Crop Production
Articles tagged with Crop Production
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.
Illinois scientists sound the alarm on field inundation, work with farmers to find solutions
Field inundation causes widespread problems across the food system, including economic issues, biological changes, and human health impacts. Illinois scientists are working with farmers to develop a customizable toolbox of solutions suited to specific contexts.
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.
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.
Watering smarter, not more
A new system can map soil moisture tree by tree, allowing growers to water specific trees if they're dry. Maintaining the right moisture level is crucial for plant health, as too little water can stress trees, while too much water can deprive roots of oxygen.
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.
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.
Barcelona Metropolitan Area loses over 70% of agricultural land in recent decades
The study reveals that peri-urban agriculture is key to urban resilience and calls for an urgent shift in planning policies. Agricultural land losses are driven by urban expansion, real estate speculation, and low profitability.
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.
Study identifies causes of potato dry rot in Colorado
Researchers at Colorado State University have identified four Fusarium species causing potato dry rot in the San Luis Valley, including one not previously found in the US. This study will help improve disease diagnosis and monitoring, as well as guide cultivar selection and breeding for disease resistance.
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.
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.
Uncovering how parasitic plants avoid attacking themselves to improve crop resistance
Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology discovered that parasitic plants recognize
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.
CRISPR primes goldenberry for fruit bowl fame
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory use CRISPR to edit the goldenberry plant, reducing its growth by 35% and making it suitable for denser farming. The team hopes to breed plants with desirable traits such as fruit size and disease resistance.
Filipinos eating more but growing less
The Philippines faces a widening rice gap due to stagnant farms, with national output remaining largely unchanged since 2017. Regionally tailored strategies are needed to boost production and reduce dependence on imported grain.
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.
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 climate dataset warns both rich and poorest nations will see sharp drop in crop yields
A new climate dataset warns of a sharp drop in crop yields globally, with the poorest nations facing the greatest risks. The dataset projects that every additional degree Celsius of warming will drag down global food production by 4.4%, impacting millions at risk of hunger.
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.
Tool reveals how your dinner affects the risk of 30,875 species of land-dwelling animal going extinct
Researchers developed a tool to measure food production's impact on species survival, finding that eating beef and lamb has the biggest effect on extinctions. Switching to vegetarian diets could halve biodiversity impact in the UK.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Decoding plants’ language of light
Researchers have discovered how a compound called naringenin chalcone 'reprograms' a light-sensing protein in plants, activating it to send growth-regulating signals even without UV light. This unexpected interaction could lead to crops with improved tolerance to harsh environments and more efficient use of light energy.
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.
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.
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.
Cornell research tests solar panel crop growth in New York
Researchers are testing how crops grow between rows of solar panels on a farm in New York state. The team is growing various crops, including strawberries, raspberries, and soybeans, with promising early results.
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.
BTI, Meiogenix and FFAR announce $2 million breakthrough tomato genetics collaboration
A $2 million collaboration will use genomics and targeted recombination to create drought-tolerant and disease-resistant tomatoes. This project seeks to improve global food security by leveraging cutting-edge technologies to address environmental stress and pathogens.
Genomic techniques can streamline breeding for grain quality
Researchers developed a strategy to predict multiple traits at once based on the whole genome, increasing predictive ability by 2-10 times. This method, called multi-trait genomic selection (MT-GS), combines genetic markers with known trait links for more accurate predictions, making it a promising tool for efficient and cost-effective...
Growing shade trees can cut chocolate’s environmental impact
Researchers found that increasing tree cover on cocoa farms across Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire to a minimum of 30% could sequester significant amounts of carbon dioxide equivalent, benefiting the environment and ecosystems. Agroforestry has the potential to deliver meaningful mitigation for the chocolate industry.
Biochar improves soil health for cotton production, study confirms
Researchers found biochar improved soil's ability to hold nutrients and moisture, giving cotton plants better growth conditions. Biochar also helps improve water quality by keeping nitrates in the soil and out of groundwater.
Scientists propose AI-driven biotech model for future crop breeding
A team of scientists proposes an integrated framework combining biotechnology and AI to revolutionize crop breeding, exploring multi-omics, genome editing, and high-throughput phenotyping. The authors present a forward-looking framework for AI-assisted crop germplasm design, offering a roadmap for sustainable agriculture.
New study unlocks molecular defense against devastating potato pathogen
Researchers discovered salicylic acid plays a central role in protecting potato roots from Spongospora subterranea, a soilborne pathogen causing powdery scab. The study used a cutting-edge 'hairy root' system to rapidly test root-pathogen interactions, providing vital insights for developing resistant potato varieties.
Environmental impact of common pesticides seriously underestimated
Research suggests that nine commonly used pesticides in viticulture have significantly underestimated environmental impact, with half-lives exceeding two days and potential for long-range transport.
