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The application of fertilizers and soil quality are crucial for grape fruit quality. However, the molecular data linking different fertilizer (or soil conditioner [SC]) treatments with grape fruit quality is still lacking. In this study, we investigated three soil treatments, namely inorganic fertilizer (NPK, 343.5 kg/hm2 urea [N ≥ 46%]; 166.5 kg/hm2 P2O5 [P2O5 ≥ 64%]; 318 kg/hm2 K2O [K2O ≥ 50%]), organic fertilizer (Org, 9 t/hm2 [organic matter content ≥ 35%, N + P2O5 + K2O ≥ 13%]), and SC (SC, 3 t/hm2 [humic acid ≥ 38.5%; C, 56.1%; H, 3.7%; N, 1.5%; O, 38%; S, 0.6%]), on 4-year-old Cabernet Sauvignon grapevines. Compared with the NPK- and Org-treated groups, the SC significantly improved the levels of soluble solids, tannins, anthocyanins, and total phenols in the grape berries, which are important biochemical indicators that affect wine quality. Furthermore, we conducted RNA-seq analysis on the grapevine roots from each of the three treatments and used weighted gene co-expression network analysis to identify five hub genes that were associated with the biochemical indicators of the grape berries. Furthermore, we validated the expression levels of three hub genes (ERF, JP, and SF3B) and five selected genes related to anthocyanin biosynthesis (UFGT1, UFGT2, UFGT3, GST, and AT) by using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Compared to the NPK and Org treatment groups, the SC treatment resulted in a significant increase in the transcription levels of three hub genes as well as VvUFGT1, VvUFGT3, VvGST, and VvAT. These results suggest that the SC can improve grape fruit quality by altering gene transcription patterns in grapevine roots and further influence the biochemical indices of grape fruits, particularly anthocyanin content. This study reveals that the application of SC can serve as an important measure for enhancing vineyard SC and elevating grape quality.

Shallot (Allium cepa L. var ascalonicum) is one of the leading vegetable commodities that is widely used and has high economic value. National shallot productivity continues to decline from year to year, so it is necessary to increase shallot production both in quantity and quality. One way that can be done is to apply effective efforts in the cultivation system such as the use of effective and efficient fertilizer technology. The purpose of this research was to determine the effect of using Controlled Release Fertilizer (CRF) technology on the effectiveness test of the shallot variety SS Sakato which was carried out on a 4200 m2 plot of land in Kuningan, West Java. The results show that the use of CRF technology can increase growth (plant height), and the number of tillers, and increase shallot productivity. The increase in plant height at 30 HST increased by an average of 50% for all treatments and then slowed down to 20% in the second month. Regarding the number of tillers, the use of CRF technology can increase by about 38% when compared to controlled plots. Against the weight of the harvest, it can increase by 7-22% higher than the use of NPK fertilizer (comparison). The quality of the shallots produced also shows better with larger tuber sizes and brighter colours.

Community service regarding training in processing cow urine into liquid organic fertilizer in Teratak Rendah village aims to provide direct experience to the community of Teratak rendah village in processing cor urine. This activity was carried out for 3 months and took place at the Teratak rendah villagecompost house. A total 20 participants took part in this training activity, all of them were male, 50% had elementary – Junior hight school, 60% were adults and were working productively. The raw materials for this activity use 25 liters of cow urine, 1 liter of tumeric water, 1 liter of ginger water, 4 liters of rice washing water and 4 liters of coconut water. With a total volume of 35 liters material. During the community showed a positive respons and this was proven by the many questions from participants during the activities.

Land application of sewage sludge has long been subject to concern. Among the reasons for these concerns are, for example, the occurrence of odours and the risk of spreading heavy metals and pathogens, but also a negative perception regarding the use of sludge. In this paper, we focus on the actors' perceptions of sewage sludge use and investigate, through a series of interviews with key actors and stakeholders in the sewage sludge management chain, how technology, the regulatory framework or public perception may function as barriers to valuing sewage sludge as a resource. The uncertainty following outdated legislation and constantly changing policies are frequently mentioned as the main barriers to investment in new technologies, which, in the respondents' opinion, creates a deadlock within the sector with no clear path forward. Although all respondents act and argue with a focus on environment and circularity, their overall sludge management strategies, as well as the issues they focus on, differ. Our study indicates that Swedish sludge management is, to a large extent, siloed and there is a clear need for a more holistic approach that can help actors to target common issues. HIGHLIGHTS Agricultural use of sewage sludge is a controversial topic.; Through semi-structured interviews, the perception of stakeholders is investigated.; The topic is currently in a vacuum with no clear path forward.; Outdated legislation fosters uncertainty among the stakeholders.;

Cinchona officinalis, is a South American tree species, commonly used for medicine, and is currently threatened by agricultural expansion and cattle ranching. The objective was to determine the effect of chemical fertilization on the nursery growth to increase growth potential and survival of C. officinalis. A completely randomized design with six treatments and three replicates was used; 20 C. officinalis plants were used per replicate. Two months after transplanting the C. officinalis seedlings to the polyethylene bags, inorganic fertilizer (YaraMila® HYDRAN) was applied. Monthly evaluations were carried out and the number of dead plants, plant height, diameter and number of leaves were recorded. The highest mortality rate was recorded when fertilizer was applied (73%) while in the non-fertilized treatment mortality reached 36%. Regarding the increase in height, diameter and number of leaves in all cases, the best results were obtained in the fertilized treatments, exceeding by 85, 70 and 17% (respectively) those obtained in the treatment to which fertilization was not applied. This study shows the effects that the application of fertilizers to C. officinalis plants at the nursery level can have on growth and mortality variables, the results suggest the use of this product for a sustainable and large-scale production of this species taking into consideration the appropriate dosage.

In response to the escalating costs and diminishing efficiency of nitrogen fertilizers, the agricultural community is actively seeking sustainable alternatives that leverage natural nitrogen sources derived from biological N-fixation processes to enhance crop yield. This study investigates the combined effects of Klebsiella quasipneumoniae inoculation and varying nitrogen fertilizer doses on soil fertility, nutrient availability, and the yield and quality parameters of baby corn (Zea mays. L). The study involved the application of five nitrogen levels (0, 75, 150, 225, and 300 kg N ha-1) in conjunction with Klebsiella quasipneumoniae inoculum on HM-4 variety of baby corn, employing a comprehensive experimental design with five treatments and four replications. All treatments demonstrated increased ear count and weights of ear, silk, husk, edible cob, and biomass compared to the control. The study highlights the potential of Klebsiella quasipneumoniae inoculation in synergy with reduced nitrogen fertilizer to enhance total N contents in soil and positively impact baby corn yield and cob quality parameters. Optimal results were achieved with a 50% reduction in nitrogen fertilizer (150 kg N ha-1), emphasizing the importance of integrated nutrient management. The findings contribute valuable insights to sustainable agriculture, offering a promising strategy for increased baby corn production, improved nutritional quality, and environmental conservation. This integrated approach, involving microbial inoculation and nitrogen management, emerges as a key element in modern agricultural practices, promoting both productivity and nutritional content in baby corn crops.

This study presents a new strategy for the production of sustainable manganese fertilizer based on artificial humic substances (AHS). AHS with different manganese concentrations (0‒20%) were synthesized from poplar bark under alkaline conditions via hydrothermal treatment. For the 20% manganese formulation, the interaction of manganese with AHS resulted in reduced solubility (from 25.2% to 12.3% organic carbon) and average molecular weight of humic acids (from 11.6 to 3.9 KDa), indicating preferential binding of the high-molecular-weight fraction. The formulation with 5% of manganese achieved optimal manganese loading without compromising the AHS solubility (19.4%). Structural analyses showed only minor changes in AHS in the presence of manganese, indicating that the main structural fragments of the AHS were preserved. Structural, morphological, and spectroscopic characterizations confirmed the formation of amorphous manganese complexes within the AHS matrix, primarily in the plant-available Mn(II) oxidation state. Plant bioassays showed increased manganese uptake with the application of AHS containing 5% Mn compared to MnCl2 alone (64 mg/kg vs. 40 mg/kg in dry cucumber biomass). Interestingly, unmodified AHS at higher concentrations (50 mg/L) further enhanced manganese (67 mg/kg) and iron (up to 209 mg/kg) uptake, highlighting the potential role of AHS in facilitating metal transport.

