Pub Date : 2026-01-23DOI: 10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110358
Muhammad Usman Ghani , Shanning Lou , Jiao Ning , Muhammad Kamran , Awais Shakoor , Wanhe Zhu , Fujiang Hou
Sustainable intensification of forage production in arid regions requires strategies that enhance yield while minimizing environmental impacts. Organic amendments improve soil health by increasing soil organic matter; however, their effectiveness compared to mineral fertilizers with increased cutting frequency remains unclear. A two-year field study (2022–2023) evaluated the effects of nitrogen sources, including control (CK), urea (UF), cow manure compost (CMC), and poultry manure compost (PMC), and cutting frequencies (3 and 5 cuttings/year) on forage yield, quality, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in alfalfa-tall fescue mixtures in arid conditions. Increasing cutting frequency from 3 to 5 resulted in a 5.8 % to 6.2 % increase in dry matter yield (DMY), 5.9 % to 15.4 % increase in crude protein yield (CPY), 4.3 % to 6.7 % increase in relative feed value (RFV), and 5.6 % to 5.8 % increase in nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) with urea fertilization, but had no significant effect with CK, CMC, and PMC. Urea fertilization with 5 cuttings (UF-5) produced the highest DMY (13,721 kg ha⁻¹ and 14,074 kg ha⁻¹) and CPY (1989 kg ha⁻¹ and 2376 kg ha⁻¹) in 2022 and 2023, respectively, outperforming organic amendments. UF-5 also reduced fiber contents (ADF and NDF), improving forage quality. Although urea fertilization increased nitrous oxide (N₂O) fluxes, the global warming potential (GWP) and greenhouse gas intensity (GHGI) were lowest with UF-5, due to increased methane (CH₄) uptake and reduced carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. Organic composts improved soil organic carbon (SOC) but did not maintain high productivity. These findings demonstrate that urea fertilization with increased cutting frequency optimizes forage yield while minimizing GHGI in arid grasslands. The slow nitrogen release from organic amendments limits their effectiveness, making mineral nitrogen sources more efficient in intensified cutting regimes.
干旱地区牧草生产的可持续集约化需要在提高产量的同时尽量减少对环境的影响。有机改良剂通过增加土壤有机质来改善土壤健康；然而，与增加切割频率的矿物肥料相比，它们的有效性尚不清楚。通过为期两年的田间研究（2022-2023），评估了干旱条件下不同氮源（对照氮、尿素氮、牛粪堆肥氮、禽粪堆肥氮）和刈割频率（3和5刈割/年）对苜蓿-高羊茅混合牧草产量、品质和温室气体（GHG）排放的影响。将刈割次数从3次增加到5次，可使干物质产量（DMY）提高5.8 % ~ 6.2 %，粗蛋白质产量（CPY）提高5.9 % ~ 15.4 %，相对饲料价值（RFV）提高4.3 % ~ 6.7 %，氮素利用效率（NUE）提高5.6 % ~ 5.8 %，而CK、CMC和PMC对刈割次数的影响不显著。5枝尿素（UF-5）在2022年和2023年分别产生了最高的DMY（13,721 kg ha⁻¹和14,074 kg ha⁻¹）和CPY（1989 kg ha⁻¹和2376 kg ha⁻¹），超过了有机肥料。UF-5还降低了饲料中纤维含量（ADF和NDF），提高了饲料品质。虽然尿素施肥增加了一氧化二氮（N₂O）通量，但由于增加了甲烷（CH₄）吸收量和减少了二氧化碳（CO₂）排放，UF-5的全球变暖潜势（GWP）和温室气体强度（GHGI）最低。有机堆肥提高了土壤有机碳（SOC），但不能保持较高的生产力。这些结果表明，增加刈割频率的尿素施肥在减少GHGI的同时优化了干旱草地的牧草产量。有机改进剂的缓慢氮释放限制了它们的有效性，使矿物氮源在强化切割制度下更有效。
{"title":"Increased cutting frequency coupled with mineral nitrogen fertilization enhances forage productivity and reduces greenhouse gas intensity in an arid legume-grass cultivated grassland","authors":"Muhammad Usman Ghani , Shanning Lou , Jiao Ning , Muhammad Kamran , Awais Shakoor , Wanhe Zhu , Fujiang Hou","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110358","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110358","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Sustainable intensification of forage production in arid regions requires strategies that enhance yield while minimizing environmental impacts. Organic amendments improve soil health by increasing soil organic matter; however, their effectiveness compared to mineral fertilizers with increased cutting frequency remains unclear. A two-year field study (2022–2023) evaluated the effects of nitrogen sources, including control (CK), urea (UF), cow manure compost (CMC), and poultry manure compost (PMC), and cutting frequencies (3 and 5 cuttings/year) on forage yield, quality, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in alfalfa-tall fescue mixtures in arid conditions. Increasing cutting frequency from 3 to 5 resulted in a 5.8 % to 6.2 % increase in dry matter yield (DMY), 5.9 % to 15.4 % increase in crude protein yield (CPY), 4.3 % to 6.7 % increase in relative feed value (RFV), and 5.6 % to 5.8 % increase in nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) with urea fertilization, but had no significant effect with CK, CMC, and PMC. Urea fertilization with 5 cuttings (UF-5) produced the highest DMY (13,721 kg ha⁻¹ and 14,074 kg ha⁻¹) and CPY (1989 kg ha⁻¹ and 2376 kg ha⁻¹) in 2022 and 2023, respectively, outperforming organic amendments. UF-5 also reduced fiber contents (ADF and NDF), improving forage quality. Although urea fertilization increased nitrous oxide (N₂O) fluxes, the global warming potential (GWP) and greenhouse gas intensity (GHGI) were lowest with UF-5, due to increased methane (CH₄) uptake and reduced carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. Organic composts improved soil organic carbon (SOC) but did not maintain high productivity. These findings demonstrate that urea fertilization with increased cutting frequency optimizes forage yield while minimizing GHGI in arid grasslands. The slow nitrogen release from organic amendments limits their effectiveness, making mineral nitrogen sources more efficient in intensified cutting regimes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"339 ","pages":"Article 110358"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146023435","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-21DOI: 10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110353
Pierre G. Tovihoudji , Mouiz W.I.A. Yessoufou , Sissou Zakari , G. Esaie Kpadonou , Ali Ibrahim , Robert Zougmoré , P.B. Irénikatché Akponikpè
The use of crop modeling has advanced the understanding of maize cropping systems, but promising management practices require validation under sub-Saharan Africa's climate conditions. This study evaluates the effects of optimal combination rates of hill-placed farmyard manure (FYM) and chemical fertilizer on maize yield. A long-term (32 years) crop simulation was conducted to investigate variations in maize yields, soil organic carbon (SOC), water use efficiency (WUE), nutrient use efficiency (NUE) and nitrate leaching, using the sequential analysis in the DSSAT-CERES-Maize model. Data from a four-year maize trial combining hill-placed FYM and mineral fertilizer under different rainfall patterns was used for model evaluation. The model accurately simulated grain yield, nutrient uptake, SOC and soil nitrogen with nRMSE ranging from 13 % to 27 %. Generally, the continuous application of hill-placed FYM was beneficial for maize cropping: yields (+59 %), SOC (+10 %), total nitrogen (+248 %) and WUE (+43 %). During dry years, the combination of 3 t ha−1 FYM and 50 kg ha⁻1 NPK was optimal for simultaneous improvement of grain yield, WUE, and NUE; while reducing nitrate leaching and maintaining sustainable soil carbon stock. Furthermore, 6 t ha−1 FYM and 100 kg ha⁻1 NPK seemed suitable during normal and wet years, with higher yield, WUE, and NUE, and moderate nitrate leaching. These findings provide insights for improving nutrient management to reduce climate change effects in SSA and ensure sustainable maize production. An application of 6 t ha−1 of farmyard manure without NPK is advised in areas with abundant manure availability for sustainable maize cropping.
