Journal Description
Agronomy
Agronomy
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on agronomy and agroecology published monthly online by MDPI. The Spanish Society of Plant Physiology (SEFV) is affiliated with Agronomy and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubAg, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Agronomy) / CiteScore - Q1 (Agronomy and Crop Science)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 15.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.4 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journals for Agronomy include: Seeds, Agrochemicals, Grasses and Crops.
Impact Factor:
3.7 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.0 (2022)
Latest Articles
Energy Compensation for Crop Growth under Plastic Mulching: Theories, Models, and Limitations
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 1005; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14051005 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Plastic film mulching (PM) is a useful agronomic means to adapt to the environmental conditions of dryland agriculture and improve crop production. To improve the theoretical framework of PM technology, this study focuses on the interaction between the soil temperature change caused by
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Plastic film mulching (PM) is a useful agronomic means to adapt to the environmental conditions of dryland agriculture and improve crop production. To improve the theoretical framework of PM technology, this study focuses on the interaction between the soil temperature change caused by PM and crop growth. The definition, action mechanism, and simulation of the compensatory effect of PM on growing degree days are introduced to reveal the effect of soil temperature under PM on crop development and growth. Our summary shows that the strength of the warming effect changes with the growth and development of crops, strengthening during the early stage of crop growth and gradually weakening as a crop canopy develops. Generally, the warming effect has a good promotion effect on crop growth, but the crop growth is hampered even with a yield reduction when the increased soil temperature caused by PM exceeds the tolerant temperature for plant growth. Moreover, the compensatory effect of PM could be used to quantify the growth and development of crops under PM and has been widely applied to cotton, corn, winter wheat, and rice. The compensation coefficient is larger in the early stage of crop growth than in the later stage. The compensation coefficient has certain differences for the same crop because of the influence of climate factors, soil moisture content, and soil microtopography. In future research, the theoretical integration of the safety period of PM and the time threshold of the compensatory effect could be theoretically interpreted, and the construction of the compensatory effect module in the crop models will also be an important issue.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Mulching on Crop Production and Farmland Environment)
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Effect of Mineral Fertilization and Seed Inoculation with Microbial Preparation on Seed and Protein Yield of Pea (Pisum sativum L.)
by
Liudmyla Yeremko, Volodymyr Hanhur and Mariola Staniak
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 1004; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14051004 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the effects of different NPK rates and N application methods and seed inoculation with a microbial preparation on selected elements of plant growth and the productivity parameters seed yield, protein content in seeds and the
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The aim of this study was to determine the effects of different NPK rates and N application methods and seed inoculation with a microbial preparation on selected elements of plant growth and the productivity parameters seed yield, protein content in seeds and the yield of protein. The research hypothesis suggested that seed inoculation and a split rate of N application with an optimal supply of plants with PK could improve the nutritional status and increase the efficiency of nutrient use in peas. The studies included two factors: the application of NPK at doses of N0P0K0 (control), N15P15K15 (pre-sowing), N15P30K30 + N15 (pre-sowing + N15 at BBCH 22–23), N30P30K30 (pre-sowing), N30P45K45 + N15 (pre-sowing + N15 at BBCH 22–23) and N45P45K45 (pre-sowing), and seed inoculation with the microbial preparation Rhizogumin. The results of the study showed significant effects of seed inoculation and mineral fertilization on pea plant growth and the productivity parameters seed yield, protein content and protein yield. It was concluded that among the studied combinations, seed inoculation and the application of mineral fertilizers with fractional nitrogen fertilization with N30P45K45 + N15 were the most effective. This combination significantly increased seed yield, protein content and protein yield compared to the control treatment (by 26.2%, 11.1% and 43,5%, respectively).