Abstract Background The microbiome plays a fundamental role in plant health and performance. Soil serves as a reservoir of microbial diversity where plants attract microorganisms via root exudates. The soil has an important impact on the composition of the rhizosphere microbiome, but greenhouse ornamental plants are commonly grown in soilless substrates. While soil microbiomes have been extensively studied in traditional agriculture to improve plant performance, health, and sustainability, information about the microbiomes of soilless substrates is still limited. Thus, we conducted an experiment to explore the microbiome of a peat-based substrate used in container production of Impatiens walleriana, a popular greenhouse ornamental plant. We investigated the effects of plant phenological stage and fertilization level on the substrate microbiome. Results Impatiens plants grown under low fertilization rates were smaller and produced more flowers than plants grown under optimum and high fertilization. The top five bacterial phyla present in the substrate were Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteriodota, Verrucomicrobiota, and Planctomycetota. We found a total of 2,535 amplicon sequence variants (ASV) grouped into 299 genera. The substrate core microbiome was represented by only 1.8% (48) of the identified ASV. The microbiome community composition was influenced by plant phenological stage and fertilizer levels. Phenological stage exhibited a stronger influence on microbiome composition than fertilizer levels. Differential abundance analysis using DESeq2 identified more ASVs significantly affected (enriched or depleted) in the high fertilizer levels at flowering. As observed for community composition, the effect of plant phenological stage on microbial community function was stronger than fertilizer level. Phenological stage and fertilizer treatments did not affect alpha-diversity in the substrate. Conclusions In container-grown ornamental plants, the substrate serves as the main microbial reservoir for the plant, and the plant and agricultural inputs (fertilization) modulate the microbial community structure and function of the substrate. The differences observed in substrate microbiome composition across plant phenological stage were explained by pH, total organic carbon (TOC) and fluoride, and across fertilizer levels by pH and phosphate (PO4). Our project provides an initial diversity profile of the bacteria occurring in soilless substrates, an underexplored source of microbial diversity.

The expansion of the global agricultural sector has brought about significant environmental challenges, including greenhouse gas emissions, land degradation, and biodiversity loss. This study explores the nexus between fertilizer use and sustainability, framed within the circular economy principles, from a business management perspective. The primary objective is to map the current research landscape, identify key thematic areas, and suggest avenues for future research. A systematic literature review of 3026 articles from Scopus and Web of Science was conducted, with a bibliometric analysis revealing trends and thematic clusters. Five main thematic groups emerged: (i) greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in agriculture, emphasizing the importance of mitigation strategies; (ii) sustainable agriculture and fertilizers, focusing on sustainable agricultural practices; (iii) waste-derived fertilizers, underscoring the responsible reuse of animal waste; (iv) agricultural production and productivity, highlighting efficient farming practices; and (v) environmental impact and conservation, assessing ecological impacts. From these, 50 articles were selected and classified according to sustainability dimensions and their integration with circular business models. The analysis of the Triple Bottom Line demonstrated a dominant environmental focus (77.1%), while economic and social dimensions still need to be explored. Circular economy practices were prevalent, remarkably “Regenerate” and “Optimize” from the ReSOLVE framework. Future research should focus on practical implementations, circular business model development, and comprehensive impact assessments. These findings offer crucial insights for advancing sustainable agricultural practices and minimizing the environmental footprint of fertilizer production and use.

This study focused on the synthesis of gypsum nanocrystals using conventional wet chemical precipitation method from marine mollusks like Babylonia Japonica, Olive Sayana, and Conasprella bermudensis. Different characterization techniques like Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) were used to confirm the formation of the nanocrystals. XRD data assessed various structural parameters, including the dimension of the unit cell, crystallinity index, specific surface area, lattice parameters, dislocation density, and macrostrain. The Rietveld refinement study did not reveal the formation of alternate phases, and the predicted lattice parameters, Full Width at Half Maximum (FWHM), and X-ray density contradicted the actual data. The synthesized gypsum displayed crystallite dimension within the acceptable range of

Nutrient resources contained in human urine have great potential to alleviate global agricultural fertilizer demand. Microbial nitrification is a recognized strategy for stabilizing urine ammonia into ammonium nitrate, a common fertilizer worldwide, but faces a core bottleneck of process instability due to microbial inhibition. This study reports a new approach by developing a hybrid oxidation process involving three stages—microbial ammonia oxidation, chemical nitrite oxidation and microbial nitrite oxidation. Candidatus Nitrosoglobus, a γ-proteobacterial ammonia oxidizer highly tolerant to free nitrous acid, was introduced in the first stage to oxidize half of the total ammonia in the influent (8 g NH4+-N/L) to nitrite. The nitrite was then chemically oxidized by using hydrogen peroxide via a rapid chemical reaction to form nitrate. The third stage, microbial nitrite oxidation, was employed to ensure the complete removal of residual nitrite following chemical oxidation. The overall concept demonstrated in this work showcased the robust performance of the hybrid system. Moreover, the system also had a dual advantage in achieving antimicrobial ability in the first and second stages, making treated urine a safe fertilizer.

Watercress (Nasturtium officinale) is a nutrient-dense salad crop with high antioxidant capacity and glucosinolate concentration and with the potential to contribute to nutrient security as a locally grown outdoor aquatic crop in northern temperate climates. However, phosphate-based fertilizers used to support plant growth contribute to the eutrophication of aquatic habitats, often pristine chalk streams, downstream of farms, increasing pressure to minimize fertilizer use and develop a more phosphorus-use efficient (PUE) crop. Here, we grew genetically distinct watercress lines selected from a bi-parental mapping population on a commercial watercress farm either without additional phosphorus (P-) or under a commercial phosphate-based fertilizer regime (P+), to decipher effects on morphology, nutritional profile, and the transcriptome. Watercress plants sustained shoot yield in P- conditions, through enhanced root biomass, but with shorter stems and smaller leaves. Glucosinolate concentration was not affected by P- conditions, but both antioxidant capacity and the concentration of sugars and starch in shoot tissue were enhanced. We identified two watercress breeding lines, with contrasting strategies for enhanced PUE: line 60, with highly plastic root systems and increased root growth in P-, and line 102, maintaining high yield irrespective of P supply, but less plastic. RNA-seq analysis revealed a suite of genes involved in cell membrane remodeling, root development, suberization, and phosphate transport as potential future breeding targets for enhanced PUE. We identified watercress gene targets for enhanced PUE for future biotechnological and breeding approaches enabling less fertilizer inputs and reduced environmental damage from watercress cultivation.

