Nutrient Management Strategies Research Articles

Organic Farming vs. Integrated Nutrient Management: A Comparative Review of Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability

In an era where sustainable agriculture is crucial for global food security and environmental preservation, organic farming and Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) have emerged as leading practices. This review paper offers a comprehensive comparison of these two approaches, focusing on their impact on agricultural productivity and sustainability. Organic farming, with its emphasis on reducing the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, growth hormones, and feed additives, aligns closely with the principles of sustainability. It enhances food quality, promotes soil health, and mitigates adverse environmental effects by encouraging natural recovery cycles. However, organic farming's limitations, such as lower yields and a more labour-intensive approach have prompted interest in innovative solutions that blend organic practices with modern technologies. Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) presents a compelling alternative. By combining organic, inorganic, and biological nutrient sources, INM seeks to optimize nutrient use efficiency and maintain soil health. This approach offers a flexible nutrient management strategy, balancing organic and inorganic inputs to maintain crop productivity while reducing environmental impact. Studies have shown that INM can improve soil properties, such as bulk density, porosity, and water-holding capacity, leading to enhanced crop yields and lower greenhouse gas emissions. The paper explores how INM's integrated approach not only stabilizes crop production but also supports the growth of soil microbes, providing a source of energy and organic carbon. By using a combination of specific microorganisms, organic matter, and minimal doses of inorganic fertilizers, INM can achieve a harmonious balance that reduces environmental pollution and ensures long-term soil fertility. Ultimately, this review underscores the potential of combining organic and INM practices to create a sustainable and productive agricultural system. Through a comparative analysis, the paper aims to guide researchers, policymakers, and farmers towards adopting strategies that foster agricultural sustainability without compromising productivity.

Influence of Four Veterinary Antibiotics on Constructed Treatment Wetland Nitrogen Transformation

The use of wetlands as a treatment approach for nitrogen in runoff is a common practice in agroecosystems. However, nitrate is not the sole constituent present in agricultural runoff and other biologically active contaminants have the potential to affect nitrate removal efficiency. In this study, the impacts of the combined effects of four common veterinary antibiotics (chlortetracycline, sulfamethazine, lincomycin, monensin) on nitrate-N treatment efficiency in saturated sediments and wetlands were evaluated in a coupled microcosm/mesocosm scale experiment. Veterinary antibiotics were hypothesized to significantly impact nitrogen speciation (e.g., nitrate and ammonium) and nitrogen uptake and transformation processes (e.g., plant uptake and denitrification) within the wetland ecosystems. To test this hypothesis, the coupled study had three objectives: 1. assess veterinary antibiotic impact on nitrogen cycle processes in wetland sediments using microcosm incubations, 2. measure nitrate-N reduction in water of floating treatment wetland systems over time following the introduction of veterinary antibiotic residues, and 3. identify the fate of veterinary antibiotics in floating treatment wetlands using mesocosms. Microcosms containing added mixtures of the veterinary antibiotics had little to no effect at lower concentrations but stimulated denitrification potential rates at higher concentrations. Based on observed changes in the nitrogen loss in the microcosm experiments, floating treatment wetland mesocosms were enriched with 1000 μg L−1 of the antibiotic mixture. Rates of nitrate-N loss observed in mesocosms with the veterinary antibiotic enrichment were consistent with the microcosm experiments in that denitrification was not inhibited, even at the high dosage. In the mesocosm experiments, average nitrate-N removal rates were not found to be impacted by the veterinary antibiotics. Further, veterinary antibiotics were primarily found in the roots of the floating treatment wetland biomass, accumulating approximately 190 mg m−2 of the antibiotic mixture. These findings provide new insight into the impact that veterinary antibiotic mixtures may have on nutrient management strategies for large-scale agricultural operations and the potential for veterinary antibiotic removal in these wetlands.

Assessment of soil fertility and nutrient management strategies in calcareous soils of Khuzestan province: a case study using the Nutrient Index Value method.

