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Keywords = over-fertilization

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15 pages, 658 KiB  
Article
The Potential of Plant Growth-Promoting Fungi Enhances the Growth, Yield, and Phytochemical Compounds of Oryza sativa L. (Maled Phai Cultivar) Under Field Conditions
by Wasan Seemakram, Sabaiporn Nacoon, Jindarat Ekprasert, Piyada Theerakulpisut, Jirawat Sanitchon and Sophon Boonlue
Plants 2025, 14(12), 1839; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14121839 - 15 Jun 2025
Viewed by 479
Abstract
Excessive application of a chemical fertilizer during rice cultivation leads to soil infertility and increases production costs. An alternative way to reduce over-fertilization is to partially or fully replace the fertilizer with microbes that promote the growth and production of plants. This study [...] Read more.
Excessive application of a chemical fertilizer during rice cultivation leads to soil infertility and increases production costs. An alternative way to reduce over-fertilization is to partially or fully replace the fertilizer with microbes that promote the growth and production of plants. This study aimed to investigate the Maled Phai rice cultivar (Oryza sativa L.) in a field experiment with two fungi strains. Rhizophagus variabilis KS-02 and Trichoderma zelobreve PBMP16 were selected as inocula and compared with non-R. variabilis KS-02 and non-T. zelobreve PBMP16, acting as controls, one without synthetic fertilizer and one with synthetic NPK fertilizer. The field experiment was conducted in a Randomized Complete Block design with four replications. Growth and yield parameters were determined in the plant tissues and roots, and bioactive compounds were determined in the rice seeds. The results show the presence of T. zelobreve PBMP16 and R. variabilis KS-02 colonization in the plant roots at the harvest stage. A single inoculum of both R. variabilis KS-02 and T. zelobreve PBMP16 significantly increased most of the plant growth performance and yield parameters, as well as the concentrations of bioactive compounds. Remarkably, such effects were more apparent than those observed with the use of a chemical fertilizer. Thus, a single inoculum of R. variabilis KS-02 or T. zelobreve PBMP16 and the co-inoculation of both have the potential to increase the grain yield and bioactive compounds of Maled Phai under field conditions. Full article
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17 pages, 5851 KiB  
Article
Nutrient Ratios in the Leaves and Stems of Eucalyptus and Corymbia Species Under High Soil Phosphate
by Paulo Mazzafera, Rafaela Gageti Bulgarelli, Franklin Magnum de Oliveira Silva and Sara Adrián López de Andrade
Forests 2025, 16(6), 869; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16060869 - 22 May 2025
Viewed by 323
Abstract
Eucalypts are a diverse group of Myrtaceae native to Australia and adapted to a wide range of edaphoclimatic conditions, including variation in phosphorus (P) soil availability. While Corymbia and Eucalyptus species have evolved in P-poor soils, they still respond to P additions. Nutrient [...] Read more.
Eucalypts are a diverse group of Myrtaceae native to Australia and adapted to a wide range of edaphoclimatic conditions, including variation in phosphorus (P) soil availability. While Corymbia and Eucalyptus species have evolved in P-poor soils, they still respond to P additions. Nutrient ratios have been used to study nutritional imbalances in plants, as they relate to nutrient homeostasis within cells and ultimately productivity. This study investigated the effects of providing adequate (normal) and high doses of phosphorus (P) on nutrient ratios in leaves and stems of Eucalyptus and Corymbia species. High soil P may happen due to high natural soil concentration and over-fertilization. These species were pre-selected from a 22-eucalypt species screening, based on their responses—either positive, negative, or neutral—to increased dry mass at high soil P compared to normal P. Two species, Corymbia citriodora and C. maculata, which showed increased dry mass under high P levels, exhibited enhanced shoot growth and improvements in parameters related to photosystem efficiency. Except for Zn, which has an antagonistic relationship with P, the concentrations of other nutrients known to exhibit either antagonism or synergism with P were not significantly altered in the leaves and stems. As a result, there were no notable changes in the ratios with high P data compared to those with normal P data. Ratios calculated among K, Ca, Mg, Fe, and Mn data also remained unchanged. However, a principal component analysis, which was performed with all nutrient ratios, effectively separated the normal P and high P treatments and distinguished between species belonging to the genera Corymbia and Eucalyptus. The validity of such nutrient ratios is discussed, and it is suggested that they may not be applicable in studies involving high nutrient doses, which may also be true for other nutrients. Additionally, using ratios under unbalanced field fertilization may lead to an incorrect nutritional interpretation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Soil)
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17 pages, 2269 KiB  
Article
Litter and Pruning Biomass in Mango Orchards: Quantification and Nutrient Analysis
by Alan Niscioli, Constancio A. Asis, Joanne Tilbrook, Dallas Anson, Danilo Guinto, Mila Bristow and David Rowlings
Sustainability 2025, 17(10), 4452; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17104452 - 14 May 2025
Viewed by 523
Abstract
Litter and pruning biomass are integral to nutrient cycling in the plant–soil ecosystem, contributing significantly to organic matter formation and humus development through decomposition and nutrient mineralization, which ultimately influence soil fertility and health. However, the litterfall dynamics in mango orchards are not [...] Read more.
