Improve Crop Productivity Research Articles

A Study on the Standardization of Smart Farm Communication

Background: Smart farming uses information and communication technology (ICT) to optimize crop and livestock environments. It is applied in greenhouses, vinyl houses, and livestock barns. By collecting data on crop growth and environmental conditions, smart farms create optimal growth environments. This leads to higher productivity and better quality with less labor, energy, and nutrient input than traditional farming methods. In Korea, crop production has declined due to fewer farmers, and over 80% of agricultural products are imported. The low birth rate and aging population are worsening the shortage of agricultural workers. It is predicted that Korea could face a food shortage in three years due to low self-sufficiency. Smart farms are seen as a solution. They can be implemented in urban areas and are considered a profitable model due to their high production potential. Methods: Nutrient machines are a vital part of smart farming. They dilute and supply essential nutrients for crop growth. However, different machines require varying nutrient ratios, which complicates crop management. To address this, a recipe program has been developed. It automatically adjusts nutrient ratios according to the user’s standard settings. This ensures uniform nutrient delivery, regardless of the type of machine used. Result: The recipe program is expected to improve crop production. It ensures consistent nutrient supply, optimizing growth conditions. It also enhances user convenience by standardizing nutrient management across different machines, reducing complexity in crop cultivation.

Trends in the Application of Phosphate-Solubilizing Microbes as Biofertilizers: Implications for Soil Improvement

The application of phosphate-solubilizing microbes (PSMs) as biofertilizers in agricultural systems has not satisfactorily solved the problem of reducing our reliance on chemical phosphorus (P) fertilizers. Ongoing efforts are continually trying to translate promising laboratory results to successful deployment under field conditions, which are typically met with failure. In this review, we summarize the state-of-the-art research on PSMs and their role in the terrestrial P cycle, including previously overlooked molecular and cellular mechanisms underpinning phosphate solubilization. PSMs capable of transforming either organic or complexed inorganic P compounds are discussed. By providing environmentally secure and environmentally friendly ways to increase the accessibility of phosphate, these bacteria effectively transform insoluble phosphate molecules into forms that plants can utilize, encouraging crop growth and increasing nutrient usage effectiveness. The use of PSMs in agriculture sustainably improves crop productivity and has enormous potential for tackling issues with global food security, reducing environmental damage, and promoting sustainable and resilient agricultural systems. Furthermore, due to resource shortages, the changing global climate and need to reduce environmental risks associated with the overuse of chemical phosphate fertilizer, PSMs have the potential to be sustainable biofertilizer alternatives in the agricultural sector. Phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms constitute a cutting-edge field in agriculture and environmental science. In addition, this paper elaborates on the groups and diversity of microbes hitherto identified in phosphate solubilization. Also, factors that had hitherto hindered the reproducibility of lab results in field settings are succinctly highlighted. Furthermore, this paper outlines some biofertilizer formulations and current techniques of inoculation according to the test crop/strain. Finally, laboratory, greenhouse, and field results are presented to acquaint us with the current status of the use of PSM-based biofertilizers.

Improvement of Citrus Yield Prediction Using UAV Multispectral Images and the CPSO Algorithm

Achieving timely and non-destructive assessments of crop yields is a key challenge in the agricultural field, as it is important for optimizing field management measures and improving crop productivity. To accurately and quickly predict citrus yield, this study obtained multispectral images of citrus fruit maturity through an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and extracted multispectral vegetation indices (VIs) and texture features (T) from the images as feature variables. Extreme gradient boosting (XGB), random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), gaussian process regression (GPR), and multiple stepwise regression (MSR) models were used to construct citrus fruit number and quality prediction models. The results show that, for fruit number prediction, the XGB model performed best under the combined input of VIs and T, with an R2 = 0.792 and an RMSE = 462 fruits. However, for fruit quality prediction, the RF model performed best when only the VIs were used, with an R2 = 0.787 and an RMSE = 20.0 kg. Although the model accuracy was acceptable, the number of input feature variables used was large. To further improve the model prediction performance, we explored a method that utilizes a hybrid coding particle swarm optimization algorithm (CPSO) coupled with XGB and SVM models. The coupled models had a significant improvement in predicting the number and quality of citrus fruits, especially the model of CPSO coupled with XGB (CPSO-XGB). The CPSO-XGB model had fewer input features and higher accuracy, with an R2 > 0.85. Finally, the Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) method was used to reveal the importance of the normalized difference chlorophyll index (NDCI) and the red band mean feature (MEA_R) when constructing the prediction model. The results of this study provide an application reference and a theoretical basis for the research on UAV remote sensing in relation to citrus yield.

