Farming Practices Research Articles

Carbon Footprint of Organic Coffee: Peruvian case study

In Peru, organic agriculture has emerged as a promising avenue for creating prosperity through the production of premium, value-added goods. Among the array of agricultural exports from Peru, organic coffee stands out as a highly significant product, celebrated internationally for its exceptional quality. Thus, there is an opportunity to address this study from the environmental point of view by focusing on greenhouse gas emissions in coffee production and adopting the principles of a circular economy. This approach not only promises to improve farmers' overall performance but also holds the potential to mitigate the environmental repercussions related with their production processes.The aim of this research is to analyze the carbon footprint of organic coffee that is produced by small farmers who are members of a cooperative situated in the northern region of Peru. To achieve this objective, the above-mentioned environmental impact during the production of organic green coffee was calculated using the Life Cycle Assessment methodology. This research also seeks to discern about disparities between the practices of farmers who already possess their organic certification and those currently in the certification process as well as assesses the relative eco-efficiency of these production units. Besides the absence of significant differences between those who have their organic certification and those who apply organic practices in their fields but are in the process of certification, results show that the carbon footprint of 1 kg of green coffee placed in port is estimated at 0.90 kg CO2e.

Practices of Maize Handling and Nixtamalization to Reduce Fungal Toxin Exposure in Rural Guatemala

Fungal toxins in local food supplies are a critical environmental health risk to communities globally. To better characterize hypothesized toxin control points among households, we conducted household surveys across four departments (first administrative division) in Guatemala. Data gathered included maize harvesting, processing, storage, and traditional nixtamalization practices. In total, n=33 households participated in the survey and were from 4 unique departments, 17 unique municipalities, and represented 4 different languages. The results suggested that the majority of households consumed a combination of personally cultivated and purchased maize. There was significant variation in how this maize was stored, in regards to pre-processing (kernel vs whole cob), as well as storage system type. For nixtamalization, the largest differences in practices (e.g., cooking time) were based on household size while the majority of households reported practices that aligned with previously reported best practices. Lastly, all reported maize-based food products produced by households utilized the nixtamalization process except one. Current maize handling and nixtamalization practices reported by a majority of households aligned with best practices, however, with locally tailored and culturally sensitive guidance disseminated by key stakeholders, the prevalence of best practice use among households can be improved. Further community-based research on traditional farming and nixtamalization practices can improve these recommendations.

Assessing impact of organic farming for achieving sustainable agriculture development of Rajasthan: Structure equation remodeling

This study evaluates the impact of organic farming practices on achieving sustainable agriculture development in Rajasthan using Structural Equation Modeling with data from 285 respondents. Employing Smart-PLS for analysis, the research utilizes convenient sampling across three districts in Rajasthan to explore the relationships between key constructs. The study tests several hypotheses to understand how organic farming practices, farmers' perceptions, and attitudes toward organic farming contribute to sustainable agriculture development. Results reveal that organic farming practices and attitudes towards organic farming significantly impact sustainable agriculture development. At the same time, farmers' perceptions contribute positively but to a lesser extent. These findings underscore the importance of adopting organic farming practices and cultivating positive attitudes among farmers to foster sustainable agricultural practices in the region. The study provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to enhance sustainable agriculture in Rajasthan through targeted interventions and support for organic farming initiatives.

A Review on: Rice Disease Prediction

Abstract: Rice disease prediction is an emerging technology that leverages machine learning and image processing techniques to forecast disease outbreaks in rice crops. Early and accurate prediction of diseases like rice blast, bacterial leaf blight, and sheath blight is critical for maintaining crop health, optimizing resource use, and enhancing yield quality. This paper explores the use of high-resolution imaging and data-driven models to identify early signs of disease in rice plants. By analyzing data from multiple sources, including aerial imagery and environmental sensors, these predictive systems enable targeted and timely interventions, reducing the spread of infections and minimizing the use of pesticides. The application of predictive technologies not only aids in sustainable farming practices by lowering environmental impact but also aligns with the goals of precision agriculture to support food security and increase productivity. As agricultural practices continue to evolve, predictive models for rice disease management offer a promising solution for addressing the challenges posed by crop diseases in a changing climate

Biochemical composition of Armenian chili pepper varieties: insights for functional food applications

