A graphical analysis assesses the vulnerability of different US crops to pests, identifying soybean and maize as highly connected, while cotton and wheat are less connected. The study suggests encouraging cropping patterns that disrupt connectivity to minimize pest spread.
Researchers suggest using 30% of global crop residues to sequester 600 megatons of carbon in the deep ocean, reducing atmospheric CO2 by up to 15%. The process would be 92% efficient and minimize environmental damage if done correctly.
The completed genome data will aid in optimizing sorghum and other crops for food and fodder use, as well as biofuels production. Sorghum's rapid growth and ability to withstand drought make it an excellent candidate for biofuels production.
By selecting crop varieties with higher solar reflectivity, researchers estimate a global cooling of over 0.1°C, equivalent to 20% of the total global temperature increase since the Industrial Revolution. The study proposes issuing farmers with carbon credits for growing such crops.
Researchers propose using crop varieties with high solar reflectivity to reduce regional warming, equivalent to offsetting 20% of CO2 emissions. This approach is seen as a low-cost alternative to geoengineering and can help mitigate agricultural and health impacts of heat waves.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University are developing automated farming systems using sensors, autonomous vehicles, and data analysis to monitor tree health and crop status. The systems aim to provide growers with early warnings of diseases and insect infestations, as well as continuous updates on crop status.
A team of scientists developed a model to measure soil quality and predict long-term changes in soil organic carbon and organic matter. The CQESTR model simulates the effects of various management practices on soil dynamics, providing insights for sustainable crop and soil management.
Purdue University researchers are working on a new technique called MAGIC to identify gene combinations that increase disease resistance and stress tolerance in crops. By analyzing the genetic diversity of maize, they aim to engineer plants that can withstand most diseases and improve crop yields.
A new study published in Agronomy Journal reveals that reduced tillage can increase peanut crop yields, but the effects of crop rotation and tillage on pest development are more complex. The research found an independent relationship between tillage and rotation practices with respect to peanut yield and pest development.
Despite pollinator decline, global crop yields have consistently grown at 1.5% per year since 1961 due to agricultural improvements. However, research detected warning signs of growing demand for pollinators and declining yield growth in highly dependent crops.
The Crop Science Society of America recognized six individuals for their outstanding contributions to crop science. Palle Pedersen received the ASA–CSSA–SSSA Early Career Professional Award for his work on soybean production problems. The award also went to Crystal Rose-Fricker, who developed cool-season turfgrasses with improved disea...
The Crop Science Society of America has elected 2008 Fellows, recognizing individuals for their professional achievements and meritorious service. The selected members are Prakash R. Arelli, Patrick G. Hunt, James D. Kelly, Schuyler S. Korban, Nora L. Lapitan, Rajendra Malhotra, David S. Marshall, J. Paul Murphy, and Matt A. Sanderson.
A group of internationally recognized scientists urges the U.S. to adopt sustainable standards and practices for cellulosic biofuel production to minimize environmental harm. The experts emphasize the need for incentives to promote environmentally friendly growing practices among farmers.
A new book from the American Society of Agronomy provides detailed information on the importance of sulfur in agriculture. The book examines the central role that sulfur plays as a nutrient affecting crop yield and quality, animal feed value and human diet.
Researchers found that using nitrogen fertilizer on rye cover crops increased biomass output and made more nitrogen available to cotton. The study's findings suggest improving soil quality and nutrient management can enhance agricultural productivity.
A 110-year-old sustainable farming experiment demonstrates the effectiveness of winter legumes in producing non-irrigated cotton yields, comparable to those using nitrogen fertilizer. The study's findings have implications for long-term soil organic matter and crop yield management.
Researchers found that a portion of corn stover can be harvested for biofuel production without reducing soil organic carbon levels in high-yielding systems. This study suggests that corn stover could supply up to 25% of the biofuel crop needed by 2030.
A new study by scientists from Brazil, France, and the US reveals that no-till management combined with winter cover crops is the most effective way to retain nutrients in tropical soils. The research found that this approach can maintain soil organic carbon stocks and mimic natural forested conditions.
Swine waste fertilizer can be improved by altering phosphorus levels in the diet, resulting in slower phosphorus accumulation in soil. This approach reduces excess nutrients that can pollute the environment.
A new approach to biofuel production uses plants to make enzymes, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. The technology, developed by Texas A&M University researchers, can produce multiple products from a single crop, making it a more economically viable option.
