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Differences in the Concentration of Micronutrients in Young Shoots of Numerous Cultivars of Wheat, Maize and Oilseed Rape
(MDPI, 2022) Korzeniowska, Jolanta; Stanislawska-Glubiak, Ewa
Individual species of cultivated plants differ in the content of microelements in the shoots. The aim of our research was to test the hypothesis that the variability of the micronutrient content between cultivars of the same species may be similar or even greater than the differences between species. The research material consisted of shoot samples of 12 wheat, 10 maize and 12 rape varieties collected from production fields in Poland. The smallest number of samples (replicates) within one cultivar was 10. A total of 481 wheat samples, 141 maize samples and 328 rapeseed samples were taken. Wheat samples were taken at the beginning of the stem elongation stage (BBCH 30/31); maize, when the plants reached a height of 25–30 cm (BBCH 14–15); and rape, in the period from the beginning of the main stem elongation stage to the appearance of the first internode (BBCH 30/31). All varieties of the tested crop species were grown in similar soil conditions in terms of pH, texture and TOC content. B, Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn were determined in all plant samples. Wheat showed a significantly lower average concentration of all micronutrients compared to rape and maize (e.g., 10 times less B than rape). On the other hand, among the species tested, rape had the highest concentration of B, Cu and Zn, and maize had the highest concentration of Fe and Mn. In all three tested crops, the differences in the content of B and Zn were greater between species than between cultivars. In the case of Cu, Mn and Fe concentration, the cultivar differences exceeded the species differences. The results suggest that there is no need to take cultivars into account when fertilizing with B and Zn. In contrast, fertilization with Cu, Mn and Fe needs to take into account different requirements of the cultivars for these micronutrients.
Effect of Salicylic Acid Foliar Application on Two Wheat Cultivars Grown Under Zinc Stress
(MDPI, 2022) Stanisławska-Glubiak, Ewa; Korzeniowska, Jolanta
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of foliar application of salicylic acid (SA) on alleviating Zn stress in young wheat plants. Two rigorous pot experiments were conducted with two spring wheat cultivars growing on soil artificially contaminated with Zn. The experimental design included three levels of soil contamination with Zn: 0, 300 and 700 mg kg−1, and three levels of SA concentration: 0, 0.5 and 1 mM. Foliar spray of SA was applied twice at an interval of two weeks. Wheat biomass was harvested two months after plant emergence. Both cultivars showed similar biomass reduction due to Zn phytotoxicity, but differed in the accumulation and distribution of this metal in the plant. The positive effect of SA foliar application was obtained only for one of the two tested cultivars, where a reduction in the Zn translocation from the roots to the aboveground part was observed. As a consequence, the decrease in biomass caused by the toxicity of Zn was limited. A greater positive effect of SA application on wheat biomass was observed at 700 than at 300 mg kg−1 Zn in soil. The different responses of the cultivars to the SA was probably related to their different defense mechanisms against Zn stress.
The agricultural and therapeutic potential of Lavatera thuringiaca L. (Malvaceae)
(Acta Agrobotanica, 2023) Staniak, Mariola; Kowalska, Iwona; Ruhul, Amin; Sharifi-Rad, Javad; Czopek, Katarzyna; Stępień-Warda, Anna
One of the poorly recognized plant species well adapted to cultivation in temperate climate conditions is Lavatera thuringiaca L. It is a common species in Europe, but so far has not found much economic use. Few literature data report its high production potential, favorable chemical composition of biomass, resistance to adverse stress conditions, and medicinal properties. e biomass can be used for fodder and energy purposes and as forage for bees and other pollinators. L. thuringiaca can also be useful for the management of fallow soils or marginal land and for the reclamation of contaminated land. In turn, the presence of biologically active compounds offers opportunities for its use in medicine. Wider diversification of cultivated species is a key to ensuring food security and economic sustainability, especially in view of the observed climate change. In this context, an extensive review of literature dealing with taxonomic studies, morphological diversity and biological properties of L. thuringiaca, and the potential for multipurpose use of this species has been carried out.