Background: Capsicum annuum L. (pepper) is economically significant in many countries, including Armenia, where it helps conserve the vegetable gene pool and supports public health. Its rich biochemical composition makes it a key dietary component, particularly for its antioxidant properties, which combat free radicals. The biochemical makeup of peppers vary by genotype and maturity, leading breeders to develop varieties with both agronomic and nutritional benefits. Chili peppers are especially valued for their high carotene and ascorbic acid content, earning them the title of "multi vitamin concentrate," along with other vitamins and bioactive compounds that enhance their health benefits. Objective: This study examines the biochemical profiles of various Armenian chili pepper varieties, highlighting their nutritional value and potential in agricultural systems. By analysing these unique varieties, the research aims to advance knowledge of their health benefits and promote sustainable farming practices. Methods: The study examined six locally bred chili pepper varieties—'Artsiv', 'Punj', 'Kon', 'Deghin kakach', 'Oranj kakach', and 'Kaytsak'. Ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and phenols were measured at both the technical and biological ripening stages using spectrophotometry. Dry matter was determined by the thermogravimetric method, and sugar content by Bertrand’s method. Pungency was assessed using the Scoville heat units’ method, and statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA. Results: The study of six Armenian chili pepper varieties showed differences in fruit shape, color, ripening times, and productivity. 'Deghin kakach', 'Oranj kakach', and 'Kon' produce conical fruits that change to yellow, orange, and red, respectively, while 'Punj', 'Kaytsak', and 'Artsiv' have elongated fruits that ripen red. Early varieties like 'Punj', 'Artsiv', and 'Kaytsak' mature 11–17 days earlier. 'Oranj kakach' was the most productive (19.4 t/ha), while 'Kaytsak' had the lowest yield. 'Artsiv', 'Punj', and 'Kaytsak' were hot, while the others were moderately hot. Carotenoid content rose during ripening, ascorbic acid ranged from 115.0 to 175.6 mg/100 g, with 'Punj' highest, and total phenolics peaked in 'Deghin kakach'. Conclusion: Armenian chili pepper varieties are rich in bioactive compounds—phenols, ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and capsaicin— suitable for functional foods. During ripening, carotenoids increased by up to 583.64%, ascorbic acid by 97.4%, and phenols by 96.43%. ‘Punj’ had the highest ascorbic acid, ‘Oranj kakach’ the most carotenoids, and ‘Deghin kakach’ the most phenols, highlighting the potential of ripening to boost the health benefits of these peppers. Keywords: hot pepper, vitamin C, carotenoids, phenols, phenological stages, productivity

IoT- enabled crop waste mulching machine for sustainable farming: perspective of circular economy

Abstract A large amount of crop waste is generated after crop harvesting. A substantial quantity of waste on the farm is burnt to clear the field, contributing to environmental harm and global warming. The study aims to develop a technological solution for crop waste management (CWM) by designing and developing an IoT-enabled crop waste mulching machine. This initiative addresses the environmental and health issues caused by burning crop waste on farms. The research involves designing and developing an IoT-enabled mulching machine that can be attached to the back side of a tractor. The machine consists of power-transmitting elements, supports, and mechanisms to distribute mulching material evenly onto the plant bed. It incorporates advanced IoT load cell sensors, soil moisture sensors, and proximity sensors to optimize the mulching process based on soil moisture content and to prevent machinery blockages. The IoT-enabled mulching machine effectively manages crop waste by utilizing it in mulch, thus preventing the harmful practice of burning waste. This machine ensures a more efficient, safer, and environmentally friendly approach to mulching, offering significant improvements over traditional manual mulching methods. The novelty of this research lies in integrating IoT technologies within mulching machine. The mulching machine uses sensors to automate and optimize the mulching process, representing a significant technological advancement over conventional methods. The study offers practical benefits by reducing labour requirements, minimizing the risk of injuries, and ensuring a more uniform mulch application. This technology facilitates more sustainable farming practices, aligning with global sustainability goals. The study can potentially revolutionize the agricultural equipment manufacturing industry (AEMI) by shifting the focus toward environmental sustainability. It promotes replacing plastic film mulching machines with more eco-friendly crop waste mulching solutions. This technology has the potential to reduce air pollution, carbon emissions, and mitigate climate. It also enhances soil health through better mulching practices.

