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Keywords = inorganic-organic combination fertilizer

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16 pages, 3327 KiB  
Article
Development and Evaluation of Selenium-Enriched Compound Fertilizers for Remediation of Mercury-Contaminated Agricultural Soil
by Yuxin Li, Guangpeng Pei, Yanda Zhang, Shuyun Guan, Yingzhong Lv, Zhuo Li and Hua Li
Agronomy 2025, 15(8), 1842; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15081842 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 324
Abstract
Agricultural soil contaminated with mercury (Hg) poses a serious threat to ecosystems and human health. Although adding an appropriate amount of selenium (Se) can reduce the toxicity and mobility of Hg in soil, Se alone is prone to leaching into groundwater through soil [...] Read more.
Agricultural soil contaminated with mercury (Hg) poses a serious threat to ecosystems and human health. Although adding an appropriate amount of selenium (Se) can reduce the toxicity and mobility of Hg in soil, Se alone is prone to leaching into groundwater through soil runoff. Therefore, Se-enriched compound fertilizers were developed, and their remediation effect on Hg-contaminated agricultural soil was determined. The Se-enriched compound fertilizers were prepared by combining an organic fertilizer (vinegar residue, biochar, and potassium humate), inorganic fertilizer (urea, KH2PO4, ZnSO4, and Na2SeO3), and a binder (attapulgite and bentonite). A material proportioning experiment showed that the optimal granulation rate, organic matter content, and compressive strength were achieved when using 15% attapulgite (Formulation 1) and 10% bentonite (Formulation 2). An analysis of Se-enriched compound fertilizer particles showed that the two Se-enriched compound fertilizers complied with the standard for organic–inorganic compound fertilizers (China GB 18877-2002). Compared with the control, Formulation 1 and Formulation 2 significantly reduced the Hg content in bulk and rhizosphere soil following diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) extraction by 40.1–47.3% and 53.8–56.0%, respectively. They also significantly reduced the Hg content in maize seedling roots and shoots by 26.4–29.0% and 57.3–58.7%, respectively, effectively limiting Hg uptake, transport, and enrichment. Under the Formulation 1 and Formulation 2 treatments, the total and DTPA-extractable Se contents in soil and maize seedlings were significantly increased. This study demonstrated that Se-enriched compound fertilizer effectively remediates Hg-contaminated agricultural soil and can promote the uptake of Se by maize. The results of this study are expected to positively contribute to the sustainable development of the agro-ecological environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Innovative Cropping Systems)
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19 pages, 2388 KiB  
Article
Impact of Grassland Management System Intensity on Composition of Functional Groups and Soil Chemical Properties in Semi-Natural Grasslands
by Urška Lisec, Maja Prevolnik Povše, Miran Podvršnik and Branko Kramberger
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2274; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152274 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 294
Abstract
Semi-natural grasslands are some of the most species-rich habitats in Europe and provide important ecosystem services such as biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration and soil fertility maintenance. This study investigates how different intensities of grassland management affect the composition of functional groups and soil [...] Read more.
Semi-natural grasslands are some of the most species-rich habitats in Europe and provide important ecosystem services such as biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration and soil fertility maintenance. This study investigates how different intensities of grassland management affect the composition of functional groups and soil chemical properties. Five grassland management systems were analyzed: Cut3—three cuts per year; LGI—low grazing intensity; CG—combined cutting and grazing; Cut4—four cuts per year; and HGI—high grazing intensity. The functional groups assessed were grasses, legumes and forbs, while soil samples from three depths (0–10, 10–20 and 20–30 cm) were analyzed for their chemical properties (soil organic carbon—SOC; soil total nitrogen—STN; inorganic soil carbon—SIC; soil organic matter—SOM; potassium oxide—K2O; phosphorus pentoxide—P2O5; C/N ratio; and pH) and physical properties (volumetric soil water content—VWC; bulk density—BD; and porosity—POR). The results showed that less intensive systems had a higher proportion of legumes, while species diversity, as measured via the Shannon index, was the highest in the Cut4 system. The CG system tended to have the highest SOC and STN at a 0–10 cm depth, with a similar trend observed for SOCstock at a 0–30 cm depth. The Cut4, HGI and CG systems also had an increased STNstock. Both grazing systems had the highest P2O5 content. A tendency towards a higher BD was observed in the top 10 cm of soil in the more intensive systems. Choosing a management strategy that is tailored to local climate and site conditions is crucial for maintaining grassland stability, enhancing carbon sequestration and promoting long-term sustainability in the context of climate change. Full article
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18 pages, 1044 KiB  
Article
Remediation of Cd, Cu, and Zn Metals in Soil Amended with Biochar and Animal Manure Using a Hyperaccumulator
by George F. Antonious, Anjan Nepal and Basanta Neupane
Pollutants 2025, 5(3), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/pollutants5030022 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 266
Abstract
The application of animal manure and organic soil amendments as an alternative to expensive inorganic fertilizers is becoming more prevalent in the USA and worldwide. A field experiment was conducted on Bluegrass–Maury silty loam soil at the Kentucky State University Research Farm using [...] Read more.