The Phytoremediation Potential of LocalWild Grass Versus Cultivated Grass Species for Zinc-Contaminated Soil
(MDPI, 2023) Korzeniowska, Jolanta; Stanislawska-Glubiak, Ewa
The aim of the study was to compare the phytoremediation potential of cultivated grasses with local wild grass for soil contaminated with zinc. Two pot experiments were carried out on soil artificially contaminated with Zn. Four species of cultivated grasses were used as test plants: Poa pratensis, Lolium perenne, Festuca rubra, Festuca pratensis, and one wild, native grass: Deschampsia caespitosa. Wild grass seeds were collected from soil contaminated with heavy metals near a zinc smelter. The phytoremediation potential of grasses was determined on the basis of the tolerance index (TI), bioaccumulation (BF), and translocation (TF) factors. Differences were found between the species in the reduction in the shoot and root biomass with increasing soil contamination with Zn. The tolerance of the studied grasses to excess Zn in the soil was in the following order: D. caespitosa > L. perenne > F. rubra > F. pratensis > P. pratensis. In addition, there were differences in the accumulation and distribution of Zn between the roots and shoots, which is related to the different defense mechanisms of the studied grasses against Zn phytotoxicity. Of the five grasses tested, the highest phytoremediation potential was shown by D. caespitosa. This grass had a significantly higher tolerance to Zn and a lower transfer of Zn from the roots to shoots than the other cultivated grasses tested. All four cultivated grasses can be useful for phytostabilization because they accumulated Zn mainly in the roots and limited its translocation to the shoots. Unlike wild grass seeds, cultivated grass seeds are readily available commercially and can be used for the phytoremediation of HM- contaminated sites.
Do we speak one language on the way to sustainable soil management in Europe? A terminology check via an EU-wide survey.
(John Wiley & Sons, 2024) Weninger, Thomas; Ramler, David; Bondi, Giulia; Asins, Sabina; O'Sullivan, Lilian; Assennato, Francesca; Astover, Alar; Bispo, Antonio ; Borůvka, Luboˇs ; Buttafuoco, Gabriele ; Calzolari, Costanza ; Castanheira, Nadia ; Cousin, Isabelle ; Elsen, Erik van den; Foldal, Cecilie ; Hessel, Rudi ; Kadžiulienė, Zydrė ; Kukk, Liia ; Molina, Maria J. ; Montagne, David ; Oorts, Katrien ; Pindral, Sylwia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1065-8004; Ungaro, Fabrizio ; Klimkowicz-Pawlas, Agnieszka https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4529-5274
European soils are under increasing pressure, making it difficult to maintain the provision of soil ecosystem services (SESs). A better understanding of soil processes is needed to counteract soil threats (STs) and to promote sustainable soil management. The EJP SOIL programme of the EU provides a framework for the necessary research. However, different definitions of soil-related terms potentially lead to varied understandings of concepts. Furthermore, there are numerous indicators available to quantify STs or SESs. As unclear communication is a key barrier that hinders the implementation of research results into practice, this study aimed to answer the question about whether the terminology of large-scale initiatives is adequately understood within the soil-science community and nonresearch stakeholders. An online questionnaire was used to provide definitions for 33 soil-related terms in both scientific and plain language, as well as indicators for seven SESs and 11 STs. Participants were asked to rate their agreement with the definitions and indicators on a seven-grade Likert scale. The level of agreement was calculated as the percentage of ratings above 4, the neutral position. The survey was available from June to September 2023 and was distributed by a snowball approach. More than 260 stakeholders assessed the survey; 70% of respondents were researchers, and 15% were practitioners. Mean agreement levels for the definitions and indicators were generally high, at 85% and 78% respectively. However, it was apparent that the lowest agreement was found for terms that are relatively new, such as Ecosystem Services and Bundle, or unfamiliar for certain subgroups, such as ecological terms for stakeholders working at the farm scale. Due to their distinct majority, the results of this study primarily reflect the opinions of scientists. Thus, broad conclusions can only be drawn by comparing scientists with non-scientists. In this regard, the agreement was surprisingly high across all types of questions. The combined outcomes indicate that there is still a need to facilitate communication between stakeholders and to improve knowledge distribution strategies. Nevertheless, this study can support and be used by future projects and programmes, especially regarding the harmonization of terminology and methods.
How Does Specialization in Agricultural Production Affect Soil Health?