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Soil and Plant Nutrition)
Open AccessReview
The Use of Spectroscopic Methods to Study Organic Matter in Virgin and Arable Soils: A Scoping Review
by
Evgeny Lodygin and Evgeny Abakumov
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 1003; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14051003 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The use of modern spectroscopic methods of analysis, which provide extensive information on the chemical nature of substances, significantly expands our understanding of the molecular composition and properties of soil organic matter (SOM) and its transformation and stabilization processes in various ecosystems and
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The use of modern spectroscopic methods of analysis, which provide extensive information on the chemical nature of substances, significantly expands our understanding of the molecular composition and properties of soil organic matter (SOM) and its transformation and stabilization processes in various ecosystems and geochemical conditions. The aim of this review is to identify and analyze studies related to the application of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy techniques to study the molecular composition and transformation of organic matter in virgin and arable soils. This article is mainly based on three research questions: (1) Which NMR spectroscopy techniques are used to study SOM, and what are their disadvantages and advantages? (2) How is the NMR spectroscopy technique used to study the molecular structure of different pools of SOM? (3) How is ESR spectroscopy used in SOM chemistry, and what are its advantages and limitations? Relevant studies published between 1996 and 2024 were searched in four databases: eLIBRARY, MDPI, ScienceDirect and Springer. We excluded non-English-language articles, review articles, non-peer-reviewed articles and other non-article publications, as well as publications that were not available according to the search protocols. Exclusion criteria for articles were studies that used NMR and EPR techniques to study non-SOM and where these techniques were not the primary methods. Our scoping review found that both solid-state and solution-state NMR spectroscopy are commonly used to study the structure of soil organic matter (SOM). Solution-phase NMR is particularly useful for studying soluble SOM components of a low molecular weight, whereas solid-phase NMR offers advantages such as higher 13C atom concentration for stronger signals and faster analysis time. However, solution-phase NMR has limitations including sample insolubility, potential signal aggregation and reduced sensitivity and resolution. Solid-state NMR is better at detecting non-protonated carbon atoms and identifying heterogeneous regions within structures. EPR spectroscopy, on the other hand, offers significant advantages in experimental biochemistry due to its high sensitivity and ability to provide detailed information about substances containing free radicals (FRs), aiding in the assessment of their reactivity and transformations. Understanding the FR structure in biopolymers can help to study the formation and transformation of SOM. The integration of two- and three-dimensional NMR spectroscopy with other analytical methods, such as chromatography, mass spectrometry, etc., provides a more comprehensive approach to deciphering the complex composition of SOM than one-dimensional techniques alone.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Humic Substances: Chemistry and Multidimensional Role in Agricultural Systems and Pollution Management)
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Open AccessArticle
Mapping the Land Use Changes in Cultivation Areas of Maize and Soybean from 2006 to 2017 in the North West and Free State Provinces, South Africa
by
Siphokazi Ngcinela, Abbyssinia Mushunje, Amon Taruvinga, Shelton Charles Mutengwa and Samuel Tlou Masehela
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 1002; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14051002 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Land use practices face significant pressure due to increased demand and conflicting needs. Several factors contribute to this trend, such as the ever-increasing human population, the increased demand for food production, and the expansion of industrial and agricultural areas. This paper, focused on
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Land use practices face significant pressure due to increased demand and conflicting needs. Several factors contribute to this trend, such as the ever-increasing human population, the increased demand for food production, and the expansion of industrial and agricultural areas. This paper, focused on the cultivation patterns and investigating changes in land use of maize and soybean over time (i.e., both genetically modified and non-genetically modified) in two South African provinces. The objective was to determine whether there was a net increase or decrease in land cover age for these two crops between 2006 and 2017 in the selected study areas. Hence, the study utilized ArcGIS (10.8.1) software to quantify and map the land used for the cultivation of maize and soybean from 2006 to 2017 in Free State and North West provinces. The results show both provinces to have minimal expansion or change in cultivation areas for both maize and soybean between 2006 and 2017. We concluded that both maize and soybean cultivation areas in these provinces, did not expand beyond the current agricultural areas (space), and did not encroach onto new land areas. As a result, both maize and soybean do not currently pose a threat to the surrounding landscape (i.e., natural vegetation) and are not in direct competition with other neighboring land use practices. We recommend that data on the annual planting or cultivation area be consistently gathered, analyzed, and mapped to monitor any alterations that could influence the current findings. This will also assist with any land use planning and management practices.
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(This article belongs to the Section Farming Sustainability)
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Open AccessArticle
From Residue to Resource: A Physicochemical and Microbiological Analysis of Soil Microbial Communities through Film Mulch-Enhanced Rice Straw Return Strategies
by
Xinyue Wang, Jie Huang, Lili Yang, Yuanhuan Li, Bing Xia, Hailin Li and Xiaohua Deng
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 1001; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14051001 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Promoting rice straw in situ return is an important strategy for improving soil quality. From 2018 to 2021, we investigated the effects of rice straw return with microbial agents and film covering technology on soil physical and chemical properties at different layer depths,