作物模型的使用提高了对玉米种植系统的理解，但是有希望的管理实践需要在撒哈拉以南非洲的气候条件下进行验证。评价了坡地农家肥与化肥最优配施量对玉米产量的影响。采用DSSAT-CERES-Maize模型的序列分析方法，研究了玉米产量、土壤有机碳（SOC）、水分利用效率（WUE）、养分利用效率（NUE）和硝酸盐淋失的变化规律。利用4年不同降雨模式下丘陵栽培FYM与矿质肥联合施用玉米试验数据进行模型评价。模型准确模拟了粮食产量、养分吸收、有机碳和土壤氮，nRMSE范围为13 % ~ 27 %。总体而言，连续施用丘陵陵园肥有利于玉米种植：产量（+59 %）、有机碳（+10 %）、全氮（+248 %）和水分利用效率（+43 %）。在干旱年份，施用3 1 ha - 1化肥和50 kg ha - 1氮磷钾最能同时提高粮食产量、水分利用效率和氮肥利用效率；同时减少硝态氮淋失，保持土壤碳储量的可持续性。此外，在正常和湿润年份，6 t ha - 1 FYM和100 kg ha - 1 NPK似乎是合适的，具有较高的产量，WUE和NUE，适度的硝酸盐淋失。这些发现为改善营养管理以减少气候变化对SSA的影响和确保玉米可持续生产提供了见解。在肥力充足的地区，建议施用6 t / 1的不含氮磷钾的农家肥，以实现玉米的可持续种植。
{"title":"Modeling the impact of hill-placed manure and inorganic fertilizer on maize productivity, soil carbon and nitrogen dynamics in the Sudan Savanna of West Africa","authors":"Pierre G. Tovihoudji , Mouiz W.I.A. Yessoufou , Sissou Zakari , G. Esaie Kpadonou , Ali Ibrahim , Robert Zougmoré , P.B. Irénikatché Akponikpè","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110353","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110353","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The use of crop modeling has advanced the understanding of maize cropping systems, but promising management practices require validation under sub-Saharan Africa's climate conditions. This study evaluates the effects of optimal combination rates of hill-placed farmyard manure (FYM) and chemical fertilizer on maize yield. A long-term (32 years) crop simulation was conducted to investigate variations in maize yields, soil organic carbon (SOC), water use efficiency (WUE), nutrient use efficiency (NUE) and nitrate leaching, using the sequential analysis in the DSSAT-CERES-Maize model. Data from a four-year maize trial combining hill-placed FYM and mineral fertilizer under different rainfall patterns was used for model evaluation. The model accurately simulated grain yield, nutrient uptake, SOC and soil nitrogen with nRMSE ranging from 13 % to 27 %. Generally, the continuous application of hill-placed FYM was beneficial for maize cropping: yields (+59 %), SOC (+10 %), total nitrogen (+248 %) and WUE (+43 %). During dry years, the combination of 3 t ha<sup>−1</sup> FYM and 50 kg ha<sup>⁻1</sup> NPK was optimal for simultaneous improvement of grain yield, WUE, and NUE; while reducing nitrate leaching and maintaining sustainable soil carbon stock. Furthermore, 6 t ha<sup>−1</sup> FYM and 100 kg ha<sup>⁻1</sup> NPK seemed suitable during normal and wet years, with higher yield, WUE, and NUE, and moderate nitrate leaching. These findings provide insights for improving nutrient management to reduce climate change effects in SSA and ensure sustainable maize production. An application of 6 t ha<sup>−1</sup> of farmyard manure without NPK is advised in areas with abundant manure availability for sustainable maize cropping.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"339 ","pages":"Article 110353"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146014593","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-21DOI: 10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110356
Runheng Yang , Jinxia Zhang , Meng Yin , Pengliang Tian , Liangliang Du , Yingru Xie , Lin Ding , Yangang Yang , Qingzhuo Li , Jianrong Xiao , Xi Wei , Xinlong Fan
<div><div>Maize production in arid Northwestern China is increasingly constrained by water scarcity and rising carbon emissions. Inefficient water and nitrogen management practices exacerbate resource waste and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, hindering progress toward sustainable agriculture and carbon neutrality. Consequently, there is an urgent need to optimize integrated water-nitrogen management strategies to simultaneously enhance crop yield and water use efficiency (WUE) while mitigating GHG emissions. In this study, field experiments combined with the DeNitrification-DeComposition (DNDC) model were used to assess the effects of water-nitrogen coupling on maize yield and GHG emissions. A field experiment was conducted with three irrigation gradients: severe water deficit (W1: 45–60 % θ<sub>f</sub>), moderate water deficit (W2: 60–75 % θ<sub>f</sub>), and mild water deficit (W3: 75–90 % θ<sub>f</sub>, where θ<sub>f</sub> denotes field capacity); and three nitrogen application rates: low (F1: 120 kg/ha), medium (F2: 240 kg/ha), and high (F3: 360 kg/ha). The DNDC model was calibrated and validated using field data from 2023 to 2024, and was then linked with four Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) to project maize yield and GHG emissions from 2025 to 2100. Results indicated that N<sub>2</sub>O and CO<sub>2</sub> emissions were significantly affected by water-nitrogen interactions (P < 0.05), whereas CH<sub>4</sub> fluxes remained a weak sink and showed no significant response to the treatments (P > 0.05). The higher cumulative N<sub>2</sub>O and CO<sub>2</sub> emissions observed in the second year were primarily attributed to variations in water-filled pore space (WFPS), whereas soil temperature showed no significant correlation with N<sub>2</sub>O emissions. Compared with high nitrogen input, a moderate nitrogen application rate significantly reduced N<sub>2</sub>O and CO<sub>2</sub> emissions. Across irrigation regimes, global warming potential (GWP) increased progressively with increasing water and nitrogen inputs. Nitrogen application rate was the dominant controlling factor for greenhouse gas intensity (GHGI) under wet conditions, whereas water deficit severity was dominant under drought. The F2W3 treatment achieved the highest maize yield and significantly enhanced WUE and key growth traits. This management strategy is projected to support yield increases and emissions reduction under the SSP1–2.6 and SSP2–4.5 scenarios. However, under high-emission scenarios, maize yield is projected to decline significantly alongside increased GHG emissions, with soils shifting from a CH<sub>4</sub> sink to a source. Based on the combined results of the Mann-Kendall trend test and VIKOR multi-criteria decision analysis, F2W3 was identified as the optimal strategy, simultaneously achieving high yield, improved WUE, and lower GHG emissions. These findings provide a robust scientific basis for sustainable maize production and carbon-neutral agricul
