Crop Science
Articles tagged with Crop Science
Less water, same taste: New approach helps growers produce sweet corn more efficiently
University of Missouri researchers developed an irrigation strategy that allows farmers to conserve water while maintaining crop quality. By tailoring water amounts based on plant growth stages, farmers can reduce water usage and costs.
Novel wheat hybrids increase resistance to major fungal disease by up to 70%
Researchers have identified a novel genetic locus in the common agricultural weed Elymus repens that provides significant resistance to Fusarium Head Blight, a destructive fungal disease threatening global food security. The novel Fhb.Er-1StL locus has been successfully transferred into wheat, reducing diseased plant spikelets by up to...
Hasanuddin University study reveals insights for climate resilience in smallholder cacao farms
Researchers found that integrating a mix of shade trees improves soil health and plant physiology, leading to stronger plant growth and consistent early fruit development. Proper management through spacing, pruning, and natural mulch can also make cacao farms more resilient to climate stress.
Animal and human waste could slash synthetic fertilizer use in US
A new study by Cornell University suggests that animal and human waste could meet 102% of nitrogen and 50% of phosphorus needs for US agriculture, reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers. However, implementation challenges such as processing and transport need to be addressed to unlock this potential.
2026 Milan No-Till Field Day scheduled for July 23
The 34th Milan No-Till Field Day will feature presentations on no-till farming strategies, agronomic practices, and cover crop management. The event also includes a trade show, guided tours of the AgResearch Center, and traditional skills sessions like blacksmithing.
Our pee is underutilized: Human urine could help tackle global fertilizer and wastewater challenges, study finds
Researchers discovered that human urine contains essential nutrients for plants, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The team developed a low-energy process to concentrate urine into a fertiliser-rich stream, reducing the burden on treatment plants.
Drones, DNA, and weather: A phase-oriented hybrid engine to predict sugar beet disease
Researchers developed a hybrid engine to predict sugar beet disease by combining drone images, weather data, and qPCR-based airborne spore monitoring. The system reduced prediction error by up to 39% and provided accurate forecasts of disease severity.
International team takes first steps in mapping wheat biology at single-cell resolution
An international team is calling for a coordinated effort to map gene expression across every cell type and developmental stage of wheat. Spatial omics technologies can transform wheat research by revealing how individual cells respond to stress, regulate grain development, and control yield-related traits.
Towards smarter agriculture: Durable nanofilm electrodes for monitoring leaf health
Researchers developed durable nanofilm electrodes for long-term measurement of bioelectric potentials in plants, paving the way for more resilient agriculture. These electrodes can detect stress in crops early, enabling timely warnings and improving yields.
Unexpected potential bacterial symbiosis found in fungus that causes angular leaf spot
Researchers analyzed 48 isolates of P. griseola and found a potential symbiotic relationship between the fungus and endophytic bacterium Achromobacter xylosoxidans, influencing disease severity. The study sheds light on how the pathogen evolves and may point to new strategies for breeding disease-resistant crops.
Scientists identify new fusarium species behind wheat disease outbreak in Ethiopia
Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a destructive wheat disease that can reduce yields and contaminate grain with toxins. New research in Plant Disease identified several emerging fungal pathogens, including a previously undescribed species, responsible for the severe outbreak in Ethiopia.
How plants stop growing to survive stress
Researchers identified a mechanism allowing plants to rapidly slow growth in response to extreme stress. By limiting growth-related compounds, plants pause development and cope with stress. The finding has practical applications for developing more resilient crops.
Soybeans recruit beneficial soil microbes to defend against major pest
Researchers discover that resistant soybean varieties actively recruit beneficial soil microorganisms to suppress the devastating soybean cyst nematode. These microbes can be transferred to soil to help defend susceptible soybeans, providing a promising new approach for sustainable crop protection.
This odd little plant could help turbocharge crop yields
Researchers discover a unique protein component, RbcS-STAR, that helps concentrate carbon dioxide around Rubisco, boosting photosynthetic efficiency. This breakthrough could lead to more sustainable food production by improving crop yields while reducing environmental impact.
Nitrous oxide, a product of fertilizer use, may harm some soil bacteria
A study by MIT researchers found that nitrous oxide can hamper the growth of certain soil bacteria dependent on vitamin B12 for methionine biosynthesis. The findings suggest that N2O production in agricultural settings could influence microbial communities, potentially impacting crop health.