A study investigates the potential of a Simple Inverse Yield Model (SIYM) for estimating plant-available water capacity in fields. The results show that measured plant-available water capacity correlates with corn yield better in dry years, but SIYM estimates are weaker in claypan soils.
A study by the University of Georgia found that southern highbush blueberries have a viable and profitable industry in Georgia. The research estimated total costs of cultivating the crop over four years, showing that 92% of farmers can expect to see positive returns.
A new study reveals that longer, more complex crop rotations increase organic corn yields by 30%, while also improving soybean yields. The results show that diverse crop systems can help address production challenges in organic grain crop production.
Australian researchers have achieved a major advance by accumulating 30% of an unusual fatty acid (UFA) in the model plant Arabidopsis. This breakthrough could lead to the production of biofactories capable of producing oils for replacing petrochemicals used in plastics, paints, and cosmetics.
Winter cover crops can perpetuate themselves through self-seeding, eliminating planting costs and time constraints for farmers. This innovative management system also enhances weed suppression and improves soil quality.
The American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America recognize 36 outstanding undergraduate seniors for their academic achievements, leadership, and participation. The students receive a plaque and become eligible for the Frank D. Keim Fellowship.
Researchers have created a genetic reference collection of mutant Pisum sativum plants, enabling the investigation of essential genes using TILLING (Targeting Induced Local Lesions IN Genomes) technique. This new tool has major benefits for crop breeders worldwide, providing an alternative to Agrobacterium-based techniques.
The completed draft sequence of the corn genome will enable researchers to accurately and efficiently probe the genetic blueprint for the corn plant. Scientists can now look for ways to improve breeding, increase crop yields, and resistance to drought and disease.
Climate change is projected to cause significant crop losses in the world's poorest regions, including Southern Africa and South Asia, with potential losses of up to 30% and 10% or more respectively. Adaptation investments are crucial to mitigate these impacts.
A team of scientists has developed an economical approach to breeding maize with higher provitamin A levels, which can combat vitamin A deficiency. By identifying a naturally mutated enzyme, they can now inexpensively screen different varieties and breed those that contain it.
Researchers compared three strawberry production systems to determine consumer preference, finding that cold-climate plasticulture and advanced matted row systems were most popular. Consumers were willing to pay more for fresh berries from their preferred system, with quality characteristics like firmness differing among the production...
A recent study by the University of Georgia found that southern highbush blueberries have a viable and profitable industry potential. With a 92% chance of profit margin, farmers can expect positive returns on investment, leading to increased production and job creation.
Researchers report that sustainable biomass production may be hindered by soil organic matter needs, suggesting a need for alternative crops and improved agricultural practices. The study highlights the importance of considering multiple factors beyond just soil erosion when evaluating feedstock supply.
The study highlights key constraints affecting sweetpotato productivity in developing countries, including control of viruses, improvement of planting material, and development of high-yield cultivars. Small-scale farmers are expected to benefit from emerging technologies based on research, with potential impact within 5-10 years.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered that tropical maize can produce up to 25% sugar in its stalks, making it a promising alternative to corn for biofuel production. This could result in significant energy savings per acre and reduced nitrogen fertilizer costs.
The Great Plains' stability is threatened by demographic shifts, environmental degradation, and economic pressures. Despite increased crop productivity, the region faces challenges such as soil erosion, high nitrate runoff, and declining aquifers.
Researchers developed a new maize model that simulates kernel formation, increasing accuracy of crop yield predictions. By accounting for pollen movement and other factors, the modified CERES-Maize model provides more accurate estimates across various environmental conditions.
A study funded by Cargill Crop Nutrition found that varying nitrogen application rates can increase corn yield with similar or higher nitrogen rates, but may not improve grain quality. Researchers also discovered that one hybrid performed better than the other under both uniform and varied nitrogen applications.
Researchers explore potential for enhanced nutrient cycling through coupling of agricultural and bioenergy systems to improve sustainability of biomass production. The study reports that up to 78% of nitrogen fertilizer could be recovered from an integrated biological and thermochemical process.
A genetically modified maize variety resistant to the severe maize streak virus has been created using pathogen-derived resistance, delaying symptom development and increasing survival rates. The research aims to alleviate Africa's food shortages and famine by providing a disease-resistant crop for local farmers.