Soil fertility (SF) is a crucial factor that directly impacts the performance and quality of crop production. To investigate the SF status in agricultural lands of winter wheat in Khuzestan province, 811 samples were collected from the soil surface (0-25cm). Eleven soil properties, i.e., electrical conductivity (EC), soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), calcium carbonate equivalent (CCE), available phosphorus (Pav), exchangeable potassium (Kex), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), and soil pH, were measured in the samples. The Nutrient Index Value (NIV) was calculated based on wheat nutritional requirements. The results indicated that 100%, 93%, and 74% of the study areas for CCE, pH, and EC fell into the low, moderate, and moderate to high NIV classes, respectively. Also, 25% of the area is classified as low fertility (NIV < 1.67), 75% falls under medium fertility (1.67 < NIV value < 2.33), and none in high fertility (NIV value > 2.33). Assessment of the mean wheat yield (AWY) and its comparison with NIV showed that the highest yield was in the Ramhormoz region (5200kg.ha-1), while the lowest yield was in the Hendijan region (3000kg.ha-1) with the lowest EC rate in the study area. Elevated levels of salinity and CCE in soils had the most negative impact on irrigated WY, while Pav, TN, and Mn availability showed significant effects on crop production. Therefore, implementing SF management practices is essential for both quantitative and qualitative improvement in irrigated wheat production in Khuzestan province.

Influence of deficit irrigation and nano NK application on root dynamics, physiology and WUE of transplanted rice (Oryza sativa)

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) (June–September, 2022) and winter (rabi) (December 2022–March, 2023) seasons at Agricultural College and Research Institute (Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu), Madurai, Tamil Nadu to study the effect of irrigation methods and nutrient management strategies on the growth of roots, physiological aspects, yield and water use efficiency of transplanted rice (Oryza sativa L.). Experiment was conducted in a split-plot design comprised of 3 irrigation methods, viz. Irrigation at 15 cm depletion of water level in field water tube (M1); Alternate wetting and drying (M2); Conventional flooding (M3) in main plot and 7 nutrient management strategies, viz. Application of 50% N + nano urea as foliar spray (S1); 75% N + nano urea as foliar spray (S2); 50% K + nano potash as foliar spray (S3); 75% K + nano potash as foliar spray (S4); 50 and 75% N and K + nano urea and potash as foliar spray (S5); 100% RDF (S6); and absolute control (S7) in sub plot, replicated thrice. Results indicated that under M1S2, root characteristics like length, volume and dry weight were notably higher. Physiological attributes such as stomatal conductance, transpiration and photosynthetic rate recorded high with M2S5. However, the maximum yield and water use efficiency were observed with M2S5. In conclusion, the treatment combination M2S5 is considered as practical recommendation for farmers in the Periyar Vaigai command area, ensuring optimal yield while economically utilizing water and fertilizers.

Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth, Yield and Quality of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)

A field experiment was conducted at Instructional farm, DCAAS College Rampur, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, during the Rabi season of 2022-2023 to evaluate the performance of potato under different integrated nutrient management (INM) options. The experiment was placed in randomised block design (RBD) with five nutrient management options. Various parameters related to plant growth, tuber formation, and tuber weight and yield were examined across different treatment conditions. The results revealed that T5 (Vermicompost + Urea + FYM + Neemcake), representing an integrated nutrient management approach, consistently exhibited the highest plant weight (23.633cm) at different growth stages (30 DAS, 60 DAS, 90 DAS), indicating a positive effect on plant growth. Additionally, T3 (Urea) displayed superior performance regarding the number of tubers in different weight categories (0-25g, 25-50g, 50-75g, and 75g), suggesting enhanced tuber formation. However, the most significant outcome was the consistent superiority of T5 in terms of tuber weight and yield. T5 consistently produced the highest weight of tubers in all weight categories and achieved the highest tuber yield per plot (9.243q h-1). These findings underscore the positive impact of integrated nutrient management practices on tuber weight and overall crop productivity in potatoes. It is important to note that specific details regarding the nutrient management practices used were not provided, necessitating further research to identify the particular combination and types of nutrients employed in T5. Overall, this study emphasizes the importance of implementing integrated nutrient management strategies to enhance the growth and yield of potato crops, encouraging further investigation into the optimization of plant growth and tuber yield through nutrient management practices.