Wastes from spent batteries are a secondary source of raw materials. To ensure this, it is mandatory to design sustainable and low-cost processes. In the case of alkaline and zinc–carbon-based batteries, the high content of Zn and Mn makes them of interest in the development of fertilizers. The main objective of this research is to study the fertilizers production from spent zinc-based batteries, using sulfuric acid, citric acid (CIT) and glycine (GLY) solutions as leaching agents. Leaching with glycine at alkaline pHs shows a high selectivity of Zn over Mn, whereas the use of citric and sulfuric solutions leads to recoveries of Zn and Mn. Solutions with the highest Zn recoveries were tested in sand columns. Commercial ZnSO4 heptahydrate was used as a control. For sulfuric acid, two solutions (H2SO4 2M and 0.25M) were used. The elution of leached Zn and Mn in sand columns depended on the solution added. The Zn-Mn-CIT treatment showed a slight but steady increase in the leachates, reaching 70% and 75% of the total leached Zn and Mn, respectively, in the medium term. The Zn-Mn-H2SO4 2M and ZnSO4 treatments showed a similar behavior in Zn release. Both Zn-Mn-GLY and Zn-Mn-H2SO4 0.25M treatments showed similar amounts of leached Mn in the medium term (77% of total leached Mn), differing in the leached Zn. Solutions from the leaching of spent black mass batteries, especially Zn-Mn-CIT or Zn-Mn-GLY, showed promising behavior as fertilizer from the point of view of Zn and Mn availability as nutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of adding biogas waste (BW) to green waste (GW) composting to increase nitrogen supplementation and improve mature compost quality was investigated. Conducted over 90 days using static windrows, the experiment compared treatments with GW alone (T1) and GW supplemented with BW (T2 and T3). The results showed that the addition of BW increased temperatures, improved the C/N ratio, and expedited the stabilization process compared to T1. Furthermore, the addition of BW led to significant degradation of hemicellulose (up to 39.98%) and cellulose (up to 27.63%) compared to GW alone. Analysis of Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectra revealed the presence of aromatic, phenolic, aliphatic, and polysaccharide structures in the compost, with BW supplementation enhancing these characteristics. Importantly, the germination index (GI) assessment indicated that the compounds produced were not toxic and instead exhibited stimulatory effects on seed germination. Overall, the findings suggest that supplementing GW composting with BW can enhance the quality and efficacy of the composting process, resulting in compost with desirable properties for agricultural use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrient availability in hydroponic solutions must be accurately monitored to maintain crop productivity; however, few cost-effective, accurate, real-time, and long-term monitoring technologies have been developed. In this study, we describe the development and application of cation-/anion-exchange chromatography with a neutral eluent (20-mmol/L sodium formate, pH 7.87) for the simultaneous separation (within 50 min) of ionic nutrients, including K+, NH4+, NO2−, NO3−, and phosphate ion, in a hydroponic fertilizer solution. Using the neutral eluent avoided degradation of the separation column during precipitation of metal ion species, such as hydroxides, with an alkaline eluent and oxidation of NO2− to NO3− with an acidic eluent. The suitability of the current method for monitoring ionic components in a hydroponic fertilizer solution was confirmed. Based on our data, we propose a controlled fertilizer strategy to optimize fertilizer consumption and reduce the chemical load of drained fertilizer solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Concerted efforts by scientists and researchers are still being made to ensure the medicinal plants will be available on a continuing basis as a result of their medicinal, pharmaceutical, food, and other uses and to meet the increasing demands for them globally. Satureja montana is one of the multi-use medicinal plants that was introduced to Egypt to study the effect of planting dates, nitrogen, phosphorus, and fertilizers, and their interaction on the production of fresh herb and essential oil. Planting in the autumn gave the highest fresh herb, with 55 kg of nitrogen/ha and 37 kg of phosphorus/ha fertilization. For the highest essential oil production, spring planting with 55 kg of nitrogen/ha and 74 kg of phosphorus/ha was used. Much of the knowledge on its use as raw material in traditional medicine has been reported. Also, this study's emphasis has been put on essential oil composition. This study highlights that the cultivated species belongs to S. montana L., a carvacrol chemotype. There is antioxidant, antimicrobial, and insecticidal activities shown by S. montana essential oil. Due to the limited information recorded about the influence of different agronomic factors on the plant, there needs to be agronomic studies conducted on S. montana, and a selection of the best ones in order to maximize its production. The rising demand for safe plant compounds and herbal products that contribute positively to human health is in line with current market trends. Plants belonging to the Satureja genus, particularly the aromatic medicinal S. montana L. from the Lamiaceae family, are well suited to these trends as they serve as pharmaceutical raw materials. This research aimed to assess the influence of sowing date and fertilization doses, as well as their interaction, on the fresh weight, essential oil content, and composition of S. montana. Experimental cultivation involved varying nitrogen and phosphorus levels. The second cut had the highest fresh weight and oil production compared to the first cut. The highest total plant biomass was achieved with autumn sowing and fertilization at 55 kg N/ha and 37 kg P/ha, whereas Spring sowing exhibited higher essential oil production, with the maximum oil % with 74 kg P/ha and oil yield after applying 55 kg N/ha and 74 kg P/ha. The GC-MS analysis revealed that carvacrol was the predominant compound, with it being recommended to grow S. montana in Spring at doses of 55 kg N/ha and 74 kg P/ha for the superior oil yield. Additionally, S. montana essential oil demonstrated notable biological and antimicrobial activity, positioning it as a potential alternative to chemical food preservatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to the poor fertilization performance of the deep application mechanism of the deep application liquid fertilizer applicator under multiple parameters, the fertilization variation of the crank rocker deep application mechanism under multiple working parameters is explored. To obtain the fertilization variation of the crank rocker deep application mechanism, a fertilization performance test bench for the crank rocker deep application mechanism is developed. On this test bench, the crank speed, liquid pump pressure, and spray hole diameter are used as experimental factors, and fertilizer application rate is used as experimental indicators. A composite design scheme of rotation center is adopted to establish a relationship model and response surface diagram between experimental influencing factors and influencing indicators. Design Expert 8.0.10 software is used to analyze and optimize the experimental data. The optimal results are a crank speed of 145.80 r/min, a liquid pump pressure of 0.25 MPa, a spray hole diameter of 3.02 mm, a fertilizer application rate of 28.6 mL, and a fertilizer loss rate of 1.95%. At this time, the fertilization performance of the mechanism is optimal. This parameter combination is applied for testing and verification to verify its rationality. The results can ensure that the crank rocker deep application mechanism has good working performance when working under multiple parameters, providing theoretical reference for designing deep application liquid fertilizer machines with simple structure and optimal fertilization performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The economic return for peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in Ghana is often low due to limitations in the availability of inputs or their adoption, which are needed to optimize yield. Six experiments were conducted in Ghana in 2020 and 2021 to determine the impact of planting date, cultivar, fertilization, pest management practices, and harvest date on peanut yield, financial return, and pest reaction. A wide range of interactions among these treatment factors were often observed for infestations of aphids (Aphis gossypii Glover); groundnut rosette disease (Umbravirus: Tombusviridaee); millipedes (Peridontopyge spp.); white grubs (Schyzonicha spp.); wireworms (Conoderus spp.); termites (Microtermes and Odontotermes spp.); canopy defoliation as a result of early leaf spot disease caused by Passalora arachidicola (Hori) and late leaf spot caused by Nothopassalora personata (Berk. and M. A. Curtis); and the scarification and boring of pods caused by arthropod feeding. Pod yield and economic return increased for the cultivar Chitaochi and Sarinut 2 when fertilizer was applied and when fertilizer was applied at early, mid-, and late planting dates. Pod yield and economic return increased when a combination of locally derived potassium soaps was used for aphid suppression and one additional hand weeding was used in the improved pest management practice compared with the traditional practice without these inputs. Pearson correlations for yield and economic return were negatively correlated for all pests and damage caused by pests. The results from these experiments can be used by farmers and their advisors to develop production packages for peanut production in Ghana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eastern gamagrass (Tripsacum dactyloides) is a highly productive, highly palatable native grass tolerant to both drought and flooding. It has frequently shown great response to nitrogen (N) applications, but the responses of southern native ecotypes in upland and bottomland sites have yet to be reported. The objectives were to measure the responses of long-established eastern gamagrass with different N application rates in two bottomland hay pastures and two upland grazed sites, and to measure the N responses for six diverse ecotypes in a common garden. A randomized block design was used with ecotype as the main block and fertilizer rate as the subplot. In the long-established sites, 75 N peak yields were not statistically different to those of 0 N, while upland yields across the season were consistently higher for 150 N but varied for the bottomland. The common garden ecotypes had no significant difference in yield between treatments when averaged across years. Roaring Springs showed the most consistent and greatest benefit to additional N, more than doubling the dry weight of the control. All remaining ecotypes, however, had more modest responses. Eastern gamagrass responds inconsistently to applications of 75 N, whereas most applications of 150 N generally result in higher yield, though significant increases are not guaranteed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effects of organic and chemical fertilizer sources on some essential nutrient elements content, nitrate (NO3−-N) accumulation, and the growth of spinach plant (Spinacia oleracea L.) were investigated. The experiment was carried out in a randomized plot design under greenhouse conditions, with two levels. 