Temporal dynamics of predatory nematodes in Guam reveal effective biological control of Meloidogyne spp.
A recent study published in Frontiers in Plant Science found that beneficial nematodes, including predatory nematodes, play a crucial role in regulating pest populations in tropical soils. The research shows that these natural allies can suppress harmful plant-parasitic nematodes, leading to improved crop yields and reduced losses.
Rice gene discovery could cut fertiliser use while protecting yields
Researchers have identified a master regulator in plants that balances root and shoot growth when nutrients are limited, leading to yield increases of up to 24% in rice plants. This breakthrough could ultimately improve global crop yields while reducing dependence on synthetic fertilisers.
Conservation agriculture, including no-dig, crop-rotation and mulching methods, reduces water runoff and soil loss and boosts crop yield by as much as 122%, in Ethiopian trial
A new study from Ethiopia reveals that conservation agriculture methods like no-dig, crop-rotation, and mulching can significantly reduce water runoff and soil loss. These eco-friendly techniques have been shown to increase crop yields by as much as 122%.
Plant hormone therapy could improve global food security
Researchers at Colorado State University have found a way to boost plant growth while maintaining its immune system through hormone treatment, showing promise for increasing food production. The approach involves genetically manipulating phytohormone interactions to restore cell division and increase disease resistance.
ACES marks 150 years of the Morrow Plots, our nation's oldest research field
The Morrow Plots, established in 1876, have been a hub for long-term agricultural research and outreach. The plots have directly impacted farming practices by proving methods like crop rotation and judicious fertilizer use boost crop yield and soil health.
Stronger scents and healthier crops: unlocking plants’ hidden potential through precision gene editing
Researchers used a virus-based CRISPR system to edit the gatekeeper enzyme HMGR in petunias and lettuce, unlocking natural metabolic control for enhanced aromatic compounds and health-promoting antioxidants. The result was more vigorous growth, stronger floral fragrance, and increased nutritional value.
Steckel elected Fellow by Weed Science Society of America
Larry Steckel, a leading expert in weed science, has been elected Fellow by the Weed Science Society of America. His research program focuses on managing multiple-herbicide-resistant weeds in row crop production, providing critical data for farmers to prevent yield loss.
Breeding a better cucumber: new genetic map reveals 171,892 structural variants
A research team led by Boyce Thompson Institute has created the most comprehensive genetic map of cucumber ever made, revealing nearly 172,000 large-scale DNA rearrangements that shape its evolution and agronomic traits. The study found that structural variants were purged during domestication, but continued to be present in global var...
Pros and cons of pesticides and fertilizers in real-world mandarin orange farms
A recent study by RIKEN researchers analyzed the effects of pesticides and fertilizers on mandarin oranges in real-world farms across Japan. The findings showed that reducing chemical pesticides led to more fruit diseases, while also enhancing soil microbial diversity and improving carbon content. This trade-off highlights the need for...
Breakthroughs for preventing pistachio hull split
Researchers identified genes controlling cell wall changes in ripening pistachio hulls, which can lead to cracks and tears. The study also found that the physics of forces and humidity influence degradation, with applications for other non-berry fruit crops.
Scientists find potential for better soybean harvests by mining genomes for cyst nematode resistance
Researchers have identified novel sources of soybean resistance to cyst nematode that could help protect global soybean production. The study reveals a wealth of previously untapped genetic resistance to SCN by mining deep into soybean genomes.
A single gene underlies begomovirus resistance in eggplant
A study at Kindai University has identified a single gene in eggplant that provides resistance to begomovirus infection. This finding holds promise for developing naturally protected crop varieties, reducing the need for insecticides and promoting sustainable food production.
New study uncovers how rice viruses manipulate plant defenses to protect insect vectors
A recent study found that rice viruses actively manipulate plant defense pathways to protect their insect carriers, creating a self-reinforcing cycle. By disrupting the plant's alarm signal, these viruses gain protection from parasitoid wasps, while also facilitating viral transmission.
Uncovering how parasitic plants avoid attacking themselves to improve crop resistance
Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology discovered that parasitic plants recognize
Chonnam National University scientists discover a molecular switch that protects crops from freezing cold
Researchers at Chonnam National University identified a hidden molecular switch that quickly reprograms root development to withstand cold conditions. The discovery highlights opportunities to protect crops from rising climate instability by enhancing specific signaling pathways or stabilizing key regulators.