Inter-cropping patterns and nutrient management effects on maize growth, yield and quality

ContextIntercropping, a sustainable agricultural practice, is pivotal in enhancing land use efficiency, soil fertility, and overall crop productivity. This study zeroes in on the dynamics of Maize-Cowpea intercropping in the Alluvial Zone of West Bengal, a region characterized by its fertile soil and diverse agro-ecological conditions. The practice of intercropping, particularly in regions like West Bengal, holds immense potential in revolutionizing traditional farming methods by maximizing yield per unit area while ensuring sustainability. The study aims to unravel the complexities and benefits of this practice, especially in the context of the monsoon dependent Kharif season, which is crucial for agricultural productivity in the region. ObjectivesThe study aims to evaluate the effects of various Maize-Cowpea intercropping patterns and nutrient management strategies on maize growth, yield, and quality during the Kharif seasons of 2019 and 2020. It hypothesizes that intercropping, combined with optimal nutrient management, can significantly enhance maize performance. MethodsEmploying a split-plot design, the study analysed 25 treatment combinations of intercropping and nitrogen fertilization under sub-tropical sub-humid conditions. Advanced quantitative methods, including regression analysis and principal component analysis (PCA), were used to assess the interactions between intercropping systems and nutrient management practices. ResultsThe findings revealed that while sole maize cultivation showed better growth and yield, Maize-Cowpea intercropping, especially in a 1:1 row ratio, significantly increased the total system yield by 13.6%. This method also improved grain quality, notably enhancing crude protein content and nutrient percentage. A combination of 75% recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) through chemical means with 25% RDN through organic sources, including seaweed, was particularly effective in boosting maize performance. ConclusionsThe study confirms the superior performance of Kharif maize in an intercropping setup, particularly when integrated with cowpea. It demonstrates the effectiveness of specific nutrient management strategies in enhancing both quantitative and qualitative traits of maize. ImplicationsThis research significantly contributes to the field of sustainable agriculture, particularly in the context of field crops research and practice. The findings offer valuable insights for enhancing crop productivity and sustainability in similar agro-ecological regions globally. The study underscores the benefits of integrating legumes with cereals in intercropping systems, paving the way for innovative agricultural practices that can meet the dual challenges of food security and environmental sustainability. The implications of this research are far-reaching, providing a robust framework for future agricultural strategies in regions facing similar climatic and soil conditions.

Optimizing Potassium and Iron Levels for Enhanced Sunflower Yield in Peshawar Valley

Sunflower cultivation is integral to meeting the demand for edible oil seeds, necessitating the optimization of plant nutrient application for optimal crop production. A field trial conducted at the Agronomy Research Farm, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, during the summer of 2022 aimed to assess the impact of varying potassium and iron levels on sunflower yield and yield components. Four levels of potassium (0, 30, 45, and 60 kg ha-1) and four levels of iron (0, 5, 10, 15 kg ha-1) were investigated using a randomized complete block (RCB) design with three replications, maintaining one control plot in each replication. Iron sulfate and Muriate of potash were utilized as sources of iron and potassium, respectively. Results revealed that applying potassium at a rate of 60 kg ha-1 led to maximum head diameter (18.38 cm), thousand-achene weight (47.56 g), biological yield (7476 kg ha-1), and grain yield (2039 kg ha-1) accompanied by taller plants (169.3 cm). Similarly, iron application at a rate of 15 kg ha-1 resulted in increased plant height (159.2 cm), maximum head diameter (18.01 cm), 1000 achene weight (47.8 g), biological yield (7416 kg ha-1), and grain yield (2062 kg ha-1). Notably, the effect of iron on plant height was non-significant. Based on the findings, the application of potassium at 60 kg ha-1 and iron at 15 kg ha-1 is recommended for achieving higher sunflower yields in agro-climatic conditions of Peshawar valley. This study revealed the significance of tailored nutrient management strategies for maximizing sunflower productivity in specific region

Diverse nutrient management strategies for achieving a sustainable energy-food-environment nexus in rice-rice production systems

Diverse nutrient management strategies for achieving a sustainable energy-food-environment nexus in rice-rice production systems

Assessing the impact of nutrient omissions on growth, yield, and nutrient use efficiency in winter rape (Brassica napus L.) under rainfed ecology

