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Irrigation is vital for Philippine agriculture, particularly in regions like Bohol, where water resources are under pressure due to competing demands and seasonal droughts. Despite introducing automated irrigation technologies designed to enhance efficiency, many areas still need to rely on updated manual methods, leading to water wastage and reduced productivity. This study explores the potential of automated irrigation systems to improve water use efficiency by evaluating soil's physical and electrical properties in Bohol's greenhouses. Specifically, it investigates soil texture, bulk density, pH, moisture content, and the performance of resistive and capacitive soil moisture sensors under varying conditions. Using a randomized complete block design, the research analyzed soil samples from greenhouses in six municipalities: Antequera, Bilar, Calape, Carmen, Jagna, and Loay. Laboratory experiments assessed soil properties, and a custom Arduino-based soil moisture meter was developed for sensor calibration. The study found significant variability in soil properties across locations, with sandy clay loam soils exhibiting the highest electrical resistivity and lower water retention than silty clay and clay soils. The findings highlight that soil pH varied from slightly basic to strongly acidic, and sensor voltage output inversely correlated with soil moisture content, reflecting changes in electrical conductivity. The results underscore the importance of selecting appropriate sensors and calibration methods for accurate soil moisture measurement. Recommendations include further testing for sensor variability, preference for capacitance over resistive sensors, and rigorous calibration procedures. Enhancing these practices will improve the effectiveness of automated irrigation systems and support sustainable agricultural development in Bohol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The creation of undesirable (soggy) sauerkraut resulted in the loss of $1,000,000 worth of organic sauerkraut in 2022, which prompted a multistep investigation of the cause and potential solution. The cause of this condition has been previously reported as unique fermentation conditions and the lack of key trace nutrients essential for cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) cell wall integrity. Because the condition was limited to organic sauerkraut in 2022, this investigation initially focused on differences in fermentation conditions between organic and conventional sauerkraut. No differences in fermentation conditions accounted for the condition; therefore, attention was focused on analyzing the mineral content of cabbage grown for sauerkraut production that pinpointed a deficiency in critical micronutrients such as iron, copper, manganese, boron, and zinc. This deficiency was traced to the use of poultry manure that was contaminated with glyphosate residue from conventionally fed turkeys and chickens that consumed genetically engineered (GE) feed and used as the fertilizer for organic cabbage production. The presence of glyphosate, a potent mineral chelator and antibiotic, was identified as a significant factor that impairs the absorption and physiological function of essential minerals in the shikimate metabolic pathway whereby cell walls and lignin are produced, thus compromising the structural quality of the sauerkraut. After this discovery, the study progressed to evaluate various remediation strategies aimed at eliminating glyphosate from the soil and restoring nutrient uptake. Corn grain and silage were selected as the test crops for this phase. Among the tested remediation solutions were raw sauerkraut juice containing Lactobacillus plantarum, which is reported to degrade glyphosate in the rumen of dairy cows and two patented proprietary microbial mixtures, PB027 and PB027SK, that degrade glyphosate by all three of the known metabolic pathways. These treatments were specifically formulated to degrade residual glyphosate in the soil. The results showed that these interventions could reduce soil glyphosate levels by 80% to 90% within 6 to 7 months to significantly enhance both the yield and quality of corn grain and silage. The increase in corn grain yield from glyphosate degradation on the Shiocton silt loam soil was 907.89 kg·ha-1 (13.5 bushels/acre). The increase in yield on the irrigated Kidder sandy loam soil was quantified at 726.31 kg·ha-1 (10.8 bushels/acre) for corn grain and 6.62 t·ha-1 (2.68 t/acre) for silage, with an additional improvement in silage feed quality beneficial for milk production. The findings underscore the importance of addressing both micronutrient sufficiency and glyphosate residue in soil to ensure the optimal growth of cabbage and the quality of sauerkraut produced. By successfully identifying manure as a subtle source of nutrient immobilization and implementing effective soil remediation techniques, this research highlights a clear path forward for improving crop yield and quality to ultimately enhance the structural integrity and consumer acceptance of sauerkraut. This study has broader applications for the nutritional content and crop yields of many organic crops that use conventional poultry and animal manures that may contain glyphosate in desiccated plant tissues or GE feeding operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, the widespread utilization of plastic products has resulted in the accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in the soil. MPs have the potential to impact the loss of soil organic carbon (SOC). Nevertheless, the influence of different types of MPs on SOC loss remains uncertain.In this study, a 38 day incubation experiment with two kinds of conventional MPs (polyethylene, polypropylene) as well as two kinds of biodegradable MPs (polyhydroxyalkanoate [PHA], polylactic acid [PLA]) were added into three types of soil (loam, sandy loam, and sandy soil) in farmland shelterbelts, and the sources of CO2 emissions was distinguished by the difference in 13C isotope abundance between the biodegradable MPs (PHA and PLA) (−10.02‰ to −9.92‰) and the soil (−24.39‰ to −22.86‰) (>10‰).In conjunction with the structural characterization of MPs, as well as soil physicochemical properties and microbial characteristics, we observed that the conventional MPs did not degrade in short term incubation, but significantly enhance soil‐derived CO2 emissions by altering the dissolved N content (NH4+‐N and dissolved total N [DTN]) and reducing microbial biomass carbon content only in sandy loam soil (p < 0.05). Biodegradable MPs degraded significantly, and enhanced soil‐derived CO2 emissions by reducing soil DTN and NO3−‐N contents in loam, sandy loam and sandy soil (p < 0.05).Overall, the input of biodegradable MPs causes a more serious loss of SOC than conventional MPs as the soil sand content increased in short term incubation, which needs to be considered in predicting the global impact of increasing biodegradable MPs pollution. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rate of horizontal movement of a pollutant such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in soil plays a major role in spread of pollutants in the segments of the environment. However, the study regarding this aspect is not widely reported. In the present work, the rate of horizontal spread of Fluorene in soil is determined in an experiment spread over a year under natural environment. Known amount of the hydrocarbon was added to a soil at a particular point, extraction of the same was done later on at definite time interval at definite distances from the point of application and quantitative determination was done by HPLC analysis of the extract. Eleven number of important physico-chemical parameters of the soil sample were determined/calculated in order to know the quality of the soil. The values of parameters are in agreement to the characteristics of a good soil. The experimental soil is a mild acidic sandy loam. It has been found that one-year time is sufficient for the applied quantity of the hydrocarbon to spread itself uniformly to attain a concentration, which is at par with natural concentration of the hydrocarbon in the experimental soil. Studies on kinetics of the reaction imply that the reaction occurs in different phases, rate constants being gradually increased with time. The positive influence of increase in ambient temperature and rainfall on disappearance of the hydrocarbon is seen in the experiment. It has been found that the most probable speed of the hydrocarbon for horizontal movement is 3.75 cm per month in the experimental soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

15N tracing was carried out on sandy loam soil amended with (i) mineral nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium fertilizer (NPK) alone, (ii) half mineral N and half N from chicken manure (HFC), or (iii) half mineral N and half N from cattle manure (HCM), for 8 years. Cumulative N2O emissions during incubation were 30.2 µg N kg− 1 in the NPK treatment, which increased to 37.8 and 51.3 µg N kg− 1 in the HFC and HCM treatments, respectively. The majority of N2O emissions in all the treatments were attributed to nitrification (81.0% in the NPK treatment, 83.0% in the HFC treatment, and 85.1% in the HCM treatment). Compared with NPK, HCM treatment caused a significant increase in the gross rate of nitrification, while HFC treatment slightly enhanced the rate of dissimilatory NO3− reduction to NH4+. Additionally, HFC treatment achieved higher gross rates of organic N mineralization, and both HFC and HCM treatments had higher NH4+ mineralization-immobilization turnover (MIAT) rates than NPK treatment. The results suggest that application of cattle or chicken manure increased soil NH4+ availability. The gross rate of NO3− adsorption in the HCM treatment was greater than that in the NPK treatment, while the release of adsorbed NO3− in the HFC treatment was slower than that in the NPK treatment, indicating that application of cattle or chicken manure lowered the potential for NO3− leaching in soil. Overall, combining cattle or chicken manure with mineral fertilizer decreased NO3− availability but increased NH4+ availability, leading to higher N2O emissions through nitrification. Our results suggest that organic manures should be applied with nitrification inhibitors in sandy