The Fact of Anti-Blackness in South African Farms

This article uses the 2020 protest by a group of white farmers in Senekal as an entry point to the continuing anti-Black racist violence in South Africa’s white-owned farms. It argues that the key demand by the white farmers reflected the living violent history of white farmers, particularly as articulated in the country’s farmlands. The article contends that the history of white racial violence that produced the current racial disparities of land ownership in South Africa is, to an extent, kept alive by the ongoing exploitative and racist practices that have become a defining feature of white farming practices in South Africa. These exploitative and racist practices are well documented in the research on post-1994 white farms. As was the case in the past, anti-Black racist violence in contemporary South Africa relies on the narrative that historically constructed Blacks as subhuman and therefore were regarded as deserving of exploitation and unfair treatment. Blacks in this narrative are cast as not worthy of being treated with dignity and hence the dominant theme of this narrative portray Black life as insignificant, meaningless and disposable.

Advancements in Hydroponic Systems: A Comprehensive Review

Hydroponics, the practice of growing plants without soil using mineral nutrient solutions in water, represents a significant shift in agricultural methodologies. Modern hydroponic systems have evolved substantially since the early 20th century, with advancements in system design, automation, nutrient management, and environmental control enhancing efficiency, scalability, and applicability. This review examines recent innovations that have addressed traditional challenges and created new opportunities for hydroponic cultivation. Hydroponics offers advantages over traditional soil-based agriculture, including precise nutrient control, reduced water usage, and the elimination of soil-borne diseases and pests. These benefits are critical in addressing modern agricultural challenges such as soil degradation, water scarcity, and the need for increased food production for a growing global population. Hydroponic systems can be implemented in diverse environments, making them adaptable solutions for enhancing food security and sustainability. Key developments in various hydroponic systems are highlighted, including the Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), Deep Water Culture (DWC), Ebb and Flow, Aeroponics, Wick Systems, and Drip Systems. Innovations in these systems focus on optimizing nutrient delivery, oxygenation, and integrating sensors for precise control, improving overall performance and yield. Technological advancements, such as automation and control systems, sensors, and monitoring technologies, have revolutionized hydroponic farming by enabling real-time data collection and environmental management. The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart farming practices, combined with data analytics and machine learning, has further optimized system performance and decision-making. LED lighting and vertical farming techniques have maximized space utilization and improved crop yields, particularly in urban environments. Advances in nutrient solutions, disease management, and water quality have optimized plant health and resource efficiency. Economic and environmental considerations, including cost-benefit analyses and comparisons with traditional agriculture, highlight the potential for hydroponics to offer better returns on investment and reduce environmental impact. Despite the significant progress, challenges such as high initial setup costs and technical complexities remain. Future research opportunities and interdisciplinary collaborations are essential to address these challenges and drive further innovation in hydroponic farming.

Comparative Analysis of Tillage Practices on Soil Characteristics in Vertisol for Groundnut-based Cropping System

Tillage practices in groundnut-based Vertisol systems is essential for improving soil health and maximizing agricultural productivity. This study investigates the impact of tillage practices and cropping systems on soil physical and chemical properties in the Vertisol region of Karnataka during the 2022-23 Kharif and Rabi seasons. Conducted at the MARS, UAS, Dharwad, the experiment utilized a strip plot design, comparing minimum tillage with crop residue incorporation (M1) and conventional tillage without residue (M2) across four cropping systems. Findings revealed that minimum tillage significantly enhanced soil properties, demonstrating improved porosity (52.14%), maximum water holding capacity (55.97%) and soil aggregate stability (62.42%) while reducing bulk density (1.27 Mg m⁻³) at the surface layer. Among cropping systems, the groundnut + pigeon pea combination showed superior soil characteristics, with porosity at 50.88%, MWHC at 55.05%, and reduced bulk density of 1.31 Mg m⁻³ at 0-15 cm depth. Additionally, minimum tillage led to higher soil organic carbon (7.65 g kg⁻¹) and available NPK levels (315.8 kg ha⁻¹ N, 44.06 kg ha⁻¹ P, 324.53 kg ha⁻¹ K), particularly in the groundnut + pigeon pea system. These findings emphasize the efficacy of conservation agriculture techniques, reinforcing existing research that highlights how minimum tillage and leguminous cropping systems enhance soil health and foster sustainable farming practices. Such results are pivotal for promoting sustainable agricultural development, as they illustrate that implementing these practices can lead to significant improvements in soil vitality, crucial for boosting crop yields and ensuring ecological stability in Karnataka's Vertisol region.

