During the 1950s and 1960s, the green revolution led to a dramatic increase in global food and fodder production to eliminate hunger and boost food security. This production enhancement was accompanied by an intensified agricultural and chemical input consumption and increased cultivated area and mechanization. Although yield per unit area has improved in most crops, concerns about food security for the world's rising population are still significant. Guaranteeing food security in the future will necessitate a shift in management approaches to boost output, agroecosystem sustainability, and stability and reduce the environmental harm caused by agriculture. The first step to achieving sustainability and ecological intensification in agricultural systems is to have a comprehensive agroecological analysis of agricultural systems in each region. Hence, the complete evaluation and analysis of agroecological features according to their type in each region is necessary for establishing an optimal management technique. After analyzing the present state of each region's shared ecosystems, the optimal strategy for boosting production stability must be devised and implemented.
Nitrogen (N) is one of the main limiting factors in agroecosystems all around the world. However, high application rates of N fertilizers would lead to negative environmental consequences. Reduction of N fertilizers consumption decreases production costs and environmental pollution. Therefore, N efficiency to be enhanced due to the high N fertilizer cost and required measures to prevent the waste of N. Cultivation of diverse crop cultivars with higher resources absorption and utilization efficiency is one of the major approaches in sustainable agriculture that would result in the effective use of natural and chemical inputs and reduce significantly the environmental risks. Quchan City is one of the potato production poles in Khorasan Razavi province. In this region, large amounts of N fertilizers annually are consumed in the potato agroecosystem. Therefore, the potato of the present study was evaluating N uptake and utilization efficiency, and finally, N uses efficiency in the potato agroecosystem of Quchan.
The development process of organic cultivation in Iran is not favorable because the average growth rate of organic agriculture development from 2008 to 2019 according to FAO statistics in 2021 is equal to -0.47% and this is while foods contaminated with various substances Chemicals have an unpleasant effect on the general health of society. According to the statistics of 2021, 600 million people in the world, i.e. 1 out of every 10 people, will get sick after eating food. Since any change in the use of chemicals in agriculture should be based on the behavior of farmers, the purpose of this study is to investigate the behavioral intention to produce organic pistachio production among 5200 pistachio growers in Ardakan county, Yazd province, using the Decomposed Theory of Planned Behavior (DTPB) analysis.
In recent decades, the need for increased food production has resulted in the expansion of intensified agriculture practices characterized by high consumption of inputs, thereby reducing agricultural sustainability. The agricultural sector's contribution to the world's energy consumption, ecological footprint, and greenhouse gas emissions has grown substantially. Emissions of greenhouse gases have negative ecological effects, including climate change, global warming, and diminished sustainable development. In this sector, energy analysis and greenhouse gas emissions in ecosystems are the most common methods for assessing sustainability. This study was conducted to evaluate the sustainability of canola agroecosystems by analyzing energy consumption, carbon footprint, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important cereals after wheat and rice in the tropical and temperate regions of the world. Also, its mean production is 8 ton ha-1. Moreover, the total area of under cultivation is 132572 hectares in Iran. Crop simulation models can play an important role in improving agricultural production systems in many developing countries. Crop models can simulate plant growth processes and grain yield instead of conducting several years of field experiments. On the other hands, crop simulation models should be calibrated and evaluated with independent data sets under different climatic conditions. Therefore, the purpose of this research was evaluation of the APSIM model for simulation of growth, development and yield of maize hybrids in Kerman province under different amounts of nitrogen.