Litter and pruning biomass are integral to nutrient cycling in the plant–soil ecosystem, contributing significantly to organic matter formation and humus development through decomposition and nutrient mineralization, which ultimately influence soil fertility and health. However, the litterfall dynamics in mango orchards are not well understood, and its contribution to nutrient cycling has seldom been measured. This study aimed to estimate litterfall and pruning biomass in mango orchards and assess the nutrient contents of various biomass components. Litter and pruning biomass samples were collected from four commercial mango orchards planted with Kensington Pride (‘KP’) and ‘B74’ (‘Calypso®’) cultivars in the Darwin and Katherine regions, using litter traps placed on the orchard floors. Samples were sorted (leaves, flowers, panicles, fruits, and branches) and analyzed for nutrient contents. Results showed that most biomass abscissions occurred between late June and August, spanning approximately 100 days involving floral induction phase, fruit set, and maturity. Leaves made up most of the abscised litter biomass, while branches were the primary component of pruning biomass. The overall ranking of biomass across both regions and orchards is as follows: leaves > branches > panicles > flowers > fruits. The carbon–nitrogen (C:N) ratio of litter pruning material ranged from 30 (flowers) to 139 (branches). On a hectare basis, litter and biomass inputs contained 1.2 t carbon (C), 21.2 kg nitrogen (N), 0.80 kg phosphorus (P), 4.9 kg potassium (K), 8.7 kg calcium (Ca), 2.0 kg magnesium (Mg), 1.1 kg sulfur (S), 15 g boron (B), 13.6 g copper (Cu), 99.3 g iron (Fe), 78.6 g manganese (Mn), and 28.6 g zinc (Zn). The results indicate that annual litterfall may contribute substantially to plant nutrient supply and soil health when incorporated into the soil to undergo decomposition. This study contributes to a better understanding of litter biomass, nutrient sources, and nutrient cycling in tropical mango production systems, offering insights that support accurate nutrient budgeting and help prevent over-fertilization. However, further research is needed to examine biomass accumulation under different pruning regimes, decomposition dynamics, microbial interactions, and broader ecological effects to understand litterfall’s role in promoting plant growth, enhancing soil health, and supporting sustainable mango production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management: Plant, Biodiversity and Ecosystem)
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14 pages, 13508 KiB  
Article
Hydrochemical Characteristics and Quality Assessment of Groundwater in the Yangtze River Basin: A Comparative Study of the Hexian Area, China
by Yonghong Xiao, Lu Wei, Xianghong Liu and Dengkui Yao
Water 2025, 17(10), 1410; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17101410 - 8 May 2025
Viewed by 584
Abstract
The quality of shallow groundwater in agricultural areas is being increasingly threatened by nitrogen pollution. However, the complex interactions between natural and anthropogenic sources remain insufficiently studied. In this study, the water chemical characteristics and nitrogen pollution sources in key agricultural areas and [...] Read more.