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Promoting rice straw in situ return is an important strategy for improving soil quality. From 2018 to 2021, we investigated the effects of rice straw return with microbial agents and film covering technology on soil physical and chemical properties at different layer depths, as well as the soil microbial community structure, in Hunan, southern China. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of microbial agents (T1), film mulch covering (T2), and the application of microbial agents combined with film mulch (T3) on the soil physicochemical properties and microbial community after rice straw in situ return. The results show that, after three years of continuous treatment, T3 significantly increased the soil temperature by 17.76–22.97%, T2 significantly increased the water content by 34.27–46.23%, and T1 and T3 significantly increased the soil pH. The addition of microbial agents combined with film mulch resulted in a notable increase in both the number of OTUs and the Chao1 index of soil microorganisms. Additionally, the model of promoting rice straw in situ return (the application of a microbial agent combined with film mulch) was shown to promote the growth of beneficial soil microorganisms. RDA was used for the investigation, and the findings showed that soil microorganisms were significantly influenced by the TOC content, pH, and water content. These findings provide evidence of an effective method for accelerating the decomposition of late rice straw and guiding soil improvement in tobacco–rice rotation regions.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effect of Agricultural Management Practices on Soil Microbial Community Composition, Diversity and Function)
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Open AccessArticle
Influence of Genotype × Environment Interaction on Yield Stability of Maize Hybrids with AMMI Model and GGE Biplot
by
Chenyu Ma, Chaorui Liu and Zhilan Ye
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 1000; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14051000 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Maize yields perform differently in different environments, so the selection of suitable genotypes in diverse environments is essential for variety selection to enable better site-specific planting. Hence, the objective of the study was to estimate the productivity of 11 maize hybrids (G) in
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Maize yields perform differently in different environments, so the selection of suitable genotypes in diverse environments is essential for variety selection to enable better site-specific planting. Hence, the objective of the study was to estimate the productivity of 11 maize hybrids (G) in 10 different environments (E) and select high-yield and stable varieties for adaptive cultivation in 2022 and 2023. The combined analysis of variance showed that G (4%), E (50%), and their interaction (31%) had a significant effect (p < 0.01) on maize yield, with E factors contributing the most. In addition, the average yield ranged from 9398 kg/ha to 10,574 kg/ha, and ZF-2208 and DY-519 performed relatively well in both years. The AMMI model showed that the varieties DY-213, DY-605, and DY-519 had high and stable production in 2022, whereas it was ZF-2209 and LX-24 in 2023. The “W-W-W” biplot showed that DY-519 and JG-18 were the optimal varieties in 2022, and ZF-2208 and ZF-2210 were optimal in 2023. The “mean vs. stability” biplot indicated that JG-18, DY-605, and DY-213 (in 2022) and ZF-2208, LX-24, and ZF-2209 (in 2023) were the optimal varieties. Additionally, both the discrimination and representative biplot and the ranking biplot reflected that BinChuan and ShiDian (in 2022) and GengMa and YongSheng (in 2023) were the ideal test environments. In conclusion, DY-519, DY-605, ZF-2208, and LX-24 hybrids could be used for variety promotion. Moreover, BinChuan, ShiDian, GengMa, and YongSheng were the ideal test environments for selecting varieties. Therefore, the AMMI model and GGE biplot can be used to complement each other for a comprehensive evaluation of maize yield. In this way, excellent maize hybrids with high yield and stability can be selected, which could promote the selection and popularization of varieties and shorten the breeding process.
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(This article belongs to the Section Crop Breeding and Genetics)
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Open AccessArticle
Characterization of Betalain Content and Antioxidant Activity Variation Dynamics in Table Beets (Beta vulgaris L.) with Differently Colored Roots
by
Diana V. Sokolova, Natalia A. Shvachko, Aleksandra S. Mikhailova, Vitaliy S. Popov, Alla E. Solovyeva and Elena K. Khlestkina
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 999; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050999 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Antioxidant properties, betalain profiles and biochemical composition were studied in table beets with maroon and yellow root colors. Features of dynamic changes during the growing season were described. Significant differences in antioxidant activity were found in table beet accessions with differently colored roots.
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Antioxidant properties, betalain profiles and biochemical composition were studied in table beets with maroon and yellow root colors. Features of dynamic changes during the growing season were described. Significant differences in antioxidant activity were found in table beet accessions with differently colored roots. Negative dynamics of antioxidant activity were observed in all accessions. Statistically significant differences were registered among the accessions in the total amounts of phenolic compounds, chlorophylls, and betalains. The group of maroon accessions demonstrated strong positive correlations between their antioxidant activity and total phenolics (r = 0.91), antioxidant activity and betacyanins (r = 0.80), and between betacyanins and phenolics (r = 0.90). The antioxidant activity in the accessions with yellow roots was associated with chlorophyll b (r = 0.85), ascorbic acid (r = 0.83), and total phenolics (r = 0.83). The data are presented on the structure of betalains in two table beet groups contrasting in their root color. The results of the study made it possible to identify key components in the biochemical profile of differently colored beetroots, associated with their high antioxidant activity. Dynamic changes were shown for the antioxidant activity and fractional composition of betalains in table beet during its growing season, and a conclusion was made concerning the higher nutritional value of maroon cultivars.