loam soil containing low organic carbon to increase soil fertility and mitigate N2O emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice is the most important crop in India and additionally the hub of food security of the worldwide population. Integrated application of manures and fertilizers played a pivotal role for improvement of soil physico-chemical properties under different cropping systems as well as nutrient accumulation and grain yield in rice. The present investigation was conducted in sandy loam soil at Agronomy Research Farm of Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India during 2018–2019 having sub-humid climate. Field experiment was designed to evaluate the effect of two date of transplanting, which were allotted to main plots and three combinations of nutrient management options allotted for sub plots on rice crop (var. Naveen). Among all the plant parts, leaf showed higher accumulation of nitrogen (3.69, 1.92%), stem showed higher accumulation of both phosphorus (0.43, 0.35%) and potassium (2.59, 2.09%) than other plant parts during vegetative stages, while panicle showed higher accumulation of nitrogen (1.22%), phosphorus (0.28%) during harvesting stages of the rice crop. Significantly higher nitrogen accumulation in different plant parts were optimized under Soil Test Based Fertilizer Recommendation (STBFR) + Green Manure (GM; Sesbania rostrata) (0.99, 0.46, 1.28%) method of nutrient management, while phosphorus (0.10, 0.11, 0.28%) and potassium (1.00, 1.64, 0.33%) accumulation were found to be significantly higher in different plant parts under STBFR + Farm Yard Manure (FYM) method of nutrient management. Thus, early transplanting and application of STBFR + GM/FYM could be recommended for higher nutrient accumulation in rice crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acid or base modification of biochars has shown promise for enhancing the immobilization of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) such as cadmium (Cd) in contaminated soils. However, limited information is available on the interaction between soil textural classes and modified biochar application for Cd stabilization in contaminated calcareous soils. Therefore, the objective of the study was to examine the extent of Cd immobilization in contaminated calcareous soils with diverse textural classes, utilizing both acid (HNO3) and alkali (NaOH) modified and unmodified biochars derived from sheep manure and rice husk residues. The modified or unmodified biochars were applied at a rate of 2% (w/w) to Cd-contaminated silty clay loam, loam, and sandy loam soils, followed by a 90-day incubation at field water capacity. Sequential extraction and EDTA-release kinetics studies were used to assess the effect of the treatments on the extent and mechanisms of Cd immobilization. Among the treatments, acid-modified manure biochar was most effective at reducing water soluble and exchangeable Cd fractions (-20.5%), by converting them into metal oxide and organic matter bound fractions. This effectiveness was primarily attributed to the significant increase in surface oxygen functional groups in the acid-modified biochar which could promote Cd complexation. However, the acid-modified manure biochar released more immobilized Cd during EDTA extraction than the base-modified manure biochar, suggesting that EDTA extraction of R-O-Cd complexes was easier than extracting Cd associated with insoluble compounds. This difference was likely due to the acidic pH and lower ash content of the acid-modified biochars compared to the base-modified manure biochars. Additionally, the extent of Cd immobilization was lower in sandy loam soil, highlighting the importance of immobilizing Cd in light-textured soils to prevent its transfer to organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results of previous research on chemigated imazamox for control of branched broomrape (Phelipanche ramosa) in processing tomatoes suggested potential soil-type differences in imazamox availability. Over two years, there were differences in crop-injury between two sites less than 30-km apart: imazamox-treated tomatoes in the Davis location had relatively minor early season injury while tomatoes at the Woodland location were severely injured or killed. The following study was conducted to investigate imazamox sorption in four California soils to determine if differences in herbicide adsorption played a role in variable crop-injury observed in the field trials. To determine the sorption capacity of imazamox of each soil, a batch-equilibrium study was conducted. There were significant differences in sorbed imazamox: the clay soil had the highest adsorption (Robert's Island: 742.5 pg µL−1 sorbed), followed by the sandy loam soil (Ripon: 723.9 pg µL−1 sorbed), while the loam soils from both trial sites (Davis: 704.2 pg µL−1 sorbed; Woodland: 699.9 pg µL−1 sorbed) had the lowest adsorption and were not significantly different from one another. Results from this study illustrate only minor differences in imazamox adsorption among the soils tested which suggests that soil type was likely not a major factor contributing to differences in crop-injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize is widely growth in arid and semi-arid region where, drought is common and a limiting factor for crop production. Potassium plays a key role in enhancing plant growth under drought condition. The objective of this study is to determine the effect of K fertilization with and without NP on maize growth grown in sandy loam soil under adequate and deficit irrigation conditions. The following treatments were investigated in pot experiment: (1) control with no fertilizer application (C); (2) 128 kg N + 328 kg P2O5 ha-1 (NPK0); (3) 128 kg N + 328 kg P2O5 ha-1 + 152.5 kg K2O ha1 (NPK1); (4) 128 kg N + 328 kg P2O5 ha-1 + 305 kg K2O ha-1 (NPK2); and 128 kg N + 328 kg P2O5 ha-1 + 457.5 kg K2O ha-1 (NPK3). Treatments were investigated under adequate and deficit soil moisture content. Each pot filled with 3.5 kg air-dry soil and seeded with maize and pots were watered according to the treatments. The results indicated that plant growth and nutrient uptake were significantly reduced under water stress condition. The application of NP increased plant growth and nutrient uptake and further were increased with K application. K application also enhanced plant tolerance to deficit soil moisture condition. In addition, K enhanced nutrient uptake and leaf chlorophyll content. Based on the results, it can be concluded that application of NP for maize was not adequate to achieve the highest plant growth, unless it is combined with K application. In addition, K application enhances plant tolerance to water stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Localized leaching method is a new reclamation leaching technique. Localized leaching method by using drip tapes allows water to be applied directly to the areas of salt accumulation. This study applied localized leaching method on a sandy loam soil in a pistachio orchard in Kerman, Iran to evaluate the impact of three treatments: adding gypsum soil remediation (G), soil remediation with sulfuric acid (SA) andirrigation water (IW) on soil remediation. Three treatments (IW, G and SA) in four repetitions were used to remove soluble salts from the Main Active Root Zone (MARZ) in a pistachio orchard which irrigated by a subsurface irrigation system. The localized leaching method consist of two T-tape pipelines at a distance of 40 cm located on both sides of the tree rows. Soil sampling was carried out before and after leaching from soil unit profiles with 80 cm (Length) × 120 cm (Depth) with 20 cm intervals. Concentrations of sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca) cations, and electrical conductivity (EC) were examined before and after leaching process. Results revealed that application of G-treatment compared to IW-treatment and SA-treatment led to more leaching of Na and Mg from the soil by 61% and 50%, respectively. The amount of leached Ca in both G-treatment and SA-treatments was less than that of IW-treatment. The leaching efficiency of total soluble salts for G, IW and SA treatments were 58%, 56% and 45%, respectively. Gypsum application could be recommended as a soil amendment. In addition, the localized leaching technique offers water-saving potential opposed to traditional leaching methods which applying water to the entire field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering that biochar is highly regarded as a soil conditioner, it is necessary to investigate its environmental effects and effects on soil properties, including clay dispersion. Dispersion of clay in arid and semi-arid regions, in addition to destroying soil resources, causes environmental pollution and increases soil erosion. For this reason, there is a need to overcome this problem with existing solutions. This study aimed to investigate the effect of the application of different levels (0, 1.5, and 3% wt) of cow manure biochar on the amount of spontaneously and mechanically dispersible clay and the mean weight diameter of aggregates (MWD) in two calcareous soils with different textures (clay loam and sandy loam) in periods of 40, 80, and 120 days after application. The results showed that the application of 3% biochar increased the spontaneously dispersible clay by 4.2%, as well as the levels of 1.5% and 3% of biochar increased mechanically dispersible clay compared to that of the control by 4.3% and 30.8%, respectively. The amount of mechanically and spontaneously dispersible clay increased over time. While the effect of soil texture on spontaneously dispersible clay was insignificant, the amount of mechanically dispersible clay in the clay loam soil was 61.2% more than that of the sandy loam soil. Results also indicated that addition of 1.5% and 3% of biochar decreased the MWD of aggregates by 24.2 and 20.6% in the sandy loam and 16.5 and 13.6% in the clay loam soils, respectively. The mentioned decrease in MWD caused an increase in dispersible clay. The results of this research can provide the necessary information regarding the effect of biochar on the amount of clay dispersion to recommend using biochar as a soil conditioner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Flooding and salinization triggered by storm surges threaten the survival of coastal forests. After a storm