(MDPI, Basel, Switzerland, 2024) Szymańska, Magdalena; Gubiec, Wiktoria; Smreczak, Bożena; Ukalska-Jaruga, Aleksandra; Sosulski, Tomasz
The aim of the study was to assess the impact of the specialization of agricultural production on selected parameters of soil health, i.e., soil organic carbon content (SOC), soil acidification, soil nutrient status, i.e., total nitrogen content (NT), available forms of phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium, and microelements content, as well as the content of selected potentially toxic metals (PTMs). For the study, 18 farms located in the Masovian Voivodeship in Central Poland were selected. They were grouped into six types, and each type was represented by three farms. The study included organic farms; farms specializing in: crop, vegetable, poultry, dairy cattle, and pigs production. A total of 144 soil samples were analyzed. The results showed that the specialization of agricultural production and fertilizer management had a significant impact on most of the tested soil health parameters, except SOC and NT content. Despite the high organic fertilizer doses introduced into soils in poultry (170 kg N per hectare as poultry manure) and pig farms (150 kg N per hectare as pig manure), there was no significant influence of these amendments on SOC content. This may indicate low organic carbon sequestration potential in some Polish agricultural soils. Organic farms had the lowest levels of plant nutrients in the tested soil samples, which may limit soil productivity. All the tested soils were strongly acidified, which could restrict both production and regulatory soil functions. Based on the synthetic index of soil fertility (SSFI), vegetable and poultry farms were characterized by very high fertility, while crop, dairy cattle, and pig farms fell into the medium fertility class. Organic farms were in the lowest fertility class. However, the study suggests that the SSFI may not be the best indicator for assessing soil fertility and health; therefore, further research is needed.
Multimodal Spectroscopic Studies to Evaluate the Effect of Nod-Factor-Based Fertilizer on the Maize (Zea mays) Stem
(Sage Journals Home, 2024) Krysa, Mikołaj; Susniak, Katarzyna ; Li Song, Cai; Szymanska-Chargot, Monika; Zdunek, Artur; Pieta, Izabela S.; Podleśny, Janusz; Sroka-Bartnicka, Anna; Kazarian, Sergei G.
Maize (Zea mays) is one of the most cultivated plants in the world. Due to the large area, the scale of its production, and the demand to increase the yield, there is a need for new environmentally friendly fertilizers. One group of such candidates is bacteria-produced nodulation (or nod) factors. Limited research has explored the impact of nodulation, factors on maize within field conditions, with most studies restricted to greenhouse settings and early developmental stages. Additionally, there is a scarcity of investigations that elucidate the metabolic alterations in the maize stem due to nod-factor exposure. It was therefore the aim of this study. Maize stem’s metabolites and fibers were analyzed with various imaging analytical techniques: matrix assisted laser desorption ionization–mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI), Raman spectroscopy, attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR FT-IR), and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy. Moreover, the biochemical analyses were used to evaluate the proteins and soluble carbohydrates concentration and total phenolic content. These techniques were used to evaluate the influence of nod factor-based biofertilizer on the growth of a non-symbiotic plant, maize. The biofertilizer increased the grain yield and the stem mass. Moreover, the spectroscopic and biochemical investigation proved the appreciable biochemical changes in the stems of the maize in biofertilizer-treated plants. Noticeable changes were found in the spatial distribution and the increase in the concentration of flavonoids such as maysin, quercetin, and rutin. Moreover, the concentration of cell wall components (fibers) increased. Furthermore, it was shown that the use of untargeted analyses (such as Raman and ATR FT-IR, spectroscopic imaging, and MALDI-MSI) is useful for the investigation of the biochemical changes in plants.
Biodiversity assessment of segetal flora, earthworms and terrestrial invertebrates in various agricultural production systems and crops
(Uniwersytet Przyrodniczy w Lublinie, 2024) Harasim, Elżbieta; Feledyn-Szewczyk, Beata
The functioning of societies depends on a number of goods and services provided by the natural environment. Knowledge about the benefits that humans derive from it is an important issue in the era of current environmental and climate changes. Agricultural systems and management methods (e.g., tillage, weed and pest control, fertilization, field consolidation, crop specialization and monoculture) are important for biodiversity, the presence of which is of great importance for people and the environment. The aim of this study was to assess bioenvironmentalindicators such as weed flora, earthworms and terrestrial invertebrates biomass, in selected crops in an organic, integrated and conventional farming systems in southern Poland. The results showed the highest biodiversity weeds, earthworms, and terrestrial invertebrates in crops grown in the organic system in comparison to the conventional or sustainable ones, where chemical herbicides were applied. Species diversity of weeds was, on average, twice as high in the organic system (21 species) compared to the integrated and conventional systems (10–11 species). In the organic system, the highest number of weeds (average 71 pcs m–2) accompanied spring wheat and the lowest number of weeds was observed in legume-grass mixture in the first year of use (average 28 pcs m–2). The highest biomass of earthworms in the soil was estimated under winter wheat and legume-grass mixtures. This indicator was half as much in the soil under plants grown in integrated and conventional systems. Terrestrial invertebrates were also most abundant in crops grown in the organic system, indicating that this agricultural production system is conducive to maintaining high biodiversity in agroecosystems. For winter wheat cultivated in the conventional and integrated sys- tems, the invertebrate richness index was 2.5–3 times lower than in the organic system.