{"title":"Modeling water-nitrogen management for maize production and greenhouse gas emissions in arid Northwestern China using the DNDC model","authors":"Runheng Yang , Jinxia Zhang , Meng Yin , Pengliang Tian , Liangliang Du , Yingru Xie , Lin Ding , Yangang Yang , Qingzhuo Li , Jianrong Xiao , Xi Wei , Xinlong Fan","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110356","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110356","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Maize production in arid Northwestern China is increasingly constrained by water scarcity and rising carbon emissions. Inefficient water and nitrogen management practices exacerbate resource waste and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, hindering progress toward sustainable agriculture and carbon neutrality. Consequently, there is an urgent need to optimize integrated water-nitrogen management strategies to simultaneously enhance crop yield and water use efficiency (WUE) while mitigating GHG emissions. In this study, field experiments combined with the DeNitrification-DeComposition (DNDC) model were used to assess the effects of water-nitrogen coupling on maize yield and GHG emissions. A field experiment was conducted with three irrigation gradients: severe water deficit (W1: 45–60 % θ<sub>f</sub>), moderate water deficit (W2: 60–75 % θ<sub>f</sub>), and mild water deficit (W3: 75–90 % θ<sub>f</sub>, where θ<sub>f</sub> denotes field capacity); and three nitrogen application rates: low (F1: 120 kg/ha), medium (F2: 240 kg/ha), and high (F3: 360 kg/ha). The DNDC model was calibrated and validated using field data from 2023 to 2024, and was then linked with four Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) to project maize yield and GHG emissions from 2025 to 2100. Results indicated that N<sub>2</sub>O and CO<sub>2</sub> emissions were significantly affected by water-nitrogen interactions (P < 0.05), whereas CH<sub>4</sub> fluxes remained a weak sink and showed no significant response to the treatments (P > 0.05). The higher cumulative N<sub>2</sub>O and CO<sub>2</sub> emissions observed in the second year were primarily attributed to variations in water-filled pore space (WFPS), whereas soil temperature showed no significant correlation with N<sub>2</sub>O emissions. Compared with high nitrogen input, a moderate nitrogen application rate significantly reduced N<sub>2</sub>O and CO<sub>2</sub> emissions. Across irrigation regimes, global warming potential (GWP) increased progressively with increasing water and nitrogen inputs. Nitrogen application rate was the dominant controlling factor for greenhouse gas intensity (GHGI) under wet conditions, whereas water deficit severity was dominant under drought. The F2W3 treatment achieved the highest maize yield and significantly enhanced WUE and key growth traits. This management strategy is projected to support yield increases and emissions reduction under the SSP1–2.6 and SSP2–4.5 scenarios. However, under high-emission scenarios, maize yield is projected to decline significantly alongside increased GHG emissions, with soils shifting from a CH<sub>4</sub> sink to a source. Based on the combined results of the Mann-Kendall trend test and VIKOR multi-criteria decision analysis, F2W3 was identified as the optimal strategy, simultaneously achieving high yield, improved WUE, and lower GHG emissions. These findings provide a robust scientific basis for sustainable maize production and carbon-neutral agricul","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"339 ","pages":"Article 110356"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146014592","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-21DOI: 10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110351
Nabila Mumtahina , Aya Matsuoka , Yusaku Uga , Hiroyuki Shimono , Maya Matsunami
Purpose
Optimizing root system architecture (RSA) through genetic selection and targeted fertilization strategies can improve nutrient efficiency and crop productivity. We investigated the contrasting RSA determined by two major quantitative trait loci (QTLs), DRO1 and qSOR1, which control root growth angle in rice, in the context of fertilization methods—broadcasting and local application—that differ markedly in nutrient distribution within the soil. Through this approach, we aimed to clarify how RSA related traits interact with fertilization strategies to enhance rice productivity in paddy field.
Methods
Field trials were conducted over two years (2022–2023) in Morioka and Takizawa, Japan, using lowland rice IR64 and its three introgression lines (ILs) differing in functional/unfunctional alleles of DRO1 and qSOR1. Compared to IR64, the ILs exhibit three distinct RSA: shallow (SHALLOW), deep (DEEP), and shallow + deep (DIMORPHIC). Fertilization treatments included Mix (NPK broadcasted and mixed into the soil) and Local (NPK embedded 10-cm deep). Grain yield, mineral uptake and root distribution were measured.