1st level; applications with chemical fertilizer. 2nd level; applications without chemical fertilizer. One compost material (kitchen waste compost = KWC), five different doses (0, 0.4, 0.8, 1.2, and 1.6%), and three replications. For chemical fertilization, nitrogen (N) dose of 150 kg ha−1 was applied by using 15-15-15 NPK (N:P2O5:K2O) fertilizer. Overall, KWC applications increased plant growth and nutrient content. However, the most significant increases occurred in the trial subjects where chemical fertilizer and KWC were applied together. The use of KWC together with chemical fertilization increased the leaf width, leaf and stem length, fresh weight, and dry weight, as well as nitrate accumulation, N, potassium (K), and iron (Fe) content of the plant. The highest values of these parameters were obtained at 0.8% dose of KWC + NPK medium. As a result, compost applications were effectively uptake of nutrients and nitrate accumulation remained at acceptable values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study investigated the effectiveness of soluble silicon fertilizer (SiO2) in protecting dendrobium orchids from thrips pest complexes and fungal pathogens to enhance yield and quality. Over a nine-month greenhouse trial in Hawaii, three dendrobium varieties ('Uniwai Supreme', 'Uniwai Mist', and 'Uniwai Royale') received alternating weekly applications of soluble silicon fertilizer (50 mg Si/plant/application) via either soil drench and/or foliar methods. The primary objectives were to assess the impact of soluble silicon fertilizer on marketable yield, spray length, thrips and fungal damage, and plant vigor. The results revealed significant benefits of silicon fertilization across all varieties. 'Uniwai Supreme' exhibited the most substantial increase in marketable yield (73.0%) and 'Uniwai Mist' had the least increase in marketable yield, with a 50.6% increase compared to untreated controls. These findings have practical implications for orchid cultivation and pest management practices, demonstrating the potential of soluble silicon to improve orchid health and productivity by reducing pest damage. By mitigating the impact of thrips and fungal pathogens, silicon fertilization can contribute to more sustainable orchid production methods. Ultimately this research supports the adoption of silicon supplementation as a strategy to enhance Integrated Pest Management (IPM) tactics and promote environmentally friendly agriculture. The effects of soluble silicon fertilization on monocots and dicots have been widely studied. However, little is known regarding its effects on protecting epiphytes against insect and fungal pests. The efficacy of silicon fertilizer to reduce damage by thrips pest complexes, namely: Thrips palmi Karny, Frankliniella occidentalis Pergande, Chaetanaphothrips orchidii Moulton, and Chaetanaphothrips signipennis Bagnall (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), and the fungal pathogens: Botrytis cinerea Persoon (Helotiales: Sclerotiniaceae) and Fusarium spp. Link (Hypocreales: Nectriaceae) was examined during a nine-month greenhouse trial in Hawaii. The trial assessed yield, quality, and pest damage across three common varieties of dendrobiums. All replicates received additional soluble silicon fertilizer applications alternating weekly between soil drench and foliar (50 mg Si/plant) applications. Yield, quality, and spray length, pest damage, plant vigor, SPAD, and leaf temperature were measured. Data were analyzed using a generalized linear model (glm) with repeated measures followed by post-hoc pair-wise comparisons in R, version 4.3.1. Treatment effects were significant at p < 0.001 for the majority of the explanatory variables including: marketable yield, spray length, thrips damage, and fungal damage. Overall, the lavender variety ('Uniwai Supreme') benefited the most from silicon applications with a 73.0% increase in marketable yield, compared to the white variety ('Uniwai Mist'), which had an increase of 50.6% marketable sprays in contrast to its untreated control. Si benefits conferred to the purple variety ('Uniwai Royale') were intermediate to the lavender and white varieties. Although the magnitude of Si benefits varied among the varieties, all dendrobium varieties significantly benefited from silicon fertilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fertilizer has been the ever-increasing demand in agricultural production in recent years, particularly with the escalating demand for food. Simultaneously, the low efficiency of nutrient utilization and environmental risks of fertilizers have posed substantial challenges in the world. Alternatively, polymer-coated fertilizers can play a pivotal role in nutrient utilization efficiency, thus reducing the fertilizer application rates and environmental pollution risks. This study aims to improve the membrane materials of typical polymer-coated fertilizers for the high nutrient utilization efficiency in conventional fertilizers. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was also employed as the membrane substrate, in order to relieve the secondary pollution and uncontrollable nutrient release rates. Three types of membranes—PVA/CS membrane, PVA/CS/GA membrane, and PVA/CS/GA/nano SiO2 membrane—were prepared using three methods: blending with chitosan (CS), crosslinking with glutaraldehyde (GA), and incorporating nano SiO2. Additionally, pure PVA membranes were prepared for comparison. The four types of membranes were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), water absorption (Q), biodegradability (De), and nutrient permeability coefficient (Ps). Results indicated that there were excellent dispersion and compatibility of nano SiO2 in the PVA/CS membrane solution. Furthermore, the biodegradation rates of the four membranes also exhibited gradual increments during the initial 21 days. Subsequently, biodegradation rates escalated rapidly from the 21st to the 56th day, followed by a slower growth rate after the 56th day. The CS was incorporated to enhance the membrane biodegradation rates, while the GA crosslinking contributed to the less membrane biodegradation in soil. However, the addition of nano SiO2 had minimally impacted the membrane biodegradation rates. Overall, all four membranes displayed favorable biodegradability, with the biodegradation rates ranging from 30% to 60% within 77 days. The water absorption of PVA/CS, PVA/CS/GA, and PVA/CS/GA/nano SiO2 membranes decreased by 43.00%, 68.79%, and 82.73%, respectively, compared with the PVA membranes. Furthermore, the nutrient permeability coefficients of PVA/CS/GA and PVA/CS/GA/nano SiO2 membranes decreased by 48.51% and 57.59%, respectively, compared with the PVA/CS membranes. Therefore, the addition of CS, GA crosslinking, and nano SiO2 all contributed to the hydrophobicity of PVA membranes. Four types of coated urea (PCU) particles—PCU-PVA, PCU-PVA/CS, PCU-PVA/CS/GA, and PCU-PVA/CS/GA/nano SiO2—were prepared, where these membrane solutions were applied to the urea particles using a drum coating machine. The nitrogen release behavior was evaluated using the soil burial. The time required for the nitrogen release of the four PCUs to reach 90% varied significantly, recorded at 5, 11, 23, and 28 days, respectively. On the 5th day, the nitrogen released from PCU-PVA was the highest at 90.64%, whereas the lowest was from PCU-PVA/CS/GA/nano SiO2 at 49.32%. The CS, GA crosslinking and nano SiO2 enhanced the membrane hydrophobicity, which in turn reduced the nitrogen release rate. The nitrogen release behavior of all four PCUs followed a first-order kinetic model, with the release rate constants (k) decreasing progressively—0.3 654, 0.2 333, 0.1 127, and 0.0 926, respectively—and correlating linearly with the nutrient permeability coefficient (Ps) of the membranes. The correlation coefficient (R²) was impressively high at 0.9 991. A series of polyvinyl alcohol/chitosan coating materials were introduced with excellent biodegradability and controllable nutrient release rates, suitable for use in polymer-coated fertilizers. These materials were effectively applied in the production of coated urea particles. A first-order kinetic model of PCU nitrogen release was established with the membrane nutrient permeability coefficient as a key parameter, in order to more efficiently and effectively guide the application of PCU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many citrus species and cultivars are grown successfully in tropical and subtropical countries, as well as in arid and semi-arid regions with low levels of organic matter and low cation exchange, resulting in lower nutrient uptake by the plant. The