The application of animal manure and organic soil amendments as an alternative to expensive inorganic fertilizers is becoming more prevalent in the USA and worldwide. A field experiment was conducted on Bluegrass–Maury silty loam soil at the Kentucky State University Research Farm using the Kennebec variety of white potato (Solanum tuberosum) under Kentucky climatic conditions. The study involved 12 soil treatments in a randomized complete block design. The treatments included four types of animal manures (cow manure, chicken manure, vermicompost, and sewage sludge), biochar at three application rates (5%, 10%, and 20%), and native soil as control plots. Additionally, animal manures were supplemented with 10% biochar to assess the influence of combining biochar with animal manure on the accumulation of heavy metals in potato tubers. The study aimed to (1) determine the concentration of seven heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Ni, Pb, Mn, Zn, Cu) and two essential nutrients (K and Mg) in soils treated with biochar and animal manure, and (2) assess metal mobility from soil to potato tubers at harvest by determining the bioaccumulation factor (BAF). The results revealed that Cd, Pb, Ni, Cr, and Mn concentrations in potato tubers exceeded the FAO/WHO allowable limits. Whereas the BAF values varied among the soil treatments, with Cd, Cu, and Zn having high BAF values (>1), and Pb, Ni, Cr, and Mn having low BAF values (<1). This observation demonstrates that potato tubers can remediate Cd, Cu, and Zn when grown under the soil amended with biochar and animal manure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Pollution)
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19 pages, 2401 KiB  
Article
Variety-Dependent Yield and Physiological Responses to Combined Inorganic and Organic Sources of Nitrogen in Wheat
by Eva Herlinawati, Xiaoxiao Lei, Maoling Yang, Changlu Hu, Xueyun Yang and Shulan Zhang
Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1679; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071679 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 297
Abstract
Integrated application of chemical fertilizers with organic manure might improve crop yields and N-use efficiency (NUE, grain yield per unit N uptake), but the underlying physiological mechanisms are unclear. In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of combined inorganic and organic [...] Read more.
Integrated application of chemical fertilizers with organic manure might improve crop yields and N-use efficiency (NUE, grain yield per unit N uptake), but the underlying physiological mechanisms are unclear. In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of combined inorganic and organic fertilizers on wheat biomass allocation, root growth, water-soluble carbohydrates (WSCs) translocation, leaf senescence, N uptake, and their relationship with yield and NUE. We established a 2-year factorial field experiment with five nutrient treatments with ratios of inorganic: organic fertilizers from 0 to 1, and three varieties—two new: Weilong169 and Zhongmai578; and one reference: Xiaoyan22. The yield ranged from 3469 to 8095 kg ha−1, and it generally declined in response to a higher proportion of organic fertilizer. The NUE increased when there was a higher proportion of organic fertilizer. Weilong169 exhibited higher NUE than Zhongmai578, and both new cultivars outperformed the reference variety in the N harvest index. The yield correlated with leaf senescence traits and harvest index, and NUE was associated with WSC translocation and N uptake. The combination of fertilizers with a low portion of organic maintained yield and improved NUE; Weilong169 had the highest yield, NUE, and N harvest index. A low portion of organic manure substitution for chemical fertilizer suited all varieties. A new variety with a higher yield, N harvest index, and NUE highlights the importance of N traits in breeding programs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Soil and Plant Nutrition)
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20 pages, 1973 KiB  
Article
Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Fertilization Practices in Maize Cropping in Sub-Saharan Africa: Toward Climate-Smart Agriculture
by Pawend-taoré Christian Bougma, Loyapin Bondé, Valaire Séraphin Ouehoudja Yaro, Idrissa Dicko, Aurelie Flavy Rufine Zongo, Amanuel Woldeselassie Gebremichael, Mounkaila Mohamed, Claudia Malz, Jörg Matschullat, Anja Linstädter and Oumarou Ouédraogo
Environments 2025, 12(7), 211; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12070211 - 20 Jun 2025
Viewed by 583
Abstract
The intensive use of nitrogen (N) fertilizers in maize (Zea mays L.) cropping in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) contributes significantly to nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions. Due to limited data on emissions and emission factors (EFs) in SSA, this study investigates GHG [...] Read more.
