in the Zhivchyk variety and 23.5 pcs. in the Sonyachny variety, depending on the fertilizer option, their indicators decreased by 0.7- 2.0 and 0.9-1.5 units, respectively. Indicators of the number of seeds on one safflower plant, depending on the fertilizer option, were: for the Zhivchyk variety 168-171 and for the Sonyachny variety 151-160 pcs. The largest number of seeds on one safflower plant of the Zhivchyk variety - 171 pcs. obtained by foliar fertilizing with urea, and 160 pcs. of the Sonyachny variety. for seed treatment with reacom grain + foliar fertilizing with a mixture of urea + crystallon. The weight of seeds from one plant in the control was: 6.3 g in the Zhivchyk variety and 6.0 g in the Sonyachny variety. Under the influence of additional nutrition, the weight of seeds from one plant increased by 0.1-0.3 g in the Zhivchyk variety and 0.2-0.5 g in the Sonyachny variety. The largest seed weight - 6.6 g in the Zhivchyk variety was ensured by its cultivation using options: foliar top dressing with urea and seed treatment with reacom grain + foliar top dressing with a mixture of urea + crystallon. The largest seed weight - 6.5 g in the Sonyachny variety was provided by its cultivation on the option - seed treatment with reacom grain + foliar fertilizing with a mixture of urea + crystallon . The most significant effect of additional nutrition was noted on the weight of 1000 seeds of both varieties of safflower. In the Zhivchyk variety, the weight increased from 37.3 to 38.9 g, the increase from fertilization was equal to 0.4-1.6 g. In the Sonyachny variety, the weight increased from 39.0 to 40.2 g, the increase from fertilization was equal to 0.3-1.2 g. With lower indicators of the genetically determined mass of 1000 seeds of safflower of the Zhivchyk variety, the increase from additional nutrition was greater compared to the Sonyachny variety. The largest mass of 1,000 seeds for both varieties was obtained in the fertilizer option - seed treatment with reacom grain + foliar fertilizing with a mixture of urea + crystallon. On average, during the three years of research, the yield of safflower was in the range of: 1.37-1.46 t/ha of the Zhivchyk variety and 1.36-1.49 t/ha of the Sonyachny variety. The average three-year yield was almost at the same level and was equal to: 1.41 t/ha in the Zhivchyk variety and 1.42 t/ha in the Sonyachny variety. The increase from the application of micro and macro fertilizers was: for the Zhyvchyk variety 0.03-0.09 and for the Sonyachny variety 0.02-0.13 t/ha. The maximum growth, and therefore the maximum yield of safflower of the Zhivchyk variety - 1.46 and the Sonyachny variety - 1.49 t/ha was ensured by the double application of fertilizers - seed treatment with reacom grain + foliar fertilizing with a mixture of urea + crystallon. The fat content in safflower seeds increased under the influence of additional nutrition from 29.4 to 29.9% (by 0.2-0.5) for the Zhivchyk variety and from 30.0 to 30.4% (by 0.1-0, 4) for the Sonyachny variety. The highest indicators were obtained on the fertilizer option - seed treatment with reacom grain + foliar fertilizing with a mixture of urea + crystallon. At the same time, the yield of oil, depending on the fertilizer option, was equal to 350-380 kg/ha for the Zhivchyk variety and 355-395 kg/ha for the Sonyachny variety. The highest oil yield of both the Zhivchyk variety and the Sonyachny variety was obtained at the maximum yield and fat content in safflower seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent research suggests that soybean yield could be doubled in Brazilian conditions, implying that the base fertilization is pivotal, as it might influence chemical and microbiological soil indicators and, hence, the crop grain yield. The current study had the goal of assessing alterations in the chemical and microbiological soil indicators, in the short term, as well as the soybean biometric and grain yield performance as a function of different fertilizers for base fertilization, in two sowing periods. An experiment comprised of two sowing periods was carried out in the 2019/2020 season on a dystrophic Red Latosol, in north Parana state. Five treatments were assessed, comprising: 1) control; 2) mineral fertilizer; 3) organomineral fertilizer; 4) mineral fertilizer mixed with granulated gypsum; and 5) slow release mineral fertilizer. A randomized block design with four replicates was adopted. The following variables were assessed: chemical and microbiological soil indicators; final stand; first pod insertion height; plant height; stem diameter; number of pods per plant; number of grains per plant; number of grains per pod; grain mass per plant; and one thousand grain mass and grain yield. There is no base fertilization effect on the chemical soil indicators in the short term, however, there is an effect on the microbiological soil indicators. Soybean biometric and grain yield performance is decreased with the delayed sowing period, regardless of the type of fertilizer utilized for base fertilization. Analyzing a set of soil quality indicators enables precise and judicious results to be gathered on management practices in the soil environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the results of the fifth year of research in a two-factor field experiments, all variants were compared with absolute control without overseeding and fertilizer application. The agroeconomic and agro-energy efficiency of the use of the studied agricultural practices has been determined. An analysis of the agroeconomic and energy assessment showed that the combination of the use of direct sowing and fertilizers over five years of observation and research (from 2017 to 2021) was effective and contributed to a reduction in the cost of 100 feed unit ha-1 by an average of 41-46%; obtaining the greatest profit - 376-826 $ ha-1. The highest payback of a feed unit of 1 kg of NPK was also noted in variants with a cultivated phytocenosis, this indicator increased by 1.2-1.6 times compared to the natural phytocenosis. It was found that the use of overseeding against the background of NPK increased the energy efficiency from 1.6-2.0 to 2.9-3.4. Therefore, taking into account the recoupment of energy costs, we can conclude that N60P90K120 and both doses of NPK in a cultivated phytocenosis can be considered energetically optimal doses of fertilizers in a natural phytocenosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proper nutrition practices are a crucial aspect of potato production. The utilization of various nutritional sources not only influences the growth of potatoes but also their yield and quality. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the effects of mineral fertilizer (without or with 250–110-110 kg/ha N-P-K) and farmyard manure (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 tonnes/ha) on plant growth, tuber yield, and tuber quality. Agria which is widely grown in Turkey was used in this study. The experiment was conducted using a split-plot design based on a randomized complete block design, with four replications. In the experiment, the respective values were recorded for each variable; plant height 65.5 – 102.1 cm, number of stem per plant 2.6 – 3.6, chlorophyl readings 50.0 – 55.9, number of tubers per plant 6.1 – 9.0, first-class tuber ratio 73.3 – 90.7%, second class tuber ratio 5.8 – 21.4%, discarded tuber ratio 1.7 – 5.4%, total tuber yield 31.4 – 45.1 t/ha, dry matter 15.70 – 18.78%, chips L value 45.65 – 54.81, and French fry L value 46.62 – 64.38. The application of both mineral fertilizer and animal manure positively impacts plant growth and development, but combining mineral fertilizer with farmyard manure results in even better plant growth, quality, and higher yield. Consequently, it was demonstrated that the application of mineral fertilizer together with 30 t/ha of farmyard manure provided the most optimal outcome for potato growth, yield, and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volcanic ash is a multi‐nutrient mineral fertilizer whose catalytic mechanism of action, replenishing trace metals are necessary for soil bacterial enzymes for the efficient biogeochemical cycling of key elements, such as N, C, P, and S, ensures use of relatively small amounts to fertilize large soil surfaces. Chiefly demonstrated in the course of the 2010 s in Russia's Kamchatka and in Indonesia, two world's areas hosting highly active volcanoes, these findings remain poorly known. Fulfilling the principles of the emerging circular economy, the large‐scale use of readily available and overabundant tephra as agricultural fertilizer is a significant economic opportunity for both farmers and populations living near active volcanoes, affording also important environmental advantages. Providing a unified picture, this study will hopefully accelerate such progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pure silica sol obtained by hydrolysis of tetraethoxysilane and the same silica sol doped with fertilizer Azofoska were used to cover the surface of pea seeds. The surface state of the coated seeds (layer continuity, thickness, elemental composition) was studied by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) detector. Different conditions such as sol mixing method, seed immersion time, effect of diluting the sol with water, and ethanol (EtOH) were studied to obtain thin continuous coatings. The coated seeds were subjected to a germination and growth test to demonstrate that the produced SiO2 coating did not inhibit these processes; moreover, the presence of fertilizer in the coating structure facilitates the development of the seedling. The supply of nutrients directly to the grain's vicinity contributes to faster germination and development of seedlings. This may give the developing plants an advantage in growth over other undesirable plant species. These activities are in the line with the trends of searching for technologies increasing yields without creating an excessive burden on the natural environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From the perspective of sustainable agri-food production, farmers need to make the best use of natural resources. Biochar can be a solution to adopt a more sustainable way of farming. Despite its environmental and agronomic advantages, biochar has a low plant nutrient value. This study evaluated the effect of biochar and the co-application of an inorganic or organic fertilizer on the soil properties, growth and nutrient content of Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris L. var. cycla, Caryophyllales order, Chenopodiaceae family). The experiment consisted of two factors: biochar type (from vineyard prunings and wood chips) and fertilizing source (ammonium nitrate and vermicompost). Biochars were applied at a 2% rate (w/w) and fertilizers at a dose providing 280 kg N ha−1. The soil properties (pH, EC, extractable anions, cations, total N, Corg and C/N ratio) were measured before the plants were transplanted and at the end of the growing cycle, along with the growth parameters (leaf number, length and fresh weight) of each leaf cut, the productive parameters (total number of leaves and yield per plant) at the end of the growing cycle and the leaf content of anions (NO3−, P2O43−, SO42−), cations (NH4+, Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+) and total N. The co-application of biochar and a fertilizing source had a positive effect on soil properties and leaf nutrient content. Vermicompost increased plant growth by 22% and plant yield by 116%, in contrast to biochar, and increased limited leaf NO3− accumulation by about 81% in comparison to ammonium nitrate. The co-application of biochar and vermicompost is the better option to increase Swiss chard yield while preserving the nutritional and health qualities of the product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Using organic manure derived from animal or vegetable matter is often associated with balanced crop production. The influence of organics and fertilizers on soil sustainability during cultivation of potatoes in field was studied. Methods: Vegetable experiment comprising 10 years (2011-2021), having a control variant (no fertilization), independent mineral, organics (compost) and their combination (50:50%). Changes in the amount and distribution of microbial groups in experimental variants and associated untreated controls were evaluated. Total bacterial number, spore-forming bacteria, fungi, nitrogen-utilizing bacteria and actinomycetes were assessed. Result: Applied organics and fertilizers had statistically proven a positive effect on growth parameters of potatoes. Organics and fertilizers supplied with mineral and foliar feeding registered taller plants with increased number of branches, number and mass of leaves and stem and root masses, compared to potatoes with organic and organic-mineral combination. Application of compost led to a significant increase in populations of all physiological groups of microorganisms excluding spore-forming bacteria and bacteria utilizing mineral nitrogen, which is a good indicator of increased soil microbial activity in respective treatments. Mineral fertilization had a positive effect on total number of bacteria and on absorption of mineral nitrogen. The treatment in variant (50:50%) at rhizosphere soil was associated with organic manure application and at non-rhizosphere soil with mineral fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the use of nitrogen in wheat crop, in terms of Agronomic Efficiency (AE) and Partial Factor Productivity (PFP). The experiment was conducted in the specific conditions of the Banat University of Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine of Timisoara (BUASVM), Timis County, Romania. Nitrogen (N) was provided on the basis of ammonium nitrate, in the range 0 - 250 kg a.s. ha-1, in 11 experimental variants (T1 to T11). The AE index varied between 14.631 (T2) and 9.138 (T11), with a maximum (27.211) corresponding to the N75 dose (T4). The PFP index recorded decreasing values from 90.497 (T2) to 16.725 (T11). The AE index variation in relation to N was described by the polynomial equation of degree 4 (R² = 0.975, p <0.01), and the AE index variation according to Y was described by a polynomial equation of degree 3 (R² = 0.722, p = 0.0233). In relation to the calculated progressive increase yield (ΔPY) the AE variation was described by a linear equation (R² = 0.780, p <0.001). The PFP index variation in relation to N was described by a polynomial equation of degree 3 (R² = 0.994, p <0.001), and in relation to N and Y, as simultaneous influence, was described in statistical safety conditions (R² = 0.885, p = 0.0144). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf litter decomposition is a crucial ecological process driven by bacteria and fungi, which release extracellular enzymes. However, the effects of mineral fertilizer application on microbial aspects in forest ecosystems are unclear. We hypothesized that mineral fertilizers significantly affect bacteria and fungi in terms of function, diversity, structure, and composition. We also proposed that microbial phyla respond more to fertilizers than untreated conditions and that there's a strong correlation between bacteria, fungi, and chemical factors under fertilizer treatments. Using next-generation sequencing, we investigated microbial responses in a Masson pine plantation across four sampling times (90, 180, 270, and 360 days) with control (CK), N fertilization (+N), N and P fertilization (+NP), and N, P, K fertilization (+NPK). Mineral fertilizer impacts were more pronounced on bacterial diversity than fungal diversity, especially in alpha diversity. Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Acidobacteria, and Cyanobacteria (11.76, 0.34, 0.08, 1.86, 7.17 %), respectively, responded positively to fertilizers, while only Ascomycota and Basidiomycota (14.77, 16.51 %), respectively, were influenced among fungal phyla. Beta diversity analysis revealed distinct groupings of bacterial and fungal communities over time. Redundancy analysis indicated shifts in community structure linked to soil chemical properties. Our findings concluded that NPK fertilizer might be a preferred management option, providing valuable insights for fertilization strategies in subtropical forest ecosystems, benefiting both surface and belowground components. However, the application of mineral fertilizer requires careful consideration of the implications and limitations on microbial communities. • Bacterial populations are more sensitive and responsive to a combination of mineral fertilizers than the fungal community. • Different mineral fertilizers could change the diversity of microbial communities. • Combining mineral fertilizers significantly altered bacterial and fungal community structures at four sampling times. • The amount of soil total nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and pH could affect the composition of the microbial community in Masson pine leaf litter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil ecosystem multifunctionality (EMF), the ability of an ecosystem to perform multiple functions, remains uncertain in its contribution to crop production, especially in the context of long-term fertilization ecosystems. This study was carried out on a 40-year-old long-term fertilization experiment in black soil in China. Soil samples were collected from four treatments: control (CK); nitrogen (N) fertilizer; phosphorus (P) fertilizer; and a combination of nitrogen and phosphorus (NP) in both maize and wheat planting seasons. The results showed significant effects of N, P fertilizers and crop season on soil biotic and abiotic properties, especially on soil enzyme activities. Crop productivity and soil EMF showed a similar pattern across different treatments and both crop seasons, with significant higher values recorded in treatments with N addition (i.e. N and NP). Soil EMF was strongly associated with crop productivity in both maize and wheat seasons, while soil pH had a negative impact on crop yield. Random forest analysis revealed that microbial functional gene structure was significantly correlated with both soil ecosystem multifunctionality and crop yield. This suggested that fertilization leads to alterations in soil nutrients and the composition of functional microbial communities, subsequently impacting ecological functions and crop growth. These findings indicated that mineral fertilizers can enhance crop yield through soil EMF in the black soils, while exerted substantial impact on soil properties, raising concerns about the sustainability of soils under continuous chemical fertilization. • Long-term mineral fertilization improves soil ecosystem multifunctionality. • Soil ecosystem multifunctionality is strongly associated with crop productivity. • Soil pH and nitrate were the dominant variables in determining soil ecosystem multifunctionality. • Functional gene community structure had significant correlation with crop production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low soil fertility has become a serious constraint affecting agricultural productivity and food security in North-western Ethiopia. A field experiment was conducted to examine the effects of integrated use of compost and mineral fertilizer on soil properties and tef (Eragrostis tef [Zucc.] Trotter) yields for two years during 2018 and 2019 cropping seasons. The field experiment was arranged in a factorial combination of three rates of Urea/NPSB (0/0, 62.5/75 and 125/150 kg ha−1) and three rates of compost (0, 5 and 10 t ha−1) laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Results showed that combined use of compost and mineral fertilizer significantly (p < 0.05) increased soil pH, soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), available phosphorus (AP), available sulfur (AS) and exchangeable bases but significantly (p < 0.05) decreased soil bulk density (SBD) compared to sole mineral fertilizer application and the control. Furthermore, application of 10 t ha−1 compost combined with 125/150 kg ha−1 Urea/NPSB gave the highest tef dry biomass (8.81 t ha−1) and grain yield (2.40 t ha−1). The economic analysis results also revealed that the highest net benefit (45,761 Birr ha−1) was achieved from the same treatment which was considerably greater than the highest rate of sole mineral fertilizer (37,228.5 Birr ha−1), the highest rate of sole compost (6656 Birr ha−1) and the control (5391 Birr ha−1). We concluded that integrated fertilizer application enhances soil fertility, crop yields and generates better income over individual addition of fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The nitrogen (N) response in grass-clover is influenced by quantity and timing of N-fertilizer, but less is known about the effect of fertilizer type (animal manure vs. mineral N) and N form (ammonium vs. nitrate). Method: A field trial was established in a mixture of white clover (Trifolium repens