3 - An agronomic overview of US cereal cropping systems

Abstract

Major cereal crops namely rice (Oryza sativa L.), maize (Zea mays, L.), wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), oats (Avena sativa L.), and sorghum (Sorghum bicolor, L.) are important agronomic crops for food security. The United States is one of the largest cereal exporters in the world. Cereal crops are produced in nearly every part of the United States; they are the largest US crops in terms of value and harvested area. Cereal productions have varying differences in yields and cropping practices of regional climatic differences. This chapter provides an overview of US cereal production and highlights major differences in production practices that impact environmental sustainability. Cereal cropping is characterized by broadcast seeding or seeding in a row or seedbed on a moist to wet soil and fertilized based on plant's nutrient requirements, soil test results, and climatic conditions. Nitrogen is a critical nutrient for maximum grain yields and slight deficiencies could cause a yield penalty. Methane is largely emitted from flooded rice fields and contributes to the increase in greenhouse gas emission. This review provides information necessary to develop research goals toward addressing yield gaps and efficient crop management practices.