Results
Over the two-year trial period, the DEEP and DIMORPHIC lines consistently exhibited superior yields compared with IR64 and SHALLOW across fertilization regimes and experimental sites. The root surface area in the deeper soil layer (10–20 cm below the soil surface) was strongly correlated with grain yield. Local fertilization consistently resulted in higher yields and enhanced mineral uptake relative to Mix fertilization. Moreover, root proliferation was observed at fertilized position under the Local regime across all lines.
Conclusions
DRO1-mediated deep rooting enhanced mineral uptake and yield under flooded conditions. Local fertilization increased nutrient availability and stimulated root proliferation in nutrient-rich zones, thereby improving nutrient uptake. Together, these findings underscore the importance of integrating root architectural traits with fertilization strategies to maximize rice productivity and nutrient use efficiency, providing valuable insights for breeding resource-efficient varieties adapted to sustainable agricultural systems.
{"title":"Yield performance of rice with different root system architecture with combination of DRO1 and qSOR1 alleles under different fertilization regimes","authors":"Nabila Mumtahina , Aya Matsuoka , Yusaku Uga , Hiroyuki Shimono , Maya Matsunami","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110351","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110351","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>Optimizing root system architecture (RSA) through genetic selection and targeted fertilization strategies can improve nutrient efficiency and crop productivity. We investigated the contrasting RSA determined by two major quantitative trait loci (QTLs), <em>DRO1</em> and <em>qSOR1</em>, which control root growth angle in rice, in the context of fertilization methods—broadcasting and local application—that differ markedly in nutrient distribution within the soil. Through this approach, we aimed to clarify how RSA related traits interact with fertilization strategies to enhance rice productivity in paddy field.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Field trials were conducted over two years (2022–2023) in Morioka and Takizawa, Japan, using lowland rice IR64 and its three introgression lines (ILs) differing in functional/unfunctional alleles of <em>DRO1</em> and <em>qSOR1</em>. Compared to IR64, the ILs exhibit three distinct RSA: shallow (SHALLOW), deep (DEEP), and shallow + deep (DIMORPHIC). Fertilization treatments included Mix (NPK broadcasted and mixed into the soil) and Local (NPK embedded 10-cm deep). Grain yield, mineral uptake and root distribution were measured.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Over the two-year trial period, the DEEP and DIMORPHIC lines consistently exhibited superior yields compared with IR64 and SHALLOW across fertilization regimes and experimental sites. The root surface area in the deeper soil layer (10–20 cm below the soil surface) was strongly correlated with grain yield. Local fertilization consistently resulted in higher yields and enhanced mineral uptake relative to Mix fertilization. Moreover, root proliferation was observed at fertilized position under the Local regime across all lines.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div><em>DRO1</em>-mediated deep rooting enhanced mineral uptake and yield under flooded conditions. Local fertilization increased nutrient availability and stimulated root proliferation in nutrient-rich zones, thereby improving nutrient uptake. Together, these findings underscore the importance of integrating root architectural traits with fertilization strategies to maximize rice productivity and nutrient use efficiency, providing valuable insights for breeding resource-efficient varieties adapted to sustainable agricultural systems.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"339 ","pages":"Article 110351"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146023360","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-20DOI: 10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110352
Qiansi Liao , Jianmei Geng , Wenwei Cai , Farooq Shah , Zhaojie Li , Li Xiong , Peng Wang , Yang Tao , Qianhua Yuan , Wei Wu
Context or problem
Breeding sugarcane genotypes for maximum sugar yield potential while exhibiting strong lodging resistance is crucial for the sustainability of sugarcane cropping systems. However, identifying and recommending with excellent and stable performance across multiple targeted traits and diverse environments remains a significant challenge.
Objective and methods
This study applied two methodologies–Additive Main Effect and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) and Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (BLUP) –to analyze the genotype × environment interaction (GEI), based on a three–year field experiment. The study involved 11 genotypes, assessed for 28 parameters. For integrating the mean performance and stability of a single trait, a superiority index (WAASBY) was used. A Multi–trait Stability Index (MTSI) was employed to consider multiple targeted parameters simultaneously, enabling more comprehensive genotype recommendation across different environments.
Results and conclusions
Our findings confirmed that the BLUP model is highly effective for a single–trait selection, such as for sugar yield and lodging resistance; achieving excellent genotype selection accuracy ranging from 0.78 to 0.91. When focusing solely on sugar yield via the BLUP model, the genotypes G01 (Zhongtang 1) and G02 (SO5) exhibited both high mean performance and stability. However, other two genotypes were selected when the target trait shifted to lodging resistance, highlighting that genotype recommendations based on one trait can be somewhat biased. To overcome this limitation, we demonstrated the effectiveness of MTSI in recommending a variety with multiple desirable parameters, as validated through several analytical and statistical methods. Two ideal genotypes (G03: Zhongtang 3; G04: Guitang 58) were selected based on minimum MTSI (1.15–1.82). The MTSI always illustrated a strong relationship with WAASBY for sugar yield and lodging resistance (R2 = 0.56**). Notably, some key traits, such as root anchorage strength and related root parameters were major contributors to the overall lodging resistance and MTSI indicators.
Implications or significance
These findings underscore the importance of prioritizing a rigid root system as a key criterion in future breeding efforts to enhance lodging resistance and overall sugarcane performance. Furthermore, the MTSI is a promising and user–friendly tool for breeders to identify and recommend superior genotypes based on multiple targeted traits, thereby supporting more informed and efficient breeding decisions.