Rape (Brassica napus L.) is an essential source of edible oil. The growing demand for rapeseed oil seeks to devise nutrient management strategies to lessen the gap between actual and potential yields. A field experiment was investigated at MRCFC, SKUAST-Kashmir, focusing on the best nutrient management practice for realizing higher yield in Brassica napus, using the nutrient omission plot technique. The yield and yield components of oil seed rape responded significantly to nutrient omissions. Treatments comprising NPKS + FYM, NPKS, NPK, NP, PK, NK, and control with three replications were carried out in randomized block design. Significantly, the highest seed yield of 1250 kg ha−1 was registered with NPKS + FYM, with a yield superiority of 143% over control. In terms of yield attributes, the number of pods plant−1 was the key contributor to yield. Response toward the nutrients followed the order of N > P > S > K. Application of FYM was observed to increase the efficiency of accompanying nutrient particularly for P (6.6%). Combined application of the nutrients leads to improvement in the nutrient efficiency of major nutrients evaluated in terms of agronomic efficiency (AE), physiological efficiency, and apparent nutrient recovery (ANR) efficiency. Based on the outcome of the results, balanced application of chemical fertilizers in combination with FYM seems to be pivotal for harnessing the potential of individual nutrients toward achieving higher yield in Brassica napus.

The Integrated Effect of Organic Manure, Biofertilizer and Inorganic Fertilizer on Soil Properties, Yield and Quality in Sugarcane Plant-ratoon System under Calcareous Soil of Indo-gangetic Plains of India

A field experiment was conducted at the Research Farm of Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Bihar, to devise nutrient management strategies aimed at sustaining soil health, quality and sugarcane production within the sugarcane plant-ratoon system. The experiment evaluated the efficacy of various fertilizers on the solubility of applied inorganic fertilizer during the spring season in calcareous soil. Results from the combined data analysis showed significant variations in the number of millable cane (NMC), cane yield, and sugar yield due to the integrated application of organic and inorganic fertilizers along with bio-fertilizers in both the plant and ratoon crops. Treatments combining organic and inorganic fertilizers with bio-fertilizers demonstrated a noteworthy increase in NMC, cane yield, and sugar yield compared to the control group. The treatment that received 75% NPK of recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) along with Acetobacter, PSB, and Bio-compost at a rate of 7.5 t ha-1 exhibited the highest NMC (103.0 × 103 ha-1), cane yield (85.8 t ha-1), and sugar yield (11.21 t ha-1). Furthermore, the residual effect of the treatment combining organic and inorganic fertilizers with bio-fertilizers showed a pronounced impact on NMC (92.4 × 103 ha-1), yield (79.6 t ha-1), and sugar yield (9.36 t ha-1) in the ratoon crop under treatment T9. Bio-compost notably enhanced the overall performance of sugarcane. Nutrient uptake by both plant and ratoon followed a similar trend as cane yield. Application of RDF alongside various bio-fertilizers significantly enhanced sugarcane productivity compared to the control group. Notably, the efficacy of bio-fertilizers was more pronounced when used in conjunction with inorganic treatments. Treatment with organic inputs through bio-compost resulted in reduced pH and increased electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon, and available nutrients (N,P, and K) in post-harvest soil. Enzymatic activities including glycosidase, urease, acid phosphatase, and dehydrogenase were also recorded.

Genotypic responses to phosphorus and water management in winter wheat: Strategies to increase resource use efficiency and productivity

The phosphorus (P) addition can be helpful in the mitigation of the adverse effects of water deficit stress. However, the efficiency of wheat in utilizing both components has not been assessed in field conditions. This research aims to assess the effects of P and water addition on phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) and water productivity (WP) in field conditions for select wheat cultivars co-adapted to climate-induced agronomic challenges. Three wheat cultivars were selected based on their PUE and water WP from a previous experiment. The trials were conducted in field conditions over two consecutive years, from 2020 to 2021 (Season 1) and 2021–2022 (Season 2). The plants were grown on an andisol with a soil P concentration of 10 mg P kg−1 and 30 mg P kg−1. Two irrigation treatments were imposed: Well-watered (+W) and dryland (-W). The plants were sampled at three stages: tillering (Z25), anthesis (Z65), and ripening (Z95). At the end of the phenological cycle, grain yield components, grain yield, grain quality, PUE, and WP were evaluated. Phosphorus addition promotes plant growth, especially in the early vegetative stages, by enhancing tiller development and nutrient and water uptake. These effects were critical during the anthesis and ripening stages, enhancing yield components and higher grain production. Differential responses were observed across cultivars, underscoring the genotype-specificity in PUE and WP. Seasonal water deficit stress modulated these effects, highlighting a more complex genotype-environment-nutrient interaction. The water addition promoted PUE and WP, suggesting a synergy between the two components. Among the cultivars, Chevignon outperformed in grain yield, PUE, and WP. However, while phosphorus, water, and environmental factors influenced grain quality, the genetic background of the cultivar was the primary determinant of these components. This study advocates for implementing individual nutrient management strategies tailored to the specific cultivar and adaptable to environmental conditions under climate change.