A Review on Conservation Agriculture: Challenges, Opportunities and Pathways to Sustainable Farming

A cutting-edge kind of sustainable agriculture, conservation agriculture (CA) involves reducing tillage, maintaining constant soil cover, using a variety of cropping techniques, and effectively utilizing the resources at hand. For instance, CA in India has made impressive strides in the past 20 years, particularly in the Indo-Gangetic plain's rice-wheat rotation. There are many disadvantages that limit the use of CA, despite its many benefits, which include cost savings, improved crop production, water and nutrient conservation, and environmental advantages. Numerous issues include the lack of appropriate seeders for small and medium-sized farmers, agricultural leftovers that compete with livestock feed for CA, burning of these residues, which destroys soil organic matter, a lack of labor, and a general bias in favor of traditional tillage. Therefore, in order to effectively promote CA, we advise immediate policy development and planning. CA reduces soil erosion, preserves SOM, suppresses weeds, conserves soil moisture, avoids compaction, promotes good soil structure, and improves biological processes and biodiversity both above- and below-ground. This article looks at the new problems that are coming from traditional farming practices, as well as the constraints, opportunities, regulations, and areas that need more study in order to expand conservation agriculture in India. This emphasizes that for conservation agriculture to be successfully implemented, governments, researchers, farmers, and other groups must collaborate. Therefore, we have the ability to get past these obstacles and reap the rewards of this kind of farming.

Salt stress-accelerated proteasomal degradation of LBD11 suppresses ROS-mediated meristem development and root growth in Arabidopsis.

Roots absorb water and nutrients from the soil, support the plant's aboveground organs, and detect environmental changes, making them crucial targets for improving crop productivity. Roots are particularly sensitive to soil salinity, a major abiotic stress that poses a serious threat to global agriculture. In response to salt stress, plants suppress root meristem size, thus reducing root growth; however, the mechanisms underlying this growth restriction remain unclear. Here, we explore the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in this process, reveal that LATERAL ORGAN BOUNDARIES DOMAIN 11 (LBD11) plays a central role in the ROS-mediated regulation of meristem size and the salt stress-induced inhibition of root growth. Under normal conditions, LBD11 governs the expression of key ROS metabolic genes, maintaining ROS homeostasis within root developmental zones to control meristem size and overall root growth. Upon sensing salt stress, LBD11 undergoes rapid proteasome-mediated degradation, leading to decreased O2•- distribution, which in turn curtails the meristem size and limits root length. Our findings shed light on an unexplored plant adaptation strategy, where the growth-promoting LBD11/ROS pathway is downregulated to finely regulate root growth under challenging conditions, and suggest a principle for developing crops with heightened resilience and increased yields in salt-affected environments.

Portable Self-Powered/Colorimetric Dual-Mode Sensing Platform Based on Multifunctional Bioconjugates for Precise On-Site Detection of Acetamiprid.