{"title":"Genotype selection for high performance and stability of sugar yield and lodging resistance across multiple environments in sugarcane","authors":"Qiansi Liao , Jianmei Geng , Wenwei Cai , Farooq Shah , Zhaojie Li , Li Xiong , Peng Wang , Yang Tao , Qianhua Yuan , Wei Wu","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110352","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110352","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Context or problem</h3><div>Breeding sugarcane genotypes for maximum sugar yield potential while exhibiting strong lodging resistance is crucial for the sustainability of sugarcane cropping systems. However, identifying and recommending with excellent and stable performance across multiple targeted traits and diverse environments remains a significant challenge.</div></div><div><h3>Objective and methods</h3><div>This study applied two methodologies–Additive Main Effect and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) and Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (BLUP) –to analyze the genotype × environment interaction (GEI), based on a three–year field experiment. The study involved 11 genotypes, assessed for 28 parameters. For integrating the mean performance and stability of a single trait, a superiority index (WAASBY) was used. A Multi–trait Stability Index (MTSI) was employed to consider multiple targeted parameters simultaneously, enabling more comprehensive genotype recommendation across different environments.</div></div><div><h3>Results and conclusions</h3><div>Our findings confirmed that the BLUP model is highly effective for a single–trait selection, such as for sugar yield and lodging resistance; achieving excellent genotype selection accuracy ranging from 0.78 to 0.91. When focusing solely on sugar yield via the BLUP model, the genotypes G01 (Zhongtang 1) and G02 (SO5) exhibited both high mean performance and stability. However, other two genotypes were selected when the target trait shifted to lodging resistance, highlighting that genotype recommendations based on one trait can be somewhat biased. To overcome this limitation, we demonstrated the effectiveness of MTSI in recommending a variety with multiple desirable parameters, as validated through several analytical and statistical methods. Two ideal genotypes (G03: Zhongtang 3; G04: Guitang 58) were selected based on minimum MTSI (1.15–1.82). The MTSI always illustrated a strong relationship with WAASBY for sugar yield and lodging resistance (R<sup>2</sup> = 0.56<sup>**</sup>). Notably, some key traits, such as root anchorage strength and related root parameters were major contributors to the overall lodging resistance and MTSI indicators.</div></div><div><h3>Implications or significance</h3><div>These findings underscore the importance of prioritizing a rigid root system as a key criterion in future breeding efforts to enhance lodging resistance and overall sugarcane performance. Furthermore, the MTSI is a promising and user–friendly tool for breeders to identify and recommend superior genotypes based on multiple targeted traits, thereby supporting more informed and efficient breeding decisions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"339 ","pages":"Article 110352"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146014837","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Intercropping legumes with fruit trees in arid regions offer potential for sustainable intensification, yet interspecific competition often compromises crop yields. Balancing resource partitioning and productivity remains a critical challenge.
Objective
This study compared the agronomic performance of apple/soybean intercropping (IAS) and apple/alfalfa intercropping (IAA) intercropping systems in China's arid zone, focusing on yield trade-offs, root niche segregation, and soil nitrogen dynamics.
Methods
Root distribution patterns, soil inorganic nitrogen content, dry matter allocation, and land equivalent ratio (LER) were quantified across monoculture and intercropped systems using root-drill sampling and spatial regression models.
Results and conclusion
Intercropping reduced soybean and alfalfa yields by 42–54 % and apple yields by 29.54 %-37.99 % compared to monocultures. However, the IAS system achieved higher land-use efficiency (LER: 1.22–1.28) than IAA (1.15–1.19), driven by soybean’s adaptive root plasticity under shade. Vertical root stratification (apple roots in the 20–40 cm soil depth vs. crops in the 0–20 cm soil depth) minimized competition, while intercropping increased soil ammonium-N by 55.47–60.09 % and reduced nitrate-N leaching by 22.3–27.5 %. Soybean allocated more biomass to stems under shading, whereas alfalfa prioritized root growth after mowing. Despite yield penalties, the IAS system demonstrated superior systemic productivity through niche complementarity and nitrogen cycling optimization.
Significance
These results highlight the importance of species selection and root management in designing sustainable agroforestry systems for arid regions.
{"title":"Niche isolation in apple/soybean intercropping more effectively alleviates interspecific competition compared to apple/alfalfa intercropping","authors":"Wenwen Wei, Tingting Liu, Zhe Li, Lei Shen, Luhua Li, Wei Zhang","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110349","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110349","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Context</h3><div>Intercropping legumes with fruit trees in arid regions offer potential for sustainable intensification, yet interspecific competition often compromises crop yields. Balancing resource partitioning and productivity remains a critical challenge.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>This study compared the agronomic performance of apple/soybean intercropping (IAS) and apple/alfalfa intercropping (IAA) intercropping systems in China's arid zone, focusing on yield trade-offs, root niche segregation, and soil nitrogen dynamics.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Root distribution patterns, soil inorganic nitrogen content, dry matter allocation, and land equivalent ratio (LER) were quantified across monoculture and intercropped systems using root-drill sampling and spatial regression models.</div></div><div><h3>Results and conclusion</h3><div>Intercropping reduced soybean and alfalfa yields by 42–54 % and apple yields by 29.54 %-37.99 % compared to monocultures. However, the IAS system achieved higher land-use efficiency (LER: 1.22–1.28) than IAA (1.15–1.19), driven by soybean’s adaptive root plasticity under shade. Vertical root stratification (apple roots in the 20–40 cm soil depth vs. crops in the 0–20 cm soil depth) minimized competition, while intercropping increased soil ammonium-N by 55.47–60.09 % and reduced nitrate-N leaching by 22.3–27.5 %. Soybean allocated more biomass to stems under shading, whereas alfalfa prioritized root growth after mowing. Despite yield penalties, the IAS system demonstrated superior systemic productivity through niche complementarity and nitrogen cycling optimization.</div></div><div><h3>Significance</h3><div>These results highlight the importance of species selection and root management in designing sustainable agroforestry systems for arid regions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"339 ","pages":"Article 110349"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146014839","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-19DOI: 10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110354
Xu Zheng , Wenjing Zhao , Luhua Li , Jianguo Liu , Jiaping Wang