essential nutrients needed for citrus flowering and fruit set are limited in winter due to a reduction in transpiration rate, negatively effecting vegetative growth, flowering, yield, and fruit quality. The present investigation was carried out to assess the nutritional status, fruit yield parameters, and fruit quality of Valencia orange trees after foliar spraying of seaweed extract (SW) combined with calcium chloride and boric acid and their combinations in the 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 seasons. The treatments were arranged in a split-plot design (three levels spraying seaweed extract × four levels spraying calcium chloride and boric acid and their combinations × four replicates × one tree/replicate). The results indicated that all of the characteristics measured, including leaf chlorophyll, leaf mineral contents, fruit yield parameters, fruit physical properties, and fruit chemical properties, were significantly affected by the foliar spraying of seaweed extract (SW) combined with calcium chloride and boric acid and their combinations. Although all treatments increased the productivity and the physical and chemical properties of Valencia orange fruits compared to the control, a treatment of 10 g/L SW combined with 0.5 g/L boric acid and 1 g/L calcium chloride produced superior results. This ratio of SW, boric acid, and calcium chloride is therefore recommended to enhance productivity and improve the physico-chemical properties of Valencia orange for greater fruit yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Jurnal Ilmu Hukum, Humaniora dan Politik (JIHHP) is the property of Dinasti Publisher and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The development of fertilizer technology is directed towards the production and application of slow or controlled fertilizers. In order to prevent these losses and difficulties, slow and controlled release fertilizers can be produced. Slow or controlled release fertilizers are fertilizers that can be in organic or inorganic form, in solid or liquid form, release the nutrients they contain more slowly than conventional fertilizers, depending on water dissolution, microbial decomposition, growing environment conditions, and thus provide a longer lasting effect. Thus, it is possible to provide the plant with the necessary plant nutrients during the growth period. In this study, three different elements were bound to sugar beet pulp modified with citric acid and their dissolution tendencies were investigated in different environments from the material to which the elements were attached. The dissolution trends were chosen to reflect the natural medium as best as possible. The best dissolution tendencies for all 3 elements were realized in percolations made with EDTA solutions. After the EDTA solution, the dissolution tendencies obtained in the study are followed by citric acid solution, humic acid solution, buffer solution, tap water, and pure water, respectively. The media that best represent the soil solution are tap water, humic acid, and citric acid solutions. Therefore, these two environments are of great importance for the study. It was determined that the modified sugar beet pulp binds these metal ions at the rate of 108.2, 87.1, and 45.7 mg/g, respectively, by contacting with Cu2+, Zn2+, and Mn2+ solutions for 24 h. The dissolution tendencies of this metal-bound bonded material in different environments were investigated. After the EDTA solution, the dissolution tendencies obtained in the study are followed by citric acid solution, humic acid solution, buffer solution, tap water, and pure water, respectively. The media that best represent the soil solution are tap water, humic acid, and citric acid solutions. Therefore, these two environments are of great importance for the study. In the light of these results, it has been shown that modified sugar beet pulp with copper, zinc, and manganese binding can be used effectively as a slow dissolving micronutrient fertilizer in soils with trace element deficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effects of NPK fertilizer and coconut husk ash as an ameliorant on growth and photosynthetic levels of oil palm seedlings in peat soil growth media. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was used with two factors, NPK 12:12:17:2+TE including control, 30 g, 60 g, and 90 g per plant. Coconut husk ash includes control, 40 g, 80 g, and 120 g per plant. The data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA, and any observed significant difference led to Duncan's test at p<0.05. The combination of 90 g of fertilizer dose and 80 g of coconut husk ash produced the tallest plant height of 104.53 cm. The highest increase in stem girth was 6.01 cm. The photosynthetic rate was 39.11 µmol CO2 m-2 s-1, and the highest stomatal conductance was 0.21 H2O m-2 s-1. The highest internal CO2 and Water Use Efficiency was 177 µmol CO2 mol-1 and 16.15, respectively, while the best transpiration rate was 2.94 mM H2O m-2s-1. Additionally, the photosynthetic rate positively correlated with seedling height and stem diameter, with a R2 0.25 and 0.44 coefficient, respectively. Stomatal conductance was positively correlated with stem diameter, namely R2 0.04. Meanwhile, transpiration rate was negatively correlated with seedling height (R2 17%) and seedling stem diameter (R2 6.9%). Intracellular CO2 was negatively correlated with plant height but positively correlated with stem diameter. The results of this study are expected to be used in increased growth and photosynthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The conception of this research is the increasing importance of the implementation of the scientific field of Circular Economy (CE) in technical and operational aspects, in the specific agribusiness system of Liquid Organic Fertilizer (LOF) marketing management. Parikesit Farmer Group is one of the farmer-owned businesses that has the aim of improving the economy of farmers in Bangunsari Village, Pamarican District, Ciamis Regency, especially in agriculture. The Parikesit Farmer Group has previously been one of the pioneers of organic farming with organic rice commodities. In addition, the farmer group developed its business as a producer and distributor of LOF sales. The Parikesit Farmer Group has great potential in supporting the circular economy concept by optimizing the development of the LOF business. Purpose: This research aims to identify the condition of the existing business model of the Parikesit Farmer Group by conducting BMC mapping, identifying the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats owned by the Parikesit Farmer Group, formulating business development strategies, and determining alternative priority strategies for developing the Parikesit Farmer Group's organic fertilizer business. Design/methodology/approach: The methods used in this research are Business Model Canvas (BMC), SWOT analysis, and Analytical Networking Process (ANP). Findings/Result: The results of the analysis of strategy formulation and SWOT analysis produce nine alternative strategies. Based on the ANP analysis, the priority that must be implemented is more education on quality organic fertilizers, it is hoped that consumers will buy more organic fertilizer products. Conclusion: This research successfully mapped the business model canvas of the Parikesit Farmer Group in accordance with the nine BMC elements, namely customer segments, value propositions, channels, customer relationships, revenue streams, key activities, key resources, key partnerships, and cost structure for its business development process. Originality/value (State of the art): The originality lies in its contribution to the existing literature regarding the incorporation of the BMC method, SWOT analysis, and ANP analysis in determining agribusiness development strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Irrigation & Drainage is the property of Journal of Irrigation & Drainage Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Information regarding the relationship between fertilization, mycorrhizas, and plant growth is scattered for non-conventional productive plant species. We evaluated the effect of different substrates and fertilization treatments on growth and colonization by arbuscular mycorrhizas of young Berberis microphylla plants, a native Patagonian shrub with edible fruits. We conducted a greenhouse experiment based on two factors: substrate (conventional or native soil) and fertilization (no fertilization, organic fertilization, or inorganic fertilization). When plants were grown in conventional substrate, both fertilizers promoted growth, having the inorganic fertilizer a greater effect. The effect of both fertilizers was similar when plants were cultivated in native soil, and lesser than in conventional substrate. Plants grown in native soil were larger than those in conventional substrate when organic fertilizer or no fertilizer was applied, but this was reversed when inorganic fertilizer was applied. There was no mycorrhization on plants grown in conventional substrate. In native soil, mycorrhization was highest for non-fertilized plants (60.1%), followed by those with organic fertilization (40.4%), and lowest when inorganic fertilizer was applied (29.9%). The relative abundances of both vesicles and arbuscules showed the opposite tendency, having both their highest values in treatments with inorganic fertilizer. Mycorrhization was positively correlated with plant size, but only when fertilizers were applied. Based on our results, we hypothesized that fertilization reduce mycorrhization but select more beneficial mycorrhizal fungi. We concluded that organic fertilizers have a comparable effect to inorganic fertilizers in terms of promoting plant growth, accompanied by a lesser reduction of mycorrhization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilization of organic phosphates and insoluble phosphates for the gradual generation of plant-available phosphorus (P) is the only sustainable solution for P fertilization. Enzymatic conversions are one of the best sustainable routes