The quality of shallow groundwater in agricultural areas is being increasingly threatened by nitrogen pollution. However, the complex interactions between natural and anthropogenic sources remain insufficiently studied. In this study, the water chemical characteristics and nitrogen pollution sources in key agricultural areas and counties of the Yangtze River Basin were systematically investigated. Forty-three groundwater samples were analyzed for major ions and nitrides (NH4+, NO2, NO3) using hydrogeochemical analysis, spatial interpolation, and positive matrix factorization (PMF) models. The shallow groundwater in the study area is weakly alkaline (pH 7.36) and is dominated by calcium ions (mean 112.67 mg/L) and bicarbonate (mean 361.95 mg/L), which reveals that the hydrogeochemical characteristics are dominated by carbonate. The total hardness has increased, and the nitrogen concentration exhibits significant spatial variability. Nitrates (NO3) exceed safety thresholds across the entire region and are strongly correlated with Cl. The PMF analysis identified the following four major pollution factors: Factor 1 represents a combination of anthropogenic pollution and natural processes; Factor 2 is attributed to agricultural fertilizer application and septic tank leakage; Factor 3 is sourced from the weathering of carbonates and the decomposition of organic matter in a reducing environment; and Factor 4 is due to the leakage of domestic sewage or livestock-derived wastewater. Spatial analysis revealed pollution hotspots in the vicinity of urban, agricultural, and livestock areas. This study emphasizes that human activities, such as over-fertilization and inadequate wastewater management, are the main contributors to groundwater nitrogen pollution in the study area. In addition, we compare the groundwater quality of the entire Yangtze River Basin and find that there are distinct regional variations. Full article
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40 pages, 8843 KiB  
Article
Alteration of Sulfur-Bearing Silicate-Phosphate (Agri)Glasses in Soil Environment: Structural Characterization and Chemical Reactivity of Fertilizer Glasses: Insights from ‘In Vitro’ Studies
by Anna Berezicka, Justyna Sułowska and Magdalena Szumera
Molecules 2025, 30(8), 1684; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30081684 - 9 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 519
Abstract
Vitreous carriers of essential nutrients should release elements in response to plant demand, minimizing over-fertilization risks. This study focused on designing and characterizing sulfate-bearing slow-release fertilizers based on four glass series (41SiO2∙6(10)P2O5∙20K2O–33(29)MgO/CaO/MgO + CaO) with [...] Read more.
Vitreous carriers of essential nutrients should release elements in response to plant demand, minimizing over-fertilization risks. This study focused on designing and characterizing sulfate-bearing slow-release fertilizers based on four glass series (41SiO2∙6(10)P2O5∙20K2O–33(29)MgO/CaO/MgO + CaO) with increasing sulfate content. Structural analysis identified a network dominated by QSi2 units, with some QSi3 species and isolated QP0 units. This fragmented structure resulted in high solubility in acidic environments while maintaining water resistance. Such dual behavior is a direct consequence of the delicate balance between depolymerized silicate chains and isolated orthophosphate units, which ensure rapid ion exchange under acidic conditions while preventing uncontrolled leaching in neutral media. Nutrient leaching depended on SO3 content, affecting matrix rigidity, and on the type of alkaline earth modifier and P2O5 content. Dissolution kinetics showed an initial rapid release phase, followed by stabilization governed by silicate hydrolysis. Thermal analysis linked network flexibility to dissolution behavior—CaO promoted an open structure with high SiO2 release, MgO increased rigidity, while their co-addition reduced ion diffusion and silica dissolution. The thermal behavior of the glasses provided indirect insight into their structural rigidity, revealing how compositional variations influence the mechanical stability of the network. This structural rigidity, inferred from glass transition and crystallization phenomena, was found to correlate with the selective dissolution profiles observed in acidic versus neutral environments. These results reveal complex interactions between composition, structure, and nutrient release, shaping the agricultural potential of these glasses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials for Environmental Remediation and Catalysis)
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35 pages, 1692 KiB  
Review
Impact of Nutrient Stress on Plant Disease Resistance
by Héctor Martín-Cardoso and Blanca San Segundo
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(4), 1780; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26041780 - 19 Feb 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2612
Abstract
Plants are constantly exposed to abiotic and biotic stresses that seriously affect crop yield and quality. A coordinated regulation of plant responses to combined abiotic/biotic stresses requires crosstalk between signaling pathways initiated by each stressor. Interconnected signaling pathways further finetune plant stress responses [...] Read more.