Many Little Hacks: Agroecological Plant Protection through Regenerative Potato Cropping

Abstract Typically potato farming practices are characterized by tight rotations, intensive tillage and fertilization. This leads to soil degradation, increased pest and disease pressure, and use of chemicals, thereby endangering ecosystem health and contaminating water supplies. Agroecological strategies were tested, including the strategic use of cover crops, reduced tillage, and organic fertilization by compost and transferred mulch of green manures. These practices were shown to improve soil structure, increase soil biodiversity, reduce the need for chemical inputs, and enhance crop resilience against pests and diseases. Findings underscore the effectiveness of agroecological management systems in increasing both ecological and economic sustainability in potato farming. The study argues for a change, away from individual measures and solutions and toward an interlocking ecoagricultural system and systemic thinking to reduce or avoid chemical pesticides, high fertilizer input, and tillage. Information © The Authors 2024

Abundance and Diversity of Soil Arthropods in Major Plantation Crops under Different Farming Practices

Abundance and Diversity of Soil Arthropods in Major Plantation Crops under Different Farming Practices

Assessing veterinarians' opinions of antimicrobial stewardship initiative acceptability for farm practice in Wales.

Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) initiatives are imperative to safeguard antimicrobials and reduce resistance. Across the UK, AMS relies in part on the self-regulation of the veterinary profession, particularly in farm animal practice, alongside voluntary schemes and quality assurance systems. In Europe, AMS initiatives are often statutory and require responsibility from several sectors. Consideration of broader AMS initiatives, potentially unfamiliar to the Welsh veterinary profession, could optimise future policy and align it with the requirements of Welsh veterinarians. AMS initiatives were collated from nations with long-standing low antimicrobial use. A survey was constructed permitting veterinarians'evaluation of initiative feasibility and effectiveness (collectively, 'acceptability') within Welsh farm animal practice. Veterinarian-directed AMS initiatives, particularly those implemented within individual practices, were considered most acceptable. Initiatives that demanded cooperation from entities outside practices, or those regarded as punitive, were less acceptable. The findings of this voluntary survey may be biased towards particularly motivated respondents in the veterinary sector. Additionally, the cause or effect of the recorded professional behaviour is not known in this study. Future antimicrobial policy should consider AMS acceptability by veterinarians, alongside farmers and other stakeholders, to promote compliance and attainment. The study data suggest that veterinarians may perceive continuous professional development/knowledge exchange as being most acceptable, alongside activities allied to a strong veterinarian‒client prescribing relationship. Continued support should focus on expanding these areas. Decoupling (ie, abolishing the professional licence for veterinarians to both prescribe and dispense medicines) was viewed as least acceptable by veterinarians in this study.

Human-computer interactions with farm animals—enhancing welfare through precision livestock farming and artificial intelligence

While user-centered design approaches stemming from the human-computer interaction (HCI) field have notably improved the welfare of companion, service, and zoo animals, their application in farm animal settings remains limited. This shortfall has catalyzed the emergence of animal-computer interaction (ACI), a discipline extending technology’s reach to a multispecies user base involving both animals and humans. Despite significant strides in other sectors, the adaptation of HCI and ACI (collectively HACI) to farm animal welfare—particularly for dairy cows, swine, and poultry—lags behind. Our paper explores the potential of HACI within precision livestock farming (PLF) and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance individual animal welfare and address the unique challenges within these settings. It underscores the necessity of transitioning from productivity-focused to animal-centered farming methods, advocating for a paradigm shift that emphasizes welfare as integral to sustainable farming practices. Emphasizing the ‘One Welfare’ approach, this discussion highlights how integrating animal-centered technologies not only benefits farm animal health, productivity, and overall well-being but also aligns with broader societal, environmental, and economic benefits, considering the pressures farmers face. This perspective is based on insights from a one-day workshop held on June 24, 2024, which focused on advancing HACI technologies for farm animal welfare.