for releasing P to soil. Phosphatase enzyme aids in solubilizing organic and insoluble phosphates to plant-available P. We herein report the preparation of highly functional chitosan beads co-immobilized with acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase enzymes via a glutaraldehyde linkage. The dual enzyme co-immobilized chitosan beads were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), thermogravimetric (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive x-ray (SEM-EDX) analyses to confirm the immobilization. The co-immobilized system was found to be active for a broader pH range of ~4-10 than the individually bound enzymes and mixed soluble enzymes. The bound matrix exhibited pH optima at 6 and 9, respectively, for acid and alkaline phosphatase and a temperature optimum at 50°C. The phosphate-solubilizing abilities of the chitosan-enzyme derivatives were examined using insoluble tri-calcium phosphate (TCP) for wide pH conditions of 5.5, 7, and 8.5 up to 25 days. The liberation of phosphate was highest (27.20 mg/mL) at pH 5.5 after the defined period. The residual soil phosphatase activity was also monitored after 7 days of incubation with CBE for three different soils of pH ~5.5, 7, and 8.5. The residual phosphatase activity increased for all the soils after applying the CBE. The germination index of the Oryza sativa (rice) plant was studied using different pH buffer media upon the application of the CBE in the presence of tri-calcium phosphate as a phosphate source. Overall, the dual-enzyme co-immobilized chitosan beads were highly effective over a wide pH range for generating plant-available phosphates from insoluble phosphates. The chitosan-enzyme derivative holds the potential to be used for sustainable phosphorus fertilization with different insoluble and organic phosphorus sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] To determine the conversion time of two fertilizers in soil, so as to determine the nutrient supply time and ability, and provide data support for determining the scientific fertilization time. [Method] In this experiment, fertilizers commonly used in potato production were used as treatment, namely potassium sulfate and diammonium phosphate. Three soil moisture treatments were set, respectively 25%, 35% and 45%.Sampling time was set and fertilizer residual amount and fertilizer dissolution amount and dissolution rate were determined. [Result] The dissolved amounts of diammonium phosphate and potassium sulfate exceeded or approached 50% on the 5th and 56th day after fertilization, respectively, and could be labeled as the best nutrient absorption period. After the application of diammonium phosphate for 21 days, the fertilizer did not transform. On the whole, with the increase of soil moisture content, the dissolution capacity of diammonium phosphate was enhanced, and the nutrient supply capacity was increased, but the sustainable support capacity was weakened. The release of potassium sulfate nutrient was relatively average during the experiment period. Under the conditions of 25% and 35% soil water content, the nutrient supply period was efficient within 28 days after fertilization, and the nutrient supply tended to be stable after 28 days. Under the condition of 45% soil moisture content, the nutrient efficient supply period was within 49 days after fertilization. On the whole, 45% water content is more conducive to prolonging the effective feeding time of potassium sulfate. [Conclusion] The solubility of diammonium phosphate and potassium sulfate can be used as the index of nutrient supply of fertilizer, but it can only be applied to mineral element fertilizers. Because organic fertilizers also involve mineralization process after dissolution, it has no guiding significance for organic fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present investigation, formulate the new ecofriendly, low-cost commercial fertilizer for pilot-scale cultivation of a green microalgae, Tetradesmus obliquus RDS01, using bubble column photo bioreactor. Initially, we optimized the four different fertilizers, viz., urea—500 mg L−1, di-ammonium phosphate (DAP)—350 mg L−1, potassium—280 mg L−1, and sodium bicarbonate—165 mgL−1 using response surface methodology (RSM). The Tetradesmus obliquus RDS01 microalga was produced 350.25 mg g−1 of lipid, 240.35 mg g−1 of carbohydrate, 17.50 g L−1 of biomass, 98.52% of CO2 utilization efficiency, 325 U mL−1 of acetyl CoA carboxylase enzyme, 5.73 mL g−1 of biodiesel, and 4.25 mL g−1 of bioethanol obtained in pilot-scale cultivation in optimized commercial fertilizer medium. The Acetyl CoA carboxylase enzyme protein molecular weight was observed at 64KDa on 15% SDS-PAGE. The 3D structure homology modeling of Acetyl CoA carboxylase enzyme protein structure was predicted and protein encodes with 498 amino acid residues. The Acetyl CoA carboxylase specific genes (aCCD) were 1230 bp isolated. The Tetradesmus obliquus RDS01 microalga–produced biodiesel was subjected to gas chromatograph mass spectrometer (GCMS) analysis and identified the 50 biodiesel compounds. The major biodiesel compounds, viz., Cis-8-methylicosanoate methyl ester (28.36%). Eicosanoic acid, methyl ester (12.36%), hexadecanoic acid methyl ester (13.15%), 14-heptadecatrienoic acid methyl ester (3.25%), tridecanoic acid methyl ester (10.96%), tetradecanoate methyl ester (11.35%), pentadecanoic acid methyl ester (12.57%). The presences of functional groups were identified from the biodiesel such as amides, alcohols, carboxylic acids, alkenes, alkenyl, carbonyl, and ketones groups using FTIR. The bioethanol was confirmed in the peak range 3.52 min by HPLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article gives information on the synthesis of phytocompounds of copper with the subsequent production of a multifunctional biological product based on dicalcium phosphate for use as fertilizers for application to the soil in order to increase the activity of soil microorganisms and the yield of agricultural crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a semi-interpenetrating network (semi-IPN) hydrogel (SH/PNA) was prepared by simple free radical polymerization using N-isopropylacrylamide and 2-acrylamide-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid as monomers, poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate as a crosslinking agent, and sodium alginate and humic acid as filled biomolecules. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and rheometer were used to characterize the structure and properties of the samples. The effect of feeding ratios on the gel mass fraction and swelling properties of the SH/PNA hydrogel was explored to optimize its preparation conditions. The swelling behavior under different pH and temperatures was investigated. The experimental result showed that the SH/PNA hydrogel had excellent water absorption capacity and pH/temperature dual responsiveness. Moreover, SH/PNA hydrogel was used as a carrier of urea to prepare slow-release and water-retention fertilizer by in situ loading method, and slow-release properties of urea in water and soil were measured. Taking into account its good ability for controlled release and water retention, the WSRF was expected to be a promising low-cost, environmentally friendly fertilizer that can be used in agriculture and horticulture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the documented increase in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from Southeast Asian peat swamp forest degradation and conversion to oil palm over recent decades, reliable estimates of emissions of nitrous oxide (N2O) and methane (CH4) are lacking. We measured soil fluxes of N2O and CH4 and their environmental controls along a peatland transition from primary forest (PF) to degraded drained forest (DF) to oil palm plantation (OP) over 18 months in Jambi, Sumatra, Indonesia. Sampling was conducted monthly at all sites and more intensively following two fertilization events in the OP. Mean annual emissions of N2O (kg N ha−1 yr−1) were 1.7 ± 0.2 for the PF, 2.3 ± 0.2 for the DF and for the OP 8.1 ± 0.8 without drainage canals (DC) and 7.7 ± 0.7 including DC. High N2O emissions in the OP were driven by peat decomposition, not by N fertilizer addition. Mean CH4 annual fluxes (kg C ha−1 yr−1) were 8.2 ± 1.9 for the PF, 1.9 ± 0.4 for the DF, and 1.6 ± 0.3 for the OP with DC and 1.1 ± 0.2 without. Considering their 20-year global warming potentials (GWP), the combined non-CO2 GHG emission (Mg CO2-equivalent ha−1 yr−1) was 3.3 ± 0.6 for the PF and 1.6 ± 0.2 for the DF. The emission in the OP (3.8 ± 0.3 with or without DC) was similar to the PF because reductions in CH4 emissions offset N2O increases. However, considering 100-year GWP, the combined non-CO2 GHG emission was larger in the OP (3.4 ± 0.3 with DC and 3.5 ± 0.3 without) compared to both the PF and the DF (1.5 ± 0.2 and 1.2 ± 0.1, respectively). The increase in peat N2O emissions associated with the land-use change transition from primary forest to oil palm plantation at our sites provides further evidence of the urgent need to protect tropical peat swamp forests from drainage and conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the findings of a six-year study conducted in Assam on the nutrient requirements of Khasi Mandarin, a citrus fruit crop. The study examined the effects of different fertilizer treatments on the growth, yield, and quality of the fruit. The results showed that a treatment involving the application of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium at specific stages of growth resulted in higher yield and better quality fruit. The study emphasizes the importance of proper nutrient management for citrus trees to ensure optimal growth and productivity. [Extracted from the article]