Plants are constantly exposed to abiotic and biotic stresses that seriously affect crop yield and quality. A coordinated regulation of plant responses to combined abiotic/biotic stresses requires crosstalk between signaling pathways initiated by each stressor. Interconnected signaling pathways further finetune plant stress responses and allow the plant to respond to such stresses effectively. The plant nutritional status might influence disease resistance by strengthening or weakening plant immune responses, as well as through modulation of the pathogenicity program in the pathogen. Here, we discuss advances in our understanding of interactions between nutrient stress, deficiency or excess, and immune signaling pathways in the context of current agricultural practices. The introduction of chemical fertilizers and pesticides was a major component of the Green Revolution initiated in the 1960s that greatly boosted crop production. However, the massive application of agrochemicals also has adverse consequences on the environment and animal/human health. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the connections between stress caused by overfertilization (or low bioavailability of nutrients) and immune responses is a timely and novel field of research with important implications for disease control in crop species. Optimizing nutrient management practices tailored to specific environmental conditions will be crucial in maximizing crop production using environmentally friendly systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Plant Pathology and Abiotic Stress)
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24 pages, 4825 KiB  
Article
Soil Microbiome Response to Reduced Nitrogen Supply in an Over-Fertilized Wheat-Maize System
by Xing Liu, Yanan Cheng, Ying Zhang, Yonggang Li, Fei Wang and Changwei Shen
Agronomy 2024, 14(11), 2631; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14112631 - 7 Nov 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1283
Abstract
Excessive nitrogen (N) fertilization harms the diversity, structure, and function of the soil microbiome. Yet, whether such adverse effects can be repaired through reducing the subsequent N fertilization rate remains not completely clear so far. Here, using a long-term N-overfertilized wheat-maize cropping field, [...] Read more.
Excessive nitrogen (N) fertilization harms the diversity, structure, and function of the soil microbiome. Yet, whether such adverse effects can be repaired through reducing the subsequent N fertilization rate remains not completely clear so far. Here, using a long-term N-overfertilized wheat-maize cropping field, we assessed the effect of reducing various proportions of the subsequent N fertilization rate over six years on crop productivity, soil physicochemical and biochemical properties, and microbiome. Five treatments were employed in our field experiment: the farmers’ conventional N fertilization rate (zero reduction, as a control) and the reduction in the farmers’ N rate by 20%, 40%, 60%, and 100%. The results showed that moderate N reduction (20–40%) enhanced crop productivity and soil fertility but did not affect soil enzyme activity. Soil bacterial and fungal community diversity were insensitive to N fertilization reduction, whereas their community structures changed significantly, with more prominent alteration in the fungal community. Functional prediction indicated that average relative abundance of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi increased with N fertilization reduction but that of ectomycorrhizal fungi decreased. Moderate N reduction (20–40%) enhanced species interactions and, thus, provided a more complex cross-kingdom microbial co-occurrence network. Both bacterial and fungal community assembly were governed by stochastic processes, and this was not altered by N fertilization reduction. Overall, the response of the soil microbiome to N fertilization reduction was greatly dependent on the reduced N proportion. The findings obtained here shed light on the importance of optimal N fertilization rate in the intensively cultivated, high-input grain production system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Soil and Plant Nutrition)
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22 pages, 3961 KiB  
Article
Assessing Nitrogen Fertilization in Processing Pepper: Critical Nitrogen Curve, Yield Response, and Crop Development
by Jose Maria Vadillo, Carlos Campillo, Valme González and Henar Prieto
Horticulturae 2024, 10(11), 1141; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10111141 - 25 Oct 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1676
Abstract
Groundwater pollution in intensive horticultural areas is becoming an increasingly important problem. Over-fertilization of these crops, combined with poor irrigation management, leads to groundwater contamination through leaching. Previous research on the effect of N on sweet peppers grown in greenhouses is abundant, but [...] Read more.