Climate change linked to decline in nutritional quality of food
Preliminary research suggests that climate change can lead to a reduction in nutritional quality in food crops, with potential devastating consequences for human health. The study found that elevated CO2 levels and hotter temperatures can exacerbate this decline, particularly affecting essential proteins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Study reveals beneficial microbes that can sustain yields in unfertilized fields
Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology have found beneficial microbes in rice roots that can support plant growth and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers. The study reveals an increase in microbial diversity as plants mature, with nitrogen-fixing bacteria enriching the soil.
Nature-friendly farming boosts biodiversity and yields but may require new subsidies
Agroecological methods improve biodiversity, pollination, natural pest control, and crop yields, but new subsidies are needed to support farms' transition. The study found that incorporating nature-friendly practices increases benefits for nature and farmers, with higher soil carbon and overall increased crop yields.
Corn after soy: New study quantifies rotation benefits and trade-offs
Researchers found that corn-soy rotation boosts corn yields and reduces nitrogen fertilizer needs, but with trade-offs in soil greenhouse gas emissions and nitrogen leaching. The study's results suggest a complex interplay between crop yield, environmental impacts, and economic returns under various rotation scenarios.
Urgent need to quantify role of fungal toxins in rising liver cancer rates in Ghana
High aflatoxin levels in Ghana's maize and peanuts contribute to the country's high liver cancer rates. Experts call for research to quantify the impact of fungal toxins on the disease.
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.
The EU should allow gene editing to make organic farming more sustainable, researchers say
Gene editing technologies could enable climate-resilient crops, higher yields, and reduced fertilizers and pesticides. Researchers advocate allowing gene editing in organic farming to support the EU's goal of 25% organic agriculture by 2030.
Drones and genetics team up for drought smarter wheat
Researchers used drones with advanced cameras to measure how wheat plants cope with climate change, identifying key traits like leaf area index and chlorophyll content. They matched these traits to specific genes in the wheat genome, discovering 16 genetic markers linked to better performance under normal and dry conditions.
New digital tool provides satellite monitoring of crop health across US
A new digital tool provides free satellite monitoring and analysis of vegetation and crop health across Kansas and the nation. The Sentinel GreenReport Plus combines satellite imagery with climate datasets to provide users with insights into vegetation greenness, changes in land cover over time, and climate abnormalities.
Cover crops may not be solution for both crop yield, carbon sequestration
A new study from Cornell University suggests that most regenerative farming practices, including cover crops, may actually reduce crop yields in many situations. However, the researchers found that certain combinations of practices can benefit both climate mitigation and crop yields, depending on location.
Publication reveals soil lab use, fertility findings for blackberries, row crops, forages
The Arkansas Soil Fertility Studies report shows that 81% of producers use lime and fertilizer recommendations to improve soil fertility. The study also found that most producers are satisfied with the free soil testing services provided by the Marianna lab, which accounts for 80-85% of analysis in the state.
Transforming the future by making maize bioengineering more accessible
Researchers at Boyce Thompson Institute developed a new method for transforming maize using leaf whorls, reducing the need for advanced growing facilities. The new technique has been tested on two maize genotypes and shown to be effective in boosting plant resistance.
NYS dairy farms produce emissions under national estimates
New York dairy farms achieve low greenhouse gas emissions by producing high-quality crops and managing manure efficiently. The study provides a regional baseline for dairy farm emissions, offering opportunities for farmers to reduce emissions and increase productivity through sustainable practices.
New risk maps help soybean farmers spot charcoal rot before it strikes
Researchers developed high-resolution risk maps to predict where charcoal rot occurs in soybean fields. The maps use measurable soil characteristics to assess risk across the landscape and identify hotspots for targeted approaches to managing the disease.
Disrupting ‘communication’ with plants could limit soybean cyst nematode infections
A study co-authored by an Iowa State University professor identified a single protein that triggers chemical signals called effectors in cyst nematodes, which hijack plant cells. Disrupting this protein could severely reduce nematode infections, making it a powerful method for reducing crop damage.
Research expands options for more sustainable soybean production
Scientists have discovered a new bacterial strain, Bacillus thuringiensis RZ2MS9, that can enhance the growth of soybeans and corn when combined with rhizobia. This partnership reduces fertilizer use, saving Brazilian growers an estimated USD 15 billion annually.
New study confirms copper-based fungicides as a reliable solution for aerial stem rot in potatoes
A new study confirms copper-based fungicides as a reliable solution for aerial stem rot in potatoes. The research found that copper fungicide treatments consistently slowed disease spread and improved yields over a 10-year period.
Climate change and globalization raise risks from crop pests
Rising temperatures and increased trade enable pests to spread globally, intensifying agriculture weakens natural pest control. Crop losses exceed 40% due to pest and disease impacts, necessitating urgent action for climate-smart management strategies.
New geospatial intelligence methodology makes land use management more accurate and faster
Researchers developed a new geospatial intelligence methodology to accurately delineate areas of natural vegetation and agricultural production by crop type. The results showed 95% accuracy in mapping, providing support for public policies aimed at agricultural production and environmental conservation.
Triggering parasitic plant ‘suicide’ to help farmers
Scientists at UC Riverside discovered a way to exploit parasitic plant hormones to induce