Neonicotinoid insecticides have been widely applied in modern agriculture to improve crop productivity, but their residues have adverse impacts on the environment and human health. Hence, to address these issues, a portable self-powered/colorimetric dual-mode sensing platform was developed for the simple, rapid, precise, and sensitive on-site detection of acetamiprid (ATM) residues in vegetables. In this case, a multifunctional bioconjugate with specific recognition capability, excellent enzyme-like activity, and loading capacity is the key to the sensing design. Using an Eppendorf (EP) tube as a miniaturized laboratory, the bioconjugates and the colorimetric test strip were integrated into the EP tube, and combined with a nanozyme-based self-powered sensing platform (with an area of 1.5 × 1.5 cm2), accurate on-site detection of ATM was achieved, with detection limits as low as 2.9 fg·mL-1 (self-powered method) and 31.5 fg·mL-1 (colorimetry), respectively. Notably, we simulated the actual insecticidal situation based on the field application concentration and quantified the pesticide residues in vegetables. The relative errors of our method and the standard high-performance liquid chromatography method were 0.15% (the self-powered method) and 1.8% (colorimetry), respectively. The portable dual-mode sensing platform with high sensitivity and accuracy opened up a new avenue for the development of on-site pesticide residue analysis in the next generation of agricultural products.

Intelligent Precision Farming with an Eco-Conscious Smart Irrigation System

India’s agricultural sector plays a pivotal role in supporting the livelihoods of over half of the country’s population. However, with the rapidly growing demand for food, this sector is under immense pressure to ensure sustainability while enhancing productivity. Agriculture accounts for 83% of the nation’s water consumption, yet a significant portion of this water is wasted due to outdated and inefficient irrigation practices. This research introduces an advanced smart irrigation system utilizing Internet of Things (IoT) technology to enhance irrigation efficiency and ensure optimal water utilization. This system is designed around the Node MCU microcontroller and integrates advanced sensors, including soil moisture, temperature, and humidity sensors, to enable real-time monitoring and automated decision-making. This approach integrates advanced technology with sustainable methods, promoting water conservation while improving crop productivity and establishing a standard for contemporary agricultural practices.

Rhizobacterial Inoculation to Enhance Growth and Productivity of Fenugreek

The use of rhizobacterial inoculants represents a promising strategy to improve crop productivity and sustainability. This study investigates the impact of four different rhizobacterial strains on the growth and productivity of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum). Conducted under field conditions, the experiment followed a randomized complete block design with four replications. The treatments included inoculation with individual strains as well as a control with no inoculation. Key growth parameters, such as germination rate, plant height, biomass, nodulation, and seed yield, were systematically recorded. The results demonstrated significant enhancements in fenugreek growth and yield in response to rhizobacterial inoculation compared to the control. Strain F1 showed the highest increase in germination rate and plant height, while Strain F2 resulted in the maximum biomass accumulation. Strain F3 significantly improved nodulation and overall root development, contributing to better nutrient uptake. Strain F4 produced the highest seed yield, indicating its potential in enhancing fenugreek productivity. All inoculated treatments exhibited improved soil health indicators, such as increased microbial activity and nutrient availability, compared to the control. The combined analysis revealed that the use of these rhizobacterial strains not only promoted plant growth but also contributed to sustainable agricultural practices by enhancing soil fertility. This study underscores the potential of specific rhizobacterial strains in boosting fenugreek production and provides a foundation for the development of effective microbial inoculants. Further research on the synergistic effects of these strains and their application methods could optimize their benefits, offering a viable solution for enhancing crop yield and soil health in legume cultivation.

Comparative Efficacy of Coated Diammonium Phosphate Formulations for Improving Crop Productivity and Nutrient Uptake in Maize

Comparative Efficacy of Coated Diammonium Phosphate Formulations for Improving Crop Productivity and Nutrient Uptake in Maize

Synergistic role of rootstock and grafting in boosting growth, yield, and quality of cucumber cultivation