The intensive use of nitrogen (N) fertilizers in maize (Zea mays L.) cropping in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) contributes significantly to nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions. Due to limited data on emissions and emission factors (EFs) in SSA, this study investigates GHG emissions and proposes EFs under different fertilization regimes in maize cropping in Burkina Faso (West Africa). A randomized complete block design was used with five treatments: (i) control: no fertilizer (CK), (ii) cattle manure (M), (iii) chemical fertilizer (NPK), (iv) a combination of chemical fertilizer and cattle manure (NPKM) at the national recommended rate, and (v) farmers’ practices, which involve chemical fertilizer combined with manure at the farmers’ rate (NPKM+). Cumulative N2O emissions varied significantly among treatments (p < 0.05), with the highest under NPKM (2.86 kg N2O-N ha−1) and the lowest under CK (1.93 ± 0.11 kg N2O-N ha−1). NPKM also showed the highest methane (CH4) uptake (−0.62 kg CH4-C ha−1; p < 0.001), while CK exhibited an increasing trend (0.74 kg CH4-C ha−1). The highest N2O EF was recorded for NPK (0.37 ± 0.05%), 63% lower than the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change default value. Although NPKM treatment resulted in the highest global warming potential and maize yield, it also achieved the lowest greenhouse gas intensity per unit of yield, highlighting a more efficient trade-off between productivity and climate impact with nitrogen fertilizer use. NPKM+ was the most effective in maintaining high maize productivity with lower yield-scaled N2O emissions and GHG intensity. These findings suggest that an integrated approach combining organic and inorganic fertilizers can mitigate soil GHG emissions. Further research is needed to refine climate-smart fertilizer combinations for sustainable maize production in SSA. Full article
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14 pages, 3381 KiB  
Article
Reducing Mineral Fertilizer Can Improve the Soil Quality and Increase the Wheat Yield and Nutrient Utilization Efficiency: The Fertilizing Effect of Organic–Inorganic Compound Fertilizers
by Ping Bo, Qingyang He, Yubin Lan, Jiankun Li, Haiteng Liu, Xinlong Li and Huizheng Wang
Agriculture 2025, 15(12), 1294; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15121294 - 16 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 595
Abstract
Replacing chemical fertilizers with organic alternatives represents a viable strategy for enhancing agricultural productivity. The optimized integration of both fertilizer types can reduce the chemical input while improving soil conditions. However, the specific impacts of combined organic and inorganic fertilization on soil quality [...] Read more.
Replacing chemical fertilizers with organic alternatives represents a viable strategy for enhancing agricultural productivity. The optimized integration of both fertilizer types can reduce the chemical input while improving soil conditions. However, the specific impacts of combined organic and inorganic fertilization on soil quality and crop performance require further investigation. To address this, a two-year field experiment was conducted to examine the effects of varying ratios of organic fertilizer substitution on wheat growth, grain yield, nutrient uptake, and soil quality. The results showed that the application of a 100% organic fertilizer combined with a 90% chemical fertilizer significantly increased the wheat biomass and grain yield. In terms of the nutrient uptake efficiency, the aboveground uptake of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) increased significantly by 29.2%, 29.0%, and 56.5%, respectively. The nutrient use efficiency was also improved, with increases of 30.4% for N, 21.1% for P, and 47.7% for K. The partial factor productivity, total nutrient uptake, and the translocation efficiency of N, P, and K were all significantly enhanced. The soil quality was also markedly improved, with increases in both the soil organic matter and nutrient content. In conclusion, substituting chemical fertilizers with organic fertilizers improves the soil moisture and organic matter content, thereby enhancing the total uptake and translocation efficiency of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This leads to increased nutrient content in wheat grains, resulting in higher yields and improved grain quality. Moreover, this study provides practical guidance for wheat production and supports policy objectives related to sustainable agriculture, reduced chemical fertilizer use, and improved food security. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Soils)
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18 pages, 737 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Effect of Organic and Inorganic Resources on Carbon Fractions in Soggy Sodic Soil at Sege in Ada West District, Ghana
by Benedicta Yayra Fosu-Mensah, Diawudeen Mutaru, Dilys Sefakor MacCarthy and Michael Mensah
Soil Syst. 2025, 9(2), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/soilsystems9020062 - 11 Jun 2025
Viewed by 437
Abstract
Labile organic carbon (OC), a dynamic component of soil organic carbon (SOC), is essential for improving soil health, fertility, and crop productivity, particularly when organic and inorganic amendments are combined. However, limited research exists on the best amendment strategies for restoring degraded gleyic [...] Read more.