Groundwater pollution in intensive horticultural areas is becoming an increasingly important problem. Over-fertilization of these crops, combined with poor irrigation management, leads to groundwater contamination through leaching. Previous research on the effect of N on sweet peppers grown in greenhouses is abundant, but data on outdoor cultivation, especially considering variety and site influences, are lacking. Therefore, this study evaluates nitrogen (N) fertilization in open-field processing-pepper crop in Extremadura, Spain to mitigate this environmental impact. Field trials were conducted in 2020, 2021, and 2022 to determine the optimum N fertilizer rate for processing peppers, with the aim of reducing environmental impacts such as nitrate leaching while maintaining crop yields. The trial consisted of applying different N doses, 0, 60, 120, and 180 kg N/ha in 2020 and 2021 and 0, 100, and 300 kg N/ha in 2022. There were four replications of each treatment, arranged in randomized blocks. Measurements included crop yield, biomass, intercepted photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), and canopy cover. The study also developed a critical nitrogen curve (CNC) to determine the minimum N concentration required for optimal growth. The commercial yield results showed that there were no significant differences between the two treatments with higher N inputs in the three years; therefore, the application of more than 120 kg N/ha did not significantly increase yield. Nitrogen-free treatments resulted in earlier fruit maturity, concentrating the harvest and reducing waste. In addition, excessive N application led to environmental problems such as groundwater contamination due to nitrate leaching. The study concludes that outdoor pepper crops in this region can achieve optimal yields with lower N rates (around 120 kg N/ha) compared to current practices, taking into account that initial soil N values were higher than 100 kg N/ha, thereby reducing environmental risks and fertilizer costs. It also established relationships between biomass, canopy cover, and N uptake to improve fertilization strategies. These data support future crop modeling and sustainable fertilization practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Irrigation and Fertilization Management in Horticultural Production)
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19 pages, 5873 KiB  
Article
An Excessive K/Na Ratio in Soil Solutions Impairs the Seedling Establishment of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) through Reducing the Leaf Mg Concentration and Photosynthesis
by Yu Cheng, Tibin Zhang, Weiqiang Gao, Yuxin Kuang, Qing Liang, Hao Feng and Saparov Galymzhan
Agronomy 2024, 14(10), 2301; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14102301 - 6 Oct 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1788
Abstract
In saline conditions, establishing healthy seedlings is crucial for the productivity of sunflowers (Helianthus annuus L.). Excessive potassium (K+) from irrigation water or overfertilization, similar to sodium (Na+), could adversely affect sunflower growth. However, the effects of salt [...] Read more.
In saline conditions, establishing healthy seedlings is crucial for the productivity of sunflowers (Helianthus annuus L.). Excessive potassium (K+) from irrigation water or overfertilization, similar to sodium (Na+), could adversely affect sunflower growth. However, the effects of salt stress caused by varying K/Na ratios on the establishment of sunflower seedlings have not been widely studied. We conducted a pot experiment in a greenhouse, altering the K/Na ratio of a soil solution to grow sunflower seedlings. We tested three saline solutions with K/Na ratios of 0:1 (P0S1), 1:1 (P1S1), and 1:0 (P1S0) at a constant concentration of 4 dS m−1, along with a control (CK, no salt added), with five replicates. The solutions were applied to the pots via capillary rise through small holes at the bottom. The results indicate that different K/Na ratios significantly influenced ion-selective uptake and transport in crop organs. With an increasing K/Na ratio, the K+ concentration in the roots, stems, and leaves increased, while the Na+ concentration decreased in the roots and stems, with no significant differences in the leaves. Furthermore, an excessive K/Na ratio (P1S0) suppressed the absorption and transportation of Mg2+, significantly reducing the Mg2+ concentration in the stems and leaves. A lower leaf Mg2+ concentration reduced chlorophyll concentration, impairing photosynthetic performance. The lowest plant height, leaf area, dry matter, and shoot/root ratio were observed in P1S0, with reductions of 27%, 48%, 48%, and 13% compared to CK, respectively. Compared with CK, light use efficiency and CO2 use efficiency in P1S0 were significantly reduced by 13% and 10%, respectively, while water use efficiency was significantly increased by 9%. Additionally, improved crop morphological and photosynthetic performance was observed in P1S1 and P0S1 compared with P1S0. These findings underscore the critical role of optimizing ion composition in soil solutions, especially during the sensitive seedling stage, to enhance photosynthesis and ultimately to improve the plant’s establishment. We recommend that agricultural practices in saline regions incorporate tailored irrigation and fertilization strategies that prioritize optimal K/Na ratios to maximize crop performance and sustainability. Full article
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20 pages, 3292 KiB  
Article
Irrigation Regime Optimization Plays a Critically Important Role in Plastic-Shed Vegetable Production to Mitigate Short-Term and Future N Leaching Pollution
by Xiuchun Xu, Bin Cui, Xuan Yang, Ning Yuan, Ligang Wang, Bang Ni and Fanqiao Meng
Horticulturae 2024, 10(10), 1067; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10101067 - 5 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1264
Abstract
In northern China, plastic-shed vegetable production significantly contributes to nitrogen (N)-induced groundwater eutrophication due to excessive fertilization and irrigation. However, the impact of optimized farming practices on N leaching has seldom been systematically examined. We conducted a four-season field study to evaluate the [...] Read more.