Illinois study shows public seed banks can fast-track corn quality research
Researchers in Illinois used public genebanks and shared data to accelerate corn quality research, identifying genetic regions influencing kernel composition traits. By combining near-infrared spectroscopy and genomic data, the team found well-known and previously unreported genomic regions associated with key kernel composition traits.
Tracing a path through photosynthesis to food security
A new review evaluates biological strategies to improve the efficiency of photosynthesis, highlighting promising solutions such as engineering Rubisco enzyme and developing cooperative crops. The research aims to address global challenges in agriculture and ensure food security for the world's population.
New genomic discovery from ICRISAT could save farmers millions by preventing groundnut sprouting before harvest
A breakthrough study has identified varieties and key genes to halt pre-harvest sprouting in groundnut due to unseasonal rains, offering a powerful safeguard against severe financial losses. The research provides valuable insights for breeding improved varieties with fresh seed dormancy.
Engineering the next superfood: BTI unlocks goldenberry’s commercial potential
Researchers at Boyce Thompson Institute engineered compact goldenberry plants that are 35% shorter than their wild relatives, making them viable for commercial agriculture. These new plants have the same nutritional profile as commercially available goldenberries but can be grown at higher density and with reduced maintenance.
Plants use engineering principles to push through hard soil
Researchers discovered that plants respond to compacted soil by thickening their roots and changing their structure, allowing them to penetrate harder. This mechanism is similar to basic engineering principles, such as a pipe's diameter and outer wall strength affecting its ability to resist buckling.
Wild grass offers new genetic clues to combat deadliest pathogen of wheat
Researchers have identified Aegilops cylindrica as a powerful genetic reservoir for resistance against the devastating fungal pathogen Zymoseptoria tritici. The study reveals novel mechanisms of immune suppression by the pathogen and offers new insights into plant immunity.
New method makes transgene-free gene editing even more promising
A new method of gene editing allows for the efficient production of non-GMO, genome-edited plants without introducing foreign DNA. The technique uses Agrobacterium-mediated transient expression to enable genome editing in a transgene-free manner.
Growing transgenic plants in weeks instead of months by hijacking a plant’s natural regeneration abilities
Plant biologists developed a method to grow transgenic plants in weeks instead of months by hijacking a plant's natural regeneration abilities. The technique uses bacteria carrying genetic instructions for wound healing and regeneration to trigger plant growth.
Foxtail barley serves as a host for fungal pathogens attacking barley
Researchers found that foxtail barley can harbor several fungal pathogens, including those causing net blotch, spot blotch, stem rust, stripe rust, and crown rust. The fungus infected up to 100% of the evaluated accessions, with varying degrees of compatibility
Depletion of Ukraine’s soils threatens long-term global food security
A study warns that Ukraine's soils are losing vital crop nutrients due to reduced fertilizer access and inefficient farming practices. To mitigate this, the authors recommend better farm management, efficient use of fertilizers, and introducing legumes into crop rotations.
Extra iron helps stressed out wheat grow up big and strong
Researchers have discovered that extended periods of high stress in wheat crops can lead to iron deficiency and stunted growth. By reducing iron deficiency with a synthetic organic molecule called PDMA, plants are able to improve photosynthesis and biomass under heat stress conditions.
New ground-breaking gene atlas could lead to healthier, climate-resistant oats
A breakthrough gene atlas for oats has been developed, which could help plant breeders create better oat varieties with improved health benefits and climate resistance. The atlas will significantly expand genomic resources available to researchers.
Genome-wide analysis of gene expression in sorghum furthers efforts to improve stem biomass
Researchers have identified genes with organ-preferential expression in sorghum stems, revealing distinct temporal functional signatures and potential candidates for genetic engineering applications. These findings offer valuable insights into improving sorghum stem biomass and composition for bioenergy and biopolymer production.
Aboveground rather than belowground productivity drives variability in miscanthus × giganteus net primary productivity
Researchers measured miscanthus × giganteus net primary productivity in both aboveground and belowground structures. They found that aboveground productivity varied among sites, fertilization rates, and calculation assumptions, with yields ranging from 15.4 to 36.4 Mg DM ha–1 year–1.