Labile organic carbon (OC), a dynamic component of soil organic carbon (SOC), is essential for improving soil health, fertility, and crop productivity, particularly when organic and inorganic amendments are combined. However, limited research exists on the best amendment strategies for restoring degraded gleyic solonetz soggy sodic (GSSS) soils in West Africa’s coastal zones. A three-year field study (2017–2019) assessed the effects of various combinations of organic (mature or composted cow dung, with or without biochar) and inorganic inputs on soil organic carbon fractions, total carbon stocks, and the Carbon Management Index (CMI) in GSSS soils of Sege, Ada West District, Ghana. The results showed that organic and inorganic combinations outperformed the sole inorganic NPK treatment and the control, particularly in the topsoil. Composted cow dung with mineral fertilizer (CCfert) was especially effective, significantly increasing labile OC, SOC stock, and CMI by 35.3%, 140.5%, and 26% in the topsoil compared to the control and by 28%, 77.8%, and 4.3% compared to NPK alone. In the subsoil, mature cow dung-based treatments performed better. These findings highlight the potential of integrated organic and inorganic strategies, especially those based on composted manure, to rehabilitate degraded sodic soils, build carbon stocks, and improve soil quality for sustainable agriculture in coastal West Africa. Full article
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18 pages, 4123 KiB  
Article
Wheat Yield, N Use Efficiency, Soil Properties, and Soil Bacterial Community as Affected by Long-Term Straw Incorporation and Manure Under Wheat–Summer Maize Cropping System in Southern Shanxi Province, China
by Mengni Chen, Zhiguo Yang, Na Yang, Hui Wang, Yongshan Li, Ke Wang, Jian Wang, Qiaolan Fan, Jiancheng Zhang, Jiawei Yuan, Peng Dong and Lu Wang
Plants 2025, 14(12), 1795; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14121795 - 11 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1416
Abstract
Straw incorporation and manure are recognized as a sustainable farming practice to enhance soil fertility and improve crop yields. However, the effects of straw incorporation in combination with manure on productivity, soil nutrient status, N use efficiency (NUE), and the bacterial community are [...] Read more.
Straw incorporation and manure are recognized as a sustainable farming practice to enhance soil fertility and improve crop yields. However, the effects of straw incorporation in combination with manure on productivity, soil nutrient status, N use efficiency (NUE), and the bacterial community are not well understood in wheat–summer maize rotation systems in the southern Shanxi Province. The five treatments were (1) CK, no fertilization; (2) NP, inorganic N and P fertilizers; (3) NPM, mineral N and P fertilizers plus chicken manure; (4) SNP, mineral N and P fertilizers plus maize straw; and (5) SNPM, mineral N and P fertilizers plus maize straw and chicken manure. The results showed that NP, NPM, SNP, and SNPM significantly increased wheat yields by 56.19%, 76.89%, 111.08%, and 114.30%, compared with CK, respectively. Nitrogen agronomic efficiency (AEN), partial factor productivity (PEPN), apparent recovery efficiency (Apparent REN), and accumulated recovery efficiency (Accumulated REN) increased by 103.36%, 37.19%, 76.39%, and 30.90% in the SNPM treatment, compared with NP. Straw incorporation and manure significantly improved soil fertility. Proteobacteria, Acidobacteriota, Actinobacteriota, Chloroflex, Bacteroidota, Planctomycetota, Gemmatimonadota, Armatimonadota, Firmicutes, Methylomirabilota, and Myxococcota were the predominant bacterial phyla. Compared with NP, straw incorporation and manure (NPM, SNP, and SNPM) decreased diversities (richness index, Chao1 index, and Shannon index). Principal coordinates (PCoA) and cluster analyses demonstrated that manure treatments (NPM and SNPM) significantly optimized bacterial community structure. Pearson’s correlation analysis demonstrated that organic matter, total phosphorus, available nitrogen, available phosphorus, and available potassium had significant positive correlations with Halanaerobiaeota but significant negative positive correlations with Chloroflexi, Entotheonellaeota, and Myxococcota. Wheat yields, AEN, PEPN, Apparent REN, and Accumulated REN were primarily and significantly negatively associated with Cyanobacteria. Straw incorporation in combination with manure significantly optimized bacterial community structure, wheat yields, and N use efficiency through improving soil fertility. Collectively, straw incorporation in combination with manure is a promising practice for sustainable development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water and Nitrogen Management in the Soil–Crop System (3rd Edition))
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35 pages, 17263 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Bacterial Inoculants and a Biofertilizer on Maize Cultivation and the Associated Shift in Bacteriobiota During the Growing Season
by Katarina Kruščić, Aleksandra Jelušić, Matjaž Hladnik, Tamara Janakiev, Jovana Anđelković, Dunja Bandelj and Ivica Dimkić
Plants 2025, 14(12), 1753; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14121753 - 7 Jun 2025
Viewed by 915
Abstract
Maize (Zea mays L.) relies heavily on nitrogen and phosphorus inputs, typically supplied through organic and inorganic fertilizers. However, excessive agrochemical use threatens soil fertility and environmental health. Sustainable alternatives, such as poultry manure (PM) and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), offer promising [...] Read more.