<div><h3>Context</h3><div>Nitrogen-efficient fertilization on marginal sandy lands is crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity in degraded soils while promoting global food and oil security. However, the relationships between nitrogen (N) regimes, root–soil interactions, and tuber quality remain poorly understood.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>This study aims to elucidate how N fertilization modulates root adaptive strategies, soil nutrient availability, and extracellular enzyme activity, thereby influencing tuber yield and quality in tiger nut (<em>Cyperus esculentus</em> L.) grown on sandy farmland.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The experiment was conducted in sandy farmland with five nitrogen (N) application treatments: no nitrogen (N0), 100 (N100), 200 (N200), 300 (N300) and 400 (N400) kg N ha<sup>−1</sup>. We systematically investigated: root functional traits, soil properties (total nitrogen, inorganic nitrogen, and organic matter), extracellular enzyme (<em>β</em>-glucosidase (<em>β</em>G), <em>β</em>-<span>D</span>-cellobiosidase (CBH), <em>β</em>-1,4-N-acetylglucosaminidase (NAG), <em>β</em>-1,4-xylosidase (XYL), <span>L</span>-leucine aminopeptidase (LAP)) and tuber parameters (yield, crude fat, protein and starch). Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to analyze the relationships between soil properties and plant performance.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Our results revealed divergent root adaptation strategies across nitrogen (N) gradients. Under N0, tiger nut plants prioritized resource allocation toward thinner, elongated roots, significantly increasing specific root length (24.24 % – 372.63 %) and area (35.73 % – 385.22 %). Conversely, nitrogen-sufficient regimes (N300–N400) promoted denser root architectures, with root area and length densities increasing by 18.27 % – 57.42 %. This morphological shift coincided with significant soil enrichment; N300–N400 levels elevated soil inorganic nitrogen, total nitrogen, and organic matter, while stimulating <em>β</em>G and NAG activities. However, soil pH and CBH declined, and XYL activity peaked specifically at N300. Consequently, tuber yield reached a maximum at N300 before plateauing at N400. High nitrogen levels further improved quality by boosting crude protein (35.41 % – 42.47 %) and oil content (10.37 %–11.56 %), despite a concurrent reduction in starch content.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>This study demonstrates the synergy between root morphological plasticity and soil biochemical health in boosting tiger nut productivity. Strategic nitrogen management stimulates adaptive root architecture and enhances soil enzymatic activity and nutrient availability in nutrient‑poor environments. A critical threshold of 300 kg N ha<sup>−1</sup> was identified, providing a framework to transform marginal sandy soils into productive, high‑quality systems. These findings offer a sustainable pathway for cultivating clima
边缘沙地的高效氮肥施肥对于提高退化土壤的农业生产力，同时促进全球粮食和石油安全至关重要。然而，氮肥制度、根-土相互作用和块茎质量之间的关系仍然知之甚少。目的研究氮肥对沙质农田虎坚果根系适应策略、土壤养分有效性和胞外酶活性的调节作用，从而影响虎坚果块茎产量和品质。方法采用无氮（N0）、100 （N100）、200 （N200）、300 （N300）和400 (N400) kg N ha−1 5个氮肥处理，在沙田进行试验。我们系统地研究了根系功能性状、土壤性质（全氮、无机氮和有机质）、胞外酶（β-葡萄糖苷酶（βG）、β- d -纤维素生物苷酶（CBH）、β-1,4- n -乙酰氨基葡萄糖苷酶（NAG）、β-1,4-木糖苷酶（XYL）、l -亮氨酸氨基肽酶（LAP））和块茎参数（产量、粗脂肪、蛋白质和淀粉）。采用偏最小二乘结构方程模型（PLS-SEM）分析了土壤性质与植物生长性能之间的关系。结果不同氮素梯度下植物根系适应策略存在差异。no处理下，虎坚果植物优先向较细、较长的根系分配资源，显著增加了比根长度（24.24 % ~ 372.63 %）和比根面积（35.73 % ~ 385.22 %）。相反，氮充足的处理（N300-N400）促进了更密集的根系结构，根面积和长度密度增加了18.27 % ~ 57.42 %。这种形态转变与土壤显著富集相吻合；n300 ~ n400水平提高了土壤无机氮、全氮和有机质含量，同时刺激了βG和NAG活性。土壤pH和CBH呈下降趋势，XYL活性在N300处达到峰值。因此，块茎产量在N300时达到最大值，在N400时趋于稳定。高氮水平通过提高粗蛋白质（35.41 % ~ 42.47 %）和含油量（10.37 % ~ 11.56 %）进一步改善了品质，但同时降低了淀粉含量。结论根系形态可塑性与土壤生化健康在提高虎坚果产量中的协同作用。战略性氮管理可刺激适应性根系结构，提高养分贫乏环境下土壤酶活性和养分有效性。确定了300 kg N ha - 1的临界阈值，为将边缘沙质土壤转化为生产性高质量系统提供了框架。这些发现为培育适应气候变化的作物、加强粮食安全和恢复退化的农田提供了一条可持续的途径。
{"title":"Optimizing nitrogen fertilization modulates root-soil interactions to enhance yield and quality of tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) cultivated in sandy soil","authors":"Xu Zheng , Wenjing Zhao , Luhua Li , Jianguo Liu , Jiaping Wang","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110354","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110354","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Context</h3><div>Nitrogen-efficient fertilization on marginal sandy lands is crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity in degraded soils while promoting global food and oil security. However, the relationships between nitrogen (N) regimes, root–soil interactions, and tuber quality remain poorly understood.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>This study aims to elucidate how N fertilization modulates root adaptive strategies, soil nutrient availability, and extracellular enzyme activity, thereby influencing tuber yield and quality in tiger nut (<em>Cyperus esculentus</em> L.) grown on sandy farmland.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The experiment was conducted in sandy farmland with five nitrogen (N) application treatments: no nitrogen (N0), 100 (N100), 200 (N200), 300 (N300) and 400 (N400) kg N ha<sup>−1</sup>. We systematically investigated: root functional traits, soil properties (total nitrogen, inorganic nitrogen, and organic matter), extracellular enzyme (<em>β</em>-glucosidase (<em>β</em>G), <em>β</em>-<span>D</span>-cellobiosidase (CBH), <em>β</em>-1,4-N-acetylglucosaminidase (NAG), <em>β</em>-1,4-xylosidase (XYL), <span>L</span>-leucine aminopeptidase (LAP)) and tuber parameters (yield, crude fat, protein and starch). Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to analyze the relationships between soil properties and plant performance.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Our results revealed divergent root adaptation strategies across nitrogen (N) gradients. Under N0, tiger nut plants prioritized resource allocation toward thinner, elongated roots, significantly increasing specific root length (24.24 % – 372.63 %) and area (35.73 % – 385.22 %). Conversely, nitrogen-sufficient regimes (N300–N400) promoted denser root architectures, with root area and length densities increasing by 18.27 % – 57.42 %. This morphological shift coincided with significant soil enrichment; N300–N400 levels elevated soil inorganic nitrogen, total nitrogen, and organic matter, while stimulating <em>β</em>G and NAG activities. However, soil pH and CBH declined, and XYL activity peaked specifically at N300. Consequently, tuber yield reached a maximum at N300 before plateauing at N400. High nitrogen levels further improved quality by boosting crude protein (35.41 % – 42.47 %) and oil content (10.37 %–11.56 %), despite a concurrent reduction in starch content.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>This study demonstrates the synergy between root morphological plasticity and soil biochemical health in boosting tiger nut productivity. Strategic nitrogen management stimulates adaptive root architecture and enhances soil enzymatic activity and nutrient availability in nutrient‑poor environments. A critical threshold of 300 kg N ha<sup>−1</sup> was identified, providing a framework to transform marginal sandy soils into productive, high‑quality systems. These findings offer a sustainable pathway for cultivating clima","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"339 ","pages":"Article 110354"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146000557","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-19DOI: 10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110350
Changkuan Zhu , Chunlian Zheng , Caiyun Cao , Dan Liu , Hongkai Dang , Huimin Yuan , Anqi Zhang , Junpeng Zhang , Chitao Sun
Context or problem
Saline water irrigation alleviates freshwater scarcity in arid and semi-arid regions but causes salt stress. However, the mitigating effects and regulatory mechanisms of organic fertilizer on salt stress remain unclear.