In northern China, plastic-shed vegetable production significantly contributes to nitrogen (N)-induced groundwater eutrophication due to excessive fertilization and irrigation. However, the impact of optimized farming practices on N leaching has seldom been systematically examined. We conducted a four-season field study to evaluate the impacts of optimal farming measures on tomato yield, water percolation, N concentration in leachate, and total N (TN) leaching. The treatments included conventional fertilization and flood irrigation (CON), fertilization decreased by 20% and flood irrigation (OPT1) or drip fertigation (OPT2), fertilization decreased by 30% and drip fertigation (OPT3), and no fertilization with flood irrigation (CK). Compared with the CON treatment, the optimal treatments significantly reduced annual TN leaching by 9.92–50.7% without affecting tomato yield (57.1–98.2 t ha−1 for CON and 48.1–106 t ha−1 for three optimal treatments). Drip irrigation contributed 73.8–79.0% to the mitigation of TN leaching. The N originating from soil and irrigation water exhibited a similar contribution to TN leaching (45.4–58.6%) to that of fertilizer N. The daily TN leaching at the basal fertilization stage was much greater than that at the top-dressing stage, due to over-fertilization. Optimizing fertilization, particularly basal fertilization, in combination with drip irrigation could substantially reduce N leaching in plastic-shed vegetable production. Other optimal practices, such as decision support systems (DSSs) and fertilizer amendments, could also be investigated to further mitigate the N leaching. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrient Use Efficiency of Vegetable Crops: The Latest Research)
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20 pages, 1830 KiB  
Article
Inoculation with Biofilm of Bacillus subtilis Is a Safe and Sustainable Alternative to Promote Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) Growth
by Gabriela Cristina Sarti, Mirta Esther Galelli, Josefina Ana Eva Cristóbal-Miguez, Eliana Cárdenas-Aguiar, Hugo Daniel Chudil, Ana Rosa García and Antonio Paz-González
Environments 2024, 11(3), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11030054 - 11 Mar 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2728
Abstract
Over-fertilization and agrochemicals adversely affect soil quality and agricultural ecosystem sustainability. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is ranked as an important crop due to its high profitability and nutritional value. In Argentina, tomato is mainly produced in horticultural belts at peri-urban areas, whose [...] Read more.
Over-fertilization and agrochemicals adversely affect soil quality and agricultural ecosystem sustainability. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is ranked as an important crop due to its high profitability and nutritional value. In Argentina, tomato is mainly produced in horticultural belts at peri-urban areas, whose soils frequently are contaminated by heavy metals and/or agrochemicals. To explore safer alternatives, we investigated the effects of seed inoculation with a common plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), i.e., Bacillus subtilis subsp. spizizenii, on development at various growth stages of two tomato varieties, “Platense” and “Río Grande”, and on production and fruit quality at harvest time of the “Río Grande” variety. The experimental design consisted of three treatments per variety: a control versus traditional planktonic or biofilm inoculation, with three replicates per treatment. Germination at 10 days and seedling agronomical parameters showed that the response to seed inoculation was superior in the “Río Grande” variety. At harvest time, and irrespective of the inoculant, several agronomical parameters of the “Río Grande” variety were significantly enhanced with respect to the control. The biofilm significantly increased tomato production, as quantified by fruit number and weight, compared to the planktonic inoculum. This case study demonstrates that the incorporation of bio-inoculants is relevant in sustainable agriculture to promote crop growth and quality. Full article
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14 pages, 2580 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Sustainability in Potato Crop Production: Mitigating Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Nitrate Accumulation in Potato Tubers through Optimized Nitrogen Fertilization
by Camila Seno Nascimento, Carolina Seno Nascimento, Breno de Jesus Pereira, Paulo Henrique Soares Silva, Mara Cristina Pessôa da Cruz and Arthur Bernardes Cecílio Filho
Nitrogen 2024, 5(1), 163-176; https://doi.org/10.3390/nitrogen5010011 - 25 Feb 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2163
Abstract
The complex ramifications of global climate change, which is caused by heightened concentrations of greenhouse gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, are deeply concerning. Addressing this crisis necessitates the immediate implementation of adaptive mitigation strategies, especially within the agricultural sector. In this context, this [...] Read more.