Productive, Environmental and Economic Effects of Organic and Conventional Farms—Case Study from Poland
(MDPI, 2024) Feledyn-Szewczyk, Beata; Kopiński, Jerzy
Due to the changes in the agricultural sector, there is a demand among policymakers, administration, advisors and farmers for comparisons of the economic efficiency of organic versus conventional farms and their environmental impact. The authors of the paper hypothesised that in some conditions, organic farms can reach similar productive and economic results as conventional farms and, at the same time, achieve better environmental effects. The aim of the research was to compare the production, environmental and economic effects of selected organic and conventional farms from eastern Poland (mixed, crop production, animal production). The basis for the comparative analysis was the data from 12 farms obtained using the questionnaire method (direct interview) from the years 2020 to 2021. The yields of cereals in the tested organic farms were about one-third lower than the average obtained on conventional farms. Total organic crop production in cereal units per ha was 43% of conventional production. Balances of NPK indicated surpluses or deficiency, which suggested that in both systems nutrient management should be improved and optimised. The compared groups of organic farms generally had higher economic efficiency—both with and without subsidies—than conventional farms, despite the fact that the latter obtained significantly higher incomes. Gross farm income on conventional farms was higher than on organic farms by 28%, but conventional farms had higher direct costs by 332% than organic ones. As a result, the economic efficiency of agricultural production of organic farms was higher by 59% than conventional farms. The lower level of inputs incurred on organic farms was the main factor determining their high economic efficiency. Organic farms pursuing an intensive model of agricultural production (milk production), but also with specialisation in crop production, proved to be the most economically efficient. Despite diversified production, reducing the income risk, the mixed production, both organic and conventional, in the studied set of farms turned out to be the least profitable, indicating the need to support it. It is suggested that moderate specialisation increases the efficiency of managementin organic farming.
Global nutritional challenges and opportunities: Buckwheat, a potential bridge between nutrient deficiency and food security
(ELSEVIER, 2024) Jha, Rintu; Zhang, Kaixuan; He, Yuqi; Mendler-Drienyovszki, Nora ; Magyar-T´abori, Katalin; Quinet, Muriel; Germ, Mateja; Kreft, Ivan; Megliˇc, Vladimir; Ikeda, Kiyokazu; Chapman, Mark A.; Janovsk´a, Dagmar; Podolska, Grażyna; Woo, Sun-Hee,; Bruno, Studer; Georgiev, Milen I.; Chrungoo, Nikhil; Betekhtin, Alexander; Zhou, Meiliang
The ability to ensure nutritional and food security is seriously threatened by the ever-growing global population. Overreliance on a few staple food crops such as wheat, rice and maize will no longer be able to satisfy the rising demand for future food. Even with increasing agricultural production, over 820 million people are still facing food insecurity and at least 2 billion are facing nutrition insecurity. Therefore, it is imperative to focus on finding simple and sustainable solution to the present threat of global food insecurity. Besides staple food crops, harnessing nutrient-dense, climate-resilient, and locally available crops for production, marketing and consumption as “Smart Foods” for the future is needed. Buckwheat is a potential smart food because of its stress resistance and nutritional properties as well as strong antioxidant activity due to presence of flavonoids. Scope and approach: This paper comprises a comprehensive review of the scientific literature on the valorization of buckwheat crops in terms of germplasm resources, breeding and genetic improvements for yield, bioactive compounds, biological activities and its potential application in food and pharmaceutical industries. Key findings and conclusions: Identification of elite cultivars and exploitation of buckwheat derived gluten-free bakery and non-bakery food stuffs and beverages such as tea, beer and wine should be explored for human consumption. Abundance of bioactive compounds results in high anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-glycemic, anti-cancer properties and other health-promoting activities highlighting buckwheat’s potential application as nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals.