Objective or research question
This study aimed to clarify the growth and development responses of wheat and maize under saline water irrigation combined with organic fertilizer application, and to reveal the distinct mechanisms affecting these two crops.
Methods
The four electrical conductivity (EC) levels of irrigation water (1.3 dS·m−1, T1; 3.4 dS·m−1, T2; 7.1 dS·m−1, T3; 10.6 dS·m−1, T4) and two fertilization types of organic fertilizer application (F1) and no organic fertilizer application (F0) were set up in the experiment. During the 2022–2024 growing periods, plant height (PH), leaf area index (LAI), dry matter accumulation (DMA), net photosynthetic rate (Pn), transpiration rate (Tr), chlorophyll relative content (SPAD), and yield of winter wheat and summer maize were measured.
Results
The results showed that winter wheat exhibited significant reductions in PH, LAI, DMA, Pn, Tr, and SPAD under T4 compared with T1. In contrast, summer maize showed significant decreases in growth and physiological indicators under both T3 and T4, demonstrating its greater sensitivity to saline water irrigation. F1 effectively mitigated the adverse effects of saline water irrigation on wheat and maize growth, enhancing the productivity of wheat-maize system. Especially under T3 and T4 treatments, the F1 led to an increase of 9.36 % and 12.75 % in the average annual yield of wheat, and by 9.03 % and 8.44 % for maize, respectively. Furthermore, organic fertilizer application elevated the EC thresholds of irrigation water for 5 % and 10 % yield reductions in the wheat-maize system under saline irrigation. Partial least squares path modeling (PLS-PM) indicated that organic fertilizer enhanced yield through crop-specific pathways. For winter wheat, organic fertilizer enhanced yield through the combined improvement of growth indicators as well as photosynthetic performance. Whereas summer maize primarily regulated its growth through photosynthesis to promote yield, with no significant direct impact of organic fertilizer on growth indicators.
Conclusions
In summary, organic fertilizer application mitigated the negative effects of saline water irrigation and boosted productivity in both types of crops through different pathways.
Implications or significance
The research provided a scientific basis for sustainable grain production under saline water irrigation.
{"title":"Organic fertilizer application improved the growth characteristics and enhanced sustainable production of wheat-maize crops under saline water irrigation","authors":"Changkuan Zhu , Chunlian Zheng , Caiyun Cao , Dan Liu , Hongkai Dang , Huimin Yuan , Anqi Zhang , Junpeng Zhang , Chitao Sun","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110350","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110350","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Context or problem</h3><div>Saline water irrigation alleviates freshwater scarcity in arid and semi-arid regions but causes salt stress. However, the mitigating effects and regulatory mechanisms of organic fertilizer on salt stress remain unclear.</div></div><div><h3>Objective or research question</h3><div>This study aimed to clarify the growth and development responses of wheat and maize under saline water irrigation combined with organic fertilizer application, and to reveal the distinct mechanisms affecting these two crops.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The four electrical conductivity (EC) levels of irrigation water (1.3 dS·m<sup>−1</sup>, T1; 3.4 dS·m<sup>−1</sup>, T2; 7.1 dS·m<sup>−1</sup>, T3; 10.6 dS·m<sup>−1</sup>, T4) and two fertilization types of organic fertilizer application (F1) and no organic fertilizer application (F0) were set up in the experiment. During the 2022–2024 growing periods, plant height (PH), leaf area index (LAI), dry matter accumulation (DMA), net photosynthetic rate (Pn), transpiration rate (Tr), chlorophyll relative content (SPAD), and yield of winter wheat and summer maize were measured.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The results showed that winter wheat exhibited significant reductions in PH, LAI, DMA, Pn, Tr, and SPAD under T4 compared with T1. In contrast, summer maize showed significant decreases in growth and physiological indicators under both T3 and T4, demonstrating its greater sensitivity to saline water irrigation. F1 effectively mitigated the adverse effects of saline water irrigation on wheat and maize growth, enhancing the productivity of wheat-maize system. Especially under T3 and T4 treatments, the F1 led to an increase of 9.36 % and 12.75 % in the average annual yield of wheat, and by 9.03 % and 8.44 % for maize, respectively. Furthermore, organic fertilizer application elevated the EC thresholds of irrigation water for 5 % and 10 % yield reductions in the wheat-maize system under saline irrigation. Partial least squares path modeling (PLS-PM) indicated that organic fertilizer enhanced yield through crop-specific pathways. For winter wheat, organic fertilizer enhanced yield through the combined improvement of growth indicators as well as photosynthetic performance. Whereas summer maize primarily regulated its growth through photosynthesis to promote yield, with no significant direct impact of organic fertilizer on growth indicators.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>In summary, organic fertilizer application mitigated the negative effects of saline water irrigation and boosted productivity in both types of crops through different pathways.</div></div><div><h3>Implications or significance</h3><div>The research provided a scientific basis for sustainable grain production under saline water irrigation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"339 ","pages":"Article 110350"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146000558","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-17DOI: 10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110347
Nour Ismail , Lotfi Khiari , Rachid Daoud