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is a widely grown and highly valued cucurbitaceous vegetable crop, commanding premium prices in the vegetable market. However, intensive cultivation and monocropping practices have led to significant challenges in cucumber production, particularly in greenhouses, due to root-knot nematode and soil-borne diseases. Grafting has emerged as an alternative approach to boost abiotic stress tolerance and mitigate root diseases caused by soil-borne pathogens, thereby improving crop productivity. A study was conducted during 2023-2024 on the farmer’s field to explore the interactive effects of various grafting techniques by grafting a hybrid cucumber scion onto various local rootstocks. The experiment evaluated the performance of the hybrid cucumber scion Emistar, grafted onto four rootstocks: fig-leaf gourd (Cucurbita ficifolia), pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo), ash gourd (Benincasa hispida), and bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria). Two grafting techniques-hole insertion and splice grafting, were tested using different scion-rootstock combinations. The study evaluated growth, yield, and fruit quality under controlled environmental conditions. The results indicated that the pumpkin rootstock outperformed the other rootstocks, particularly when grafted using the hole insertion techniques. This combination achieved the earliest flowering (26.33 days), longest plant growth (455.77 cm), and highest fruit yield (8.07 kg). In contrast, splice grafting on bottle gourd resulted in slower growth and lower yields. Additionally, hole insertion grafting on pumpkin produced superior fruit characteristics, including the longest fruits (16.43 cm), largest diameter (9.1cm), highest fruit weight (147.24 g), and the highest TSS content (2.85ºBrix). Correlation and principal component analysis (PCA) highlighted strong positive relationships between yield and growth traits, emphasizing the superiority of the pumpkin rootstock for cucumber grafting. The study showed vigorous rootstocks like pumpkin can significantly enhance cucumber growth and yield through improved nutrient uptake, hormone translocation, and optimized grafting techniques.

Farmers’ perceptions of the practices, benefits and challenges of on-farm tree planting in Akure, Nigeria

On-farm tree planting is recommended to enhance agricultural productivity while promoting ecological conservation and providing socio-economic benefits. However, limited studies distinguish this practice from other agroforestry methods, particularly in evaluating its adoption, benefits, and constraints. This study assessed farmers’ perceptions of on-farm tree planting in Akure, Nigeria, through a survey of 100 respondents across four communities. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires and field observations and were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-squared test, and the logit model. Findings revealed that 57% of respondents were male, 62% were self-employed, and 42% had over 25 years of farming experience. Most farmers acquired land through purchase (36%) or inheritance (24%), with 86% practising on-farm tree planting. Timber species dominated, with fewer fruit trees, deviating from common reports. Farmers were primarily motivated by direct benefits such as timber (27%), improved crop productivity (25%), shade, building materials, firewood, fruits, and medicinal uses. Ecosystem services like soil protection, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration also motivated farmers. However, around 60% of farmers noted that tree planting negatively affected farming activities, limiting the practice's broader adoption. Other major challenges were inadequate technical support, lack of credit, limited knowledge, land tenure issues, and tree interactions with crops and animals. Adoption of tree planting was significantly associated with farmers’ age, education level, household size, employment status, land ownership, farming experience, and perceptions. Age, education, and employment status were the most influential factors. Addressing these challenges and enhancing the perceived benefits are crucial for wider adoption and upscaling of on-farm tree planting.

Proteomics, Metabolomics and Docking Analyses Provide Insights into Adaptation Strategies ofStaphylococcus warneri CPD1 to Osmotic Stress and Its Influence on Wheat Growth.

Staphylococcus warneri is a gram-positive mesophilic bacterium, resilient to extreme environmental conditions. To unravel its Osmotic Tolerance Response (OTR), we conducted proteomic and metabolomic analyses under drought (PEG) and salt (NaCl) stresses. Our findings revealed 1340 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) across all treatments. Interestingly, majority of these DEPs were part of common pathways activated by S. warneri. CPD1 in response to osmotic stress. Notably, the bacterial isolate exhibited increased expression of lysophospholipases associated with biofilm formation and protection from environmental stresses, transglycosylases involved in peptidoglycan biosynthesis, and acetoin reductase linked to acetoin metabolism. The upregulation of global ion transporters, including ABC transporters, potassium ion transport, and glutamate transport, indicated the bacterium's ability to maintain ionic balance under stress conditions. Protein-protein docking analysis revealed highest interactions with thioredoxin and alpha-acetolactate decarboxylase, highlighting their crucial roles in the mechanisms of osmotic stress tolerance in S. warneri CPD1. Metabolomic results demonstrated significant alterations in fatty acids and amino acids. In the greenhouse experiment, the bacterial isolate significantly enhanced wheat biomass, nutrient content, photosynthesis, and proline levels under stress conditions, making it a promising bacterial inoculant and biostimulant for improving crop productivity in challenging environments.