L.), red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) and perennial ryegrass (Lolium. perenne L.) with mineral N and slurry. DM yield in grass and clover and N2-fixation activity (%Ndfa) was determined in four cuts during the season. Results: Fertilization resulted in a peak in soil mineral N within 1-2 weeks of application and decreased to background rate prior to plant harvest. No differences in white clover N2-fixation activity were found between fertilizer types within each N level. Conclusions: The experiment showed that mineral N form does not affect the regulation of N2-fixation activity. The fertilizer N level was the only factor affecting white clover N2-fixation activity. Further, the results demonstrated an N threshold below which annual %Ndfa was always high (~90%). This was controlled by the companion grass' ability to deplete the soil mineral N pool. When N fertilization exceeded this threshold (above 180 kg N ha-1 yr-1 in our case) annual %Ndfa significantly decreased as did qBNF in the harvested biomass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive implementation of scientifically sound technological operations of sunflower cultivation, namely, rational methods of basic tillage, introduction of high-yielding zonal varieties and hybrids, scientifically sound fertilizer systems, is a way to increase its yield in modern agro-industrial complex. Establishing an optimal system of basic tillage for sunflower will help effectively destroy weeds, accumulate and retain as much moisture in the soil before sowing in the root layer as possible, mobilize nutrients, which will further provide the most comfortable conditions for growth and development of crops. Sunflower - a culture of intensive mineral nutrition, and therefore, the technology of its cultivation is demanding to the reserves of Nutrients in the soil, which can be replenished, both by applying nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers and by green manure. This agricultural measure allows one to maximize the impact on the plant's growth and development, which further affects the yield. The aim of our research was to determine the optimal combination of an effective system of basic tillage with the use of mineral and green manure fertilizers in the cultivation of sunflower hybrids. The research was conducted in 2019-2020 in the fields of the Institute of Oilseeds of NAAS. The soil of the experimental site - chernozem ordinary, medium-low low-humus, with a humus content in the arable layer up to 30 cm - 3.5%, available nitrogen - 7.2-8.5, mobile phosphorus - 9.6-10.3, mobile potassium - 15.2-16.9 mg/100 g of soil, pH of soil solution 6.5-7.0. Sowing of sunflower hybrids, such as Priority, Antonio, Nabir and Agronomic, was carried out with a row spacing of 70 cm and sowing rate - 50 thousand similar seeds per hectare. Main tillage systems: classical - disking in two tracks, plowing (PN-3-35) to a depth of 22-25 cm; minimum - disking in two tracks, cultivation (KPS-4,0) to a depth of 10-12 cm. Options for the use of mineral fertilizers: 1. Control - without fertilizers, 2. N40P60, 3. Sideral fertilizer (white mustard). Bookmarking of experiments and conducting research was conducted in accordance with generally accepted methods of field experiments in agriculture and crop production. In our experiments, white Zaporizhanka mustard was sown as a green manure crop in autumn after harvesting the predecessor (winter wheat). Under the weather conditions of the 2018 autumn, the dry biomass of mustard was 1.61 t/ha for the content of elements per dry matter: nitrogen - 1.34, phosphorus - 0.72, potassium 2.03%, which was equal to 21.5; 11.6; 32.7 kg per hectare respectively. Under arid conditions in the fall of 2019, only 0.48 t/ha of dry mustard biomass was obtained. The content of elements per 1 hectare was equal to: nitrogen - 6.5; phosphorus - 3.6; potassium - 9.6 kg. On average, for two years, the dry biomass of mustard was 1.05 t/ha, and the content of elements: 14.0; 7.6; 21.2 kg per 1 hectare respectively. As a result of monitoring the growth and development of sunflower plants, the influence of the main tillage systems and fertilizer options on the productivity of sunflower hybrids was established. Baskets of the largest diameter of sunflower hybrid plants Priority - 17.6, Antonio - 16.8, Nabir - 17.2, Agronomic - 16.6 cm were formed during cultivation under the classical system of cultivation on the background of mineral fertilizers at a dose of N40P60. The average weight of 1000 seeds of sunflower hybrids were: under the classical system of basic tillage under control - 39.1-47.9, against the background of fertilizers at a dose of N40P60 - 40.6-49.4, against the background of green manure 40.0-48.4 g; it was lower with the minimum system of basic tillage. Under the influence of additional nutrition, the weight of 1000 seeds increased in both classical and minimal systems. The highest weights of 1000 seeds for all hybrids were noted in the classical system of basic tillage against the background of fertilizers at a dose of N40P60. On average, the husk of sunflower hybrid seeds was the lowest (23.2-31.4%) under the classical system of basic tillage against the background of N40P60 application. Based on the control (without fertilizers) and the background of green manure, the husk increased to 23.6-31.8 and 23.4-31.6%. With the cultivation of sunflower hybrids on the minimum system, seed husk increased by 0.1-0.4%. The most favorable conditions for the formation of productivity of sunflower plants have developed under the classical system of basic tillage, the yield of sunflower hybrids was: on control 1.82-1.98, on the background of mineral fertilizers 2.04-2.31, on the background of green manure 1,91-2.07 t/ha. Under the minimum system, the yield decreased by 0.13-0.25 t/ha and was in the range as follows: 1.67-1.83 on the control, 1.86-2.07 on the background of mineral fertilizers, 1.75 on the background of green manure - 1.90 t/ha. The increase from the application of mineral fertilizers was 0.12-0.33 t/ha, from green manure 0.05-0.12 t/ha. The highest yield of sunflower hybrids: Priority - 2.31, Antonio - 2.15, Nabir - 2.04 and Agronomic - 2.11 t/ha obtained by growing in the classical system of basic tillage with the application of mineral fertilizers at a dose of N40P60 for pre-sowing cultivation. The fat content in the seeds of sunflower hybrids was higher than in the classical tillage system and was in the range: 44.6-48.0%; under the minimum tillage system, its indicators decreased by 1.0-1.5% and amounted to 43.4-46.8%. The highest oil yield for all hybrids, 824-953 kg/ha, was obtained by the classical tillage system against the background of mineral fertilizers at a dose of N40P60. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relevance of the article is that preserving the fertility of lands and improving their quality is one of the pressing problems of today. The purpose of the paper is to build a model for the motorization of fertilization of agricultural soils. Practical and theoretical approaches were used in the study, namely, comparison of the theoretical base with practical results, as well as analysis of the similarities and differences between theoretical and practical results, to form an optimal motorization model with the most successful both in terms of quantity and quality. Within the framework of this paper, approaches to the use of mineral fertilizers for maximum efficiency of plant growth and development are considered. As a result, it was revealed that in the steppe zone there is a close correlation between precipitation and potato yield. The scientific novelty of the study is due to the fact that the dose of mineral fertilizers depends on the supply of nutrients to the soil and many other conditions, but is no less than N90P90K90; for the early yield of most plants, it is enough to add N60P60K60. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tripleurospermum maritimum is a species characteristic for several protected sea coast habitats. The aim of the present study was to investigate possible nitrofilous status, tolerance to salinity and heavy metals, as well as the metal accumulation potential of T. maritimum plants from a sea-affected coastal habitat in controlled conditions. Plants were cultivated in an automated greenhouse in containers with a substrate made from garden soil and quartz sand. Three separate experiments were performed: (i) plants received combined treatment of three different doses of mineral fertilizer plus additional NO3-N or NH4-N; (ii) plants were treated with increasing concentration of NaCl; and (iii) plants were treated with increasing concentration of Cd or Pb. After seven weeks of cultivation, plant morphological characteristics, soluble ion concentration in tissue extracts and tissue Cd and Pb concentrations were measured. Increase in mineral nutrient availability stimulated shoot growth of T. maritimum plants. Addition of N fertilizer resulted in further increase of shoot biomass by 20 to 30%. Plants exhibited good tolerance to increased Na+ concentration, with only about 30% reduction in shoot biomass at 5 g L-1. High electrolyte accumulation potential was evident in shoots, with preferred accumulation of K+ over Na+. Tolerance to heavy metals was very high, as growth of plants was not affected even in 100 mg L-1 Cd treatment. Root biomass of plants treated with 500 mg L-1 Pb was reduced only by 35%, while shoot growth was unaffected. Both Cd and Pb were preferentially accumulated in roots of T. maritimum, with concentration in aboveground parts being less than 10% from that in roots. In conclusion, the coastal accession of T. maritimum from a shingle beach is moderately nitrophylic with high salinity tolerance and very high tolerance to heavy metals, with characteristic exclusion of the metals from aboveground parts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Declining soil quality is among the factors leading to low crop yields in Sub-Saharan Africa. In this study, a 2 year on farm field experiment was carried out in Ethiopia to test whether integration of organic and inorganic fertilizer inputs increases soil quality, the nutrient balance and maize yields. Treatment combinations included 2 and 4 t ha−1 of compost (Com) and farm yard manure (FYM), and 50 and 100% of the recommended inorganic fertilizer (RIF). The treatments were laid out on 11 farmer fields where each farm served as a replicate. About 40% yield increase was recorded due to the combined use of 4 t ha−1 of Com along with 50% RIF compared to the 100% RIF. Soil quality was significantly improved in the top 20 cm of the soil due to application of FYM or Com combined with 50% RIF. Carbon and Nitrogen stocks were respectively 86 and 175% higher in the 4 t Com + 50% RIF compared to the control with no significant variation between farms. Further, the N and P partial balances were between 12.2 and 41.6 kg ha−1 year−1 and 10.2 and 17.4 kg ha−1 year−1 for N and P, respectively implying that the sites showed N and P-accumulations over the study period. Results suggest that nutrient depletion can be mitigated in smallholder systems through the use of locally available organic inputs, hence longer-term productivity of smallholders can be sustained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Defining the long-term effects of liquid dairy manure (LDM) applied by a recommended low emission method is important to ensure sustainable grass production and dairy operations. We used natural abundance δ15N and conventional measurements in a long term field experiment to better understand the long-term fate of N applied as LDM, mineral fertilizer (MIN) and both (ALT). Methods: We investigated the effects of long-term applications of LDM (with low-emission trailing shoe), MIN, and alternating LDM and MIN (ALT) on grass N uptake, soil N stocks, N losses and δ15N natural abundance in grass, soil and fine heavy fraction (silt + clay size heavy soil). Nominal annual rates of total N were 200 and 400 kg ha−1 for MIN and 400 and 800 kg ha−1 for LDM. Results: MIN and LDM (at 400 kg N ha−1) had similar NUE but LDM accumulated more total soil N (13% of applied) with less losses than MIN; ALT had high yields and losses. Herbage δ15N of MIN declined to near MIN levels after 10–15 years, indicating influence of pre trial management. Herbage δ15N of LDM was consistently lower than applied LDM, implying uptake of depleted urine N. High rates of enriched LDM had little effect on soil δ15N suggesting soil N was quite stable and enriched N was lost by non discriminating pathways like leaching. The physically protected fine heavy fraction contained most soil N. Conclusion: Clearer understanding of long-term N dynamics can improve sustainability of heavily fertilized perennial grasses on dairy farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Industrial digestate fruitfully employed as fertilizer in citrus nurseries. • Nutrient levels of anaerobic digestate are compliant to Italian law. • Volkamer lemon increased chlorophyll level when fertilized with anaerobic digestate. Previous researches have demonstrated the bioenergetic potential of agri-food Mediterranean wastes showing that anaerobic co-digestion is a valuable solution for Mediterranean areas. This implies a great interest for anaerobic digestates use in agriculture to replace fertilizers. The present study aimed at: i) producing knowledge on continuous anaerobic co-digestion of feedstock mixture composed by different Mediterranean agri-food wastes in terms of multielemental characterization and ii) assessing the agronomic value of industrial anaerobic digestate (AD) based on the potential as fertiliser in nursery condition for the citrus seedlings. Results have demonstrated that agro-industrial biomasses have great potentiality to be converted by anaerobic digestion in biofertilizer to be used in citrus nurseries as sustainable alternative to mineral fertilisers. Multielemental traits of the tested AD were valuable in terms of nutritional supply