In the pursuit of a resilient and progressive agricultural system, the incorporation of diverse fertilizers is deemed essential. This practice not only enhances product quality but also aids in cost reduction. However, over-reliance on a specific type of input can inadvertently lead to unintended repercussions. The unrestricted utilization of chemical fertilizers, for instance, can precipitate adverse outcomes such as imbalanced pH levels, the accumulation of heavy elements, soil structure deterioration, and environmental contamination. Conversely, organic fertilizers, while environmentally friendly, often release nutrients at a slower rate, potentially disrupting optimal plant growth. To attain a balanced and sustainable agricultural approach, the combined application of organic and chemical fertilizers is advocated. Moreover, harnessing the biological potential inherent in soil ecosystems, including beneficial microbial communities encompassing bacteria and fungi, emerges as a promising avenue in cultivating sustainable agriculture. Acknowledging the adverse impact of late-season heat stress on wheat production in Khuzestan and recognizing the significance of reducing chemical fertilizer usage while augmenting organic and biological fertilizers to foster ecological health, this experiment undertakes the exploration of the effects of a synergistic approach. Specifically, it delves into the combined utilization of nitrogen and compost fertilizers, complemented by the incorporation of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria. This endeavor aims to shed light on how this combined strategy operates within the context of terminal heat stress, assessing its influence on the physiological attributes and yield of the wheat cultivar Chamran 2.
There is an urgent need to increase per capita food production to compete with high population growth while maintaining environmental sustainability. Because nitrogen plays a vital role in food production for humans and livestock, nitrogen management is essential in food production. In most cropping systems, nitrogen management seems to be a major challenge due to its high mobility and natural tendency for losses from the soil-plant system to the environment. Soil organic carbon plays a key role in improving soil ecological conditions. Adding organic matter to the soil is an excellent tool for improving physical, chemical and biological conditions and is almost always desirable. Soil organic carbon stock of crop ecosystems may be increased by improving farming practices. The application of green manure, fertilizer and the return of crop straw into the soil are known as management operations to increase soil organic carbon. Fertilizers, especially nitrogen, increase crop yield, and organic carbon is returned to the soil through roots and debris, which in most cases leads to increased soil organic carbon.
The most important problem that threatens food security of any country and the world is the lack of adequate water resources, so one of the ways to deal with this crisis is to use plants with low water requirements and high water use efficiency. Among the plants, we can name Quinoa, which is one of the plants that has been less studied and exploited in Iran. Since the planting date has the greatest impact on the physiological characteristics of the crop compared to other cropping treatments, so choosing the appropriate planting date can also create the greatest correlation between plant growth trends and climatic conditions. Undoubtedly, the use of biological fertilizers, in addition to the positive effects it has on all soil properties, is also economically, environmentally and socially fruitful and can be a suitable and desirable alternative to chemical fertilizers. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the response to deficit irrigation, planting date and application of different biofertilizers in quinoa.
The excessive use of chemical fertilizers is a leading cause of environmental pollution in the agriculture sector. Therefore, optimizing fertilizer application is a crucial approach to boost production while minimizing environmental harm. On the other hand, application of chemical fertilizers along with manure can be considered as the proper management system that led to reduce the amount of chemical fertilizers and adverse effects on environment and also improve nutrition for plants. Response-surface methodology is a powerful tool to optimize production resources which decreases cost and time of the experiments by reducing number of them. Therefore, the aim of the study was optimization of chemical fertilizers of nitrogen and phosphorus along with manure application in fodder maize production.
Nitrogen (N) is one of the main limiting factors in agroecosystems all around the world. However, high application rates of N fertilizers would lead to negative environmental consequences. Reduction of N fertilizers consumption decreases production costs and environmental pollution. Therefore, N efficiency to be enhanced due to the high N fertilizer cost and required measures to prevent the waste of N. Cultivation of diverse crop cultivars with higher resources absorption and utilization efficiency is one of the major approaches in sustainable agriculture that would result in the effective use of natural and chemical inputs and reduce significantly the environmental risks. Quchan City is one of the potato production poles in Khorasan Razavi province. In this region, large amounts of N fertilizers annually are consumed in the potato agroecosystem. Therefore, the potato of the present study was evaluating N uptake and utilization efficiency, and finally, N uses efficiency in the potato agroecosystem of Quchan.