surge event, soil salinity can increase by evapotranspiration or decrease by rainfall dilution. Here we used a 1D hydrological model to study the combined effect of evapotranspiration and rainfall on coastal vegetated areas. Our results shed light on tree root uptake and salinity infiltration feedback as a function of soil characteristics. As evaporation increases from 0 to 2.5 mm/day, soil salinity reaches 80 ppt in both sandy and clay loam soils in the first 5 cm of soil depth. Transpiration instead involves the root zone located in the first 40 cm of depth, affecting salinization in a complex way. In sandy loam soils, storm surge events homogeneously salinize the root zone, while in clay loam soils salinization is stratified, partially affecting tree roots. Soil salinity stratification combined with low permeability maintain root uptakes in clay loam soils 4/5‐time higher with respect to sandy loam ones. When cumulative rainfall is larger than potential evapotranspiration ETp (ETp/Rainfall ratios lower than 1), dilution promotes fast recovery to pre‐storm soil salinity conditions, especially in sandy loam soils. Field data collected after two storm surge events support the results obtained. Electrical conductivity (a proxy for salinity) increases when the ratio ETp/Rainfall is around 1.76, while recovery occurs when the ratio is around 0.92. In future climate change scenarios with higher temperatures and storm‐surge frequency, coastal vegetation will be compromised, because of soil salinity values much higher than tolerable thresholds. Key Points: Evapotranspiration and rainfall affect post‐storm surge soil salinity in the root zone of coastal forestsIn clay loam soils, post‐storm surge salinity stratification is beneficial for root uptakeTime to recover to pre‐storm soil salinity values depends on evapotranspiration and rainfall ratios and soil properties [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar derived from poultry manure increases nutrient availability and promotes plant growth. This study investigated the effect of biochar with mycorrhizal and/or plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria on soil fertility, chemical properties, oil, and seed yield of Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.) plants. A split-plot design with three replicates was employed, with biochar derived from poultry litter (BC) applied at rates of 0, 5, and 10 t ha−1, with beneficial microbes such as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) affecting the growth of Black Cumin plants, and some soil properties, such as pH, electrical conductivity (EC), soil organic matter (SOM) and fertility index (FI), showing significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) among biochar and/or bio-fertilizer treatments. All biochar treatments with or without bio-fertilizers significantly increased pH, EC, OM and FI in comparison to the control treatment. The results demonstrated that applying biochar at the highest rate (10 t ha−1) increased fresh and dry capsule weights by 94.51% and 63.34%, respectively, compared to the control treatment (C). These values were significantly increased by 53.05 and 18.37%, compared to untreated plants when combined with AMF and PGPR. Furthermore, when biochar was applied in conjunction with both AMF and PGPR, fresh and dry capsule weights saw significant increases of 208.84% and 91.18%, respectively, compared to the untreated control treatment. The interaction between biochar, AMF, and PGPR significantly improved plant growth, yield, soil properties, and the fixed and volatile oil content of Black Cumin. These findings suggest that the combined application of biochar, AMF, and PGPR enhances nutrient availability and uptake, leading to improved growth and higher yields in Black Cumin plants, resulting in increased yield production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine the effect of organic amendments on the dissipation and nitrification inhibition activity of 2-amino 4-chloro 6-methyl pyrimidine (AM), a laboratory study was conducted on a sandy loam soil (Typic Hapludoll) receiving no organic amendments (Control) or application of farmyard manure (FYM) or pine needles biochar (PNB) @ 5 t ha−1. Dissipation of AM was initially faster during the first 7 d, and then it slowed down. Dissipation kinetics of AM conformed to the first-order model (R2 values = 0.973 to 0.981, significant at p ≤ .01). The conventionally estimated time for the dissipation of half the amount of initially detected AM (half-life) was 15.9, 23.6, and 12.1 d for the control, FYM, and PNB treatments, respectively. All treatments receiving AM had numerically lower NO3−–N concentrations compared to no AM but significantly lower NO3−–N concentrations were recorded under, especially the PNB + AM treatment at 15, 30, 45, 60 and 90 d. The higher effectiveness of AM under PNB could be attributed to the sorption of AM in the micro-pores of PNB with slower release. Percent distribution of sorbed AM onto FYM and PNB revealed that desorption of sorbed AM from PNB was comparatively very limited. FTIR spectra revealed that both FYM and PNB strongly retained AM. Application of AM @1 mg kg−1 soil (equivalent to 2.24 kg ha−1) seems to effectively retard the nitrification of urea in soil amended with PNB and help reduce the leaching losses of NO3−–N in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing focus on irrigation management, it is crucial to consider cost-effective alternatives for soil water monitoring, such as multi-point monitoring with low-cost soil moisture sensors. This study assesses the accuracy and functionality of low-cost sensors in a sandy loam (SL) soil amended with biochar at rates of 15.6 and 31.2 tons/ha by calibrating the sensors in the presence of two nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) commercial fertilizers at three salinity levels (non/slightly/moderately) and six soil water contents. Sensors were calibrated across nine SL-soil combinations with biochar and N and K fertilizers, counting for 21 treatments. The best fit for soil water content calibration was obtained using polynomial equations, demonstrating reliability with R 2 values greater than 0.98 for each case. After a second calibration, low-cost soil moisture sensors provide acceptable results concerning previous calibration, especially for non- and slightly saline treatments and at soil moisture levels lower than 0.17 cm3cm−3. The results showed that at low frequencies, biochar and salinity increase the capacitance detected by the sensors, with calibration curves deviating up to 30% from the control sandy loam soil. Due to changes in the physical and chemical properties of soil resulting from biochar amendments and the conductive properties influenced by fertilization practices, it is required to conduct specific and continuous calibrations of soil water content sensor, leading to better agricultural management decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cover crop services depend on biomass production and species composition of the cover crop stand. In this study, we investigated the interactions in shoot biomass of dual cover crop mixtures and their competitiveness to suppress weeds before winter under different growing conditions. Methods: A field experiment was performed on sandy loam soil in Triesdorf, Germany, for two consecutive years. The cover crop species white mustard (Sinapis alba L.), oil radish (Raphanus sativus var. oleiformis L.), phacelia (Phacelia tanacetifolia J.), Egyptian clover (Trifolium alexandrinum L.), common vetch (Vicia sativa L.), field pea (Pisumsativum L.), and field bean (Vicia faba L.) were grown in pure stands or dual mixtures. Cover crops were sown in August, and shoot biomass was harvested at the end of the vegetation period. Cover crop shoot biomass was dried, and the share of each species and the sown test weed (Brassica napus L.) were determined. Results: The share of shoot biomass of a cover crop species in dual-species mixtures was closely related to its shoot biomass in its pure stand. In both years, mustard and phacelia showed similar interactions in shoot biomass production when growing with a second species. Regarding competitiveness against weeds, cruciferous species outperformed other cover crop species and could suppress weeds even if they were mixed with a less competitive partner. Weed suppression of mixtures with phacelia depended on the second component in the mixture and was more effective in a dry season. Legume species, especially Egyptian clover and common vetch could not suppress weeds in a pure stand. Discussion: Our results show that species with high weed suppression potential as single stands retain this ability in dual cover crop mixtures, regardless of the suppression potential of the second species that completes the mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize-based crop systems are promoted in large scale in South Asia because they are more sustainable and efficient than rice-based systems. In the present study, using two combinations of crop residue management practices (CRM) with four precision nitrogen (N) management (PNM) systems, we assessed the impacts on soil physicochemical characteristics [soil organic carbon (SOC), bulk density (BD), soil penetration resistance (PR)] and crop yields in 6 years old continuous zero tillage (ZT) practices under maize-wheat-mungbean cropping system in a sandy loam soil of northwestern India. The highest SOC (5.73 g/kg) was observed in Zero Tillage with Residue Retention (ZT + R) plots. Zero-tillage with residue retention (ZT + R) significantly reduced the bulk density over the zero-tillage with no residue retention (ZT-R) across the soil depth. The bulk density in ZT + R was 6.5 and 10.7% lower at 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm soil depth, respectively, than under ZT-R. The penetration resistance (PR) was significantly lower in ZT + R than in ZT-R across the soil depth. Soil organic carbon (SOC) in ZT + R was 7.4% higher at 0-15 cm depth and 11.9% higher at 15-30 cm depth than under ZT-R treatment. Among PNM treatments, the sequence of treatments in SOC content was 50%N + Green Seeker (GS) >33%N + GS > RDN > 70%N + GS. The system productivity (maize equivalent yield) under ZT + R in combination with 50%BN + GS was 15.0% higher than crops grown under ZT-R with RDN. The wheat equivalent yield