Agronomy
Articles tagged with Agronomy
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.
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.
Reading the mud: Central Asia's rivers hold a hidden timeline of human pollution
Researchers from Beijing Normal University decode historical chemical footprint in Mongolia's Orkhon River Basin to track toxic emissions drivers. The study reveals a link between economic booms and traffic jams and chemical fallout, providing insights for rewriting water management policies across Central Asia.
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.
Salad packs a healthy punch to meet a growing Vitamin B12 need
Researchers used aeroponic technology to grow pea shoots fortified with Vitamin B12, delivering the recommended daily allowance in a single serving. The fortified crop maintained shelf-life and persisted through cold storage, offering a commercially viable approach to dietary supplementation.
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.
Protecting turfgrass from fungal foes
University of Delaware researchers have discovered a novel strain of Bacillus subtilis that helps plants resist soil-borne diseases and retain moisture. The microbe, UD1022, is effective in controlling dollar spot fungus but only when applied directly to leaves, not through soil treatment.
Sugar beet, oilseed rape, tomatoes and dandelions: four precision breeding projects win major funding to support UK agriculture
The John Innes Centre has been awarded £21.5m in funding to support four precision breeding projects, aiming to reduce emissions and strengthen crop resilience. These projects will help protect two major agricultural crops from diseases, enhance the nutritional content of tomatoes, and develop sustainable sources of rubber.
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...
Manganese helps reduce agricultural nitrogen pollution in air, water
A recent study found that adding manganese to soil can lower plant-available nitrogen, reducing nitrous oxide emissions and nitrate leaching into waterways. Manganese also reduced the expression of genes involved in nitrogen cycling.
CGIAR and partners launch Scaling Hub South Asia in Nepal with major commitments to strengthen water and agrifood security
The Scaling Hub South Asia is a multi-sector platform designed to accelerate proven agricultural, water, and energy innovations. It aims to strengthen regional food and water security for over 500 million people in South Asia.
ICRISAT strengthens global capacity on digital sequence information to support future-ready genebanks
A five-day DSI training workshop at ICRISAT strengthened technical and institutional capacity of 18 scientists from 12 countries across Asia and Africa. The program enabled participants to handle and analyze Digital Sequence Information, integrating genomic data into genebank databases.
Tailored biochar could transform how crops grow, resist disease, and clean polluted soils
Engineered biochar shows promise in boosting crop yields, suppressing soil-borne diseases, and remediating contaminated land. Purpose-specific design is essential for optimal performance.
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.
Study finds food waste compost less effective than potting mix alone
Researchers compared seedling germination, growth and nutrient uptake in pure food waste substrate, commercial potting mix and blends with varying ratios. Mixtures with less than 50% food waste compost produced better results.
Wildfires reshape forest soils for decades
Research in Chile's national parks shows that wildfires significantly alter soil structure and nutrient cycles, affecting ecosystem resilience. Humid temperate forests recover faster than mediterranean woodlands due to fire-adapted trees and higher rainfall.
Uncovering how parasitic plants avoid attacking themselves to improve crop resistance
Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology discovered that parasitic plants recognize
Researchers revive old pea varieties in huge seed collection: ‘An untapped gold mine for the future’
A new AI method has identified 51 old pea varieties with high starch and protein content, potentially suitable for producing plant-based foods. The study shows a close relationship between seed appearance and chemical composition, enabling partial prediction of properties based on images.
A new study reveals the microbial biodiversity of dehesa soil
A new study has identified the underground interactions between fungi and oomycetes in twenty Andalusian dehesas, revealing water as the main driver of microorganism diversity. The research also sheds light on the pathogen responsible for la seca, a disease affecting holm oak ecosystems.
Optical properties of plants reflect ozone-induced damage
Researchers developed a non-invasive OCT scanner to measure environmental stress in plants. The device reveals internal structural changes caused by ozone exposure, enabling early detection of deficiencies or stress-induced changes.
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.
COP30: Eight countries back Brazil-led finance accelerator to scale farmland restoration worldwide
Eight countries support the Resilient Agriculture Investment for net-Zero land degradation (RAIZ) accelerator, which offers a 'quadruple-win' for climate, biodiversity, food security, and desertification. RAIZ aims to mobilize $105 billion in private investment to restore degraded agricultural land at scale.