Optimizing pea yield and quality through integrated nutrient management strategy

Optimizing pea yield and quality through integrated nutrient management strategy

Meta-Analysis Assessing Potential of Drone Remote Sensing in Estimating Plant Traits Related to Nitrogen Use Efficiency

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UASs) are increasingly vital in precision agriculture, offering detailed, real-time insights into plant health across multiple spectral domains. However, this technology’s precision in estimating plant traits associated with Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE), and the factors affecting this precision, are not well-documented. This review examines the capabilities of UASs in assessing NUE in crops. Our analysis specifically highlights how different growth stages critically influence NUE and biomass assessments in crops and reveals a significant impact of specific signal processing techniques and sensor types on the accuracy of remote sensing data. Optimized flight parameters and precise sensor calibration are underscored as key for ensuring the reliability and validity of collected data. Additionally, the review delves into how different canopy structures, like planophile and erect leaf orientations, uniquely influence spectral data interpretation. The study also recognizes the untapped potential of image texture features in UAV-based remote sensing for detailed analysis of canopy micro-architecture. Overall, this research not only underscores the transformative impact of UAS technology on agricultural productivity and sustainability but also demonstrates its potential in providing more accurate and comprehensive insights for effective crop health and nutrient management strategies.

From Lab to Bouquet: The Biotechnological Frontier in Modern Floriculture for Sustainable and Resilient Flower Farming

Modern floriculture faces unprecedented challenges in meeting the rising global demand for flowers while addressing environmental concerns and the need for sustainability. This paper explores the transformative role of biotechnology in revolutionizing flower farming practices, offering solutions for sustainable and resilient cultivation. The integration of biotechnological tools such as genetic engineering, tissue culture, and molecular breeding techniques has opened new avenues for enhancing the efficiency and resilience of flower crops. Genetic modification allows the development of varieties with improved traits, such as disease resistance, longer vase life, and enhanced stress tolerance. Tissue culture facilitates the rapid propagation of elite plant material, ensuring consistent and high-quality flower production. Furthermore, molecular breeding enables the precise selection of desirable traits, accelerating the traditional breeding process. The use of molecular markers for disease resistance, flower colour, and fragrance can streamline the development of new flower varieties tailored to market preferences. Additionally, advanced omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomic, and metabolomics, provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying flower development and responses to environmental stress. Biotechnological interventions extend beyond genetic improvements, encompassing sustainable cultivation practices. Precision agriculture, enabled by sensor technologies and data analytics, optimizes resource utilization, minimizing environmental impact. Smart irrigation systems, nutrient management, and pest control strategies contribute to the efficient use of resources and reduced ecological footprint. The biotechnological frontier in modern floriculture not only addresses current challenges but also positions the industry to adapt to future uncertainties. Climate change, emerging pests, and shifting market demands necessitate resilient flower farming systems. Biotechnology offers the tools to develop adaptable flower varieties and sustainable production methods, promoting long-term ecological and economic viability.

An Investigation into the Impacts of Preparatory Tillage and Nutrient Management on Barley Yield and Economic Viability in the Context of Water Stress Conditions