for the growth and development of the plant. AD was useful to replace the mineral fertilizers in terms of total N content (10.81 ± 0.32 %TS) and organic matter (43.32 ± 0.80 %TS). The seedlings nutritive status showed that no need for supplemental of nutrients was requested. Volkamer lemon highly benefited from the administration of liquid digestate, increasing the total chlorophyll level (2.97 ± 0.31 mg g−1 FW) presumably due to the higher ammonium content of the AD (59 ± 0.08 %TKN). Besides providing useful tools for citrus nurseries for conceiving new sustainable fertilization strategies, this study is a starting point for further in-depth works on physiological status and traits of citrus plants fertilized by using agro-industrial anaerobic digestate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 32-year field experiment was performed to examine the impact of applications of pig manure and mineral fertilizers alone or in combination on phosphorus (P) forms, transformations and availability in a Mollisol. The concentrations of total P, Olsen P, inorganic P (Pi) and organic P (Po) and their fractions were generally higher in treatments with than without mineral fertilizers and manure, and with high than with low manure rate. The proportions of Olsen P to total P, dicalcium bound P (Ca2-P) and octacalcium bound P (Ca8-P) to Pi and labile Po (LPo) to Po were significantly higher in manured than in unmanured treatments. The direct path coefficient of Ca2-P on Olsen P (1.63) was larger than that of other P fractions on Olsen P (–0.87 to 0.24), and the indirect path coefficients of all P fractions on Olsen P via Ca2-P (1.50 to 1.62) were greater than those through other P fractions (–0.86 to 0.24). The results suggested that manure promotes accumulation of Ca2-P and LPo, and mineral fertilizers combined with high-rate manure are especially effective for improving P availability. Contributions of other P fractions on Olsen P are mainly via their indirect effects for Ca2-P. Abbreviations: CK: control; NPK: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers; M1: pig manure at low rate; M2: pig manure at high rate; TP: total phosphorus; Pi: inorganic phosphorus; Po: organic phosphorus; Ca2-P: dicalcium bound phosphorus; Ca8-P: octacalcium bound phosphorus; Ca10-P: phosphorite bound phosphorus; Al-P: aluminum bound phosphorus; Fe-P: iron bound phosphorus; O-P: occluded iron/aluminum bound phosphorus; LPo: labile organic phosphorus; MLPo: moderately labile organic phosphorus; MRPo: moderately resistant organic phosphorus; HRPo: highly resistant organic phosphorus; PAC: phosphorus activation coefficient; SOC: soil organic carbon; TN: total nitrogen; PCA: principal component analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To solve the problem of the shortage broad bean crop production in the governorate of Nineveh. The study was carried out between the Horticulture Department, College of Agriculture and forestry, University of Mosul, and the Director of Nineveh Agriculture, to know the effect of two factors: first factor was three varieties of broad beans (local, Spanish and Italian),the second factor was three levels of mineral fertilizer NP (0. 300 and 400 kg. ha-1). The experiment consist of nine treatments. It designed according to Randomized Complete Block Design with Split-plot arrangement with three replicates. Analysis of variance carried out according to Duncan's multiple range test at 0.05. Results showed the Spanish variety gave significant superiority in the number of pods, seeds, and seed yields compared to the other varieties except for the number of pods that did not differ significantly with the local variety. 300 and 400 kg. ha-1 levels of mineral fertilizer caused a significant increase in all studied parameters but there was no significant effect between 300 kg. ha-1 and control. Most effects of interaction treatments showed similar effects as a single factor for every mentioned characters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• High microbial activity in topsoil causes apparent PE shortly after substrate addition. • The input of C from fertilizers induces apparent PE at the 10–30 cm depth. • The release and decomposition of mineral-bound organic C shortly after substrate addition contributes to positive PE. • Negative PE in topsoil during later incubation stages is linked to reduced microbial biomass and substrate depletion. • In subsoil, positive PE and net C loss was caused by microbial N mining. Fertilization is crucial for increasing crop productivity and it alters soil microbial biomass and activities. These alterations exert implications for soil carbon (C) stocks, primarily through the priming effect (PE). Here, we investigated the mechanisms underlying PE and their impact on soil C stocks in paddy soils subjected to long-term (31 years) fertilization. Soils from four depths within the upper 40 cm layer, subjected to four fertilization types (no fertilizer, mineral fertilizer, mineral + straw, mineral + chicken manure), were incubated for 60 days with or without 13C-labeled glucose. Following substrate addition, an increase in isotopically unlabeled CO 2 efflux may stem from accelerated microbial turnover (apparent PE) or modified soil organic matter (SOM) mineralization (real PE). By analyzing microbial biomass (MBC), CO 2 and dissolved organic C (DOC) dynamics, we explored the partitioning of C from glucose into three pools. Following glucose addition (day 2), the SOM-derived MBC decreased by 4.7 % at 0–10 cm in unfertilized and by 6.3 % in mineral-fertilized soils. SOM-derived MBC also decreased in soils fertilized with straw- and chicken manure at 0–20 and 0–30 cm. Hence, the apparent PE closely correlated with fertilization types. At day 2, the SOM-derived DOC increased with the increase in extractable Fe2+ content, indicating high contribution of the released mineral-bound organic C in the DOC pool. Microbial decomposition of SOM-derived DOC and loss of unlabeled C through apparent PE increased the release of unlabeled CO 2 , resulting in a positive but low PE. After 60 days of incubation, the addition of glucose to the subsoils (30–40 cm) caused a net loss of C (positive PE) of 6.6–19 mg kg−1. In contrast, negative PEs were observed in the topsoil, indicating a decrease in microbial activity and C turnover. These findings suggested that fertilization regimes, whether involving long-term extra C input or not, can alter microbial biomass and turnover rates. Moreover, the C turnover mechanisms in paddy soils are complex, including apparent PE, release of mineral-bound organic C, and negative PE. Collectively, these processes can consequently change soil C stocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study applied the approach of Response Surface Methodology to optimize some selected process factors in wheat production in order to minimize the amount of wheat harvest loss using combine harvester. The factors considered were Grain Moisture Content (GMC), Rotor Speed (RS) and Ground