The Effect of Crop Production Systems and Cultivars on Spring Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Yield in a Long-Term Experiment
(MDPI, 2024) Feledyn-Szewczyk, Beata; Jończyk, Krzysztof; Stalenga, Jarosław
The aim of this study was to determine the impact of different crop production systems (organic, integrated, and conventional) on the yields of several spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars. A field experiment was carried out at the Agricultural Experimental Station of the Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation in Osiny (Poland) in three consecutive growing seasons (2014, 2015, and 2016). Two factors were included in the experiment: the crop production system (organic, integrated, and conventional) and spring wheat cultivars (Kandela, Izera, Ostka Smolicka, and Waluta). The crop production system significantly differentiated the yield, health, and weed infestation of the spring wheat. Wheat yield in the conventional system (6.12 t·ha−1) was higher than in the organic system (3.68 t·ha−1) by 67%, whereas, in the integrated system (7.61 t·ha−1), it was greater than in the organic system by 109%. The lower yields in the organic system were mainly due to fewer ears per m2 and a smaller 1000-grain weight. In the organic system, we also observed a higher infestation of wheat by foliar fungal pathogens and weeds compared with the conventional and integrated systems. The spring wheat cultivars differed in yield structure and resistance to infestation by fungal pathogens. The Waluta and Izera cultivars performed well in all systems but yielded the best in the integrated and conventional ones. The Kandela cultivar was the most suitable for the organic system, as it achieved the highest yield (4.16 t·ha−1). This was mainly due to its ability to form a compact canopy with relatively high ear density, a large 1000-grain weight, and the highest resistance to fungal pathogens. The results for cultivars’ performance in the organic system may be useful for farmers in decreasing yield gaps in relation to integrated and conventional systems.
A study of natural radioactivity of rock meals used for soil fertilization
(2024) Łukaszek-Chmielewska, Aneta; Piotrowska, Barbara; Isajenko, Krzysztof; Lipiński, Paweł; Podleśna, Anna; Lewicka, Sylwia; Rachwał, Marzena
Granite and basalt meals (rock meals) are regarded as micronutrient fertilizers due to their rich content of macro- and microelements essential for proper development of planta. However, they also are rich in radionuclides which may pose a radioactive hazard to environment, food and people. The aim of this study was to assess the environmental and human exposure to ionizing radiation emitted by natural radioactive isotopes containing in granite and basalt meals increasingly used for soil fertilization. Gamma ray spectrometry was applied in order to determine concertation of radioactive isotopes: 40K, 226Ra and 232Th. Afterwards, radiological hazard parameters were calculated in order to assess health and environmental risks. The obtained results indicated that the average radioactivity concentration of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K of all granite meal samples were higher than their average content in the Earth’s crust. Whereas, basalt meals contained much lower natural radioactive isotopes. Similarly, the radiological hazard indices were higher and exceeded limit values in case of granite meals, thus excluding them from use in fertilization. Basalt meals were characterized by lower values of these indices, suggesting the possibility of their safe use in agriculture as soil fertilizers.
In-field soil spectroscopy in Vis–NIR range for fast and reliable soil analysis: A review
(John Wiley & Sons, 2024) Piccini, Chiara; Metzger, Konrad; Debaene, Guillaume; Stenberg, Bo; Götzinger, Sophia; Boru˚ vka, Luboˇs; Sandén, Taru; Bragazza, Luca; Liebisch, Frank
In-field soil spectroscopy represents a promising opportunity for fast soil analysis, allowing the prediction of several soil properties from one spectral reading representing one soil sample. This facilitates data acquisition from large amounts of samples through its rapidity and the absence of required chemical processing. This is of particular interest in agriculture, where the chance to retrieve information from soils directly in the field is very appealing. This review is focused on infield visible to near infrared (Vis–NIR) spectroscopy (350–2500 nm), aimed at analysing soils directly in the field through proximal sensing. The main scope was to explore the available knowledge to identify existing gaps limiting the reliability and robustness of in-field measurement, to foster future research and help transition towards the practical application of this technology. For this purpose, a literature review was performed, and surveyed information encompassed sensor range, carrier platforms in use, sensor type, distance to the soil sample, measurement methodology, measured soil properties and soil management, among many others. From this, we derived a list of tools in use with their spectral measurement properties, including the potential cross-calibration with soil spectral libraries from laboratory spectroscopy of soil samples and potential measured target soil properties. Different instruments and sensors used to measure at varying wavelength ranges and with different spectral qualities are available for a large range of prices. The most frequently analysed soil properties included soil carbon contents (soil organic carbon, soil organic matter, total carbon), texture (clay, silt, sand), total nitrogen, pH and cation exchange capacity. Future perspectives comprise the implementation of larger databases, including different instruments and cropping systems as well as methodologies combining existing knowledge regarding laboratory spectroscopy with in-field methods. The authors highlight the need for a broadly accepted measurement protocol for in-field soil spectroscopy, fostering harmonization and standardization and consequently a more robust application in practice.