Maize (Zea mays L.) relies heavily on nitrogen and phosphorus inputs, typically supplied through organic and inorganic fertilizers. However, excessive agrochemical use threatens soil fertility and environmental health. Sustainable alternatives, such as poultry manure (PM) and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), offer promising solutions. This study examines the effects of a phytobiotic bacterial formulation (PHY), composed of Bacillus subtilis and Microbacterium sp., applied alone and in combination with PM, on maize’s rhizosphere bacteriobiome across key growth stages. Field trials included four treatments: a control, PHY-coated seeds, PM, and combined PHY_PM. The results show that early in development, the PM-treated rhizospheres increased the abundance of beneficial genera such as Sphingomonas, Microvirga, and Streptomyces, though levels declined in later stages. The PHY_PM-treated roots in the seedling phase showed a reduced abundance of taxa like Chryseobacterium, Pedobacter, Phyllobacterium, Sphingobacterium, and Stenotrophomonas, but this effect did not persist. In the PM-treated roots, Flavisolibacter was significantly enriched at harvesting. Overall, beneficial bacteria improved microbial evenness, and the PHY_PM treatment promoted bacterial diversity and maize growth. A genome analysis of the PHY strains revealed plant-beneficial traits, including nutrient mobilization, stress resilience, and biocontrol potential. This study highlights the complementarity of PM and PGPR, showing how their integration reshapes bacteriobiome and correlates with plant parameters in sustainable agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Microbial Solutions for Sustainable Agriculture)
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24 pages, 5214 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Nitrogen Fertilization and Irrigation Practices for Enhanced Winter Wheat Productivity in the North China Plain: A Meta-Analysis
by Donglin Wang, Shaobo Liu, Mengjing Guo, Yuhan Cheng, Longfei Shi, Jipo Li, Yongjie Yu, Siyu Wu, Qinge Dong, Jiankun Ge and Xuewen Gong
Plants 2025, 14(11), 1686; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14111686 - 31 May 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 629
Abstract
This study aimed to systematically evaluate the effects of different nitrogen application rates and irrigation practices on water-saving and yield enhancement in winter wheat production in the North China Plain (NCP) using a meta-analysis. By quantifying the impacts on crop yield, nitrogen use [...] Read more.