Exploring root system architecture and its importance in solanaceous vegetables: A review

The root system architecture (RSA) in solanaceous vegetables has become an exciting area of research, uncovering complex networks essential for plant development, nutrient absorption, and resistance. This review delves into the comprehensive scope of research surrounding roots, shedding light on their dynamic nature and implications for agricultural practices. The Solanaceae family comprises of various vegetables, including tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and eggplants, each with distinct root systems. Innovative methodologies have uncovered the complex and adaptive nature of these root systems. Roots of solanaceous vegetables have plasticity, reflecting their capacity to adjust to soil conditions, nutrient availability, and stressors. From the taproot structures in potatoes to the fibrous nature of tomato roots, this review synthesizes findings to elucidate the mechanisms behind root development and responses to environmental stimuli. Furthermore, the symbiotic associations between solanaceous crop roots and soil microorganisms have attracted significant interest. Understanding the intricate interactions between root exudates, microbial communities, and nutrient cycling opens avenues for sustainable agriculture, emphasizing the role of root architecture in fostering beneficial soil ecosystems. The implications of many research studies on RSA extend beyond academic interest and play a role in improving crop productivity. Understanding root system architecture enables breeders and agronomists to create cultivars with superior root characteristics, hence enhancing crop output, water-use efficiency, and resilience to abiotic challenges. Nonetheless, certain gaps persist, requiring additional investigation. A deeper investigation into the molecular mechanisms governing root development in solanaceous vegetables, particularly under changing climate scenarios is important for future research.

Biochar and Humic Substances Roles for Nitrogen Transformation in Agriculture

Sustainable soil fertility management is crucial for global food security and addressing environmental challenges from modern agriculture. Soil health, alongside water availability, is essential for crop productivity, and soil degradation threatens food security by lowering yields and intensifying climate change. Nitrogen (N) cycling is central to soil fertility, supporting plant growth through nutrient replenishment and microbial activity. However, N is often lost through leaching, volatilization, and denitrification, reducing nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and contributing to water pollution and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Optimizing nitrogen retention in soils is vital for improving productivity and minimizing environmental harm. Biochar (BC) and humic substances (HSs) have emerged as effective strategies for improving N management. BC enhances soil fertility by increasing soil pH, cation exchange capacity, and water retention, while reducing nutrient leaching and promoting carbon sequestration. HSs, including humic acids (HA), fulvic acids (FA) and humin (HU), improve nutrient cycling by stimulating microbial activity and enhancing nutrient transport. Together, BC and HSs provide synergistic benefits for soil health, particularly in challenging environments like saline or nutrient-depleted soils. This review highlights the roles of BC and HSs in enhancing soil fertility, promoting N mineralization, and improving crop productivity. It emphasizes their potential for sustainable agricultural practices, climate change mitigation, and long-term soil health. Keywords: Biochar, Climate changes, Humic substances, Remediation, Soil fertility.

Powering a molecular delivery system by harvesting energy from the leaf motion in wind

Smart agriculture tools as well as advanced studies on agrochemicals and plant biostimulants aim to improve crop productivity and more efficient use of resources without sacrificing sustainability. Recently, multiple advanced sensors for agricultural applications have been developed, however much less advancement is reported in the field of precise delivery of agriculture chemicals. The organic electronic ion pump (OEIP) enables electrophoretically-controlled delivery of ionic molecules in the plant tissue, however it needs external power-supplies complicating its application in the field. Here, we demonstrate that an OEIP can be powered by wind-driven leaf motion through contact electrification between a natural leaf and an artificial leaf. This plant-hybrid triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) directly charges the OEIP, enabling proton delivery into a pH indicator solution, which triggers visible color changes as a proof-of-concept. The successful delivery of up to 44 nmol of protons was revealed by pH measurements after 17 h autonomous operation in air flow moving the plant and artificial leaves. Several control tests indicated that the proton delivery was powered uniquely by the charges generated during leaf fluttering. The OEIP-TENG combination opens the potential for targeted and self-powered long-term delivery of relevant chemicals in plants, with the possibility of enhancing growth and resistance to abiotic stressors.