Identifying the best high-biomass sorghum hybrids based on biomass yield potential and feedstock quality affected by nitrogen fertility management under various environments
Researchers evaluated 13 sorghum hybrids for biomass yield potential and feedstock quality under various nitrogen fertilization levels. H1 and H13 were identified as top performers, exhibiting superior biomass yield and energy-rich feedstock composition.
UT AgResearch hosts ribbon cutting celebrating additions to center
The University of Tennessee AgResearch has received a $50-million investment to modernize its West Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center. The new facilities, precision agriculture equipment, and laboratory renovations will enhance on-site research and improve data quality.
Feeding the future from the soil up
Researchers found that beneficial bacteria can enhance the levels of amino acid and antioxidant ergothioneine in spring wheat, potentially improving nutritional value. This approach could associate plants with benign microbes to increase protein content in staple crops.
Early planting to avoid heat doesn’t match current spring wheat production
Researchers at Washington State University found that early planting to avoid heat damage may actually hinder spring wheat productivity due to other growth issues. The study used computer modeling to show that moving crop plantings earlier in the season can expose crops to elevated heat or cold stress in later growth stages.
Crop breeding can cut methane emissions without sacrificing yield
A global synthesis found that genetic variation in crops significantly affects methane emissions, but not nitrous oxide emissions. Selective breeding of crop traits can help balance high yields with lower GHG release.
Natural antimicrobial drugs found in pollen could help us protect bee colonies from infection
Researchers have discovered that the same beneficial bacteria occur in pollen stores of honeybee colonies and on nearby plants, producing compounds that kill pathogens of bees and plants. These endophytes can be used to develop new treatments for crops and hives.
Inequality in agri-food chains: the Global South produces the food, but the Global North keeps the wealth
A study by ICTA-UAB reveals that non-agricultural sectors absorbed most of the value added in global agri-food systems between 1995 and 2020. The Global South increased its share of agricultural production, but countries of the North still capture a disproportionate share of income from higher-value sectors.
Integrated multi-omics analysis reveals poised chromatin and co-regulation of clustered immune receptor genes in soybean
This study deciphers epigenetic regulation of soybean NLRs and PRRs, revealing poised chromatin states that regulate gene expression. Clusters of R-genes within topologically associating domains exhibit increased repressive marks and TAD-mediated co-regulation.
Bionema receives £650K Innovate UK grant for groundbreaking biological slug control technology
Bionema's innovative bio-based pellets use Loline alkaloids to deliver a safe, sustainable solution for controlling slugs and snails in crops. The project is expected to generate £50 million in the UK and £100 million globally by 2035.
Biodiversity needs more than just flower strips
Researchers at the University of Göttingen argue that creating diverse landscapes with various habitats is necessary for biodiversity preservation. Habitat diversity can include arable land, natural areas, and structures like nesting sites, promoting species movement and reduced extinction risk.
Wheat: Extreme dwarfism impairs gluten composition and baking quality
A recent study by Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich shows that extremely dwarf wheat has a less favorable gluten composition than semi-dwarf or tall wild-type wheat. This can lead to poorer baking properties. Environmental conditions also play a significant role in shaping gluten composition.
Mizzou researchers enhancing soybean taste to win over more consumers
Researchers at Mizzou have developed a specially bred soybean variety called Super that yields the best results in terms of flavor and aroma, making it more appealing to Western consumers. The study found that smart plant breeding can make soy-based foods taste better, which could help more people accept and enjoy them.
Unraveling the proton translocation dynamics behind photoprotective mechanisms in plants
The study found that DLDG1 regulates NPQ by controlling proton conductivity within the thylakoid membrane through CFo-CF1 ATP synthase activity. The dldg1hope2 double mutant showed faster NPQ induction than the hope2 mutant, indicating a complex relationship between DLDG1 and NPQ regulation.
FAU Engineering awarded USDA grant for smart farming breakthrough
Florida Atlantic University's FAU Engineering has received a $827,533 USD grant from the USDA to develop an advanced edge/fog computing-based framework called FogAg. This project aims to revolutionize precision agriculture by enabling real-time sensing and analysis of crop growth and yield.
Satellite imagery-driven models support chickpea farmers in the field
A new study introduces a machine learning tool that combines satellite imagery and weather data to monitor chickpea crop health. The system accurately estimates Leaf Area Index (LAI) and Leaf Water Potential (LWP), enabling farmers to make smarter irrigation decisions and improve yields.