under the ZT + R treatment is found to be higher (5.97) in the 50%BN + GS, which was 18% higher than the recommended dose of nitrogen treatment (5.04) and 28% higher than the 70%BN + GS treatment (4.68). Results demonstrated that plots with residue retention performed better, showing a 10% increase in system productivity. The study concludes that a ZT-based system with maize-based crop rotations (MWMb) with crop residue retention and precision nitrogen management can improve soil properties and system productivity in northwestern India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity stress negatively affects the growth and yield of crops worldwide. Onion (Allium cepa L.) is moderately sensitive to salinity. Beneficial microorganisms can potentially confer salinity tolerance. This study investigated the effects of endomycorrhizal fungi (M), Pseudomonas putida (Ps) and their combination (MPs) on onion growth under control (0 ppm), moderate (2000 ppm) and high (4000 ppm) NaCl salinity levels. A pot experiment was conducted with sandy loam soil and onion cultivar Giza 20. Results showed that salinity reduced growth attributes, leaf pigments, biomass and bulb yield while increasing oxidative stress markers. However, individual or combined inoculations significantly increased plant height, bulb diameter and biomass production compared to uninoculated plants under saline conditions. MPs treatment provided the highest stimulation, followed by Pseudomonas and mycorrhizae alone. Overall, dual microbial inoculation showed synergistic interaction, conferring maximum benefits for onion growth, bulbing through integrated physiological and biochemical processes under salinity. Bulb yield showed 3.5, 36 and 83% increase over control at 0, 2000 and 4000 ppm salinity, respectively. In conclusion, combined application of mycorrhizal-Pseudomonas inoculations (MPs) effectively mitigate salinity stress. This approach serves as a promising biotechnology for ensuring sustainable onion productivity under saline conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was carried out in five regions of Bangladesh--Gazipur, Bogura, Jamalpur, Jashore, and Chattogram--utilizing a randomized complete block design and involving 17 genotypes of sweet potatoes. The objective was to evaluate their performance, environmental adaptability, and stability in terms of root yield. The analysis was carried out using fixed and random effects models. The results revealed that BARI Mistialu-12 had the highest storage root yield (45.35 t/ha). Among the locations, Bogura (sandy loam soil) achieved the highest yield, at 37.05 t/ha, followed by Jamalpur (36.15 t/ha). ANOVA showed significant variation in root yield across genotype, environment, and their interaction (GEI). Both the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) effect models and a linear mixed model (LMM) confirmed substantial GEI variance. Considering LMM, 53.58% of the total variation was due to genotypes, with a selection accuracy of 94%, leading to the use of a best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) index for genotype selection. BARI Mistialu-12, BARI Mistialu-16, BARI Mistialu-11, BARI Mistialu-8, BARI Mistialu-2, and BARI Mistialu-13 were identified as high-performing genotypes in the BLUP index. Based on the AMMI stability value (ASV), the first two principal components explained 74.60% of the total GEI variance (20.16%), with BARI Mistialu-14 being the most stable genotype. Additionally, the interaction principal components axis analysis identified Bogura, Jashore, and Chattogram as key testing sites for root yield. The weighted average of absolute scores biplot highlighted BARI Mistialu-16 as the most stable variety. In the megaenvironment analysis, BARI Mistialu-11 and BARI Mistialu-2 excelled in Jamalpur, while BARI Mistialu-12 and BARI Mistialu-16 led in Gazipur, Bogura, and Jashore. Bogura was the best location for production. These findings are crucial for future breeding efforts to expand the sweet potato industry, demonstrating consistent high-yield potential across various agroecological conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Presently, labour force is diminishing and becoming costlier. In agriculture management of weeds in cropped field has become a real challenge to the farmers, since weeds are affecting the crop yields due to competition for growth resources. Intercropping of leguminous crops and application of pre-emergence herbicides offers an ample scope for weed control. Methods: The present study was conducted at University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru during 2016 and 2017 on red sandy loam soil and the experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with factorial concept and replicated thrice. There were 15 treatment combinations involving three intercrops and five weed management treatments. Result: The results revealed that intercropping of maize with cowpea has recorded significantly higher grain yield (5842 kg/ha), stover yield (7035 kg/ha) and total nutrients uptake (99.53, 27.37, 96.95 kg/ha NPK, respectively). Among the chemical weed management practices, pre-emergence application of pendimethalin 30% EC @ 1.50 kg a.i./ha has recorded significantly higher grain (6589 kg/ha), stover yield (8033 kg/ha), maize equivalent yield (8860 kg/ha), total nutrients uptake (112.81, 31.05, 109.88 kg/ha NPK, respectively) and B:C ratio (3.35) compared to other weed management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable use of croplands is facing a challenge to maintain organic carbon (C) in soil. Pyrolyzed coal or coal char (CC) is a porous C material produced from the pyrolysis of coal containing high organic C, large surface area, and low bulk density like biochar (BC). This study evaluates corn (Zea mays L.) grain yield and selected soil properties in soil amended with CC and BC at two rates (22 and 44 Mg ha−1) with farmyard manure (FM) (66 Mg ha−1) and without FM addition. This field experiment was performed in sandy loam soil at the University of Wyoming's Sustainable Agricultural Research and Extension Center (SAREC), Lingle, WY, USA. Two years of field study results indicated CC and BC applied at 22 Mg ha−1 with FM resulted in significantly greater average corn grain yields (13.04–13.57 Mg ha−1) compared to the no char's treatment (11.42 Mg ha−1). Soil organic matter (SOM) content was significantly greater in the higher application rates of CC and BC than in treatments without chars. Overall, soil nitrate nitrogen (NO3-N), phosphorous (P), and potassium (K) were found significantly greater in CC and BC co-applied with FM treatments. Soil water-holding capacity (WHC) significantly improved in sandy loam soil (up to 27.6% more than the no-char treatment) at a greater concentration of char materials. This study suggests that char materials applied at a moderate rate (22 Mg ha−1) with FM can improve soil properties and crop yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterial consortia are an alternative to the indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers that affect the environment, fix atmospheric nitrogen, and can therefore be used as plant growth promoters, synthesize various substances such as auxins, vitamins, and total proteins, and fix atmospheric biofertilizers and soil conditioners. The present study aimed to obtain and develop, by biotechnological means, two consortia of cyanobacteria isolated from the root and rhizosphere of Carica papaya grown in sandy loam soil. The culture was carried out in Blue Green Medium without modified nitrogen (BG110), with aeration of 0.32 L min−1, at a light intensity of 48.83 μEm−2s−1, and a temperature of 22 ± 2 °C. Two consortia consisting of Nostoc commune, Aphanothece minutissima, Planktothrix sp. (C1), Nostoc commune, Calothrix sp., and Aphanothece minutissima (C2) were isolated and morphologically identified. The effective development of these consortia was verified at the laboratory level by obtaining biomass in dry weight as well as photosynthetic pigments, proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. Germination parameters were determined in seeds of Cucumis sativus L. var. Market plus treated with the nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria consortia, obtaining a higher germination percentage (>90%), greater root length (>6 cm), and higher vigour index I (513), II (13.02) for the C2 consortium. This broadens the spectrum of rhizosphere-derived microorganisms with potential as growth biostimulators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing use of antibiotics in livestock poses environmental risks, leading to contamination of agricultural soils and propagation of microbial antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs). This study examined the impacts of wood- and manure-derived biochar (BC) on antibiotic residues, ARGs, and microbial communities in sandy loam and clay loam soils amended with manure in Cynodon dactylon pastures. We hypothesized that BC amendments would influence the degradation of antibiotics and the structure of microbial communities based on their physicochemical properties and soil types. Our results demonstrated that wood BC reduced the concentrations of tetracycline and sulfonamides, particularly in sandy loam soil, due to its larger surface area and hydrophobic properties. In contrast, manure BC provided additional nutrients and supported atmospheric nitrogen-fixing microbial groups, especially in clay loam soil, while exhibiting variable efficiency in reducing antibiotic residues due to its lower surface area and higher ash content. These findings underscore the differential impacts of each BC type, emphasizing the need for tailored BC applications based on soil type to effectively mitigate antibiotic contamination and promote sustainable agricultural practices. In conclusion, wood BC was more effective in enhancing soil health by reducing antibiotic residues and improving microbial diversity, particularly in sandy loam soils, while manure BC was beneficial for nutrient cycling in clay loam soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar is a widely recognized soil amendment used to improve soil physicochemical properties and crop productivity. However, its compositive effects on soil water, fertilizer, and carbon in cropping systems are not extensively understood. A two-year field study