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(This article belongs to the Section Crop Breeding and Genetics)
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Open AccessArticle
Performance of Aubergine Rootstocks against Verticillium dahliae Isolates in Southeastern Spain
by
Carmen María Lacasa, Manuel Cantó-Tejero, Victoriano Martínez, Alfredo Lacasa and Pedro Guirao
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 998; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050998 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Aubergine (Solanum melongena L.) (Solanaceae) is a widespread crop in the Mediterranean basin. Verticillium dahliae is one of the main soil-borne pathogens affecting the aubergine crop. Its control has traditionally been achieved by soil fumigation with chemical disinfectants. Restrictions on the use
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Aubergine (Solanum melongena L.) (Solanaceae) is a widespread crop in the Mediterranean basin. Verticillium dahliae is one of the main soil-borne pathogens affecting the aubergine crop. Its control has traditionally been achieved by soil fumigation with chemical disinfectants. Restrictions on the use of chemical fumigants have led to the search for solutions in genetic resistance using rootstocks. In southeastern Spain, aubergines are grafted for the control of V. dahliae. Two Solanum torvum rootstocks (Hugo F1 and Torpedo) and a Solanum melongena hybrid (Javah F1) were tested against five isolates of V. dahliae obtained from grafted (A1 and A2) and ungrafted (Vd8, Vd17 and Vd66) aubergines compared with the susceptible cultivar Larne F1 under controlled conditions. Isolates from grafted plants infected all three rootstocks, with differences observed in the percentage of plants with symptoms and in the disease symptom severity. Three strains isolated from the ungrafted aubergines (Vd8, Vd17 and Vd66) infected Javah F1 rootstock. The Hugo F1 and Torpedo rootstocks showed a high level of resistance to V. dahliae, while Javah F1 was susceptible to the pathogen. The Hugo F1 and Torpedo rootstocks are suitable for mitigating the effects of Verticillium wilt in Mediterranean aubergine crops. Understanding the nature of the resistance from S. torvum could enhance the benefits of grafting or facilitate the introduction of resistance into commercial cultivars.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Agronomy, Soil Health and Climate Change: Challenges and Solutions)
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Open AccessBrief Report
Evaluation of Anti-Inflammatory Activity in Methanolic Seed Extracts of International Sorghum bicolor L. Resources
by
Da Ye Ham, Ji Won Seo, Hong Ju Choi, Jiu Park, Na Young Kim, Myong Jo Kim, Chang Yeon Yu and Eun Soo Seong
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 997; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050997 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Sorghum is an important cereal with high value as a health food ingredient because it contains various phenolic compounds. Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed using 12 sorghum resources collected from various countries to explore their potential as medicinal resources. The findings revealed that, at
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Sorghum is an important cereal with high value as a health food ingredient because it contains various phenolic compounds. Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed using 12 sorghum resources collected from various countries to explore their potential as medicinal resources. The findings revealed that, at extract concentrations of 25 µg/mL and 50 µg/mL, cell survival rates were observed to be between 70 and 80% for most varieties, with the exception of K159081. In the analysis of anti-inflammatory activity, measured by the rate of nitric oxide (NO) production, sorghum varieties K159041 and K159081 exhibited NO production rates of 0.46 ± 0.38% and 2.58 ± 0.20%, respectively, indicating significant anti-inflammatory properties. The investigation into anti-inflammatory effects also included examining the expression of the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) gene, which is related to the inflammatory response triggered by LPS in macrophages. Varieties K159041, K159048, K159077, K159078, K159081, K159089, and K159096 were analyzed for this purpose. Further, an expression test of the cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) gene revealed values less than 0.4 in K159077, K159081, and K159089, suggesting these sorghum lines possess higher anti-inflammatory activity compared to others. Additionally, the expression analysis of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), a gene identified as an inflammatory cytokine, showed that the mRNA levels in the lines K159048, K159077, K159078, K159088, K159089, K159093, and K159096 were expressed at lower levels relative to other sorghum resources, categorizing them as having high anti-inflammatory activity. Notably, the K159081 line exhibited the lowest expression level of all genes associated with inflammation, marking it as a valuable medicinal resource with potential development as an anti-inflammatory agent.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant-Crop Biology and Biochemistry)
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Open AccessArticle
Molecular Composition of Humic Acids of Different Aged Fallow Lands and Soils of Different Types of Use in Northwest of Russia
by
Vyacheslav Polyakov, Timur Nizamutdinov and Evgeny Abakumov
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 996; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050996 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Post-agrogenic transformation of fallow soils leads to changes in soil carbon content, the molecular composition of humic substances, and rates of organic matter stabilization, which can affect climate change on the planet. In this regard, we analyzed the molecular composition of humic acids
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Post-agrogenic transformation of fallow soils leads to changes in soil carbon content, the molecular composition of humic substances, and rates of organic matter stabilization, which can affect climate change on the planet. In this regard, we analyzed the molecular composition of humic acids isolated from natural and fallow soils in the southern Taiga zone of northwest Russia. Different-aged soils on fallow lands represent a model of soil transformation in time, and data on the transformation of soil humic acid molecular composition make a significant contribution to the understanding of soil organic matter stabilization aspect issues. In this case, the molecular structure of humic acids isolated from natural and fallow soils in northwest Russia was analyzed. To study the molecular composition of HAs, the elemental composition was analyzed, and 13C (CP/MAS) NMR spectroscopy of HAs isolated from different aged abandoned soils and soils of different types of use was carried out. The obtained data showed that with the increasing age of soils in the fallow state, there is an increase in the carbon content of humic acids as well as a decrease in nitrogen content. As a result of the increasing age of soils in the fallow state, there are dynamics in the content of aromatic structural fragments in humic acids: 34% for 40 years old, 28% for 80 years old, and 31% for 120 years old. This is due to changes in the precursors of humification and the further transformation of plant residues in the soil. Re-involved fallow land soils lead to an increase in the content of aromatic structural fragments in the composition of HA in relation to HA extracted from mature soils. The lowest content of aromatic structural fragments was observed in the humic acids of 130-year-old agricultural soil, which is associated with the long-term application of organic fertilizers.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Humic Substances: Chemistry and Multidimensional Role in Agricultural Systems and Pollution Management)