Crop rotational diversity can mitigate climate-induced grain yield losses
(John Wiley & Sons, 2024) Costa, Alessio ; Bommarco, Riccardo; Smith, Monique E.; Bowles, Timothy; Gaudin, Amélie C. M.; Christine A. Watson,; Alarcón, Remedios; Berti, Antonio; Blecharczyk, Andrzej; Calderon, Francisco J.; Culman, Steve; Deen, William; Drury, Craig F.; Garcia y Garcia, Axel; García- Díaz, Andrés; Hernández Plaza, Eva; Jończyk, Krzysztof; Jäck, Ortrud; Navarrete Martínez, Luis; Montemurro, Francesco; Morari, Francesco; Onofri, Andrea; Osborne, Shannon L.; Tenorio-Pasamón, José Luis; Sandström, Boël; Santín-Montanyá, Inés; Sawińska, Zuzanna; Schmer,Marty R.; Stalenga, Jarosław; Strock, Jeffrey; Tei, Francesco|; Topp, Cairistiona F. E.; Ventrella, Domenico V; Walker, Robin L.; Vico, Giulia
Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) supports the sustainability of crop production and food security, and benefiting soil carbon storage. Despite the critical importance of microorganisms in the carbon cycle, systematic investigations on the influence of CSA on soil microbial necromass carbon and its driving factors are still limited. We evaluated 472 observations from 73 peer- reviewed articles to show that, compared to conventional practice, CSA generally increased soil microbial necromass carbon concentrations by 18.24%. These benefits to soil microbial necromass carbon, as as-sessed by amino sugar biomarkers, are complex and influenced by a variety of soil, climatic, spatial, and biological factors. Changes in living microbial biomass are the most significant predictor of total, fungal, and bacterial necromass carbon affected by CSA; in 61.9%–67.3% of paired observations, the CSA measures simultaneously increased living microbial biomass and microbial necromass carbon. Land restora-tion and nutrient management therein largely promoted microbial necromass carbon storage, while cover crop has a minor effect. Additionally, the effects were directly influenced by elevation and mean annual temperature, and indirectly by soil texture and initial organic carbon content. In the optimal scenario, the potential global carbon accrual rate of CSA through microbial necromass is approximately 980 Mt C year−1, assuming organic amendment is included following conservation tillage and appropri-ate land restoration. In conclusion, our study suggests that increasing soil microbial necromass carbon through CSA provides a vital way of mitigating carbon loss. This emphasizes the invisible yet significant influence of soil microbial anabolic activity on global carbon dynamics.
Towards enhanced adoption of soil-improving management practices in Europe
(John Wiley & Sons, 2024) Heller, Olivier; Di Bene, Claudia; Nino, Pasquale; Huyghebaert, Bruno; Arlauskienė, Aušra; Castanheira, Nádia L.; Higgins, Suzanne; Horel, Agota; Kir, Alev; Kizeková, Miriam ; Lacoste, Marine ; Munkholm, Lars J.; O'Sullivan, Lilian; Radzikowski, Paweł; Rodríguez-Cruz, M. Sonia; Sandén, Taru; Šarūnaitė, Lina; Seidel, Felix; Spiegel, Heide ; Stalenga, Jarosław ; Uusi-Kämppä, Jaana; Vervuurt, Wieke; Keller, Thomas ; Vanwindekens, Frédéric
Sustainable agricultural soil management practices are key to restore, maintainand improve soil health. The European Joint Programme for SOIL (EJP SOIL)has identified twelve main soil challenges in Europe. To assess the potentialand eventually increase the adoption of soil-improving management practices,it is necessary to know (i) the current levels of adoption of the practices,(ii) socio-technical barriers influencing their adoption, and (iii) their bio-physical limits. This study compiled an inventory of soil-improving manage-ment practices relevant to European conditions, and used a survey among soilscientists to assess the levels of adoption of these practices in Europe. In total,53 soil management practices were identified that address one or several of thesoil challenges. The adoption of most practices was low or spatially heteroge-neous across Europe, highlighting region-specific limitations to sustainable soilmanagement. Qualitative interviews were conducted to explore the importanceof socio-technical aspects of adoption. Using conservation agriculture as anexample, factors that can hinder adoption included the availability of knowl-edge and adequate machinery, financial risks, and farming traditions. Througha modelling approach, 54% of arable land in Europe was found to be suitablefor cover cropping, indicating that the adoption of soil management practicesis frequently limited by climatic constraints. We propose a region-specificapproach that recognizes the importance of identifying and overcoming socio-technical barriers, and by acknowledging bio-physical limits that may beexpanded by innovation.
