Articles tagged with Crops
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Researchers found that adding compost and cover crops to organic-certified systems increased soil carbon content by 12.6% over a 19-year period, outperforming the international '4 per 1000' initiative. This approach stores more carbon than previously calculated, highlighting the importance of balancing diet for microorganisms in soils.
The tarnished plant bug is a significant pest of cotton in North Carolina and Virginia, feeding on reproductive tissues and damaging crops. Effective management strategies include sampling correctly, applying thresholds properly, planting early, and avoiding overfertilizing and overirrigating.
A new smartphone app scans plants for signs of major diseases and one common pest, detecting them with a 90% successful rate. The app aims to link farmers to extension workers and satellite images to prevent production losses and support global disease control.
A long-term study in California's Salinas Valley found that annual cover cropping significantly benefits soil health, while organic matter from compost has relatively small effects. The research suggests innovative strategies to increase cover cropping adoption, improving soil quality and sustainability.
Researchers found two eco-friendly methods to combat Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Disease: using UV-blocking plastics and salicylic acid analogues. These alternative approaches could help farmers reduce damage and improve crop yields without harming the environment.
Agrivoltaics combines solar panels and agriculture to create a more efficient and sustainable system. This practice reduces evaporation of irrigation waters in summer and increases photosynthesis, leading to improved crop growth and reduced water usage.
A new University of Vermont study reveals that certain essential oils, including garlic, spearmint, and thyme, can effectively repel the swede midge pest from broccoli crops. The study provides a novel framework for exploiting plant odors to manage invasive pests, offering a sustainable solution for organic farmers.
A new Cornell University study reveals that releasing natural enemies to combat pests is more effective in fields surrounded by forests and natural areas, resulting in fewer pests, less plant damage, and increased crop biomass. Conversely, farms with predominantly agricultural landscapes saw the opposite outcome.
A recent study reveals that global agriculture is shifting towards monocultures, threatening food security and the livelihoods of millions. The majority of the world's fastest-growing crops rely on pollinators, which are under threat due to pesticides and habitat loss.
Researchers mapped the crystal structure of a key protein that makes metabolites responsible for the bitter taste in Brassicas. The study could be used to manipulate crop plants for nutritional and taste benefits.
The genome of black-eyed peas has been fully sequenced, providing valuable insights into the genes responsible for their drought and heat tolerance. This breakthrough could help develop new crop varieties more resilient to climate change, particularly in regions where water availability is limited.
Researchers at La Trobe University have discovered a protein that can sense vital phosphorus levels in plants and adjust growth and flowering accordingly. This breakthrough has the potential to reduce fertiliser wastage and improve crop efficiency, leading to significant environmental and economic benefits for farmers.
Gene banks are shifting to bioinformatics and big data analytics to enhance biodiversity preservation. Three major challenges arise: tracking accessions, avoiding duplications, and maintaining genetic integrity. A genomic-driven approach can address these issues by utilizing genotypic information.
A new computational model reduces experimental error in coffee yield predictions, allowing researchers to identify high-yielding varieties with more uniform yields across multiple years. The study also reveals that some coffee plants can have reasonably stable yields across years, contradicting previous assumptions.
A new study by the University of Exeter reveals that crop pests are likely present in many places thought to be free of them. The researchers used data from 1,739 pests and found large numbers of pests in China, India, southern Brazil, and former USSR countries.
The study reveals that the main perceived production problem is insect management, followed by crop timing and disease management. The survey also highlighted common postharvest issues such as temperature management, hydration, and flower food management, with hydration and vase life being the top concerns.
The study reveals that high tunnels can increase yield, enhance shelf life, and improve crop quality, but also pose challenges such as added labor and time requirements. Farmers perceive the ability to differentiate products based on higher quality and premium pricing as a key attractive opportunity.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen are working on a six-year collaborative project to develop more resilient crops using beneficial microorganisms. The goal is to create crops that can thrive in an environmentally friendly manner, reducing the need for pesticides and fertilizers.
New research reveals migratory hoverflies pollinate billions of flowers, produce aphid-eating larvae that control crop pests. The study shows these numbers have been relatively stable over the last decade, providing essential ecosystem services.
A new study by Oregon State University researchers identifies optimal locations and timing for releasing samurai wasps to control the brown marmorated stink bug, which devastates gardens and crops. The wasps lay eggs inside stink bug eggs, preventing hatching and reducing pest damage.