was conducted to investigate the influence of integrating maize-residue-derived biochar on evapotranspiration, water and fertilizer utilization efficiency, soil organic carbon (SOC) content, and soil carbon emissions in maize farming, employing drip irrigation in conjunction with film mulching. The treatments included the following three biochar amendments: 15 (B15); 30 (B30); and 45 (B45) t ha−1. Biochar was exclusively incorporated prior to sowing during the initial year of the experiment, and no biochar was used as a control (CK). After two years, the biochar amendments, especially B30, improved crop water productivity and the partial factor productivities of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizer. Relative to CK, the biochar amendments significantly reduced soil CO2 and CH4 emissions during crop growth by 17.6–40.6% and −1.21–268.4%, respectively, averaged across two years. The best treatment effect was achieved by adding 15 t ha−1 of biochar. The biochar needed replenishing in the third year for B30 and in the fourth year for B45 to increase the SOC content by 20 g kg−1. An application rate of 22 metric tons per hectare of biochar is proposed to optimize water and fertilizer utilization efficiency, alongside augmenting the soil organic matter content, within maize farming under drip irrigation and mulching practices on sandy loam soil. However, the biochar must be added at 20 t ha−1 in the third year to counterbalance soil carbon losses and improve SOC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) is a globally significant cereal crop with vital roles in human civilization and the agricultural revolution. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) strategies on vegetative growth and yield parameters such as plant height, spike length, grains per spike, spike m-2, grain yield, biological yield, straw yield leaf area index, harvest index, and soil nutrient availability of wheat genotype PBW 590 (Triticum aestivum). The experiment was set up in randomised block design (RBD) with nine treatments in triplicates using different ratios of NPK, farm yard manure, vermicompost etc. The results indicated significant variations in plant height among the treatments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 and T9) with the maximum (95.1 cm) in T4 (70% recommended dose of fertilizer + 2.5% Azospirillum + 2.5% phosphate solubilizing bacteria + 20% Farm yard manure + 5% Vermicompost), surpassing the recommended dose of fertilizer by 6.17%. Leaf Area Index positively responded to INM treatments, with T4 displaying the highest LAI (4.55), suggesting enhanced photosynthetic efficiency. Harvest Index (HI) indicated resource allocation towards edible yield, with T4 exhibiting the highest HI (50.7%) which was 34% higher than RDF. T4 consistently showed positive effects on the parameters, such as spike length (14.1 cm) and grains per spike (33), demonstrating variations among the treatments. Nutrient availability (N, P, and K) in the soil significantly improved under INM treatments, particularly T4, showcasing the potential for nutrient management in enhancing wheat growth and improving soil health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dinitroanilines group are persistent pesticides and important pollutants of soil and water. Their dissipation is needed to accurately predict the environmental risk entailing its use in different ecosystems. Degradation kinetics is not reported under subtropical conditions thus, kinetics of oryzalin under soybean field conditions at two application rate in texturally different Pantnagar soils were investigated for two cropping years. Oryzalin was extracted with acetone: methanol from soils followed by florisil SPE cleanup and residues were identified by HPLC-UV. Oryzalin persisted for more than 120 days in soils and slowly dissipated with biphasic first order kinetics. Dissipation was faster in sandy loam compared to silty clay loam soil. At 1.5 & 3.0 kg ha−1 initial half-life in silty clay loam and sandy loam soils were 5.892 & 5.675 and 6.015 & 5.770 days, while, in later phase it were 49.500 & 52.105 and 37.459 & 40.290 days, respectively. Recovery in soil, plant straw, seed husk, soybean oil, deoiled cake, and water samples varied from 77.50–88.85%, 79.50–89.25%, 78.05–88.20%, 75.45–83.92%, 77.40–84.75% and 81.75–93.75%, respectively. Minimum detection limit was 0.001 μg mL−1 and quantitation limit for soil, straw, oil, cake, husk and water were 0.007, 0.01, 0.04, 0.05, 0.03 µg g−1 and 0.005 µg mL−1, respectively. At harvest the oryzalin residues were below detection & MRL in all samples. Study revealed that under subtropical conditions oryzalin is safe for weed control in soybean fields and at harvest soybean crop could be used safely for human/animal consumption and would not create any residual/environmental problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depending on the texture of soil, different physicochemical and microbiological parameters are characterized, and these characteristics are influenced by crop cultivation. Stevia, a popular zero-calorie sweetener crop, is widely cultivated around the world on various soil textures. Sandy loam and clay soil show great differences in physicochemical and biological parameters and are often used for Stevia cultivation. To understand the effects of Stevia cultivation on soil physicochemical and biological features, we investigated the changes of physicochemical and microbiological parameters in sandy loam and clay soil following Stevia cultivation. This study was carried out through different physiological and biochemical assays and microbiomic analysis. The results indicated that the sandy loam soil had significantly lower pH and higher nutrient content in the rhizosphere and bulk soils after the Stevia cultivation. The sandy loam soil maintained higher bacterial diversity and richness than the clay soil after Stevia harvest. Beneficial bacteria such as Dongia, SWB02, Chryseolinea, Bryobacter and Devosia were enriched in the sandy loam soil; however, bacteria such as RB41, Haliangium and Ramlibacter, which are unfavorable for nutrient accumulation, predominated in clay soil. Redundancy analysis indicated that the variation in the composition of bacterial community was mainly driven by soil pH, organic matter, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, and microbial biomass phosphorus. This study provides a deeper understanding of physicochemical and microbiological changes in different soil textures after Stevia cultivation and guidance on fertilizer management for Stevia rotational cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mung bean is recognized for its abundant high-quality protein content. For human consumption, it is a high-quality protein source and also serves various purposes crops, its harvested residue is used for green manuring and also used for fodder purposes. The research aimed to assess the impact of foliar micronutrient application on primed mung bean (Vigna radiata). The experimental procedures were executed in the sandy loam soil prevalent in the central plain region of Punjab. The investigation was conducted during the Zaid season 2022, focusing on the (SML-1827) mung bean variety. Specifically, the research assessed the impact of foliar micronutrient applications involving zinc and boron at 15 and 45 days after sowing (DAS) on primed mung bean growth characteristics. The experimental design employed a Randomized Block Design, incorporating 11 distinct treatment combinations, each replicated thrice. The investigation revealed that foliar micronutrient treatment on primed mung bean substantially influenced growth and yield parameters. Growth indicators for mung bean exhibited a positive trend when zinc and boron were jointly applied to primed seeds with gibberellic acid, followed by a decline in the control group, which experienced typical growth conditions devoid of growth regulators and micronutrients. Specifically, the highest recorded plant height was 70.1 cm in the T9 (GA(50 mg.L-1) + ZnSO4 (0.5%) + B (1%)) treatment, while the lowest height was 58 cm in the T0 (control) treatment. Similarly, the most significant fresh weight was observed in T9 (GA (50 mg.L-1) + ZnSO4 (0.5%)+ B (1%)) treatments at 136.8 g, with the lowest weight recorded in T0 (control) treatments at 86.6g. the most significant grain yield was achieved in T9 112 g.m-2, followed by T10 (SA(150 mg.L-1)+ ZnSO4 (0.5%)+B (1%)) at 105.7 g.m-2. This study suggests micronutrients and growth regulators can be sustainable agricultural inputs to enhance soil health and productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Steppe peony (Paeonia tenuifolia L.) is a strictly protected herbaceous species in Serbia, yet its growing conditions, nutrient needs, and heavy metal status are under-researched. This research is vital for conservation, as it supports sustainable cultivation, genetic diversity, and habitat restoration. This study addresses the gap in understanding how climate and soil characteristics affect P. tenuifolia, particularly regarding nutrient availability and heavy metal accumulation. Despite its recognized medicinal value, insufficient data on environmental impacts limit effective conservation and cultivation strategies. Addressing this gap will help determine optimal growth conditions and ensure the species' survival and medicinal use. Data on P. tenuifolia natural habitats in Serbia were collected following the Descriptor List for medicinal plants. Field and laboratory analyses assessed climatic and soil characteristics, as well as macro- and microelement contents and heavy metals in soil and plant organs. In Serbia, P. tenuifolia thrives in a semi-arid steppe climate on light, sandy loam soils with a pH of 6.9–7.4. The soils are rich in humus (4.36–5.76%) and nitrogen (0.34–0.37%), but low in phosphorus (1.16–3.50 mg/100 g) and variable in potassium (12.5–52.4 mg/100 g). Soil microelements are abundant, and harmful heavy metals are below critical levels. Plant organs, including flowers, seeds, leaves, and stems, show high phosphorus and magnesium levels, while potassium, manganese, and copper are generally low. The levels of potentially harmful elements like cadmium and chromium are near the maximum-allowed limits, suggesting avoidance of highly acidic soils for the cultivation of P. tenuifolia. Among the examined soils, Arenic