A number of field tests were carried out at the Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology's Soil Conservation and Water Management Farm in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, during the successive rabi seasons of 2020–21 and 2021–22. The gangatic alluvial soil in the study area had a pH of 7.6, which was indicative of its light texture and moderate soil fertility. The study included three different treatments that included preparatory tillage techniques: T1 treatment was one cross plowing with a cultivator; T2 treatment was one disc harrow plowing followed by another cross plowing with a cultivator; and T3 treatment was one disc harrow plowing plus one rotavator pass. The experiment also looked into three different nutrient management strategies: N1, which involved applying 100% of the Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (RDF)—60 kg of N, 30 kg of P2O5, and 30 kg of K2O—through chemical fertilizers; N2, which involved applying 75% of the RDF through chemical fertilizers along with 25% of Farm Yard Manure (FYM); and N3, which applied 50% of the RDF through chemical fertilizers along with 50% of FYM. In addition to applying 50% RDF through chemical fertilizers combined with 50% FYM, the results of the two-year experiment showed that planting barley crops in plots that received one disc harrow plowing and one rotavator pass yielded the maximum values across growth factors, yield attributes (such as grain yield q ha-1, straw yield q ha-1, biological yield q/ha, as well as harvest index), net return, gross return, and the barley benefit-to-cost ratio. This was noted in both years in a consistent manner. The next best results were seen with preparatory tillage, which involved using a cultivator to plough a single cross and applying chemical fertilizers to achieve 100% RDF (N1: 60 kg N ha-1 + 30 kg P2O5ha-1 + 30 kg K2Oha-1).

Response of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium on Nutrient Content and Uptake by Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.)

A two-year field experiment conducted at Rama University's farm in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh during the kharif seasons of 2022 and 2023 aimed to assess the impact of different nutrient management strategies on nutrient uptake. Phosphorus, a crucial nutrient, is deficient in insoluble forms, causing low yields in mungbean. Biofertilizers offer a cost-effective, eco-friendly, and renewable alternative to chemical fertilizers. Inoculating pulse seeds with phosphorus-solubilizing agents boosts phosphorus availability for plant growth, enhancing mungbean productivity in the Central alluvial region of Uttar Pradesh. The study incorporated four varieties—PDM-139, IPM 2-3, Meha, and IPM 2-14—alongside varying levels of nutrient management practices. These practices involved N0 (Control), N1, N2, and N3, each with distinct combinations of nitrogen, phosphorus, zinc sulfate, seed treatment with rhizobium culture, and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB). The experiment followed a factorial randomized block design with three replications. Findings indicated that the application of 20 kg N + 40 kg P2O5 + 25 kg ZnSO4.H2O ha-1, coupled with seed treatment involving rhizobium culture and PSB at 2.5 kg ha-1 in soil, significantly enhanced nutrient uptake in the Central alluvial tract of Uttar Pradesh.

Response of Blackgram Varieties to Various NPK Doses in the Bundelkhand Region, India

Pulses play a pivotal role in contemporary agriculture, influencing food security and climate change mitigation. Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.), with its nutritional richness and adaptability, addresses malnutrition and contributes to soil fertility. This study focuses on enhancing blackgram productivity in Bundelkhand, Uttar Pradesh, addressing challenges through tailored variety selection and balanced nutrient management. The experiment, conducted in 2022, evaluated three varieties (Azad-3, IPU 10-26, IPU 11-2) and three NPK doses (75% RDF, 100% RDF, 125% RDF) to comprehensively analyze growth, yield, and economic parameters of blackgram. Findings revealed that variety IPU 10-26 and NPK dose 100% RDF exhibited superior growth, yield, and economic performance, indicating its competitive and comparative advantage over the other varieties and nutrient management treatments. The study demonstrates that optimal blackgram production in Bundelkhand necessitates location-specific variety choices and a prudent balanced nutrient management strategy that could be exploited for increased productivity of the crop, as exemplified by IPU 10-26 and 100% RDF.

Integrated Nutrient Management Boosts Inflorescence Biomass and Antioxidant Profile of Carlina diae (Asteraceae)—An Endangered Local Endemic Plant of Crete with Medicinal and Ornamental Value