Effect of Mineral Fertilization and Seed Inoculation with Microbial Preparation on Seed and Protein Yield of Pea (Pisum sativum L.)
(MDPI, 2024) Yeremko, Liudmyla; Hanhur, Volodymyr; Staniak, Mariola
The aim of this study was to determine the effects of different NPK rates and N application methods and seed inoculation with a microbial preparation on selected elements of plant growth and the productivity parameters seed yield, protein content in seeds and the yield of protein. The research hypothesis suggested that seed inoculation and a split rate of N application with an optimal supply of plants with PK could improve the nutritional status and increase the efficiency of nutrient use in peas. The studies included two factors: the application of NPK at doses of N0P0K0 (control), N15P15K15 (presowing), N15P30K30 + N15 (pre-sowing + N15 at BBCH 22–23), N30P30K30 (pre-sowing), N30P45K45 + N15 (pre-sowing + N15 at BBCH 22–23) and N45P45K45 (pre-sowing), and seed inoculation with the microbial preparation Rhizogumin. The results of the study showed significant effects of seed inoculation and mineral fertilization on pea plant growth and the productivity parameters seed yield, protein content and protein yield. It was concluded that among the studied combinations, seed inoculation and the application of mineral fertilizers with fractional nitrogen fertilization with N30P45K45 + N15 were the most effective. This combination significantly increased seed yield, protein content and protein yield compared to the control treatment (by 26.2%, 11.1% and 43,5%, respectively).
In Vitro Digestion of Polyphenolic Compounds and the Antioxidant Activity of Acorn Flour and Pasta Enriched with Acorn Flour
(MDPI, 2024) Kasprzak-Drozd, Kamila ; Mołdoch, Jarosław; Gancarz, Marek; Wójtowicz, Agnieszka; Kowalska, Iwona; Oniszczuk, Tomasz; Oniszczuk, Anna
Acorn flour is a rich source of nutrients and is beneficial to human health due to, among other things, its low glycemic index and polyphenol content. In order to obtain more accurate data on the levels and activities of the substances tested after ingestion and digestion, it may be beneficial to use a simulated in vitro digestion method. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to elucidate the content of polyphenols, individual phenolic acids, flavonoids and antiradical properties of acorn flour and pasta enriched with acorn flour before and after simulated in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. The results indicate that the total polyphenol content (TPC), flavonoid content and radical scavenging activity exhibited an increasing trend following the initial digestion stage and a decreasing trend following the second stage. Nevertheless, the levels of phenolic acids demonstrated an increase in both digestion phases. The digestion processes of polyphenols in acorn flour differ significantly from those in pasta. In the case of pasta, total polyphenols , phenolic acids and flavonoids, as well as free radical scavenging properties, demonstrated a decreasing trend following each digestion stage.
Chalcones—Features, Identification Techniques, Attributes, and Application in Agriculture
(MDPI, 2024) Dziągwa-Becker, Magdalena; Oleszek, Marta; Zielińska, Sylwia; Oleszek, Wiesław
This review article is a comprehensive and current overview on chalcones, covering their sources, identification methods, and properties with a particular focus on their applications in the agricultural sector. The widespread use of synthetic pesticides has not only led to increased resistance among weeds and pests, resulting in economic losses, but it has also raised significant health concerns due to the overuse of these chemicals. In line with the European Green Deal 2030 and its Farm to Fork strategy, there is a targeted 50% reduction in the use of chemical pesticides by 2030, emphasizing a shift towards natural alternatives that are more environmentally sustainable and help in the restoration of natural resources. Chalcones and their derivatives, with their herbicidal, fungicidal, bactericidal, and antiviral properties, appear to be ideal candidates. These naturally occurring compounds have been recognized for their beneficial health effects for many years and have applications across multiple areas. This review not only complements the previous literature on the agricultural use of chalcones but also provides updates and introduces methods of detection such as chromatography and MALDI technique.