Speed (GS) of the combine harvester. The amount of wheat loss was evaluated in different levels of GMC (10, 15 and 20 %), RS (450, 550 and 650 rpm) and GS (3.5, 4.5 and 5.5 km/h) and the relationship between the specified factors and the amount of wheat harvest loss was established. The study revealed that the 2-factor interaction model with coefficient of multiple determination (R-2) and adjusted coefficient of multiple determination (R -2) of 79.5% and 76.88% respectively and an insignificant lack of fit (p value of 0.289) best predicts the wheat harvest loss using combine harvester. In the canonical analysis, the Eigenvalues were 10.83, 4.46 and 1.21 which shows that the points 15% for grain moisture content, 650 rpm for rotor speed and 3.5km/h for machine ground speed are points of minimization which give the least wheat harvest loss. The 3-D surface plot for the wheat harvest loss gave a concave up image justifying the points of minimization obtained. The farmer will recover at least 66kg of wheat per hectare if the recommended factor combination is applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to experts, agroecology gathers agricultural practices that improve resource efficiency, that strengthen resilience and that secure social equity and responsibility. The diffusion of this set of principles may innovate in most developed countries where conventional agriculture is widespread but may be questionable by agrarian society of sub-Saharan African country like Madagascar. The Itasy Region has developed there vegetable crops for marketing purpose. Part of the Itasy agricultural practices may be assimilated to conventional ones, justifying research and development action dedicated to the promotion of agroecology. However, a question arises: Are farmers who benefit from conventional agriculture interested in reducing chemical input to meet major principles of agroecology? A research project called SECuRE has deliberately chosen the peri-urban area of Itasy to perform a survey to 171 households that are representative of smallholder farms inside two Communes of Arivonimamo, a District of Itasy. This paper aims to assess how far agroecological practices may be integrated or intensified in their farming systems despite a long-term effect of conventional agriculture. As major results, among smallholder farms' strategy, use of fertilizer is determining agricultural income. Organic fertilizer application is mandatory for almost all the diversified crops whereas mineral fertilizer secures global agricultural margins by smallholder farms. Organic fertilizer sources are managed at farming system scale by associating livestock and by using crop residue to limit as possible export of nutrients on soil by crops. This strategy includes the territorial management of fertility from extended grassland that remains for common use. Finally, whatever the training they may have attended or inherited from parents, farmers grow-up in experience and improve agricultural practice in long term. This study concludes that market-gardening in Itasy mobilizes reduced chemical input at farm scale. Agroecology is quite widespread there according to most of the principles advanced by experts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to investigate the effect of controlled-release fertilizer N14-P14-K14 (CRF) on the morphological traits and chlorophyll indices of black pepper plantlets (cv. Bragantina). One experimentation was carried out in a greenhouse between March and July 2018 in the Rio de Janeiro state/Brazil. Were tested four doses' equivalents to 0.0, 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 kilogram of CRF per cubic meter of the substrate, which was obtained by mixing clayey soil and crushed coconut fiber, on 1:3 volume proportion. The experimental design was completely randomized, with 17 replicates to assess the morphological characteristics and nine replicates to assess the chlorophyll contents. At 120 days after transplanting were assessed main stem height (H), the number of leaves (NL), leaf area index (LAI), total dry matter (TDM), shoot dry matter (SDM), and root dry matter (RDM). Chlorophyll a, b, a+b contents and a/b ratio were assessed too. The application of CRF fertilizer increased the NL and SDM values until 9.6 kg m-3 dose. The values of H, TDM, LAI, and RDM increase until 9.3, 8.4, 8.2, and 6.4 kg m-3 doses, respectively. The chlorophyll a and b contents increased until 7.7 kg m-3 dose. It's recommended to apply 8.4 kg of CRF 14N-14P-14K per cubic meter of the substrate to produce black pepper plantlets with adequate commercial pattern and chlorophyll levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth and yield response of irrigated maize (Zea mays L.) under varying levels of inorganic fertilizer and poultry manure was evaluated during 2019/2020 dry season at two locations (Teaching and Research Farm of the Department of Crop Science, Kaduna State University, Kafanchan Campus and Kadawa, Irrigation Research Farm of Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria) using a complete randomized block design with three replications. The experimental treatments consist of varying quantities of poultry manure: 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 tonnes per hectare that were incorporated in to the soil along with four levels of inorganic fertilizer 0, 100, 120, and 140 kg N ha-1. The results of the field trials showed that all growth and yield parameters were significantly affected by poultry manure rate in both Kafanchan and Kadawa. However, the effect of poultry manure on maize plant height and cob diameter was not significant in Kafanchan. The application of inorganic fertilizer had a positive and significant influence on all maize growth and yield attributes in both locations. Irrigated maize yield showed significant increase with increasing quantities of inorganic fertilizer and poultry manure in both Kafanchan and Kadawa. The results of the field trial indicated that a combination of 120 kg N ha-1 inorganic fertilizer and 3.0 tha-1 poultry manure is desirable for optimum irrigated maize yield in Kafanchan and Kadawa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Archaeological Dark Earth soil is a category of archaeological anthrosols that has gained much attention because it exhibits higher nutrient content and organic matter stocks and a characteristic dark colour, and enables higher crop yields in comparison to neighbouring soil. However, much is unknown about the chemical properties of Archaeological Dark Earth soils in Central Europe. Therefore, we studied a European Dark Earth (EDE) soil, a type of Archaeological Dark Earth soil, in the territory of the early medieval Dřevíč hillfort, Czech Republic, aiming to compare the chemical properties of EDE with a control soil unaffected by settlement activities. The black colour of EDE soil contrasted highly with the light grey Cambisol of the control. Soil reaction and total element contents (N, P, Ca, Mn, Fe, Al, Cu, Zn, Sr and Rb) were