Advances in the Cultivation and Production of Leguminous Plants—2nd Edition

Dear Colleagues,

The multifaceted research presented in this Special Issue highlights the need for a continuous search for innovative solutions that increase the yield and quality of legumes (Fabaceae family). These plants play a crucial role in crop production due to their economic importance as well as their environmental benefits. They are an important source of food and feed protein worldwide. The presence of legumes in crop rotations positively impacts the accumulation of organic matter in the soil. Legumes have the ability to fix nitrogen through symbiosis with nodule bacteria, which is of great economic and ecological importance.

Despite their high yield potential, legumes productivity is highly variable and influences by agrotechnical practices, environmental practices, and habitat factors. The unfavourable weather conditions observed in recent years, caused by increasingly frequent periodic droughts and high air temperatures, are leading to a decline in crop yields, which in the future may cause local or even global threats of food and high-protein feed shortages. Climate change, therefore, makes it necessary to constantly adapt production techniques and technologies in order to maintain maximum production under new environmental conditions. The risks associated with their cultivation can be reduced through breeding and selection of more resistant/tolerant varieties dedicated to cultivation in less favourable environments, as well as through the use of appropriate agricultural practices, including fertilization and plant protection. These activities can bring benefits to legume production in the era of climate change through the integration of knowledge and experience.

Following the strong interest generated by the first edition of this Special Issue, we would like to propose its continuation. All types of contributions, including original research articles, opinion pieces, and reviews, are welcome.

Potential topics include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Legumes in agroecosystems;
• Minor leguminous plants;
• Innovative cultivation;
• Seeds and green matter production;
• Yield quality;
• Biological progress;
• Plant protection;
• Yield-stimulating products;
• Sustainable intensification;
• Adaptation to changing climate conditions.

Prof. Dr. Marcin Kozak
Prof. Dr. Ewa Szpunar-Krok
Guest Editors

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