This study aimed to systematically evaluate the effects of different nitrogen application rates and irrigation practices on water-saving and yield enhancement in winter wheat production in the North China Plain (NCP) using a meta-analysis. By quantifying the impacts on crop yield, nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), and water use efficiency (WUE), the research provides a scientific basis for optimizing management practices in winter wheat production in this region. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases, resulting in the inclusion of 94 eligible studies from 2018 to 2023. A random-effects model was employed to calculate the combined effect sizes, followed by subgroup and sensitivity analyses to further investigate the influence of nitrogen application rates, irrigation methods, and study regions on winter wheat production efficiency. The findings reveal that increasing nitrogen application rates and adopting deficit irrigation practices significantly improved winter wheat yield (combined effect size: 4.53 t·ha−1), NUE (43.29%), and WUE (0.013 t·ha−1·mm−1). The subgroup analysis further elucidated the critical roles of nitrogen application ratios, irrigation methods, and study regions in determining winter wheat production efficiency, while the sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of these findings, as the pooled effect sizes decreased by merely 0.69% and increased by 0.61% after excluding small-sample or highly biased studies, respectively. The above meta-analysis did not incorporate long-term field trials; hence, two-year field experiments with designed irrigation and organic–inorganic fertilizer treatments were conducted, which provided further validation for the meta-analysis. Under short-term conditions (excluding CO2 effects), we observed that chemical fertilizer exhibited a measurable inhibitory effect on crop water uptake and optimal water–fertilizer management was achieved with a 7:3 inorganic–organic fertilizer ratio combined with 450 m3·ha−1 irrigation. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of optimizing nitrogen fertilization and irrigation management in enhancing winter wheat yield and resource utilization efficiency. The findings offer actionable insights for sustainable agricultural practices in the NCP and similar regions, contributing to improved crop productivity and resource conservation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Physiology and Crop Production)
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25 pages, 9203 KiB  
Article
Screening, Identification, and Fermentation of Brevibacillus laterosporus YS-13 and Its Impact on Spring Wheat Growth
by Wenjing Zhang, Xingxin Sun, Zele Wang, Jiayao Li, Yuanzhe Zhang, Wei Zhang, Jun Zhang, Xianghan Cheng and Peng Song
Microorganisms 2025, 13(6), 1244; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13061244 - 28 May 2025
Viewed by 436
Abstract
The low availability of phosphorus (P) in soil has become a critical factor limiting crop growth and agricultural productivity. This study aimed to isolate and evaluate a bacterial strain with high phosphate-solubilizing capacity to improve soil phosphorus utilization and promote crop growth. A [...] Read more.
The low availability of phosphorus (P) in soil has become a critical factor limiting crop growth and agricultural productivity. This study aimed to isolate and evaluate a bacterial strain with high phosphate-solubilizing capacity to improve soil phosphorus utilization and promote crop growth. A phosphate-solubilizing bacterium, designated as YS-13, was isolated from farmland soil in Henan Province, China, and identified as Brevibacillus laterosporus based on morphological characteristics, physiological and biochemical traits, and 16S rDNA sequence analysis. Qualitative assessment using plate assays showed that strain YS-13 formed a prominent phosphate solubilization zone on organic and inorganic phosphorus media containing lecithin and calcium phosphate, with D/d ratios of 2.28 and 1.57, respectively. Quantitative evaluation using the molybdenum–antimony colorimetric method revealed soluble phosphorus concentrations of 21.24, 6.67, 11.73, and 17.05 mg·L−1 when lecithin, ferric phosphate, calcium phosphate, and calcium phytate were used as phosphorus sources, respectively. The fermentation conditions for YS-13 were optimized through single-factor experiments combined with response surface methodology, using viable cell count as the response variable. The optimal conditions were determined as 34 °C, 8% inoculum volume, initial pH of 7.55, 48 h incubation, 5 g L−1 NaCl, 8.96 g L−1 glucose, and 8.86 g L−1 peptone, under which the viable cell count reached 6.29 × 108 CFU mL−1, consistent with the predicted value (98.33%, p < 0.05). The plant growth-promoting effect of YS-13 was further validated through a pot experiment using Triticum aestivum cv. Jinchun 6. Growth parameters, including plant height, fresh biomass, root length, root surface area, root volume, and phosphorus content in roots and stems, were measured. The results demonstrated that YS-13 significantly enhanced wheat growth, with a positive correlation between bacterial concentration and growth indicators, although the growth-promoting effect plateaued at higher concentrations. This study successfully identified a high-efficiency phosphate-solubilizing strain, YS-13, and established optimal culture conditions and bioassay validation, laying a foundation for its potential application as a microbial inoculant and providing theoretical and technical support for reducing phosphorus fertilizer inputs and advancing sustainable agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Microbe Interactions)
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21 pages, 5839 KiB  
Article
Organic–Inorganic Fertilization Sustains Crop Yields While Mitigating N2O and NO Emissions in Subtropical Wheat–Maize Systems
by Yan Liu, Lei Hu, Shihang Zhang, Zhisheng Yao, Minghua Zhou and Bo Zhu
Agriculture 2025, 15(10), 1108; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15101108 - 21 May 2025
Viewed by 507
Abstract
Balancing food security with fertilizer-driven climate impacts remains critical in intensive agriculture. While organic–inorganic substitution enhances soil fertility, its effects on nitrous oxide (N2O) and nitric oxide (NO) emissions remain uncertain. This study evaluated N2O/NO emissions, crop yields, and [...] Read more.