Copyright of Journal of Agroindustrial Technology / Jurnal Teknologi Industri Pertanian is the property of IPB University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental - Agriambi is the property of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Large quantities of orange peel wastes are generated and require adequate management and disposal into the environment. Agricultural waste valorization is a strong research topic, due to the increasing need for achieving a sustainable environment. Especially, the development of adsorbent materials applied to wastewater treatment for efficient phosphorus recovery and reuse systems is a challenge of current interest in research. In this work, a novel low-cost biocomposite was obtained by calcination of orange peel (OP) and eggshell (ES), which is highly effective for P recovery from synthetic aqueous solutions and domestic wastewater. After calcination at 700 °C, the material with a ratio by weight of OP/ES = 1 showed a high adsorption capacity (Qmax = 315.25 mg P/g) compared to other materials previously reported. The XRD and FTIR characterization results of the materials after the P removal showed that brushite (Ca(HPO4)•2H2O) is the main calcium phase obtained at pH 6, while apatite (Ca5(PO4)3OH) is favored at a pH higher than 8. Moreover, the ESOP adsorbents showed a high P adsorption from wastewater, with 98.6% of P recovery as apatite. Additionally, Ca5(PO4)3OH and Ca(HPO4)•2H2O phases exhibited a high solubility of P in 2% formic acid releasing up to 97.50 and 194.22 mg P/g. The results of this work indicate that calcined ESOP is a promising material for P recovery from aqueous solution, forming calcium phosphates with great potential to be used as alternative phosphate fertilizer, contributing to implementing the 3R slogan "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle" based on a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Being an important source of berberine, Berberis chitria Buch.-Ham. ex Lindl. (Berberidaceae) has high demand in pharmaceutical industries. Its populations are diminishing due to overexploitation, habitat loss, slow-growing nature, and climate change. It is important to develop propagation protocols to sustain its natural populations and ensure its survival in the future. Fertilizers play an essential role in the yield and productivity of different crops. Among others, urea is the most abundantly used fertilizer in crops. Its effects on the yield and survival of medicinal plants are poorly studied. However, it is known that applying urea for a long time affects the soil negatively. Due to these negative effects, alternative fertilizers such as graphene-based metal composite (GMC) are being tested for their efficiency. In the present study, for the first time, we tested the effects of urea and GMC on the germination and performance of B. chitria. GMC showed maximum germination at 30 ppm (75%) and urea at 15 ppm (79%). Findings reveal non-significant effects of GMC and urea on germination and performance of B. chitria, suggesting the use of GMC as an alternative fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Site-specific nutrient management (SSNM) for a rice (Oryza sativa L.)-growing domain is typically developed by first using the nutrient omission plot technique (NOPT) to determine yield responses with added nitrogen (N), with added phosphorus (P), and with added potassium (K) and then conducting an evaluation experiment to verify an SSNM practice developed from the NOPT results. We hypothesized that an effective SSNM practice could be more rapidly developed through concurrent NOPT experiments and evaluation of a preliminary best-bet SSNM practice derived from experiences in other rice-growing domains. Our study domain was rainfed lowland rice in an Indonesian tidal swampland without past NOPT experiments and without a verified SSNM practice. Concurrent NOPT and evaluation experiments were conducted in the wet season (WS) and dry season across 20–25 farmers' fields either directly or not directly influenced by tides. Rice yields and gross return above fertilizer cost for a preliminary SSNM practice were higher than for farmers' fertilizer practice in both seasons and for two fertilizer practices based on soil tests in WS. The inherent ability of SSNM to adjust fertilizer rates for an attainable target yield and time fertilizer applications to match crop demand contributed to the superiority of SSNM. In NOPT experiments, relative yields without added N, without added P, and without added K respectively averaged 0.70, 0.89, and 0.88 across seasons and tidal locations. These relative yields enabled preliminary SSNM fertilizer rates to be further adjusted for the rice-growing domain. Rice growers in domains without a verified SSNM practice can benefit, before NOPT experiments are completed, by using generic SSNM guidelines for timing fertilizer applications and adjusting fertilizer rates for a target yield. After completion of NOPT experiments, the fertilizer rates can be further adjusted based on measured yield responses with added N, P, or K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coagulation–flocculation is one of the most mature and effective process, which can remove most of the colloids. The objective of this study was to investigate a treatment for denim-washing wastewater by coagulation–flocculation and Fe/garnet filtration to evaluate the potential use of the sludge produced. The reaction time, stirring rate, dose, and coagulant agent using Ca2+, Mg2+, and Fe2+ as chlorides on the % removal of color, chemical oxygen demand, and turbidity were evaluated using an experimental design 32. The best chemical oxygen demand (49% of these low efficiencies may be related to chloride interferences), color (84.6%), and turbidity removal (82.3%) efficiencies were achieved at a dose of 1.4 g/L Ca2+, time of 20 min, and shaker speed of 50 rpm. Under these conditions, Ca(OH)2 commercial (Calidra® at 75–85%) was also tested, removing chemical oxygen demand, turbidity, and color by 67, 97, and 93%, respectively, at 1.4 g/L Ca2+. The effluent from the garnet filtration process was characterized, the pH was reduced from 11.8 initial to 7.7 final, and removals of 59.0% total organic carbon, 20.5% chemical oxygen demand, and 28.6% color. The effect of sludge from the coagulation–flocculation process with Ca(OH)2 was studied in Lactuca sativa seed. The life cycle assessment concluded that the treatment reduced the midpoint impacts of the environmental category indicators, such as freshwater eutrophication, marine eutrophication, freshwater ecotoxicity, marine ecotoxicity, human noncarcinogenic toxicity, land use, and mineral resource scarcity. Treated wastewater can be reused in the same process for denim washing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the restoration of degraded wetlands, fertilization can improve the vegetation-soil-microorganisms complex, thereby affecting the organic carbon content. However, it is currently unclear whether these effects are sustainable. This study employed Biolog-Eco surveys to investigate the changes in vegetation characteristics, soil physicochemical properties, and soil microbial functional diversity in degraded alpine wetlands of the source region of the Yellow River at 3 and 15 months after the application of nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic mixed fertilizer. The following results were obtained: The addition of nitrogen fertilizer and organic compost significantly affects the soil organic carbon content in degraded wetlands. Three months after fertilization, nitrogen addition increases soil organic carbon in both lightly and severely degraded wetlands, whereas after 15 months, organic compost enhanced the soil organic carbon level in severely degraded wetlands. Structural equation modeling indicates that fertilization decreases the soil pH and directly or indirectly influences the soil organic carbon levels through variations in the soil water content and the aboveground biomass of vegetation. Three months after fertilization, nitrogen fertilizer showed a direct positive effect on soil organic carbon. However, organic mixed fertilizer indirectly reduced soil organic carbon by increasing biomass and decreasing soil moisture. After 15 months, none of the fertilizers significantly affected the soil organic carbon level. In summary, it can be inferred that the addition of nitrogen fertilizer lacks sustainability in positively influencing the organic carbon content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Rice, as a staple food in several Asian countries, contributes to approximately 10% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions during its cultivation. Furthermore, nitrogen fertilization increases the accumulation of GHG emissions. This study aims to investigate GHG emissions, including methane (CH4) and nitrous Oxide (N2O) resulting from the common fertilizer variations used by farmers in Indonesia for two rice varieties, Way Apo Buru and Inpari 32, and their relationship to rice yield. Methods: The research was conducted from August to November 2022 in an open field located in Jember, Indonesia. Two rice varieties, Inpari 32 and Way Apo Buru, were employed in this study. Fertilization variations included Urea (46%-N), ZA (21%-N 24%-S), SP-36 (36%-P & 5%-S), KCl (250:100:50:50 kg ha-1) (P1); NPK (16%-N:16%-P:16%-K), Urea (46%-N), ZA (21%-N & 24%-S) (225:175:100 kg ha-1) (P2); NPK (12%-N:12%-P:17%-K), Urea (46%-N), ZA (21%-N & 24%-S) (175:150:100 kg ha-1) (P3); and NPKS (P1) + chicken manure fertilizer 5 tonnes ha-1 (P4). Results: In this research, Inpari 32 rice achieved greater yields while also exhibiting higher global warming potential. Applying NPKS fertilizer in combination with 5 tonnes ha-1 of manure fertilizer (referred to as P4) resulted in a substantial increase in rice yield compared to alternative fertilizer formulations. Discussions: The various inorganic fertilizers had a relatively similar influence on growth, production yield, and greenhouse gas emissions (CH4 and N2O). However, the fertilizer NPKS and 5 tonnes manure fertilizer resulted in the lowest CH4 emissions and global warming potential values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The microbiome plays a fundamental role in plant health and performance. Soil serves as a reservoir of microbial diversity where plants attract microorganisms via root exudates. The