New book explores how controlled environment horticulture is shaping the future of sustainable food production
The book explores how CEH can enhance yield, quality, and resource efficiency through technological innovation. It also highlights the role of biotechnology in ensuring global food security.
Arkansas research awarded for determining cardinal temps for eight cover crops
A team of researchers from the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture identified the base, optimal and maximum temperature ranges for eight commonly grown cover crop species. The study's findings provide significant guidance for developing accurate plant growth and biomass prediction models.
Very dense olive orchards thrive on less fertilizer
A two-year field experiment in California's Central Valley found that super-high-density olive orchards can produce high-quality oil and yields with significantly reduced nitrogen fertilizer. Compost application also improved tree nutrition and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
An international team uncovers the comprehensive repertoire of genes and agricultural traits of eggplant
Researchers sequenced the genome of over 3,400 cultivated eggplant varieties and identified key agronomic traits associated with genes. The study revealed over 3,000 associations between traits and genes, providing a foundation for breeding tailor-made eggplant varieties adapted to local conditions.
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.
Straw-based biochar and smart irrigation help maize thrive with less water and fertilizer
Researchers found that straw-derived biochar enhances maize biomass by up to 30% and improves nitrogen use efficiency under limited-water conditions. Alternate partial root-zone drying irrigation also stimulates soil microbes to release nutrients, promoting deeper and more efficient root systems.
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.
From data to dirt: Tianjin University of Commerce pioneers AI-powered breakthrough in sustainable biochar production
A machine learning model developed by Dr. Lan Mu's team at Tianjin University of Commerce predicts biochar yield and nutrient content with stunning accuracy, unlocking smart soil solutions for healthier soils, cleaner ecosystems, and smarter farming.
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.
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.
Double harvest: Vertical solar panels and crops thrive side by side
Researchers at Aarhus University found that vertical solar panels can generate electricity without compromising crop yields, even with reduced shade. The system requires less land than separate installations and is better received by the public due to its innovative design.
UTIA participates in national study analyzing microbial communities, environmental factors impacting cotton development
Researchers are analyzing leaf and soil samples from diverse areas to determine beneficial or harmful roles of different microbes. The study aims to improve crop production practices and overall yield by assessing the health of soil rhizosphere.
Suite of models shows some positive effects of climate-smart Ag practices
Researchers used multiple agronomic models to examine the effects of climate-smart agricultural practices on carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas emissions. The study found positive effects in both studied locations under a baseline scenario, but negative effects in a worst-case scenario.
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.
APS PRESS releases third edition of cotton industry’s most trusted diagnostic resource
The third edition of Compendium of Cotton Diseases and Pests features significant updates and new content, including expanded focus on entomology and emerging diseases. Hundreds of new images enhance identification and diagnosis, making it a comprehensive guide for plant pathologists, agronomists, and growers.
New study reveals the gene responsible for diverse color patterns in African violet flower
Researchers identify two distinct gene transcripts, SiMYB2-Long and SiMYB2-Short, that regulate anthocyanin accumulation and pigment pattern formation in Saintpaulia flowers. The study reveals the genetic basis of flower patterning, potentially enabling more deliberate breeding of patterned flowers.
Researchers identify key survival strategy for soybeans during heat and drought
Researchers at the University of Missouri discovered that soybeans employ differential transpiration as a natural defense strategy to cool reproductive tissues under extreme weather conditions. This adaptation allows plants to save significant amounts of water while protecting their flowers and seed pods.
Texas A&M launches clinical trial to measure health benefits of ‘agrihood’ living
A new study by Texas A&M University is tracking the health effects of living in an agrihood community, where residents have access to a working farm and green spaces. The study aims to measure changes in physical activity, nutrition, and social connectedness among participants.
Review explores pathways, business models, and drivers for youth employment in Uganda’s agricultural sector
A review has identified six key employment pathways for youth in Africa's agricultural sector, including primary production, agri-service provision and green entrepreneurship. The review highlights the importance of scalable and sustainable business models that support young entrepreneurs, such as collective action and revenue-sharing ...
Study develops optimal cover crop adoption thresholds
The study develops a stochastic dynamic programming model that accounts for cumulative effects of cover crops on soil fertility, uncertain future prices, and irreversibility of sunk machinery costs. The findings suggest a threshold level of soil fertility above which it is optimal to adopt cover crops, favoring no-till practices.