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Open AccessArticle
Effects of Organic Amendments on the Morphology and Chemical Composition of Black Mustard (Sinapis nigra L.) Grown on Soil Contaminated with Copper
by
Andrzej Cezary Żołnowski, Elżbieta Rolka and Łukasz Kalinowski
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 995; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050995 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
The present study aimed to determine the influence of organic amendments (OAs) on neutralizing the harmful effect of copper (Cu) on black mustard (Sinapis nigra L.). In a pot experiment, three levels of copper pollution were used: 200, 400, and 600 mg
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The present study aimed to determine the influence of organic amendments (OAs) on neutralizing the harmful effect of copper (Cu) on black mustard (Sinapis nigra L.). In a pot experiment, three levels of copper pollution were used: 200, 400, and 600 mg Cu kg−1, against a control without Cu. The soil was amended with three types of OAs: pine bark (PB), peat moss (PM), and cattle manure (CM). Our research showed that plant condition depends on the Cu content in the soil. Increasing soil contamination significantly affected the plant yield, leaf greenness index, and dry matter content. The type of OA had no significant effect on the condition of black mustard (BM); however, each had a different effect on neutralizing the harmful effects of Cu. CM reduced Cu accumulation, PM showed no effect, while PB contributed to a significant increase in Cu content in BM plants. The chemical composition of BM depended on the Cu content in the soil. With increased soil contamination with Cu, the contents of Ntot, K, Mg, Ca, and Na in BM increased, while the content of P decreased. In terms of mitigating the harmful effects, CM was more beneficial than PM and PB. Among the analyzed OAs, CM, and PM contributed to Cu immobilization, while PB promoted Cu mobilization in contaminated soils.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Organic Amendments in Agricultural Production—Volume II)
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Open AccessArticle
Synergistic Effects of Humic Acid, Biochar-Based Microbial Agent, and Vermicompost on the Dry Sowing and Wet Emergence Technology of Cotton in Saline–Alkali Soils, Xinjiang, China
by
Ge Li, Yuyang Shan, Yungang Bai, Weibo Nie, Qian Wang, Jianghui Zhang, Hongbo Liu, Yu Ding, Xiaoyan Wang and Hongqin Lu
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 994; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050994 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Soil amendments such as humic acid (HA), a biochar-based microbial agent (M), and vermicompost (V) can improve soil quality and promote crop growth. However, it remains unclear whether the co-application of the three soil amendments (HMV) has a synergistic effect on alleviating soil
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Soil amendments such as humic acid (HA), a biochar-based microbial agent (M), and vermicompost (V) can improve soil quality and promote crop growth. However, it remains unclear whether the co-application of the three soil amendments (HMV) has a synergistic effect on alleviating soil quality deterioration obstacles caused by dry sowing and wet emergence technology in Xinjiang cotton fields. A three-year field experiment was conducted in saline–alkali soils using plastic-film-mulched drip irrigation in Xinjiang, China. Through the orthogonal experiment method, the application amounts of HA, M and V were 75 kg ha−1, 75 kg ha−1 and 225 kg ha−1 respectively in 2021. In 2022, three application amount gradients were used for HA, M and V: 60 kg ha−1, 90 kg ha−1 and 120 kg ha−1 respectively. In 2023, the application amounts of HA, M, and V were 60 kg ha−1, 120 kg ha−1, and 120 kg ha−1. It should be pointed out that V contains HA in the range of 20–35%. This study aimed to explore the improvement effect of a single or combined application of HA, M, and V on soil quality and cotton emergence rate using dry sowing and wet emergence technology in Xinjiang cotton fields. The results showed that the single and combined applications of HA, M, and V improved the soil quality and water–heat–salt environment of the cultivated layer. In the combined application, the cotton seedling emergence rate and yield increased by 1.9–22.8% and 7.0–54.1%. Therefore, it is recommended to jointly apply HA, M, and V to promote cotton seedling emergence and increase yield using dry sowing and wet emergence technology in Xinjiang cotton fields.
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(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Biosystem and Biological Engineering)
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Open AccessArticle
Appropriate Application of Organic Fertilizer Can Effectively Improve Soil Environment and Increase Maize Yield in Loess Plateau
by
Yingying Xing, Yuan Li, Fan Zhang and Xiukang Wang
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 993; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050993 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Fertilization has a significant impact on soil nutrients and microbiological properties, which, in turn, affect crop yield. However, the specific effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on soil fertility and microbial characteristics in maize fields, as well as the key soil factors influencing
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Fertilization has a significant impact on soil nutrients and microbiological properties, which, in turn, affect crop yield. However, the specific effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on soil fertility and microbial characteristics in maize fields, as well as the key soil factors influencing changes in crop yield, remain largely unknown. A study was conducted over two years (2021–2022) to investigate the impact of various nitrogen fertilization rates and types on maize yield and soil properties in the Loess Plateau. Field experiments with five nitrogen levels (60, 90, 120, 150, and 180 kg N ha−1) and two fertilizer types (chemical and organic) were conducted. The optimal yield was achieved with 150 kg N ha−1, significantly surpassing that of other treatments by 4.5−45.7%. Compared with the organic fertilizers, the chemical fertilizers increased soil salt and catalase levels, with soil nitrate and ammonium content being higher at the jointing stage but lower at maturity. Organic fertilization improved soil potassium, organic matter, urease and phosphatase activities, and microbial populations. Yield correlated with several soil indicators, including salt content, nitrate, available potassium, and enzyme activities. Notably, soil nitrate also correlated with actinomyces quantity. A principal component analysis showed that the organic fertilizer was more beneficial to soil health than the chemical fertilizer. Consequently, this study recommends 150 kg N ha−1 of organic fertilizer for sustainable maize farming and soil health in China’s northwest arid region, providing a theoretical framework for agricultural practices.