Balancing food security with fertilizer-driven climate impacts remains critical in intensive agriculture. While organic–inorganic substitution enhances soil fertility, its effects on nitrous oxide (N2O) and nitric oxide (NO) emissions remain uncertain. This study evaluated N2O/NO emissions, crop yields, and agronomic parameters in a subtropical wheat–maize rotation under four fertilization regimes: inorganic-only (NPK), manure-only (OM), and partial substitution with crop residues (CRNPK, 15%) or manure (OMNPK, 30%), all applied at 280 kg N ha−1 yr−1. Emissions aligned with the dual Arrhenius–Michaelis–Menten kinetics and revised “hole-in-the-pipe” model. Annual direct emission factors (EFd) for N2O and NO were 1.01% and 0.11%, respectively, with combined emissions (1.12%) exponentially correlated to soil nitrogen surplus (p < 0.01). CRNPK and OMNPK reduced annual N2O+NO emissions by 15–154% and enhanced NUE by 10–45% compared with OM, though OMNPK emitted 1.7–2.0 times more N2O/NO than CRNPK. Sole OM underperformed in yield, while partial substitution—particularly with crop residues—optimized productivity while minimizing environmental risks. By integrating emission modeling and agronomic performance, this study establishes CRNPK as a novel strategy for subtropical cereal systems, reconciling high yields with low greenhouse gas emissions. Full article
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21 pages, 2506 KiB  
Article
Effect of Combining Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on the Growth of Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Plants and the Accumulation of Phytochemicals in Their Inflorescence
by Mariarosaria Sicignano, Romina Beleggia, Luisa del Piano, Tommaso Enotrio, Serafino Suriano, Francesco Raimo and Daniela Trono
Plants 2025, 14(10), 1519; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14101519 - 19 May 2025
Viewed by 708
Abstract
The feasibility of using a combination of organic fertilizer with a reduced rate of chemical nitrogen fertilizer as an alternative to conventional inorganic fertilization was tested on the growth and biomass accumulation of hemp plants and the phytochemical accumulation in their inflorescences. To [...] Read more.
The feasibility of using a combination of organic fertilizer with a reduced rate of chemical nitrogen fertilizer as an alternative to conventional inorganic fertilization was tested on the growth and biomass accumulation of hemp plants and the phytochemical accumulation in their inflorescences. To achieve this goal, a field experiment was set up with the following nine treatments: F0, no fertilizer; NPK, mineral fertilizer with 100 kg ha−1 nitrogen; C1, compost from solid digestate (50%) + cardoon-based spent mushroom substrate (50%); C2, compost from solid digestate (50%) + straw-based spent mushroom substrate (50%); C3, C4, C5, and C6, composts from solid digestate (50%, 67%, 75%, and 84%, respectively) and cardoon waste (50%, 33%, 25%, and 16%, respectively); SD, non-composted solid digestate. C1–C6 and SD were added to the soil, along with half the rate (50 kg ha−1) of chemical nitrogen fertilizer. Taking F0 as a reference, all fertilized treatments, except C6 and SD, showed a notable increase in plant growth and biomass accumulation in the stem, inflorescence, and whole plant. Among the organic treatments, the best growth performances were detected in C1 and C5, which reached, or even exceeded, that of NPK. Compared to F0, all fertilized treatments had high phenolic acid and flavonoid yields, while high carotenoid, tocopherol, terpene, and cannabinoid (mainly CBD) yields were detected in all fertilized treatments except C6 and SD. Among the organic treatments, C1 and C5 stood out for their highest phenolic acid, flavonoid, carotenoid, and tocopherol yields, while C1, C2, and C3 stood out for their highest terpene and cannabinoid yields, which, in both cases, reached, or even exceeded, those of NPK. Overall, our findings show that 50% replacement of inorganic nitrogen fertilizer with C1 to C5 composts may represent a cost-effective and environmentally safe alternative to conventional inorganic fertilization that can sustain the growth of hemp plant and the phytochemical accumulation in its inflorescences, thus promoting the use of this crop for fiber and bioenergy production, as well as for applications in food, nutraceutical, agrochemical, and cosmetic sectors. Full article
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19 pages, 3204 KiB  
Article
Metagenomics Reveals the Effects of Organic Material Co-Application on Phosphorus Cycling Functional Genes and Bioavailable Phosphorus
by Wei Wang, Yue Jiang, Shanshan Cai, Yumei Li, Lei Sun and Juanjuan Qu
Agronomy 2025, 15(5), 1187; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15051187 - 14 May 2025
Viewed by 649
Abstract
Phosphorus is essential for crop growth, but excessive use of chemical fertilizers can lead to environmental issues. The incorporation of organic materials has the potential to enhance phosphorus availability and promote soil phosphorus cycling. This study investigated the effects of chemical fertilizer co-application [...] Read more.