chernozem is recommended for preserving the species' natural resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experimental field study was carried out in the Kharif season of 2023 at the Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.). The experimental replications were conducted using a Randomized Block Design, with three levels of Nitrogen (0, 60, 90kg N/ha) and A zolla spp. (2, 4, 6t/ha), and one Control (NPK 120:60:60 kg/ha). In all, there were a total of ten treatments, each reproduced three times. The tested field had sandy loam soil texture with a neutral soil pH of 7.6, low organic carbon content of 0.372%, nitrogen content of 278.4 kg/ha, phosphorous content of 29.5 kg/ha, and potassium level of 217.3 kg/ha. The experimental results showed that treatment T9 obtained significantly higher plant height (107.77 cm), dry weight (66.05 g), crop growth rate (57.27 g/m²/day), relative growth rate (0.0279 g/g/day), highest number of tillers per hill (22.07), panicles per m² (282), test weight (15.23 g), grain yield (3.67 t/ha), stover yield (6.7 t/ha), and harvest index (35.74%). Transplanted Black Rice of variety BPT-2841 exhibited significantly greater maximum gross return (1,80,551.40 INR/ha), net return (1,05,496.30 INR/ha), and B:C ratio (1.41) in treatment T9. The investigation concludes that Nitrogen, being easily transportable in soil and plants, is a constituent of amino acids, nucleic acids, chlorophyll, enzymes, and hormones. These factors are essential in plant physiology and are associated with increased tillering, biomass production, protein synthesis, grain filling, yield, and quality. The availability, absorption, and utilization of nitrogen have a significant impact on these processes. Therefore, in the present experiment, the nitrogen requirements are met by applying 90kg of nitrogen through urea combined with 6t/ha of A zolla spp. This approach revealed superior performance in terms of both crop yield and economic returns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies across multiple soils find increasing pH decreases water repellency. In this study, water repellency and a range of other soil physical properties of bulk soils, aggregates and intact specimens were measured on a long-term pH field experiment on a single sandy loam soil under a ley-arable crop rotation, with soil pH adjustments occurring annually by adding FeSO4 or CaCO3, to lower or raise the pH, respectively. Crop impacts were investigated by comparing 3rd year grass-white clover to spring oats, at the beginning (May) and end (September) of the growing season to allow soil structure comparisons. As in previous research, increased CO2 microbial respiration (p<0.05) was found with increasing pH along the gradient, but in this study, we found only the aggregate and soil bulk density affected by soil pH. Soil-water contact angles differed between crops (p<0.05), as well as the repellency index of soil aggregates, however, there was no soil pH effect. Overall, differences in data were found to be a result of the various crops in the rotation rather than by soil pH, indicating only minor impacts on soil physical characteristics after > 55 years of chemical additions to amend soil pH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A four-year research experiment was conducted on sandy loam soil at the University of California Kearney Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Parlier, California, to investigate the effect of midsummer deficit irrigation on alfalfa yield, irrigation water productivity (IWP), and crop water productivity (CWP). The experiment was a randomized block design with two treatments: full and deficit irrigations with three replications. Applied irrigation water was measured using flow meters and soil matric potentials were monitored using watermark soil moisture sensors. Actual evapotranspiration (ETa) values were estimated from Tule Technologies stations. The deficit irrigation treatments resulted in 454, 706, 625, and 815 mm of irrigation water savings as compared to the full irrigation treatments in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022, respectively. These values represent 30.3%, 40.9%, 37.0%, and 49.1% of the applied water savings. Alfalfa yield in the deficit treatments was reduced by 3.94, 2.04, 1.25, and 0.40 Mg ha−1 ; the equivalent of 18.1%, 11.1%, 7.1%, and 3.0% of the yield for the full irrigation treatment for the four years: with an average reduction of 10.7%. IWP was higher when deficit irrigation was implemented and resulted in 17.09, 16.11, 15.40, and 15.54 kg ha−1 mm−1 , in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022, respectively. The production function using applied irrigation water (IW, mm) was: Y(yield in Mg ha−1)=0.50×(IW)2−1,633.75×(IW)+1,338,472 and Y=−0.1137×(IW)2+233.55×(IW)−103,036 for the full and deficit irrigation treatments, respectively. CWP was 18.6, 16.4, 14.9, and 12.3 kg ha−1 mm−1 for fully irrigated treatments, and 15.2, 14.9, 14.3, and 12.6 kg ha−1 mm−1 for the deficit irrigation treatments, for 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022, respectively. Results from this work provide growers with viable deficit irrigation practices that could be implemented during drought periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought stress deteriorates agro-ecosystems and poses a significant threat to crop productivity and food security. Soil amended with biochar has been suggested to mitigate water stress, but there is limited knowledge about how biochar affects the physiology and vegetative growth of quinoa plants under soil water deficits. We grew three quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) varieties, Titicaca (V1), Quipu (V2), and UAFQ7 (V3) in sandy loam soil without (B0) and with 2% woodchip biochar (B2) under drought conditions. The drought resulted in significant growth differences between the varieties. V3 performed vegetatively better, producing 46% more leaves, 28% more branches, and 25% more leaf area than the other two varieties. Conversely, V2 displayed significantly higher yield-contributing traits, with 16% increment in panicle length and 50% more subpanicles compared to the other varieties. Woodchip biochar application significantly enhanced the root development (i.e., root biomass, length, surface, and projected area) and plant growth (i.e., plant height, leaf area, and absolute growth rate). Biochar significantly enhanced root growth, especially fresh and dry weights, by 122% and 127%, respectively. However, biochar application may lead to a trade-off between vegetative growth and panicle development under drought stress as shown for V3 grown in soil with woodchip biochar. However, V3B2 produced longer roots and more biomass. Collectively, we suggest exploring the effects of woodchip biochar addition to the soil on the varietal physiological responses such as stomatal regulations and mechanisms behind the increased quinoa yield under water stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aeolian sandy soil and loess soil of the Mu Us Sandy Land are used as the research material in this study to investigate the effect of soil compounding on the improvement of aeolian sandy soil and to provide a feasible approach for sand prevention and sand control. In particular, loess soils were compounded at 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100% by volume percentage of the compounded soils. The improvement benefits of compounded soils on their textural properties, water-holding capacity, and fertilizer-retention capacity at different blending ratios were evaluated. The results showed that following the compounding of aeolian sandy and loess soils, with the increase of the loess proportion, the texture type of the compounded soil transforms from sandy soil to loamy sandy soil to sandy loam to loamy soil to powdery loam. Moreover, granular gradation was observed, the bulk density gradually decreased, the capillary porosity gradually increased, and the performance of water- and fertilizer-holding properties gradually increased and strengthened. The spatial variability of compounded soil bulk density, capillary porosity, and the water-holding and fertilizer-retention properties was almost entirely controlled by the proportion of loess soil. A theoretical basis is provided in this study for aeolian sandy soil improvement in the Mu Us Sandy Land that can be extended to similar areas, providing a feasible sand management approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cattle slurry used as fertilizer in crop production is a mix of feces, urine, water, and bedding material from the housing system. Previous studies have shown that slurry nitrogen (N) availability to crops is dependent onC/Nratio. As the bedding material can contribute a significant part of total slurry carbon (C), its characteristics may affect the C/N ratio of the slurry. There is increasing interest in using the solid fraction from mechanical slurry separation as bedding material, and therefore this study investigated the potential effect of this fraction on slurry N availability, compared with more commonly used bedding materials such as straw and sawdust. Methods: In two parallel 28-day laboratory incubations, net mineral N release and Cmineralization fromslurries applied to sandy loam soil weremeasured. The slurries comprised a liquid fraction (LF) from mechanical cattle slurry separation with a screw-press and different added bedding materials. Liquid fraction was mixed with two types of bedding material, solid slurry fraction (SF) and chopped straw, in different proportions, resulting in C/N ratios of 10, 12, and 14 in the slurry. In additional treatments, two other bedding materials, ground straw and sawdust, with slurry C/N ratio 12, were used. Results: For SF and chopped straw, similar negative linear correlations were seen between slurry C/N ratio and net mineral N release after 28 days. Carbon mineralization, expressed as a percentage of total C added, was higher from the mixture containing SF than that containing straw, while no clear relationship with C/N ratio was found. At slurry C/N ratio 12, net release of mineral N was 28-39% of total N and decreased in the order: sawdust>chopped straw=SF=ground straw. Net C mineralization at the same slurry C/N ratio was 33-46% and decreased in the order: SF=ground straw>chopped straw>sawdust. Discussion: For bedding materials with similar fiber composition (i.e., SF and straw), differences in C availability due to particle size or degree of degradation by microorganisms did not influence slurry N availability measurably. For sawdust, with high lignin content, the results indicate that limited C availability may lead to lower slurry N immobilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Methods Results Conclusion Plant S concentration (Sc) and nitrogen (N) to S ratio (N:S) in canola are important indicators for diagnosing S deficiency. A field study was conducted on sandy and clay loam soils at two sites in eastern Canada for three growing seasons to determine plant critical Sc and N:S ratios across various growth stages (GSs).For each site year, factorial experiments consisting of combinations of four N levels (0, 80, 160, and 240 kg N ha–1) as urea (46–0–0) and four S levels (0, 20, 30, and 40 kg S ha–1) as potassium sulfate (0–0–50–18) were classified orthogonally to form 16 combinations. Muriate of potash (0–0–60) was also applied as needed to ensure all plots receiving the equal amount of potassium (K).Our study found that S fertilization increased plant Sc at each GS but reduced the whole‐plant N:S ratio, and the effect was stronger during the flowering stage. Both whole‐plant Sc and N:S ratios varied with GS, environment, and soil type and declined with plant aging. Our results showed that whole‐plant S analysis combined with visual signs of plant S deficiency (purple‐edged and cup‐shaped leaves with less green; stunted growth, slow blooming, and fewer flowers) appeared to be the best way to identify S problems in the field, and whole‐plant Sc and N:S ratios could confirm S deficiencies.Our findings indicated that if the whole‐plant Sc in the rosette stage is <0.35% and the N:S ratio is >9.6, the plant may be S‐deficient, and timely supplementary S fertilization measures may be beneficial to canola crop yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Knowledge about propagation of rare and endangered plant species is very important for their conservation and sustainable utilization. Therefore, it is imperative to understand different reproductive aspects of such species for their conservation and management. It is in this backdrop different propagation method of Aconitum chasmanthum- a Critically Endangered and Endemic Medicinal plant species has been undertaken. Methods: Seed germination was carried out using different media. For each treatment mean germination time (MGT) was also calculated. Different agro-techniques were also developed in different soil textural classes. The fresh underground tubers of the species were collected from natural population and were split longitudinally into 2, 3 and 4 pieces depending upon the size of the parental tuber containing a portion of shoot apex. The split cuttings were treated with 100 ppm IAA, IBA and GA3 for 48 hours and were sown in sandy loam soils under pots at Herbal Garden. The pots were kept in diffused light to monitor the leafy shoot generation, survival and comparison with the control (untreated cuttings). Result: The present study revealed that seeds of the species remain dormant for a pretty long period and do not germinate in darker conditions. Among various treatments the species showed 90.0±8.66% germination when chilled for 20 days with mean germination time (MGT) of 13.678±1.874 days as against 10.66±1.154% germination of the control. Although the plants grew nicely on various soils, maximum plant survival and vigorous growth was obtained in loamy textured soils. The plants responded to various nutrient treatments and in loamy soil the maximum dry biomass was shown by the plants treated with nitrogen (300 mg/kg soil) and NPK (500 mg/kg soil). The plants treated with NPK (500 mg/kg soil) produced 14.46±2.50 gm dry biomass as against the control of 5.23±0.750 gm per individual. The experimental manipulations also reveal that the species has a potential to propagate through tuber cuttings in sandy loam soils. The cuttings treated with IAA, IBA and GA3 showed 68.75% to 75.0% survival rate as against the 62.5% in control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adsorption and subsequent release of pre-emergence herbicide into the soil solution decides the herbicide availability to kill the weeds. Herbicides applied on clay or organic rich soil type, absorb more results in lowering its availability in soil solution become sub lethal to kill the weeds, whereas sandy soil adsorb less and desorb more, sometime it increases the herbicide concentration to toxic level to crop. Effective weed control could be achieved by studying the variability of soil and deciding the dose based on the sorption and desorption properties of the soil. Methods: With this information on the background a laboratory experiment was conducted at the Department of Agronomy, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, India during 2021 to study the optimum level of oxyflourfen concentration in soil solution required to kill the weeds effectively. The study on sorption and desorption was carried out with pre-emergence herbicide oxyflourfen with five different concentrations in five different soil types. Result: The highest sorption of 98.53 per cent was observed with clayey soils followed by sandy clay loam soils with high organic matter content (96.97 per cent). The lowest sorption (77.96 per cent) was recorded with sandy loam soils. The highest desorption of 57.44 per cent was recorded with sandy loam soil and the lowest desorption percentage (13.18 per cent) was obtained with sandy clay loam soil with higher organic matter. Based on the analytical results of sorption and desorption, oxyflourfen dose was optimized as 0.53 kg ha-1 for sandy clay loam soils with high organic matter, 0.34 kg ha-1 for clay soil, 0.29 kg ha-1 for sandy clay, 0.21 kg ha-1 for sandy clay loam soil and 0.12 kg ha-1 for sandy loam soils. In conclusion, the clay soil required more quantity of oxyflourfen compared to other types of soil for effective management of weeds under irrigated condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The precise application of phosphorus fertilizer is pivotal in determining groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) productivity. The high demand of phosphorus for energy transfer molecules involved in nitrogen fixation makes it essential for leguminous crop. A field experiment was conducted at Perunthalaivar Kamaraj Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Puducherry during 2021 to 2023 to explore the performance of groundnut by employing an optimal combination of microbial culture alongside varying levels of phosphorus. Methods: The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 10 treatments and replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of different doses of phosphorus (@ 20, 40 and 60 kg/ha) with and without seed treatment with DGRC culture. Result: The experiment results of the three years study revealed that a variable response of groundnut to P fertilizer rates and rhizobium inoculant on sandy loam soil in puducherry. P fertilizer rates combined with DGRC inoculant had a significant influence on growth, root nodule, nodule dry weight, pod and kernel yield. From this study, it may concluded that combined application of P fertilizer @ 60 kg/ha and seed treatment of DGRC culture inoculants @ 20 g/kg seed have the potential to increase the productivity and profitability of groundnut. Correlation and Regression analysis also indicated that the yield attributes had a positive impact on groundnut yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The yields realized under rice-wheat rotation are generally low in the geographical regions prone to B deficiency and a sound B application schedule recommendation is required for the sustainable yields and enhanced soil fertility. The effect of different B application schedules involving different dosages and frequency of B application was investigated on yields and B nutrition of rice-wheat rotation and changes in the chemical fractions of B in soil in six years field study carried out on a sandy loam (Typic hapludoll). Based on the average grain yields of rice and wheat during the period of experimentation, application of 1.5 kg B as borax ha−1 to rice crop on alternate years was the profitable practice for mollisols as it gave an average yearly production of 5.51 t of rice grain and 4.28 t of wheat grain ha−1. The average concentration of B in flag leaves and grains of rice was much lower compared to wheat crop. The recommended schedule of B application to rice-wheat rotation resulted in a Benefit: Cost ratio of 11: 1 and also maintained the optimum level of B in soil. Most of the added B markedly increased specifically bound (0.05 M KH2PO4 extractable), ammonium oxalate (pH 3.3) extractable fractions followed by residual and organically bound fraction in the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document discusses innovations and new processes in the olive oil industry. It highlights the implementation of new technologies to improve olive oil extraction and quality, as well as minimize waste. The document covers various topics such as the benefits and drawbacks of using olive mill wastewater in irrigation, the importance of temperature control during olive oil production, the use of natural microtalcs to improve oil extraction yields and quality, and the production of high-value products and bioenergy from olive oil byproducts. It also explores the influence of different factors on the physicochemical parameters and composition of flavoured olive oils, as well as the effect of growing regions and processing methods on the phenolic compound profile in table olives. [Extracted from the article]