soil has an important impact on the composition of the rhizosphere microbiome, but greenhouse ornamental plants are commonly grown in soilless substrates. While soil microbiomes have been extensively studied in traditional agriculture to improve plant performance, health, and sustainability, information about the microbiomes of soilless substrates is still limited. Thus, we conducted an experiment to explore the microbiome of a peat-based substrate used in container production of Impatiens walleriana, a popular greenhouse ornamental plant. We investigated the effects of plant phenological stage and fertilization level on the substrate microbiome. Results: Impatiens plants grown under low fertilization rates were smaller and produced more flowers than plants grown under optimum and high fertilization. The top five bacterial phyla present in the substrate were Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteriodota, Verrucomicrobiota, and Planctomycetota. We found a total of 2,535 amplicon sequence variants (ASV) grouped into 299 genera. The substrate core microbiome was represented by only 1.8% (48) of the identified ASV. The microbiome community composition was influenced by plant phenological stage and fertilizer levels. Phenological stage exhibited a stronger influence on microbiome composition than fertilizer levels. Differential abundance analysis using DESeq2 identified more ASVs significantly affected (enriched or depleted) in the high fertilizer levels at flowering. As observed for community composition, the effect of plant phenological stage on microbial community function was stronger than fertilizer level. Phenological stage and fertilizer treatments did not affect alpha-diversity in the substrate. Conclusions: In container-grown ornamental plants, the substrate serves as the main microbial reservoir for the plant, and the plant and agricultural inputs (fertilization) modulate the microbial community structure and function of the substrate. The differences observed in substrate microbiome composition across plant phenological stage were explained by pH, total organic carbon (TOC) and fluoride, and across fertilizer levels by pH and phosphate (PO4). Our project provides an initial diversity profile of the bacteria occurring in soilless substrates, an underexplored source of microbial diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various phosphorus (P) fertilizers are commonly utilized in agricultural production on the Loess Plateau. However, there exists a widespread issue of improper matching between P fertilizers, crop types, and soil types. This study proposes a scientifically based approach to managing phosphate fertilizer through a matching experiment. A field experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of different P fertilizers on soil P profiles in a wheat–corn rotation between October 2017 and September 2021. The experiment adopted a randomized block design. P fertilizer was applied as a basal fertilizer at rates of 115 kg P2O5 ha−1 during the wheat season and 90 kg P2O5 ha−1 during the maize season. Nitrogen (N) fertilizer application rates were 120 kg N ha−1 for wheat and 180 kg N ha−1 for maize. N fertilizer was divided into two applications, with 60% applied at pre-planting and 40% at the jointing stage of wheat or the V12 stage of maize. P fertilizer variants utilized in the study included ammonium dihydrogen, ammonium phosphate, calcium-magnesia phosphate fertilizer, calcium superphosphate, and ammonium polyphosphate. The transformation process of phosphate was examined, revealing that the commonly considered dominant diammonium phosphate fertilizer was not the optimal choice in this production system. Ammonium polyphosphate, calcium superphosphate, and ammonium dihydrogen were deemed more suitable for application in Loess soil. Furthermore, an analysis was conducted on the relationship between P fractions, soil properties, and soil Olsen-P. This research emphasizes the significance of strategic phosphate fertilizer use in agriculture to ensure efficient production and to help address the global P scarcity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimal fertilizer concentration for Mentha plants is contingent on the growing systems and harvest time, serving as operational solutions to control and enhance quality and yield. This study aimed to determine the effects of three macronutrients concentration in hydroponic nutrient solution (HNS) during three harvest times on the growth, quality, yield, and shelf life of three mint species (M. spicata L. var. viridis (MV); M. piperita L. (MP); M. spicata L. var. rubra (MR)) grown in a New Growing System (NGS®). Total dry matter (DM), nitrate (NO3−), phosphate (PO43−), and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) concentrations were increased with the addition of higher levels of nutrient fertilization in three species. When the ion concentration of the HNS was increased, total fresh yield decreased. The highest total bacterial count (TBC) was obtained in MR species in the three harvests in all the levels of HNS. The lowest browning potential (BP) and soluble o-quinone (So-Q) levels were observed at second harvest in the MR species with the application of one of the two HNS high in nitrogen (N). In conclusion, the combination of optimal HNS ion concentration and appropriate species is considered essential to obtain suitable yield, quality, and ensure shelf life of mint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soybean (Glycine max L.) is a new cash crop grown in north central and northwestern North Dakota (ND). Soils and climate in these new soybean areas differ from current fertilizer guidelines. A three-year study to evaluate soybean fertility best management practices was initiated in the spring of 2016 and concluded in 2018. Each year had two sites and twelve treatments. One site was acidic (pH < 6.2) and the other was alkaline (pH > 7.2). Both site treatments were: untreated check, inoculated with rhizobia (Bradyrhizobium japonicum L.), broadcast urea (55 kg ha−1), broadcast MAP (110 kg ha−1), In-furrow 10-34-0 (28 L ha−1), in-furrow 6-24-6 (28 L ha−1), foliar 3-18-18 (28 L ha−1) at V5 and R2, and foliar 3-18-18 (28 L ha−1) with sulfate (1.1 kg ha−1) at V5 and R2. The acidic site had two treatments of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) waste lime (4411 kg ha−1 and 8821 kg ha−1). The alkaline site received treatments of iron ortho-ortho-EDDHA (7.1 L ha−1), and naked ortho-ortho-EDDHA (7.1 L ha−1). An in-furrow treatment of cobalt (2.9 kg cobalt-sulfate ha−1) was added in 2018. Fertilizer treatments did not impact soybean yield, protein content and oil content at the 0.05 significance level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The productivity of soybean in Assosa Zone particularly in Assosa and Bambassi districts is very low due to poor soil fertility management practices which resulted in severe soil acidity and low N-fixing inoculant in the soil. Hence, this experiment was conducted during the main cropping season of 2019 and 2020 in Assosa and Bambassi districts to evaluate the effect of biofertilizers, lime, and inorganic NPSB fertilizers on nodulation, growth, and yield of soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill). Factorial combinations of four biofertilizer inoculants [without biofertilizer (B1), SB12 biofertilizer at the recommended rate of 500 g ha −1 (B2), MAR1495 biofertilizer at the recommended rate of 500 g ha−1 (B3) and SB12 plus MAR1495 biofertilizers at their recommended rates (B4); two lime rates named without lime (L1) and lime at 5 ton/ha (L2); two inorganic NPSB fertilizers NPSB at 9.5-23-3.5-0.05 (F1) and NPSB at 19-46-7-0.1 (F2) at their recommended rates for soybean] were laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Effective nodules, leaf area index, and grain yield were collected and analyzed using SAS 9.1.3 version software. Results of the experiment showed that effective nodules per plant, leaf area index, and grain yield were affected by biofertilizers, lime, inorganic fertilizers, and their interactions significantly (p < 0.01) at both locations and years. Finally, the interaction of SB12 + MAR1495, lime at 5 t/ha and NPSB at 19-46-7-0.1, and the interaction of SB12, lime at 5 t/ha and NPSB at 19-46-7-0.1 gave the maximum grain yield at Assosa and Bambassi, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing N use efficiency (NUE) is desirable in turfgrass management. Traditional definition of NUE in turfgrass is essentially the inverse of nitrogen concentration in the clippings and is often evaluated once in a growing season. In this experiment, we followed the Brenderse and Aerts' definition of NUE as the product of mean residence time (MRT) and nitrogen productivity (NP). The objective of this experiment was to identify NP changes over time in Kentucky bluegrass cultivars at different N levels under deficit irrigation. Nine Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) and two hybrid bluegrass cultivars from 10 phenotypic classes were tested under N rates of 10 and 40 g m−2. Deficit irrigation at 60% of the evapotranspiration was imposed. The results showed interaction effects on NP from N level, irrigation, and cultivar. Low‐N treatment resulted in higher NP values as compared to high‐N for 'Merit' and 'Martha'. No NP difference existed between N or irrigation levels for 'Blue ghost', 'Geronimo', 'Heidi', 'Bandera', 'Impact', 'Fielder', 'Jackrabbit', and 'Park'. 'Rhythm' showed lower NP values in high‐N combined with full irrigation compared to other treatments. In general, increasing N levels resulted in lower NP, but higher nitrate reductase activity (NaR) and higher net photosynthesis. No N by irrigation interaction effect was detected for effective quantum yield or NaR. In conclusion, leaf‐level NP was shown to be an effective parameter for in‐season monitoring of the above‐ground NUE of Kentucky bluegrass, which provided more dynamic information than clipping yields or a one‐time NUE calculation based on traditional definition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]