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is a high-value forage crop with substantial ecological benefits, but it is particularly sensitive to soil acidity and nutrient deficiencies. While current fertilization guidelines in regions like Québec, Canada, favor raw limestone (CaCO₃) exclusively, other calcium amendments, including burned limes (CaO, Ca(OH)₂) and sulfate-based materials, are commonly used elsewhere and may offer agronomic advantages. However, their effectiveness may vary with soil texture, stand age, and application method. This study evaluated the impact of nine calcium-based amendments: raw lime, burned lime, and sulfate-based non-liming materials, applied at a uniform spring rate (3 Mg ha⁻¹ CaCO₃-equivalent or 1.2 Mg ha⁻¹ Ca for anhydrite) on two alfalfa stands (newly seeded: establishment vs. long-established: maintenance) and two contrasting soil textures in Québec, Canada. Agronomic performance was monitored over four consecutive growing seasons. Results revealed contrasting responses: The establishment of an alfalfa stand on clay loam soil showed no biomass yield response to amendments. In contrast, the long-established stand on sandy loam soil exhibited strong and lasting responses. Sulfate-based treatments (CHAC, anhydrite, and lime-anhydrite) increased biomass yields by up to 2000 kg DM ha⁻¹ compared with the control, with gains persisting for 4 seasons after a single application. Mixed lime treatments (CaCO₃+CaO and/or Ca(OH)₂) also outperformed raw lime without causing phytotoxicity. These findings highlight the need for stand age-specific calcium amendment strategies. Sulfate-based and blended formulations may sustainably enhance productivity in mature alfalfa systems on coarse soils. Exclusive reliance on raw lime may overlook the agronomic potential of alternative materials.
{"title":"Calcium amendment strategies for alfalfa with biomass yield responses across contrasting soils and stand types","authors":"Nour Ismail , Lotfi Khiari , Rachid Daoud","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110347","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110347","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Alfalfa (<em>Medicago sativa L</em>.) is a high-value forage crop with substantial ecological benefits, but it is particularly sensitive to soil acidity and nutrient deficiencies. While current fertilization guidelines in regions like Québec, Canada, favor raw limestone (CaCO₃) exclusively, other calcium amendments, including burned limes (CaO, Ca(OH)₂) and sulfate-based materials, are commonly used elsewhere and may offer agronomic advantages. However, their effectiveness may vary with soil texture, stand age, and application method. This study evaluated the impact of nine calcium-based amendments: raw lime, burned lime, and sulfate-based non-liming materials, applied at a uniform spring rate (3 Mg ha⁻¹ CaCO₃-equivalent or 1.2 Mg ha⁻¹ Ca for anhydrite) on two alfalfa stands (newly seeded: establishment vs. long-established: maintenance) and two contrasting soil textures in Québec, Canada. Agronomic performance was monitored over four consecutive growing seasons. Results revealed contrasting responses: The establishment of an alfalfa stand on clay loam soil showed no biomass yield response to amendments. In contrast, the long-established stand on sandy loam soil exhibited strong and lasting responses. Sulfate-based treatments (CHAC, anhydrite, and lime-anhydrite) increased biomass yields by up to 2000 kg DM ha⁻¹ compared with the control, with gains persisting for 4 seasons after a single application. Mixed lime treatments (CaCO₃+CaO and/or Ca(OH)₂) also outperformed raw lime without causing phytotoxicity. These findings highlight the need for stand age-specific calcium amendment strategies. Sulfate-based and blended formulations may sustainably enhance productivity in mature alfalfa systems on coarse soils. Exclusive reliance on raw lime may overlook the agronomic potential of alternative materials.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"339 ","pages":"Article 110347"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145974284","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-17DOI: 10.1016/j.fcr.2026.110346
Zhengfeng Wu , Feng Guo , Xinying Song , Jishun Yang , Lanlan Du , Dunwei Ci , Yang Xu , Qiqi Sun
Intercropping peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) with maize (Zea mays L.) offers a strategy for advancing green and low-carbon agricultural practices, yet the crop- and depth- specific responses of soil organic carbon (SOC) dynamics remain unclear. A long-term field experiment (initiated in 2016) comparing peanut monoculture (MP), maize monoculture (MM), and the peanut-maize rotational strip intercropping (RMP) was established to investigate the effects of peanut-maize intercropping on crop yields, SOC dynamics, and associated rhizosphere microbial mechanisms. Results showed that relative to monoculture, intercropping decreased peanut yield by 56.0 % but increased maize yield by 30.9 %, resulting in the overall yield advantage. For peanut strips, intercropping enhanced SOC mineralization rate (Kc) for both depths by 20.7 % and 14.2 %, primarily driven by enhanced carbon (C) and N availability, r-shifted microbial communities, and higher enzyme activities. Conversely, for maize strips, intercropping slightly reduced the topsoil Kc by 5.3 % due to negative priming effect under high-quality residues input, but increased subsoil Kc by 19.6 %, linked to rhizosphere priming effect. Regulation by Nmin-mediated substrate quality, the temperature sensitivity of SOC mineralization (Q10) decreased under intercropping, particularly in peanut strips, suggesting enhanced SOC resilience to warming. Despite these changes, the net SOC stock in the topsoil remained comparable between intercropping and monoculture systems, suggesting a near zero-sum C sequestration balance. This arose from opposing C dynamics: peanut strips tended to slightly increase (by 6.2 %) or stabilize SOC, while maize strips experienced SOC depletion in the subsoil (by 16.2 %) due to nutrient mining and enhanced priming. This study highlights that legume-cereal intercropping can enhance yield efficiency and SOC stability without significantly increasing net C stocks, emphasizing the role of species-specific rhizosphere processes in mediating C trade-offs.
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