The application of straw-degrading microbes (SDMs) with straw returned to the field is an effective measure to improve soil quality, increase yield, and maintain soil microorganisms. However, the utilization of SDMs in winter in north China is limited by the poor effects at low temperatures. This study investigated the effects of a new compound SDM, including a novel low-temperature fungus Pseudogymnoascus sp. SDF-LT, on winter wheat yield, soil improvement, and soil microbial diversity. A 2-year field experiment was conducted in two different soil textures of wheat–maize rotation fields with full corn straw return and application of SDMs at an amount of 67.5  kg hm−2 . After 2  years of continuous application of SDMs, the winter wheat yield increased significantly, reaching 9419.40  kg hm−2 in Ningjin (NJSDM) and 9107.25  kg hm−2 in Mancheng (MCSDM). The soil properties have been significantly improved compared with the single straw return group, especially the sandy loam soil, whose quality is relatively low. The analysis of soil microbial diversity showed that SDMs significantly reduced the Chao1, Shannon, Simpson, and observed species of the sandy loam soil in the MCSDM group. The Simpson and Shannon indexes of fungi diversity in the two experimental sites were significantly increased by SDMs. The negative correlation of fungi increased from 47.1 to 48.85% in the SDM groups. The soil-dominant microbes changed in the SDM groups, in which the interactions between microbes were enhanced. These results suggested that the SDMs changed the the soil microbial community structure and its diversity and complexity, which is beneficial for crop growth. Our study provided sufficient evidence for the utilization of low-temperature SDMs with straw return in cold winter, which plays a role in soil improvement, especially for low-quality soils, to increase crop yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate estimation of infiltration rates is crucial for effective irrigation system design and evaluation by optimizing irrigation scheduling, preventing soil erosion, and enhancing water use efficiency. This study evaluates and compares selected infiltration models for estimating water infiltration rates in the Shillanat-iv irrigation scheme in northern Ethiopia. Soil samples were collected to determine textural classes using hydrometer soil texture analysis and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) textural triangle. The soil textural map of the study was created using the inverse distance weight interpolation technique in ArcGIS version 10.4. Infiltration rates were measured using the double-ring infiltrometer for five soil textures: clay loam, loam, sandy clay loam, clay, and sandy loam. Six infiltration models (Kostiakov, Modified Kostiakov, Revised Modified Kostiakov, Philip, Horton, and Novel) were employed and evaluated using statistical parameters. Model calibration and validation were conducted using data from 38 points within the study area. The parameter values of the infiltration models were optimized using SPSS statistical software using least-squares errors. The results showed that, Revised Modified Kostiakov, Modified Kostiakov, and Novel infiltration models demonstrated superior capability in estimating infiltration rates for clay loam, loam, and sandy loam soil textures, respectively. Horton's model outperformed other models in estimating infiltration rates for both sandy clay loam and clay soil textures. The appropriately fitted infiltration models can be utilized in designing the irrigation system to estimate the infiltration rate of soil textures within the selected irrigation scheme and at similar sites with comparable soil textures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poor agricultural soil management practices and water use optimisation in irrigation are major challenges facing crop production in Senegal. To address these problems, a factorial experiment was conducted in 2021 and 2022 to investigate the effects of biochar on tomato growth and yield in sandy loam soil under different irrigation levels. Treatments included three biochar treatments (B2 = 30 t·ha−1, B1 = 15 t·ha−1, and B0 = 0 t·ha−1) and three irrigation levels (full irrigation, W0 = 8 L·m−2·day−1; medium deficit irrigation, W1 = 6 L·m−2·day−1, which is 75% of W0; and deficit irrigation, W2 = 4 L·m−2·day−1, 50% of W0). The results showed that using biochar at 30 t·ha−1 significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the bulk density of the soil by up to 8.3% under W1. In addition, biochar at 15 t·ha−1 and 30 t·ha−1 enhanced, regardless of the amount of water applied, the growth of tomato plants by at least 14% compared to that in the B0 treatment. Furthermore, the tomatoes' yields in biochar treatments B1 (12.58 t·ha−1) and B2 (12.45 t·ha−1) under W2 were greater than those under B0 (9.27 t·ha−1) under full irrigation. The combinations of biochar and the lowest irrigation water level (W2 and B1 or W2 and B2) can therefore allow a water economy of up to 50% of full irrigation without compromising yield. Our study concluded that biochar could sustainably reduce agricultural water consumption while increasing yields. To further understand the influence of biochar on sandy loam soil, more research is needed on its effects on soil moisture content at permanent wilting points and field capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted in sandy clay loam soils in a subtropical zone of Bihar to evaluate the effect of frequent application of organic amendments on sulphur fractions. Different organic amendments, including farmyard manure (FYM), vermicompost, azotobacter, phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB), panchagawya, and neem cake, were applied through nine treatments that resulted in a significant increase of water-soluble S, available S, heat-soluble S, adsorbed S, and organic S in organic treatment compared to the recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) and control treatment. The maximum increment was observed in the treatment where the recommended dose of nitrogen was replaced by 75% recommended dose of nitrogen substituted farmyard manure + 25% recommended dose of nitrogen (vermicompost) along with azotobacter + PSB + one foliar spray of panchagawya. The total S content varied widely from 382 to 736 mg kg-1. Increment in all the forms of sulphur is observed as a result of the application of different organic nutrient sources. All the forms of sulphur share a mutual positive and significant correlation with each other. Regression analysis suggested that the availability of sulphur was dominated by organic sulphur, which alone can explain 97.8% of the variation in availability of available sulphur in soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity and sodicity greatly influences ongoing physical processes in soils. Organic matter may rehabilitate physical and mechanical properties of soils. Vermicompost as an amendment influences moisture-related parameters including consistency (plastic – PL and liquid limit – LL) and compaction. This study was conducted on soils (sandy-clay-loam) treated with different salinity levels (0.58 (control – irrigation water quality, tap water), 4 and 8 dS m−1) to investigate the effects of different vermicompost doses (0% (control), 2.5% and 5% w/w) on soil consistency limits and compaction. The pot experiment was carried out in a total of 27 pots, i.e. 3 (vermicompost doses) x 3 (salinity levels) x 3 (number of replicates). For Proctor compaction properties, maximum dry bulk density (MDD) reduced and optimum water contents (OWC) increased with increasing vermicompost doses under different salinity levels (p <.01). Increasing vermicompost doses under the lowest salinity level (0.58 dS m−1) yielded increasing optimum water contents for control (LL = 35.93% and PL = 25.85%). Optimum water contents were determined as 42.19% (LL) and 29.93% (PL) for 2.5% vermicompost dose and as 47.33% (LL) and 36.01% (PL) for 5% vermicompost dose under the lowest salinity level. LL, PL, OWC and MDD were significantly affected by vermicompost x salinity interactions. The highest maximum dry bulk density (1.92 g cm3) and the lowest optimum water contents (13.50%) were obtained from 0% vermicompost under the 8 dS m−1 NaCl level. Mean weight diameter (MWD) values ranged from 0.690 mm for 0% VC treatment under high Na salt level (8 dS m−1 NaCl) to 0.821 mm for 5% VC treatment under lowest Na salt level (0.58 dS m−1 NaCl). The correlations between aggregate stability (particle size group 1–2 mm) and optimum water content were 0.647*, 0.587* and 0.598* as compared to correlations of −0.512*, −0.470*, and −0.617** between aggregate stability (particle size group 1–2 mm) and maximum dry bulk density for the 0, 4 and 8 dS m−1 NaCl levels, respectively. MWD was positively correlated with OWC (0.386*) and negatively correlated with MDD (−0.385*). The greatest (2.39%) and the lowest (0.32%) soil organic matter values were respectively observed in 5% VC under the lowest salinity level (0.58 dS m−1) and 0% VC with at high Na salt level (8 dS m−1 NaCl). It was concluded that vermicompost reduced compaction-induced damage in soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change and salt-affected soils detrimentally affect crop production in arid regions. Reclaiming these soils for crops and carbon sequestration can mitigate climate change and enhance food security. A laboratory-scale experiment was conducted on a wheat-maize crop rotation system for three consecutive years to check the effectiveness of organic amendments in reclaiming marginally salt-affected soils, improving soil health, sequestering carbon, and improving food grain production. This study included five treatments namely control (T1), gypsum alone at 100% gypsum requirements (G100), and its combinations with different organic amendments and 50% gypsum requirements (farm manure (FYM+G50), poultry manure (PM+G50), and green manure (GM+G50)) were used. Results indicated that sandy clay loam textured soil showed highest potential for its properties improvement after 45 days, i.e., EC decreased up to 3.9 dS m−1, pH 7.9 and, SOC increase up to 0.25%. After the fallow period, three consecutive years of crop production study indicated up to 39 and 70% increase in wheat and maize yields, respectively, compared to inorganic fertilizer alone. Maximum soil aggregation was noted in treatment with gypsum and farmyard manure application in loam soils (50%). The maximum soil organic carbon accumulation over the whole experiment was recorded in farmyard manure application in combination with gypsum (0.44 g kg−1) in both loam and sandy clay loam soil, while 0.31 g kg−1 in the clay loam soil. Based on the results, it was concluded that reclaiming marginally salt-affected soils enhances food crop production and incorporating manures improves soil through aggregation and carbon sequestration, mitigating climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]