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(This article belongs to the Section Agroecology Innovation: Achieving System Resilience)
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Open AccessArticle
From Plants to Pixels: The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Identifying Sericea Lespedeza in Field-Based Studies
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Aftab Siddique, Kyla Cook, Yasmin Holt, Sudhanshu S. Panda, Ajit K. Mahapatra, Eric R. Morgan, Jan A. van Wyk and Thomas H. Terrill
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 992; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050992 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
The increasing use of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) has brought about a significant transformation in numerous fields, such as image categorization and identification. In the development of a CNN model to classify images of sericea lespedeza [SL; Lespedeza cuneata (Dum-Cours) G. Don] from
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The increasing use of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) has brought about a significant transformation in numerous fields, such as image categorization and identification. In the development of a CNN model to classify images of sericea lespedeza [SL; Lespedeza cuneata (Dum-Cours) G. Don] from weed images, four architectures were explored: CNN model variant 1, CNN model variant 2, the Visual Geometry Group (VGG16) model, and ResNet50. CNN model variant 1 (batch normalization with adjusted dropout method) demonstrated 100% validation accuracy, while variant 2 (RMSprop optimization with adjusted learning rate) achieved 90.78% validation accuracy. Pre-trained models, like VGG16 and ResNet50, were also analyzed. In contrast, ResNet50’s steady learning pattern indicated the potential for better generalization. A detailed evaluation of these models revealed that variant 1 achieved a perfect score in precision, recall, and F1 score, indicating superior optimization and feature utilization. Variant 2 presented a balanced performance, with metrics between 86% and 93%. VGG16 mirrored the behavior of variant 2, both maintaining around 90% accuracy. In contrast, ResNet50’s results revealed a conservative approach for class 0 predictions. Overall, variant 1 stood out in performance, while both variant 2 and VGG16 showed balanced results. The reliability of CNN model variant 1 was highlighted by the significant accuracy percentages, suggesting potential for practical implementation in agriculture. In addition to the above, a smartphone application for the identification of SL in a field-based trial showed promising results with an accuracy of 98–99%. The conclusion from the above is that a CNN model with batch normalization has the potential to play a crucial role in the future in redefining and optimizing the management of undesirable vegetation.
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(This article belongs to the Section Precision and Digital Agriculture)
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Open AccessArticle
Method for Monitoring Wheat Growth Status and Estimating Yield Based on UAV Multispectral Remote Sensing
by
Junke Zhu, Yumeng Li, Chunying Wang, Ping Liu and Yubin Lan
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 991; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050991 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
An efficient and accurate estimation of wheat growth and yield is important for wheat assessment and field management. To improve the accuracy and stability of wheat growth and yield estimation, an estimation method based on a genetic algorithm-improved support vector regression (GA-SVR) algorithm
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An efficient and accurate estimation of wheat growth and yield is important for wheat assessment and field management. To improve the accuracy and stability of wheat growth and yield estimation, an estimation method based on a genetic algorithm-improved support vector regression (GA-SVR) algorithm was proposed in this study. The correlation analysis between vegetation indices calculated from spectral data and wheat growth phenotypes and yields was performed to obtain the optimal combination of vegetation indices with high correlation and good estimation performance. At the same time, the optimal model for wheat growth monitoring was screened and constructed in experiments with 12 wheat varieties and 3 gradient nitrogen fertilizer application levels. Then, the yield estimation model was established and its applicability was verified under different nitrogen fertilizer application levels. The results showed that the constructed models for the leaf area index, plant height, and yield estimation performed well, with coefficients of determination of 0.82, 0.71, and 0.70, and root mean square errors of 0.09, 2.7, and 68.5, respectively. This study provided an effective UAV remote sensing technique for monitoring wheat growth status and estimating yield. This study provides an effective unmanned aerial remote sensing technique for monitoring wheat growth and estimating yield, and provides technical support for wheat yield assessment and field management.