Due to the combined climate and biodiversity crisis, the sustainable utilization of phytogenetic resources stands as a one-way alternative, while nutrient management strategies are gaining an increasing role in agriculture. Building on previous studies regarding the Endangered local endemic of Crete (Greece) Carlina diae (Asteraceae), with medicinal and ornamental value, this investigation focused on its pilot cultivation and fertilization (foliar or soil application). Foliar application comprised inorganic fertilization (conventional) or integrated nutrient management (INM). Soil application consisted of conventional inorganic fertilizers, biostimulants, or INM with biostimulants. Above-ground biomass content of nutrients, leaf chlorophyll fluorescence, and color parameters (SPAD meter, DA meter, Chroma Meter) were estimated. The leaf chlorophyll content, three key antioxidant compounds, and nutrient titers were also determined. The fertilization scheme did not influence plant growth and visually perceived quality (leaf color and shape). Notably, foliar INM fertilization increased biomass partitioning to inflorescences (harvestable organs for either medicinal or ornamental purposes) and decreased tissue water content (facilitating processing). Considering all three antioxidants together, INM with biostimulant appeared the optimum scheme, being associated with the highest (carotenoids, phenolics) or the second highest (flavonoid) content. In C. diae, therefore, INM fertilization was optimal for upgrading yield (foliar) and herbal quality in terms of antioxidant profile (INM with biostimulant), which might be embraced as an eco-friendly approach for high-quality yields.

Climate-smart deficit irrigation and nutrient management strategies to conserve energy, greenhouse gas emissions, and the profitability of fodder maize seed production

The present irrigation and nutrient management practices could stabilize crop yields, but the huge energy consumption and GHG emissions put pressure on environmental quality. Therefore, climate-smart irrigation and nutrient management strategies are essential for sustainable fodder maize seed production systems. To address this research gap, climate-smart irrigation and nutrient management strategies were evaluated to reduce the environmental impact, increase profitability, reach carbon neutrality, and to achieve sustainable development goals such as improving energy productivity (SDG 7) and reductions in CO2 emissions (SDG 13) by 2030 to achieve global climate goals. The results from this study revealed that direct renewable resources were the major contributors to overall carbon (72.37%) and energy (24.77%) consumptions. Moderate irrigation at 50% depletion saved 19.11% energy and 26.11% carbon inputs by conserving water, fossil fuels, and manpower and was found to be more energy efficient (21.5% higher), less energy intensive (42.36 MJ US$−1), and with the lowest carbon footprint (0.34 kg CE kg−1 grain) over full irrigation. The adequate nutrients (Nitrogen 120: Phosphorus 60: Potassium 40 + Zinc 20 kg ha−1) resulted in improved energy use efficiency (6.24), carbon efficiency (16.02), and overall biomass yield (13.29 t ha−1). Therefore, the combination of climate-smart 50% deficit irrigation and adequate nutrients had a higher energy profitability (6.69), carbon output (86 486 kg ha−1), carbon efficiency (18.11), and carbon sustainability index (17.11). In conclusion, fodder maize seed production in semi-arid environments is economical, sustainable, energy efficient, and environmentally beneficial when using climate-smart 50% deficit irrigation and adequate nutrients.

The effects of seasonal wind regimes on the evolution of hypoxia in Chesapeake Bay: Results from a terrestrial-estuarine-ocean biogeochemical modeling system

In this study, a terrestrial-estuarine-ocean biogeochemical modeling system (DLEM-ChesROMS-ECB) was used to investigate the impact of prevailing spring-to-summer winds on hypoxia in Chesapeake Bay. The modeling system was run continuously from 1985 to 2005 under realistic wind conditions. Correlation analysis based on the 21-year simulation results revealed that the durations of spring northeasterly winds and summer southerly winds were both positively correlated with the volume of summer hypoxia. Conversely, the duration of summer northeasterly winds was negatively correlated with hypoxia. We then conducted multiple idealized sensitivity experiments to explore the underlying mechanisms governing these relationships. The results indicated that prolonged northeasterly winds in spring promoted along-channel transport of oxygen-consuming materials from the upper to the lower Bay, leading to a higher level of oxygen consumption via water column respiration (WCR). This may have led to more severe hypoxic events in the following summer. During summer, northeasterly winds increase vertical mixing as the riverine freshwater is mostly restricted to the western bank, thereby preventing the occurrence of hypoxia. Furthermore, strengthened vertical mixing increased light availability, resulting more nutrients taken up by phytoplankton. Consequently, more dissolved oxygen was produced. When comparing the differences in mass budget terms under southerly winds, the oxygen production accounted for approximately 60% of the WCR. In contrast to previous studies that mostly examined the short-term episodic effects of wind, our study underscores the importance of the impact of prolonged seasonally variable winds and biological feedback on hypoxic volume in Chesapeake Bay, which helps in the development of appropriate nutrient management strategies in a changing climate.