Determinants of smallholder wheat farmers’ participation in cluster farming in Lemu-Bilbilo and Hetosa Districts of Arsi Zone, Ethiopia

AbstractDespite devoting significant efforts to develop and implement policies aimed at enhancing the sustainability of its food systems, promoting resilience, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, Ethiopia encounters constraints with these approaches. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify the determinants of smallholder farmers’ participation in wheat cluster farming in the Lemu-Bilbilo and Hetosa Districts of Arsi Zone, Ethiopia. The study utilized cross-sectional data and a multistage sampling procedure to select a total of 381 respondents from the two districts of Arsi Zone, Ethiopia. The study employed a binary probit regression to achieve the research objectives. The study indicates that sex of household head, farm size, household head education level, access to credit, membership in farmer’s cooperative, access to information from government extension, access to information on climate, and farmers climate perception were significant and positively affecting cluster farming participation, whereas distance from the nearest market and off-farm activities participation had a negative relationship with cluster farming participation decision. Cluster farming practices provide a practical means of lessening the effects of stresses related to climate change. Therefore, to increase participation in cluster farming, it is essential to strengthen efforts to raise awareness about climate change and its impacts among farming communities. The study also recommends that institutional and governmental support is essential in the areas of cooperatives, education, extension services, credit availability, climate-related information, and infrastructure development, especially in the area of market accessibility. Furthermore, the issue of gender differences in CF involvement should be addressed by policy and development initiatives.

Part-Time Farming, Agricultural Socialized Services, and Organic Fertilizer Use: Implications for Climate Change Mitigation

The adoption of organic fertilizers is essential for advancing China’s green agricultural transformation, ensuring food security, and supporting agricultural adaptations. However, several challenges hinder its widespread use in rural areas. This study examines how part-time farming and agricultural service provision influences organic fertilizer use, employing fixed and random effects models on data from 523 households in Shaanxi Province, one of China’s main apple-producing regions. The results reveal: (1) Part-time farming reduces organic fertilizer use by 7.6%, primarily due to labor shortages; (2) Higher non-farm income exacerbates this decline, particularly for Type II part-time farmers; and (3) Mechanized fertilization services help mitigate this reduction. These findings offer valuable policy insights for promoting organic fertilizer adoption in the context of shifting rural labor dynamics and highlight the complex interactions between farming practices and labor migration in the broader trajectory of organic fertilizer use. Moreover, this study highlights the role of organic fertilizer use in enhancing food security while also helping to reduce the carbon footprint of the crop sector in China.

Evaluation of the Sustainability Status of Arabica Coffee-based Eco-farming on Sembalun’s Drylands, East Lombok Regency

Aims: This study aims to evaluate the application of eco-farming practices to support the sustainability of Arabica coffee farming in the drylands of Sembalun, East Lombok Regency. Specifically, it aims to: (1) assess the effectiveness of eco-farming in creating a sustainable agricultural system, (2) evaluate the sustainability status of Arabica coffee farming in Sembalun, and (3) identify solutions that enhance the sustainability of Arabica coffee farming and the well-being of local farmers. Study Design: The study follows a mixed-methods design, integrating both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Place and Duration of Study: The research was conducted in the Arabica coffee farming areas of Sembalun, East Lombok Regency, over a period of two months Methodology: Arabica coffee farmers in Sembalun were selected as the primary unit of analysis. Data collection involved direct interviews, field observations, and documentation of farming practices. The gathered data were analyzed using Multiaspect Sustainability Analysis (MSA) with Exsimpro software to assess the sustainability across five dimensions: ecology, economy, sociocultural aspects, institutional factors, and technology. Results: The findings reveal varying levels of sustainability across the evaluated dimensions. The sustainability status of Arabica coffee farming in Sembalun is considered good, with an average score of 64.58, indicating that current farming practices meet sustainability standards. Sustainability solutions for Arabica coffee farming in Sembalun involve a holistic approach, including agroforestry, farmer empowerment through training and cooperatives, product diversification, and support from government and private sectors to balance economic and environmental goals. Conclusion: The study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the sustainability status of Arabica coffee farming in Sembalun, highlighting the role of eco-farming practices in improving ecological balance, economic viability, social welfare, institutional support, and technological advancement in farming. The findings suggest several actionable recommendations for policy enhancements to support long-term sustainability and improve farmer well-being in this region.