substantially larger in the EDE soil compared with the control and vice versa in the case of the C/N ratio. Also, the content of plant‐available (Mehlich III) P, Ca, K and Mg was larger in the EDE soil than the control. In contrast to Ca, plant‐available and total P and K were not well correlated. Total element contents are highly suitable for geoarchaeological purposes as enrichment factors can be easily calculated. The increased contents of these elements, together with pieces of charcoal visible in the EDE soil, indicate the deposition of organic waste and biomass ash during the existence of the hillfort. Thus, medieval hillforts can represent extraordinary nutrient‐rich islands in the cultural landscape of Central Europe. The chemical signatures generated by past settlement activities are so intense that they cannot easily be masked by short‐term intensive application of mineral fertilizers. Highlights: Settlement activities increased soil pH and the content of anthropogenic elements.Enrichment by P, Ca, Mn, Fe, Al, Zn, Cu, Sr and Rb may indicate settlement activities.Analysis of total element contents is suitable for geoarchaeological purposes.Application of mineral fertilizers cannot easily mask signatures of medieval settlement activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two field experiments were conducted at the Experimental Farm in Etai El-Baroud Agricultural Research Station, El-Beheira Governorate, Egypt on yield, yield components and quality of maize plant grown on 2019 and 2020 summer seasons, to study the effect of three preceding crops {Wheat cv. (Sakha 94), Sugar beet cv. (Careem) and Berseem cv. (Meskawy)} and five fertilizer treatments of {mineral (NPK) and biofertilizers (Mycorrhiza + Microben + Potassiummag ) as follow: {100% NPK (F1), 75% NPK + biofertilizers (F2), 50% NPK + biofertilizers (F3), 25% NPK + biofertilizers (F4) and biofertilizers only (F5)}. The results revealed that berseem was the best preceding crop. Which gave the highest values for yield, yield components and quality. Most of the studied traits of maize did not reach the 5% level of significance between maize grown after berseem and maize grown after sugar beet. While planting maize after wheat recorded the lowest values. Fertilizer treatments were significantly on all maize traits. (F2) gave the highest values for yield and its components, while (F5) gave the lowest values. Meanwhile, no significant differences were found between fertilizer systems (F1, F2 and F3) for plant height, grain weight/ear and biological yield/fed. While F5 and F4 recorded the highest quality traits. The interaction had a significant effect on most studied characters in the two growing seasons. Grown maize after berseem with (F2) fertilizer resulted in the highest values, whereas grown maize after wheat with (F5) treatment recorded the lowest values on yield and its components, the interaction did not reach the 5% level of significance between maize grown after berseem and maize grown after sugar beet under fertilizer treatments (F1, F2 and F3) for ear height, grain weight/ear and biological yield/fed, while interaction did not reach the 5% level of significance between maize grown after berseem with fertilizer treatments (F1 and F3) for grain weight/ear and grain yield/fed in both seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton-wheat rotation is one of the profitable cropping systems under arid climatic conditions in the agro-ecosystem of Punjab, Pakistan. The cropping system's productivity factor is decreasing and is considered primarily due to imbalanced and non-integrated use of nutrients without taking care of soil health measures. Exploring the role of integrated site-specific nutrient management plans, treatments containing 2 fertilizer doses, and 3 management techniques on soil organic matter (SOM), soil P & soil K were studied in the cotton-wheat system of Punjab Pakistan for six crop seasons on a permanent layout. Substantial increase of 54-70% in SOM over the initial level of 5.0 g Kg-1 in sandy loam soil was observed by adapting integrated nutrients management (INM) techniques. Similarly, significantly improved level of soil test phosphorus STP was observed at the end of the sixth crop season and INM techniques resulted in a 429% to 453% increase in STP. However, statistical analysis revealed a non-significant effect of doses, and a significant declining effect on soil K was observed with the applied technique of only mineral fertilizer application. Highly negative K balance suggests that the system will not be able to sustain the long-term supply of K. Ranking of indices from the best to the least favorable was recorded as P>SOM>K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving the efficiency in the work process of mineral fertilizer dressing is a topical problem in today's agricultural industry. The authors have developed a design of the fertilizer spreading tool with a tilted axis and carried out field experiment investigations on it. It has been established by the results of the investigations that the non-uniformity in the spreading of mineral fertilizers along the line of their departure from the fertilizer spreading tool with a tilted axis is most strongly affected by the disc rotation frequency. The obtained results provide for selecting the optimum parameters and modes of operation for the tool under consideration in the situation, when it is installed in fertilizer placing machines. Also, it has been established that increasing the spreading disc rotation frequency in such a tool from 600 to 800 rpm results in the growth of the effective range of mineral fertilizer spreading along the placing line at a level of 10.5 m. Increasing the disc's angle of inclination to the horizontal plane to 20° results in the rise of the effective fertilizer spreading range at a level of the 48th tray (24 m) inclusive as well as the increase of the distance between the tool and the tray that contains the maximum share of the spread fertilizers (5.1%) to 24 trays (12 m). At a constant rotation frequency of the disc in the tilted-axis fertilizer spreading tool, in all its kinematic modes of operation, an increase in the angle of its disc's inclination to the horizontal plane results in the rise of the indices representing the distribution of the mineral fertilizers over the trays along the line of their placing. The width of the mineral fertilizer spreading can be controlled by adjusting the rotation frequency of the disc in the tilted-axis fertilizer spreading tool, when it is set at an angle to the horizontal plane, similar to how it is done in state-of-the-art fertilizer placing machines with horizontally positioned discs in their centrifugal spreading tools. The rotation frequency of the disc in the tilted-axis fertilizer spreading tool has the most significant effect on the coefficient of variation incidental to the distribution of the mineral fertilizers along the line of their placing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]