The complex ramifications of global climate change, which is caused by heightened concentrations of greenhouse gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, are deeply concerning. Addressing this crisis necessitates the immediate implementation of adaptive mitigation strategies, especially within the agricultural sector. In this context, this study aimed to assess how the supply of nitrogen (N) (0, 70, 140, and 210 kg N ha−1) in the forms of ammonium nitrate and urea affects the agronomic performance, food quality, greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), and carbon footprint of potato plants. The examined hypothesis was that by precisely calibrating N doses alongside appropriate sourcing, over-fertilization in potato cultivation can be mitigated. A decline in stomatal conductance and net photosynthetic rate disturbs physiological mechanisms, reflecting in biomass production. Application of 136 kg N ha−1 as urea showed a remarkable yield increase compared to other doses and sources. The highest nitrate content in potato tubers was achieved at 210 kg N ha−1 for both sources, not exceeding the limit (200 mg kg−1 of fresh mass) recommended for human consumption. The lowest carbon footprint was obtained when 70 kg N ha−1 was applied, around 41% and 26% lower than when 210 kg N ha−1 and 140 kg N ha−1 were applied, respectively. The results demonstrated that over-fertilization not only worsened the yield and tuber quality of potato plants, but also increased greenhouse gas emissions. This information is valuable for establishing an effective fertilization program for the potato crop and reducing carbon footprint. Full article
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12 pages, 2120 KiB  
Article
Upward Trends and Lithological and Climatic Controls of Groundwater Arsenic, Fluoride, and Nitrate in Central Mexico
by Heriberto Morales-deAvila, Mélida Gutiérrez, Claudia Patricia Colmenero-Chacón, Hugo Enrique Júnez-Ferreira and Maria Vicenta Esteller-Alberich
Minerals 2023, 13(9), 1145; https://doi.org/10.3390/min13091145 - 30 Aug 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1657
Abstract
Central Mexico is known for its high concentrations of geogenic arsenic (As) and fluoride (F) in the groundwater; however, concentrations vary widely within the region. To identify specific hydrogeological processes that cause these variations, the study area was divided into four [...] Read more.
Central Mexico is known for its high concentrations of geogenic arsenic (As) and fluoride (F) in the groundwater; however, concentrations vary widely within the region. To identify specific hydrogeological processes that cause these variations, the study area was divided into four sections, each section with a particular lithology, climate, and land use. Nitrate was added to the analysis as a common anthropic contaminant in this area as one that is indicative of human and agricultural activities. Concentration maps, Na-normalized diagrams, Spearman correlation, and upward trend analyses were applied to 77 wells distributed across the four sections. Specific patterns of concentration emerged according to climate and the lithology of the exposed rocks. A sharp reduction of F concentrations in the section where carbonate rocks outcrop suggested co-precipitation of F with calcite. The Mann–Kendall method detected upward trends in 5 out of 54 wells for As and NO3–N and three for F at a 95% probability level. Several wells with upward trends of As and NO3–N overlapped. Only one well showed a downward trend for NO3–N. The results show the degree to which lithology and climate affect groundwater quality, information that leads to a better understanding of the processes (and health hazards) that govern As, F, and NO3–N concentrations, which could be construed to include the potential effect of human activities such as overfertilization and altering groundwater residence time via groundwater withdrawals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Mineralogy and Biogeochemistry)
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11 pages, 3865 KiB  
Article
Combined Application of Organic Fertilizer with Microbial Inoculum Improved Aggregate Formation and Salt Leaching in a Secondary Salinized Soil
by Yuanyuan Peng, He Zhang, Jinshan Lian, Wen Zhang, Guihua Li and Jianfeng Zhang
Plants 2023, 12(16), 2945; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12162945 - 15 Aug 2023
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2755
Abstract
Greenhouse vegetable production provides significant quantities of vegetables throughout the year and improves farmers’ income. However, over-fertilization with mineral fertilizer causes soil secondary salinization and decreases the stability of the soil structure. To improve aggregate formation and decrease salt accumulation in the soil [...] Read more.