Effectiveness of soil management strategies for mitigation of N2O emissions in European arable land: A meta-analysis
(John Wiley & Sons Ltd, 2024) Valkama, Elena; Tzemi, Domna; Esparza-Robles, Ulises Ramon; Syp, Alina; O'Toole, Adam; Maenhout, Peter
Soil management strategies involving the application of organic matter(OM) inputs (crop residues, green and livestock manure, slurry, digestate, compost and biochar) can increase soil carbon storage but simultaneously lead to an increase in non-CO2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions such asN2O. Although multiple meta-analyses have been conducted on the topic of OM input impacts on GHG, none has focused specifically on European arablesoils. This study plugs this gap and can assist policymakers in steering European agriculture in a more sustainable direction. The objective of thismeta-analysis was to quantify how OM inputs of different nature and quality, but also the application strategy, can mitigate soil N2O emissions in differentpedoclimatic conditions in Europe. We quantitatively synthesised the resultsof over 50 field experiments conducted in 15 European countries. Diverse arablecrops, mainly cereals, were cultivated in monoculture or in crop rotationson mineral soils. Cumulative N2O emissions were monitored during periods of30–1070 days in treatments, which received OM inputs, alone or in combination with mineral N fertiliser; and in controls fertilised with mineral N. Theoverall effect of OM inputs had a slight tendency to reduce N2O emissions by10% (n = 53). With the increasing carbon-to-nitrogen ratio of the OM inputs,this mitigation effect became more pronounced. In particular, compost andbiochar significantly reduced N2O emissions by 25% (n = 6) and 33% (n = 8)respectively. However, their effect strongly depended on pedoclimatic characteristics.Regarding the other types of OM inputs studied, a slight N2O emissionreduction can be achieved by their application alone, without mineralN fertiliser (by 16%, n = 17). In contrast, their co-application with mineral N fertiliser elevated emissions to some extent compared to the control (by 14%,n = 22). We conclude that amongst the seven OM inputs studied, the applicationof compost and biochar are the most promising soil management practices, clearly demonstrating N2O emission reduction compared to mineral N fertiliser. In contrast, other OM inputs had a small tendency to mitigate N2Oemissions only when applied without mineral N fertiliser.
Changes in metabolism and content of chlorophyll in common duckweed (Lemna minor L.) caused by environmental contamination with fluorides.
(MDPI, 2024) Kamiński, Jan; Stachelska-Wierzchowska, Alicja; Michalczyk, Dariusz J.; Klimkowicz-Pawlas, Agnieszka; Olkowska, Ewa; Wolska, Lidia; Piotrowicz-Cieślak, Agnieszka I.
The impact of fluorine on plants remains poorly understood. We examined duckweed growth in extracts of soil contaminated with fluorine leached from chicken manure. Additionally, fluorine levels were analyzed in fresh manure, outdoor-stored manure, and soil samples at varying distances from the manure pile. Fresh manure contained 37–48 mg F− × kg−1, while soil extracts contained 2.1 to 4.9 mg F− × kg−1. We evaluated the physiological effects of fluorine on duckweed cultured on soil extracts or in 50% Murashige–Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with fluorine concentrations matching those in soil samples (2.1 to 4.9 mg F− × L−1), as well as at 0, 4, and 210 mg × L−1. Duckweed exposed to fluorine displayed similar toxicity symptoms whether in soil extracts or supplemented medium. Fluoride at concentrations of 2.1 to 4.9 mg F− × L−1 reduced the intact chlorophyll content, binding the porphyrin ring at position 32 without affecting Mg2+. This reaction resulted in chlorophyll a absorption peak shifted towards shorter wavelengths and formation of a new band of the F−-chlorophyll a complex at λ = 421 nm. Moreover, plants exposed to low concentrations of fluorine exhibited increased activities of aminolevulinic acid dehydratase and chlorophyllase, whereas the activities of both enzymes sharply declined when the fluoride concentration exceeded 4.9 mg × L−1. Consequently, fluorine damages chlorophyll a, disrupts the activity of chlorophyll-metabolizing enzymes, and diminishes the plant growth rate, even when the effects of these disruptions are too subtle to be discerned by the naked human eye.

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