AgriPV system with climate, water and light spectrum control for safe, healthier and improved crop production

The PV4Plants project aims to optimise the synergy between agriculture and photovoltaic (agriPV) systems to improve crop yield, land use efficiency, and renewable energy generation. Using cutting-edge nanoparticles coated between PV panels to optimise light transmission, the system tailors conditions for specific crops and climatic regions. Demonstrations in Türkiye, Spain, and Denmark test the adaptability and effectiveness of these systems, to evaluate improvements in crop health and renewable energy output. Central to the project are efforts to increase recyclability and promote farmer engagement through innovative financing models and policy recommendations.

The role of spirulina in food security: Nutritional and ecological implications in the context of climate change

Abstract In the context of a changing climate and the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, microalgae, particularly spirulina, are emerging as a versatile and sustainable solution to ensure food security, serving as an alternative protein source for human consumption. Spirulina can absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, grows rapidly, does not require arable land, is cultivated year-round, and is rich in protein as well as other macro- and micronutrients. Spirulina stands out not only for its resilience and adaptability to a range of environmental conditions – including variations in light, temperature, pH, and salinity – but also for its low water requirements, making it a promising option for regions with limited water resources. It can address food security challenges by providing nutritional benefits as a dietary supplement and enhancing animal feed quality. Additionally, it supports sustainable agriculture as a biostimulant, improving crop productivity and soil health while reducing reliance on chemical inputs. Its potential as a raw material across various industries and the exploration of new applications make spirulina an attractive candidate for future research, which should focus on enhanced profitability and large-scale accessibility.

Field Application of Mycorrhizal Inoculant Influences Growth, Nutrition, and Physiological Parameters of Corn Plants and Affects Soil Microbiological Attributes

Mycorrhizal inoculants can contribute to the development of corn crops by improving crop productivity. In this sense, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a mycorrhizal inoculant on the dynamics of root system growth, gas exchange, corn crop productivity, and microbial activity in the rhizospheric soil in a no-till area with different levels of available soil phosphorus. The experiment was conducted during the 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 growing seasons. At 75 days after plant emergence, root morphological parameters (total root length (cm), average root diameter (mm), root surface area (cm2), and root volume), shoot biomass production, P content in the plant shoots, gas exchange, and microbiological attributes of the rhizospheric soil of corn were evaluated. At the end of the cycle, corn grain yield was determined. A beneficial effect of AMF inoculation was observed on the root and shoot parameters regardless of soil P level. Under conditions of evenly distributed rainfall during the experiment (2019/2020 season), AMF inoculation contributed to a 90% increase in acid phosphatase activity and a 76% increase in microbial biomass carbon (C-BIO), independent of soil P level. In contrast, under water deficit conditions (2020/2021 season), AMF inoculation provided a 29% increase in grain yield. We concluded that introducing a commercial mycorrhizal inoculant in corn benefits root system morphological parameters and physiological traits, and favors the activity of enzymes related to increased P availability, contributing to increased crop productivity in a no-till system.

Impact of Low-dose Herbicides on Weed Dynamics and Nutrient Removal by weeds in Transplanted Rice