A four-year study found that sunn hemp cover crop significantly reduces contamination levels of atrazine and its products in groundwater. The use of sunn hemp can help mitigate the risk of groundwater contamination in Southern Florida, where soil and water conditions indicate potential for leaching from atrazine-based herbicides.
A NASA researcher has created a new method to anticipate food shortages brought on by drought using satellite remote sensing of crop growth and food prices. The model can help humanitarian aid organizations and decision makers predict how much food will be available and its cost, taking climate variables into account.
Scientists propose new cropping strategies for a variable climate, exploring crop sequencing decisions based on weather patterns and management goals. The study's findings highlight the importance of understanding short-term crop sequencing effects on agronomic and environmental attributes.
A study by University of Minnesota researchers found that alternative cropping systems reduced nitrate levels in surface and ground water by 41-62% compared to conventional farming practices. Increasing cropping system biodiversity can improve water quality.
A NASA researcher has developed a new method to anticipate food shortages brought on by drought using satellite remote sensing of crop growth and food prices. The model can help government and humanitarian aid officials plan and respond to drought-induced food price increases, reducing the risk of famine.
The project aims to identify protein-protein interactions associated with biomass production in poplar wood, which could make large-scale production more economically feasible. Researchers will use genomics and computational biology techniques to study the molecular biology of poplar cell wall-related biomass production.
Researchers found that alternative soil fertility management and reduced tillage increased sorghum crop yield in eastern Uganda. Local farmers participated in on-farm trials to evaluate the effectiveness of low-cost alternatives, including mucuna fallow, cowpea rotation, and manure application.
Zimbabwean smallholder farmers in semi-arid regions face food shortages due to limited fertilizer use. Research by Bongani Ncube found that nitrogen availability is the key factor improving cereal yields. Crop rotation also showed promise, with leguminous crops doubling sorghum yields.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign will be a key partner in the new Energy Biosciences Institute, which aims to explore the potential benefits of using corn crop residues and other herbaceous perennials as fuel sources. Researchers hope to create a sustainable and efficient process for producing high-quality plant biomass.
Dutch researcher Rachel van Ooteghem's innovative control system optimizes climate conditions in a solar greenhouse, leading to a 39% increase in crop yield and a 52% reduction in gas usage. The system uses sustainable energy and minimizes waste heat, resulting in lower costs for growers.
Research reveals two isoforms of glutamine synthetase determine major yield components in maize: kernel size and number. Nitrogen retranslocation dominates grain filling, improving nitrogen use efficiency and yields with reduced fertilizer inputs.
A new study estimates that 87 out of 115 leading global crops depend to some degree on animal pollination, accounting for one-third of crop production globally. This reliance on pollinators is particularly concerning due to the decline in key North American pollinator populations.
A Michigan State University partnership is examining the possibility of growing oilseed crops and other crops on abandoned industrial sites for use in ethanol or biodiesel fuel production. The study aims to determine if crops grown on brownfield sites can produce adequate yields and contribute to bioremediation, making them viable alte...
Researchers found crop yields are running at about 50 percent below conclusions drawn from enclosed test conditions, contradicting previous assumptions of increased yield due to CO2 levels. The study highlights the need for changes in production strategies to avoid global food shortages.
A new study published in the journal Science found that future greenhouse gas conditions are likely to result in lower crop yields, particularly for C3 crops such as rice, wheat, and soybeans. The researchers used open-air field trials involving five major food crops grown under carbon-dioxide levels projected for the year 2050.
Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding how legumes interact with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, which could lead to the development of new crop plants that can fix nitrogen themselves. This discovery has the potential to reduce the environmental impact of intensive agriculture and lower energy consumption.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered that hybrid grass Miscanthus can produce more biomass than switchgrass, with greater rates of photosynthesis and no net effect on atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. The crop is also remarkably efficient and easy to grow, making it a promising renewable energy source.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have found that current nitrogen recommendations are faulty and balanced fertility is key to efficient crop use. Higher planting rates and crop residues impact soil nitrogen cycling and availability, requiring adjustments in nitrogen fertilization methods.
A £1.8m UK project aims to identify genes that improve barley quality for whisky production, benefiting growers, producers, and drinkers, while supporting the Scottish agricultural economy.
The 2004 Midwest crop yields were record-breaking due to unique weather conditions, including an unusually high number of sunny days that aided photosynthesis. This anomaly in atmospheric circulation patterns contributed to the exceptional yields, which surpassed predictions and models.