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(This article belongs to the Section Precision and Digital Agriculture)
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Open AccessArticle
Different Land-Use Effects on Soil Aggregates and Aggregate-Associated Organic Carbon in Eastern Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
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Yongkun Zhang, Ying Li, Zhanming Ma, Zilong Cui, Haiyan Sheng and Runjie Li
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 990; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050990 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Land use changes modify soil properties, including aggregate structure, and thus, profoundly affect soil quality and health. However, the effects of land use changes originating from alpine grassland on soil aggregates and aggregate-associated organic carbon have received little attention. Soil aggregate fraction, aggregate-associated
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Land use changes modify soil properties, including aggregate structure, and thus, profoundly affect soil quality and health. However, the effects of land use changes originating from alpine grassland on soil aggregates and aggregate-associated organic carbon have received little attention. Soil aggregate fraction, aggregate-associated organic carbon and relevant influencing factors were determined at 0–20, 20–40 cm soil layers for alpine grassland, cropland and abandoned land in the eastern Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP), and their relationships were analyzed by partial least square regression (PLSR). Results showed the following: (1) conversion from alpine grassland to cropland resulted in a significant decline macroaggregate fraction (R0.25), mean weight diameter (MWD), mean weight diameter (GMD), soil organic carbon (SOC), and microaggregate-associated SOC; (2) almost all aggregate stability indexes, SOC, and aggregate-associated SOCs were significantly positively correlated with silt and glomalin, suggesting that the binding of fine particles (silt) with the organic cementing agent (glomalin) was probably a key mechanism of SOC formation and aggregate stability in the studied region; (3) compared with biotic factors such as SOC, glomalin and root biomass, abiotic factors including silt and sand can better predict aggregate stability and SOC fraction using the PLSR model. The above results indicated that the conversion of alpine grassland to other land use types in high altitude areas would destroy soil structure and decrease soil organic carbon content, and then reduce soil quality.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Influence of Land Use Patterns on Soil Physical Quality)
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Open AccessArticle
Precise Control and Prevention Methods for Whitefly in Greenhouse Vegetables
by
Xiaoyan Dai, Qingcai Lin, Yan Liu, Ruijuan Wang, Long Su, Zhenjuan Yin, Shan Zhao, Feng Zhang, Hao Chen, Li Zheng, Yifan Zhai and Lisheng Zhang
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 989; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050989 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
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Trialeurodes vaporariorum Westwood (greenhouse whitefly) are worldwide polyphagous pests of economic importance that damage solanaceous vegetables. Neonicotinoid pesticides and parasitoid Encarsia formmosa Gahan are the main management strategies applied worldwide, but precise control methods in greenhouse vegetables need to be developed to reduce
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Trialeurodes vaporariorum Westwood (greenhouse whitefly) are worldwide polyphagous pests of economic importance that damage solanaceous vegetables. Neonicotinoid pesticides and parasitoid Encarsia formmosa Gahan are the main management strategies applied worldwide, but precise control methods in greenhouse vegetables need to be developed to reduce the application amounts of pesticides and improve the suppression of whitefly populations. Therefore, we assessed the indoor acute toxicities and risk assessment of neonicotinoids for T. vaporariorum and E. formosa adults and pupae and compared the control effects of E. formosa and neonicotinoid acetamiprid. According to the acute toxicities results, most neonicotinoid insecticides were more toxic to E. formosa than T. vaporariorum, and pupae were much less susceptible than adults of both species. Moreover, acetamiprid had a low risk effect on E. formosa. Sole application of E. formosa and acetamiprid could effectively control T. vaporariorum, but their combined application resulted in antagonistic effects on the control of T. vaporariorum. The results showed that a combined application or sole use of E. formosa could reduce the use of insecticides, slow down the development of insecticide resistance in whiteflies, and improve the efficiency of controlling the growth of whitefly populations in greenhouse vegetable production.
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Open AccessArticle
Soybean CEP6 Signaling Peptides Positively Regulate Nodulation
by
Shuai Wu, Xiaoli Wang, Jie Qin, Wenqing Tian, Min Wang, Aiqin Yue, Lixiang Wang, Weijun Du and Jinzhong Zhao
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 988; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050988 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Nodulation is the most efficient nitrate assimilation system in the ecosystem, while excessive fertilization has an increased nitrate inhibition effect; deciphering the nitrate signal transduction mechanism in the process is of the utmost importance. In this study, genome-wide analyses of the GmCEP genes
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Nodulation is the most efficient nitrate assimilation system in the ecosystem, while excessive fertilization has an increased nitrate inhibition effect; deciphering the nitrate signal transduction mechanism in the process is of the utmost importance. In this study, genome-wide analyses of the GmCEP genes were applied to identify nodulation-related CEP genes; 22 GmCEP family members were identified, while GmCEP6 was mainly expressed in nodules and significantly responded to nitrate treatment and rhizobium infection, especially in later stages. Overexpression and CRISPR-Cas9 were used to validate its role in nodulation. We found that GmCEP6 overexpression significantly increased the nodule number, while GmCEP6 knock-out significantly decreased the nodule number, which suggests that GmCEP6 functions as a positive regulator in soybean nodulation. qRT-PCR showed that alterations in the expression of GmCEP6 affected the expression of marker genes in the Nod factor signaling pathway. Lastly, the function of GmCEP6 in nitrate inhibition of nodulation was analyzed; nodule numbers in the GmCEP6-overexpressed roots significantly increased under nitrogen treatments, which suggests that GmCEP6 functions in the resistance to nitrate inhibition. The study helps us understand that GmCEP6 promotes nodulation and participates in the regulation of nitrate inhibition of nodulation, which is of great significance for high efficiency utilization of nitrogen in soybeans.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant-Crop Biology and Biochemistry)