Phosphorus is essential for crop growth, but excessive use of chemical fertilizers can lead to environmental issues. The incorporation of organic materials has the potential to enhance phosphorus availability and promote soil phosphorus cycling. This study investigated the effects of chemical fertilizer co-application with two organic materials on soil properties and functions. Four treatments were established: (1) chemical fertilizer alone (SC, consisting of urea, ammonium phosphate, and potassium sulfate), (2) chemical fertilizer with corn-straw-derived biochar (SCB), (3) chemical fertilizer with composted manure-based organic fertilizer (SCF), and (4) chemical fertilizer with both biochar and organic fertilizer (SCBF). This study focused on changes in soil properties, bioavailable phosphorus, phosphorus cycling functional genes, and related microbial communities. Compared to SC, the combined application of organic materials significantly increased available phosphorus (AP), alkaline hydrolysis nitrogen (AN), and available potassium (AK), with the SCBF exhibiting the highest increases of 78.76%, 47.47%, and 336.61%, respectively. However, applying organic materials reduced alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and acid phosphatase (ACP) activities, except for the increase in ACP in SCBF. Additionally, bioavailable phosphorus increased by up to 157.00% in SCBF. Adding organic materials significantly decreased organic phosphorus mineralization genes (phoA, phoD, phnP) and phosphate degradation genes (ppk2), while increasing inorganic phosphorus solubilization genes (pqqC, gcd), which subsequently increased CaCl2-P and Citrate-P contents in SCB and in SCBF. In summary, organic material application significantly enhances phosphorus bioavailability by improving soil physicochemical properties and phosphorus-related gene abundance. These findings provide new insights into sustainable soil fertility management and highlight the potential of integrating organic materials with chemical fertilizers to improve soil nutrient availability, thereby contributing to increased soybean yield. Moreover, this study advances our understanding of the underlying mechanisms driving phosphorus cycling under combined fertilization strategies, offering a scientific basis for optimizing fertilization practices in agroecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Arable Farming Measures on Soil Quality—2nd Edition)
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17 pages, 5654 KiB  
Article
Maximizing Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Productivity Through Application of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers in Alkaline Soil
by Safiullah Habibi, Shafiqullah Aryan, Ali Yawar Seerat, Kalimullah Saighani and Mohammad Daud Haidari
Appl. Biosci. 2025, 4(2), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/applbiosci4020022 - 1 May 2025
Viewed by 1129
Abstract
Common beans are a vital source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Increasing common beans productivity is crucial for improving food security and farmers’ incomes globally. This study evaluated the growth and yield responses of common beans to integrated organic and inorganic fertilizers under [...] Read more.
Common beans are a vital source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Increasing common beans productivity is crucial for improving food security and farmers’ incomes globally. This study evaluated the growth and yield responses of common beans to integrated organic and inorganic fertilizers under field conditions at the Faculty of Agriculture, Kabul University. The trial was repeated over two consecutive growing seasons in 2020 and 2021, using a randomized complete block design with 18 treatments and three replications. The fertilizers used included urea (N) (0, 60, and 90 kg/ha), diammonium phosphate (D) (0, 50, and 100 kg/ha), and farmyard manure (O) (0 and 5000 kg/ha). The results show that integrated fertilizers, particularly O5000N60D50, O5000N60D100, O5000N90D50, and O5000N90D100, significantly increased growth and yield parameters. In 2020, the grain yield increased significantly (p < 0.05) by 75.6, 76.7, and 68.4% with the O5000N60D50, O5000N60D100, and O5000N90D100 treatments, respectively. In 2021, O5000N60D50, O5000N60D100, and O5000N90D50 showed significant yield increases of 94.7, 89.6, and 97.9%, respectively. The grain yield strongly correlated with the SPAD value (r = 0.84), number of pods per plant (r = 0.71), and number of seeds per pod (r = 0.66) in 2020, and it more strongly correlated with the SPAD value (r = 0.91), number of pods per plant (r = 0.77), and number of seeds per pod (r = 0.76) in 2021. A principal component analysis highlighted the effectiveness of organic–inorganic fertilizer combinations, particularly O5000N60D50, in enhancing productivity while potentially reducing inorganic fertilizer application. This study demonstrates that integrating organic and inorganic fertilizers enhances sustainable crop productivity and reduces negative environmental impacts, particularly in regions facing nutrient depletion and drought conditions. Full article
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