A new study by Oregon State University found that large-scale land transactions negatively affect local women more than men, leading to increased labor burdens and decreased access to food. The study, which analyzed four land grabs in western Ethiopia, found that women suffered adverse effects on their health and well-being.
A machine learning platform called AirSurf-Lettuce uses computer vision and deep learning to categorize lettuce crops in fields, measuring quantity, size, and location. This technology can help reduce yield loss up to 30% by providing precise harvest times and improving crop management decisions.
Researchers have identified specific genetic markers that contribute to larger switchgrass harvests while reducing potential crop weaknesses. This study provides new insights into how plants adapt to different environments and could lead to improved bioenergy crop performance.
A comprehensive network of sites has been developed to conserve and utilize the genetic diversity of wild crop relatives, enabling plant breeders to create more resilient crops. The 150 identified 'hotspot' sites worldwide are crucial for tackling global food security challenges and preserving nature conservation.
Researchers argue that increasing crop yields is insufficient to end global hunger, as it overlooks the environmental impacts and nutritional quality of diets. A new study suggests that adopting ecological principles can improve the environmental sustainability of food production and promote biodiversity.
A study by IIASA suggests prioritizing water for the environment can be achieved by shifting crop production to water-abundant regions and tripling international food trade. This approach could help maintain both food security and environmental flow requirements by 2050.
UK rapeseed growers are facing significant losses due to temperature fluctuations during late November to December. The study found that even small changes in temperature during this period can lead to yield losses of up to £160 million, or 25% of the total value.
A field experiment in Uganda found that raising tenants' share of crops from 50% to 75% can increase agricultural output by 60%, thanks to higher investment and risk-taking. The change also led to a sharp gain in overall welfare for tenants, but a 20% drop in landlords' income.
Researchers measured farmland nectar supplies throughout the year, revealing hungry gaps when food supply is not meeting pollinator demand. Early spring and late summer are periods of great nectar deficit on UK farmland.
A UBC researcher's study found that commercial bio-fertilizers may not improve soil quality or crop yields, raising concerns about environmental consequences. The study also highlights the need for more knowledge on the impact of these inoculants on the land and potential invasive species risks.
For the first time since 1840, farmers in several Northeast states are reporting kiwifruit production operations, with two producers in New Hampshire self-reporting kiwifruit production. The increase in kiwiberry operations is attributed to growing consumer interest, an established valuation of local produce, and a unique culture of di...
Researchers are tweaking tiny tomato plants to increase photosynthesis and make them suitable for growing on the International Space Station. The goal is to create a crop that can feed astronauts and potentially support future space colonies.
Researchers used CRISPR-Cas9 to engineer cassava plants resistant to viruses, but found mutated viruses that evolved resistance instead, threatening crop yields. The study warns of potential unintended consequences of gene-editing technology in agriculture.
A team of researchers analyzed oxygen isotopes in adult ostracode shells from Lake Nakaumi to understand the 3,000-year history of East Asian summer monsoons. They found that solar activity was a primary factor driving centennial-scale variations.
A new study concludes that EU's restrictive regulation of GMO crops cannot be justified, even considering risks to the environment. The researchers argue that GMO crops can be consistent with organic farming principles and should not be treated differently from conventional products.
Researchers from Michigan State University used satellite imagery to quantify nitrogen losses in Midwestern corn fields. They found that nearly $1 billion worth of fertilizer is wasted annually, resulting in 6.8 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions.
A Rutgers-led study found that pollen genes in certain corn strains undergo natural mutations, which may lead to better breeding and crop development. In contrast, other strains show no detectable gene mutations.
Researchers at University of New Hampshire found 14 wild bee species declining in the Northeast, including ground nesters and cavity nesters, with significant shifts in elevation and latitude. Climate change is affecting certain populations, particularly in coastal areas.
Researchers discovered fossil evidence of early taro cultivation in southern Polynesia, suggesting a history of taro production on the islands. The study indicates that fire was used for clearing forest cover during early cultivation, followed by a decrease in fire and an increase in short-lived plants as production intensified.
Researchers at the University of Warwick found that sorghum's gene diversity has decreased over time due to agricultural practices. The crop's ancestors hold the key to its future survival and potential adaptation to climate change.