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Open AccessArticle
Chemical Composition, Antioxidant Activity, and Milk-Clotting Activity of Aqueous Extracts from Leaves, Stems, and Flowers of Three Tunisian Ecotypes of Spontaneous and Cultivated Onopordum nervosum ssp. platylepis Murb.: A Potential Novel Vegetable Rennet Option
by
Rania Kouki, Ismahen Essaidi, Khouloud Annabi, Najla Dhen, Faouzi Haouala, Abdulrahman M. Alhudhaibi, Hassan A. Alrudayni, Samra Akef Bziouech, Olfa Ayari and Bouthaina Al Mohandes Dridi
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050987 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the chemical composition of aqueous extracts from different aerial plant parts (leaves, stems, and flowers) of Onopordum nervosum ssp. platylepis growing in different regions (Sousse, Kairouan, and Nabeul) in Tunisia, as well as their antioxidant and milk-clotting properties
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This study aimed to compare the chemical composition of aqueous extracts from different aerial plant parts (leaves, stems, and flowers) of Onopordum nervosum ssp. platylepis growing in different regions (Sousse, Kairouan, and Nabeul) in Tunisia, as well as their antioxidant and milk-clotting properties for both spontaneously grown and cultivated plants. Results showed that phenolic composition varies significantly among ecotypes and plant organs (p < 0.05), with flowers containing the highest amounts of total phenols and flavonoids in both plant types. The flowers from Nabeul (NA) region showed the highest amounts of total phenols and higher phenolic contents compared to leaves and stems, with 44.75 mg GAE/g and 39.79 mg GAE/g in spontaneous and cultivated plants, respectively. However, flowers of spontaneously plants grown in Sousse (SO) showed the highest total flavonoid contents (11.42 mg QE/g). Additionally, the findings indicated that flowers contained higher concentrations of mono- and disaccharides than leaves and stems. The antioxidant activity showed that the radical scavenging activity of O. platylepis aqueous extracts is significantly affected by the organ and genotype (p < 0.05). NA genotype revealed the highest potency in inhibiting free radicals, with flowers having the lowest IC50s values in 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) tests, registering 0.13 ± 0.02 and 0.14 ± 0.01 mg/mL, respectively. Milk-clotting activity was limited to flowers of this thistle. Moreover, SO and NA genotypes were identified as the most potent populations to coagulate milk in spontaneous and cultivated plants. The principal component analysis confirms the organ and genotype variability in this thistle, with the first two axes explaining 64.15% of the variance and highlighting a distinct flower group. The obtained results suggest that the domestication of this thistle could be useful for the conservation of biodiversity and the promotion of genotypes with potential technological properties.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant-Crop Biology and Biochemistry)
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The Effectiveness of Mixed Food Attractant for Managing Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) and Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel) in Peanut Fields
by
Liying Wang, Limei He, Tongwei Wang, Tao Xiao, Zongfeng Zou, Meng Wang, Xiaoling Cai, Bingtao Yao, Yu Yang and Kongming Wu
Agronomy 2024, 14(5), 986; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14050986 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Peanut is one of the widely cultivated oil-bearing and nut crops worldwide, so its stable production is crucial for oil supply and nuts, as well as socioeconomic development. Noctuid pests, such as Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) and Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel), are the major pests
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Peanut is one of the widely cultivated oil-bearing and nut crops worldwide, so its stable production is crucial for oil supply and nuts, as well as socioeconomic development. Noctuid pests, such as Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) and Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel), are the major pests in peanut. With growing resistance to chemical pesticides, there is an urgent need for advanced biocontrol solutions for peanut productions. We evaluated the control effect of Bioattract®, combined with the insecticide Coragen, a ‘mixed food attractant’, on noctuid pests through large-scale applications in four main peanut-producing provinces, Henan, Hebei, Shandong and Liaoning, of China from 2019 to 2023 in succession. The main types of insects attracted and killed by the mixed food attractant were noctuid pests, of which H. armigera, A. ipsilon and other pests were 84.2%, 10.4% and 5.4%, respectively. The female/male ratio of H. armigera was 1.04. In the mixed food attractant treatment fields, the average adjusted decrease rates of H. armigera were 68.74% ± 1.43% for the eggs and 66.84% ± 1.59% for the larvae; meanwhile, those of A. ipsilon were 59.24% ± 1.56% for the eggs and 51.06% ± 1.89% for the larvae. In addition, the damage rate of the new leaves of the peanut plants in the mixed food attractant treatment fields was significantly lower than that in the control fields, with an adjusted declined rate of 78.26% ± 0.80%. Compared with using conventional chemicals, applying biological food attractants could reduce costs by USD 43.85 ± 1.14 per hectare. These findings provide a basis for the large-scale promotion and application of Bioattract® for peanut pest management.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Challenges for the Management of Lepidopteran Pests—2nd Edition)
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