A new report found that high-yield crop varieties developed during the Green Revolution have helped keep greenhouse gas emissions at bay, avoiding nearly 600 billion tons of CO2. The study estimated that agricultural research has averted carbon dioxide emissions at a cost of about $4 per ton of CO2.
A study predicts that US crop yields could decrease by 30-46% over the next century under slow global warming scenarios and by 63-82% under rapid scenarios. Crop yields are most vulnerable to temperatures above 29-32 degrees Celsius, depending on the crop.
Research suggests that corn yield stability improves when rotated with alfalfa, red clover, and timothy; dairy manure applications can support continuous corn in high-yielding years but hinder it in low-yielding years. Synthetic fertilizers or phosphorus-based manure negatively impact continuous corn yields.
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.
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.
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.
Researchers at Kew Gardens are testing a sensor device that gathers crucial data on air temperature, humidity, and soil moisture to help farmers in Africa make informed decisions about planting and harvesting. The device aims to optimize crop yields, reduce waste, and improve food security for local communities.
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.
A recent study found that pesticides block a key receptor in soil bacteria, disrupting natural nitrogen-fixing communications. This results in lower crop yields or significantly delayed growth. The research highlights the importance of preserving natural symbiotic relationships between crops and soil bacteria.
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.
The study found that farmers who participated in workshops made better decisions in response to good information, resulting in improved crop yields. The researchers also found that the workshops increased the use of forecast information among farmers, particularly those in subsistence farming.
A recent study found that gradual temperature increases cause significant decreases in crop productivity for corn and soybeans. Climate is identified as a crucial factor in crop yield trends, contradicting previous assumptions. The study's unique approach separates the effects of climate and technology on yield trends.
Organic farming methods produced 20% smaller crop yields compared to conventional farming, but made up for it in ecological benefits. The study found that organic soils were more fertile, had a larger community of organisms, and decomposed more efficiently.