Design and Fabrication of Biogas Brooder System Utilizing Chicken Waste for Sustainable Poultry Farming

Sustainable agricultural practices are essential for addressing environmental degradation, resource depletion and energy inefficiency in traditional farming methods. One promising solution is integrating biogas technology with poultry farming, particularly in Nigeria, where poultry farming plays a crucial role in livelihoods and economic growth. This approach uses renewable energy sources, such as chicken manure, to generate biogas for heating poultry brooders, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. The goal of this project is to design and develop an efficient, eco-friendly portable biogas brooder system specifically for poultry farms. The system includes a digester tank to produce biogas from chicken manure, PVC pipes for transporting slurry, a stirrer for mixing and a drainer valve to manage excess liquid. Biogas is transported through a gas pipe to abiogas container for storage, which is then used in a burner to generate heat. The design incorporates seals and gaskets to prevent leaks and utilizes cost-effective materials for construction. The system is estimated to produce enough energy to power the burner for 2 hours daily, demonstrating its potential to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs and promote sustainable practices in poultry farming.

Generative AI in Smart Agriculture: Opportunities and Challenges

This scholarly article delves deeply into the fascinating and multifaceted role that generative artificial intelligence (AI) plays within the expansive field of agriculture, shining a spotlight on its remarkable capacity to transform and elevate the efficiency, sustainability, and overall productivity of farming practices. As it grapples with critical agricultural dilemmas such as accurately predicting crop yields, effectively managing pests, meticulously monitoring soil health, and forecasting climate variations, generative AI models emerge as promising allies in the quest for more sustainable farming methods that can adapt to the ever- evolving challenges. This paper aims to encapsulate the essential applications of generative AI, delineate the significant hurdles it faces, and illuminate the exciting future possibilities that lie ahead for the integration of generative AI into the agricultural sector.

Impact of Cow Urine and Substrate Composition on Germination and Early Growth of Papaya (Carica papaya L.) Seedlings

Aim: This study evaluates the impact of cow urine and substrate composition on the germination and early growth of papaya (Carica papaya L.) seedlings, a critical phase for successful crop establishment. Study Design and Methodology: Conducted as a factorial experiment, it assessed eleven substrate or growing media combinations with and without cow urine treatment. Results: Results reveal that cow urine significantly reduces the time to 90 percent germination (T90) and enhances the germination index, indicating its stimulatory effect on seed metabolic activity. Treatments combining cow urine with substrates like soil, sand, vermiculite, cocopeat, and perlite (T10) showed the shortest T90 and highest germination index, suggesting cow urine accelerates germination. Additionally, cow urine application improved growth metrics such as relative growth rate (RGR) and total biomass accumulation, with T10 and T8 treatments yielding the highest values. Enhanced leaf relative water content (LRWC) and elevated proline levels in cow urine-treated plants indicate better water retention and stress resilience. Strong positive correlations were observed among proline content, RGR, and biomass accumulation, highlighting cow urine’s contribution to vigorous seedling growth and stress adaptation. Conclusion: The findings suggest that cow urine, in combination with optimized substrates, is a sustainable growth enhancer that promotes robust seedling development, suitable for organic farming practices aimed at papaya cultivation.

Exploring Plant–Bacterial Symbiosis for Eco-Friendly Agriculture and Enhanced Resilience

This review explores the intricate relationship between plants and bacterial endophytes, revealing their multifaceted roles in promoting plant growth, resilience, and defense mechanisms. By selectively shaping their microbiome, plants harness diverse endophytic bacterial strains to enhance nutrient absorption, regulate hormones, mitigate damage, and contribute to overall plant health. The review underscores the potential of bacterial endophytes in self-sustaining agricultural systems, offering solutions to reduce reliance on fertilizers and pesticides. Additionally, the review highlights the importance of endophytes in enhancing plant tolerance to various environmental stresses, such as drought, salinity, extreme temperatures, and heavy metal toxicity. The review emphasizes the significance of understanding and harnessing the mutualistic relationship between plants and endophytes for maximizing agricultural yields and promoting sustainable farming practices.