Greenhouse vegetable production provides significant quantities of vegetables throughout the year and improves farmers’ income. However, over-fertilization with mineral fertilizer causes soil secondary salinization and decreases the stability of the soil structure. To improve aggregate formation and decrease salt accumulation in the soil profile, bio-organic fertilizers (Protaetia brevitarsis larvae frass with Bacillus amyloliticus and/or Trichoderma harziensis) were applied to partially substitute mineral fertilizer in a salinized vegetable soil. Soil nutrient condition, aggregate stability, and salt movement in the soil profile were measured in a greenhouse double-cucumber system. The results showed that soil organic matter (SOM), total nitrogen (TN), and available phosphorus (AP) increased significantly under bio-organic fertilizer treatments compared with control. Soil electrical conductivity (EC) and total salt content (TSC) decreased by 15.74–24.20% and 19.15–29.05%, respectively, with bio-organic fertilizers (p < 0.05). Cl, NO3, and SO42− content under double inoculation with B. amyloliticus and T. harziensis reduced by 31.19%, 26.30%, and 53.11%, respectively, compared to CK (p < 0.05). In addition, double inoculation was more efficient in reducing nitrate content in the soil profile than single inoculation. Soil microaggregates of 0.25–0.053 mm increased by 75.87–78.51% with bio-fertilizers compared with control, and double inoculation was the best for aggregate formation. In conclusion, the inoculation of plant-growth-promoting and salt-tolerant microorganisms with high humic acid larvae frass can alleviate salinization in vegetable soil, enhance soil nutrient content, and improve the soil structure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Soil Fertility Management for Sustainable Agriculture)
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19 pages, 2882 KiB  
Article
Combination of Bacillus and Low Fertigation Input Promoted the Growth and Productivity of Chinese Cabbage and Enriched Beneficial Rhizosphere Bacteria Lechevalieria
by Shi-Chang Zhang, Yu-Lu Zhang, Xiao-Jing Guo, Ming Luo, Shi-Dong Li and Rong-Jun Guo
Biology 2023, 12(8), 1130; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology12081130 - 14 Aug 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2080
Abstract
Long-term overfertilization increases soil salinity and disease occurrence and reduces crop yield. Integrated application of microbial agents with low fertigation input might be a sustainable and cost-effective strategy. Herein, the promoting effects of Bacillus velezensis B006 on the growth of Chinese cabbage under [...] Read more.
Long-term overfertilization increases soil salinity and disease occurrence and reduces crop yield. Integrated application of microbial agents with low fertigation input might be a sustainable and cost-effective strategy. Herein, the promoting effects of Bacillus velezensis B006 on the growth of Chinese cabbage under different fertigation conditions in field trials were studied and the underlying mechanisms were revealed. In comparison with normal fertigation (water potential of −30 kPa and soluble N, P, K of 29.75, 8.26, 21.48 Kg hm−2) without B006 application, the combination of B. velezensis B006 and reduced fertigation input (−50 kPa and N, P, K of 11.75, 3.26, 6.48 Kg hm−2) promoted cabbage growth and root development, restrained the occurrence of soft rot disease, and improved the yield. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analyses indicated that B006 application promoted the production of indole-3-acetic acid and salicylic acid in cabbage roots, which are closely related to plant growth. Rhizosphere microbiota analyses indicated that the combination of low fertigation input and B006 application promoted the enrichment of Streptomyces, Lechevalieria, Promicromonospora, and Aeromicrobium and the abundance of Lechevalieria was positively correlated with the root length and vitality. This suggested that the integrated application of reduced fertigation and Bacillus is highly efficient to improve soil ecology and productivity and will benefit the sustainable development of crop cultivation in a cost-effective way. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria: Mechanisms and Applications)
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