Fungal resistance in wheat: preserving biodiversity for food security
Traditional Asian wheat varieties harbor multiple genes conferring yellow rust resistance, a devastating disease threatening global bread wheat production. These findings highlight the importance of preserving genetic diversity and traditional farming practices to combat diseases and ensure food security.
Drought-resilient plant holds promise for future food production, study finds
Researchers at Colorado State University have demonstrated the reversal of embolism in a type of wild grass, which can recover from extended drought within 24 hours. This finding has significant implications for improving agricultural productivity and food security, as it could potentially be bred into crops to make them more resilient...
A new algorithm uses satellite images to distinguish olive grove types without field visits
Researchers develop a method using convolutional networks to automatically identify traditional, intensive, and super-intensive olive grove types from Sentinel-2 satellite images. The algorithm achieved an accuracy of 80% and offers a more efficient and precise alternative to traditional methods.
AI system targets tree pollen behind allergies
Researchers developed an AI system to classify tiny powdery pollen grains produced by fir, spruce, and pine trees, enhancing speed and accuracy. The tool can aid allergy sufferers, urban planners, farmers, and wildlife conservation efforts.
Peptide imitation is the sincerest form of plant flattery
Researchers identify CLE16 peptide as key molecule promoting symbiotic relationship between plants and beneficial soil fungi. Supplementing with this peptide or its fungal equivalent can enhance nutrient exchange and strengthen these traits in crops.
Successful strategies for collaborative species conservation
A study by the University of Göttingen found that bridging structures, regional coordinators, and addressing stakeholder expectations are crucial for long-term success. The project promoted habitat connectivity and biodiversity conservation in agricultural landscapes.
From root to shoot: How silicon powers plant resilience
Researchers at Okayama University have identified the Shoot-Silicon-Signal protein as a crucial regulator of silicon uptake and accumulation in rice and other grasses. The study highlights the importance of silicon in enhancing plant resilience and productivity, particularly under climate change conditions.
Overcoming barriers to food systems sustainability: an interconnected framework
The study reveals five groups of barriers reinforcing each other, including corporate dominance and institutional shortcomings. A comprehensive framework is proposed to address these systemic challenges, emphasizing the importance of integrated political responses and context-sensitive solutions.
Renewed grant will continue UTIA’s integrated pest management program
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has received a $210,000 grant to support ongoing integrated pest management programs across the state. The grant will focus on agronomic and specialty crops, pest control in houses and schools, and improving pollinator health.
Pollinators, pollen and varieties determine fruit quality
A new study from the University of Göttingen reveals that the identity of pollinators, pollen, and crop varieties significantly impact fruit quality. The research emphasizes the need to consider these factors to improve crop nutrient composition and consumer health.
Growing soybeans has a surprisingly significant emissions footprint, but it’s ripe for reduction
A new study by Iowa State University researchers finds that nearly half of soybean-related emissions come from the natural processes in soil, which can be mitigated through strategies like planting winter cover crops and adjusting planting schedules. These solutions have been found to reduce emissions by one-third while increasing yields.
A next-generation catalog of cultivated bananas
A new study presents a cutting-edge catalog of banana diversity, tracing the ancestral origins of various cultivars using innovative genomic techniques. The catalog reveals that some locally appreciated banana groups are not single clones, opening perspectives for diversification.
Multi-state study offers recommendations for keeping bermudagrass greener all season
A new multi-state study identified three management tips to extend green color and reduce cold-weather injury in hybrid bermudagrass: raising mowing height, applying nitrogen fertilizer in the fall, and maintaining adequate soil moisture. The research found that slow-release nitrogen applications through mid-September had positive impa...
New machine learning model offers simple solution to predicting crop yield
A new machine-learning model developed by a University of Arkansas student improves upon existing genotype-by-environmental interaction models, achieving higher prediction accuracy. The model uses feature engineering to process environmental data, leading to a 7% improvement in mean prediction accuracy.
Land management and climate change affect ecosystems’ ability to provide multiple services simultaneously
A new study by German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig found that climate change impacts ecosystems' multifunctionality, affecting soil health and biodiversity. Sustainable land management practices can enhance ecological and economic benefits under current and future climate conditions.