A new study shows that using safe, native strains of Aspergillus flavus can be as effective, or even more effective, than commercial strains in reducing aflatoxin levels in corn crops. Native strains may perform better due to their adaptation to soil type and weather conditions.
Researchers at Iowa State University are conducting a three-year experiment to gauge how quickly soil health changes after implementing prairie strips and how it reverts when the strips are removed. The study aims to answer questions about the long-term benefits and drawbacks of this farmland conservation practice.
Researchers at Stanford University found that adopting diverse agricultural lands can provide flood control, water purification, and climate stabilization, while also doubling farmers' incomes. The 'Ecological Development Strategy' aims to support both economic growth and environmental health in rural regions like Hainan Island.
Researchers at Penn State are developing a system using unmanned aerial vehicles and ground-based robots to monitor air temperatures and provide targeted heating to protect crops from frost damage. The project aims to minimize energy use while maximizing precision in frost protection, with the goal of reducing economic losses for growers.
The SCOPE project aims to harness plasma energy to transform the production of fertilisers, enabling tailored production for individual environmental conditions. Successful completion could lead to small-scale, flexible fertiliser plants that can produce up to 50,000 tonnes per year.
Scientists at Newcastle University have identified limonene as the main component responsible for keeping tomato whiteflies away from plants. The study found that marigolds release limonene, a chemical that repels whiteflies without harming them.
Researchers found that the gene INDEHISCENT plays a crucial role in shaping Capsella's distinctive heart-shaped fruits by upregulating auxin biosynthesis. This discovery may lead to improved crop yields and denser oilseed rape canopies through genetic modification.
A study reveals key insights into breeding and distribution practices in the turfgrass industry, aiming to address growing environmental concerns. Researchers identified primary parties influencing breeders' decisions and challenges they face when developing target traits.
The Slide Hammer Seeder is a low-cost tool that allows precise planting of small-seeded species, including insectary plants and novel vegetables. It can significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of growing these crops, reducing the need for pesticides.
A multinational review of peppers/chilis (Capsicum species) explores various aspects, including taxonomy, genetic resources, cytogenetic studies, and capsaicinoid biosynthesis. The crop's global production, cultivation, and economic value are also examined.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified two new Miscanthus cultivars, 'Nagara' and '10UI-032.004', with improved winter hardiness, making them suitable for northern growers. These hybrids showed better survival rates and biomass yields compared to other cultivars in cold winters.
A new study found that a conversion message by British environmentalist Mark Lynas, who turned from an opponent to an advocate of GM crops, had a greater impact on public attitudes than a direct advocacy message. The study suggests that people's minds may be more easily changeable on this issue.
Researchers found that North African date palms are a hybrid between Middle East cultivated date palms and the wild Cretan telative native to Crete, leading to increased genetic diversity. The study sheds light on the evolutionary history of the earliest domesticated tree crop in the world.
Archaeologists have discovered a mass of charred seeds in Brantford, Ontario, dating back to 900 B.C., identified as ancient quinoa native to Eastern North America. The finding sheds light on the cultural exchange and agricultural practices of Indigenous peoples in the region.
A study reveals that introducing a parasitic wasp to control the cassava mealybug can reduce crop losses, restore farm profitability, and slow deforestation. The approach provides a sustainable solution for tackling invasive species, promoting biodiversity conservation and profitable farming.
A new complex carbohydrate was discovered in barley by University of Adelaide researchers, which has the potential to be exploited for various uses. The polysaccharide is a mix of glucose and xylose and could behave as a structural component or a viscous gel.
A new study reveals that wildfires can affect plant growth hundreds of kilometers away from the impact zone, reducing productivity in areas far from the blaze. This finding suggests that fire pollution could pose an increasing threat to global productivity in a warming world.
A new study suggests that cover crops grown in fields during winter can increase temperatures in the northern US and southern Canada by up to 3 degrees Celsius. This occurs due to reduced snow reflectivity, allowing crop stems and leaves to absorb solar heat and warm the surrounding atmosphere.
Warmer UK winters may delay blackcurrant growing seasons, leading to reduced yields and poorer fruit quality. Researchers found that different varieties respond differently to climate change, but breeding new resilient ones is key.
Researchers developed a cost-effective method to monitor indoor crop health using SI-NDVI imaging, detecting stress signatures before visible signs appear. This technique has potential applications in space-based farming and can be used by indoor farmers to catch problems quickly.