The objective of this study is to find out the effect of low-dose herbicides on growth and yield in transplanted rice. A field experiment was conducted during the Kuruvai season (June – September 2023) at Experimental Farm, Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with nine treatments and three replications. The treatments consisted of T1 - unweeded control, T2 - Twice hand weeding @ 20 and 40 DAT, T3 - PE application of Pretilachlor 50% EC @ 0.75 kg ha-1 on 3 DAT alone, T4 - PE application of Pretilachlor 50% EC @ 0.75 kg ha-1 on 3 DAT alone + One hand weeding at 30 DAT, T5 - PE application of Metsulfuron-methyl 10% + Chlorimuron-ethyl 10% WP @ 20 g ha-1 on 3 DAT alone, T6 - PE application of Metsulfuron-methyl 10% + Chlorimuron-ethyl 10% WP @ 20 g ha-1 on 3 DAT + One hand weeding at 30 DAT, T7 - PoE application of Fenoxaprop-p-ethyl 6.9% EC @ 60 g ha-1 on 21 DAT alone, T8 - PE application of Pretilachlor 50% EC @ 0.75 kg ha-1 on 3 DAT + PoE application of Fenoxaprop-p-ethyl 6.9% EC @ 60 g ha-1 on 21 DAT, T9 - PE application of Metsulfuron-methyl 10% + Chlorimuron-ethyl 10% WP @ 20 g ha-1 on 3 DAT + PoE application of Fenoxaprop-p-ethyl 6.9% EC @ 60 g ha-1 on 21 DAT. Among these treatments, it is observed that the pre-emergence application of Metsulfuron-methyl 10% + Chlorimuron-ethyl 10% WP @ 20 g ha-1 on 3 DAT + Post-emergence application of Fenoxaprop-p-ethyl 6.9% EC @ 60 g ha-1 on 21 DAT (T9) had effectively decreased total weed count, weed dry matter production and nutrient removal by weeds. This led to an improvement in crop development and production.

Enhancing Soil Health and Tea Plant Quality Through Integrated Organic and Chemical Fertilization Strategies

As the global demand for high-quality tea increases, adopting sustainable agricultural practices is crucial to maintaining environmental health and improving crop productivity. Employing organic fertilizers has the potential to boost agricultural output and improve soil health, as well as curb the spread of pests and diseases. The purpose of this survey was to determine the impact of a range of organic fertilizer mixtures on both tea plants and rhizosphere soil characteristics in tea plantations. This study investigated the response of Jin Guanyin tea (Camellia sinensis L.) plants to various organic fertilizer ratios: 2/3 chemical fertilizer + 1/3 organic fertilizer (JTC), 1/2 chemical fertilizer + 1/2 organic fertilizer (JHOC), 1/3 chemical fertilizer + 2/3 organic fertilizer (JTO), and organic fertilizer only (JOF), with chemical fertilizer alone (JCF) as the control. The experiment was conducted in Xingcun Town, Wuyishan, Fujian Province, China, on 13 October 2021. Key metrics measured included tea plant growth indicators, soil physicochemical properties, enzyme activities, and microbial functional diversity. Results show that JTC and JTO produce the largest leaf area and bud weight, significantly surpassing those in JCF. JCF demonstrated the longest new tip length and highest bud density, while JHOC achieved the highest chlorophyll content, significantly exceeding JCF. Soil analysis revealed that total nitrogen, available nitrogen, organic matter, and pH were highest in JOF, significantly overtaking JCF. Conversely, total phosphorus, available potassium, and available phosphorus levels were highest in JCF. JHOC also had the highest total potassium content compared to JCF. Soil enzyme activity assessments showed that polyphenol oxidase and urease activities peaked in JTC, significantly exceeding those in JCF. JHOC exhibited the highest acid phosphatase activity, while JTO exhibited the highest protease activity. Catalase activity was highest in JOF, both significantly surpassing JCF. Microbial functional diversity analysis indicated that combined organic fertilization improved soil microorganisms’ utilization of carbon sources, significantly enhancing the Shannon diversity index and evenness. Key carbon sources identified included α-cyclodextrin, D-galacturonic acid, and 4-hydroxy benzoic acid. Overall, JHOC emerged as the optimal fertilization strategy, yielding superior growth indicators, enhanced soil physicochemical properties, increased enzyme activity, and improved microbial functional diversity compared to JCF. This study has important value for guiding the rational application of fertilizers in tea gardens, improving the soil environment of tea gardens, enhancing the quality of tea leaves, and achieving sustainable tea production.