The development process of organic cultivation in Iran is not favorable because the average growth rate of organic agriculture development from 2008 to 2019 according to FAO statistics in 2021 is equal to -0.47% and this is while foods contaminated with various substances Chemicals have an unpleasant effect on the general health of society. According to the statistics of 2021, 600 million people in the world, i.e. 1 out of every 10 people, will get sick after eating food. Since any change in the use of chemicals in agriculture should be based on the behavior of farmers, the purpose of this study is to investigate the behavioral intention to produce organic pistachio production among 5200 pistachio growers in Ardakan county, Yazd province, using the Decomposed Theory of Planned Behavior (DTPB) analysis.
In recent decades, the need for increased food production has resulted in the expansion of intensified agriculture practices characterized by high consumption of inputs, thereby reducing agricultural sustainability. The agricultural sector's contribution to the world's energy consumption, ecological footprint, and greenhouse gas emissions has grown substantially. Emissions of greenhouse gases have negative ecological effects, including climate change, global warming, and diminished sustainable development. In this sector, energy analysis and greenhouse gas emissions in ecosystems are the most common methods for assessing sustainability. This study was conducted to evaluate the sustainability of canola agroecosystems by analyzing energy consumption, carbon footprint, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important cereals after wheat and rice in the tropical and temperate regions of the world. Also, its mean production is 8 ton ha-1. Moreover, the total area of under cultivation is 132572 hectares in Iran. Crop simulation models can play an important role in improving agricultural production systems in many developing countries. Crop models can simulate plant growth processes and grain yield instead of conducting several years of field experiments. On the other hands, crop simulation models should be calibrated and evaluated with independent data sets under different climatic conditions. Therefore, the purpose of this research was evaluation of the APSIM model for simulation of growth, development and yield of maize hybrids in Kerman province under different amounts of nitrogen.
In the pursuit of a resilient and progressive agricultural system, the incorporation of diverse fertilizers is deemed essential. This practice not only enhances product quality but also aids in cost reduction. However, over-reliance on a specific type of input can inadvertently lead to unintended repercussions. The unrestricted utilization of chemical fertilizers, for instance, can precipitate adverse outcomes such as imbalanced pH levels, the accumulation of heavy elements, soil structure deterioration, and environmental contamination. Conversely, organic fertilizers, while environmentally friendly, often release nutrients at a slower rate, potentially disrupting optimal plant growth. To attain a balanced and sustainable agricultural approach, the combined application of organic and chemical fertilizers is advocated. Moreover, harnessing the biological potential inherent in soil ecosystems, including beneficial microbial communities encompassing bacteria and fungi, emerges as a promising avenue in cultivating sustainable agriculture. Acknowledging the adverse impact of late-season heat stress on wheat production in Khuzestan and recognizing the significance of reducing chemical fertilizer usage while augmenting organic and biological fertilizers to foster ecological health, this experiment undertakes the exploration of the effects of a synergistic approach. Specifically, it delves into the combined utilization of nitrogen and compost fertilizers, complemented by the incorporation of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria. This endeavor aims to shed light on how this combined strategy operates within the context of terminal heat stress, assessing its influence on the physiological attributes and yield of the wheat cultivar Chamran 2.
There is an urgent need to increase per capita food production to compete with high population growth while maintaining environmental sustainability. Because nitrogen plays a vital role in food production for humans and livestock, nitrogen management is essential in food production. In most cropping systems, nitrogen management seems to be a major challenge due to its high mobility and natural tendency for losses from the soil-plant system to the environment. Soil organic carbon plays a key role in improving soil ecological conditions. Adding organic matter to the soil is an excellent tool for improving physical, chemical and biological conditions and is almost always desirable. Soil organic carbon stock of crop ecosystems may be increased by improving farming practices. The application of green manure, fertilizer and the return of crop straw into the soil are known as management operations to increase soil organic carbon. Fertilizers, especially nitrogen, increase crop yield, and organic carbon is returned to the soil through roots and debris, which in most cases leads to increased soil organic carbon.
The most important problem that threatens food security of any country and the world is the lack of adequate water resources, so one of the ways to deal with this crisis is to use plants with low water requirements and high water use efficiency. Among the plants, we can name Quinoa, which is one of the plants that has been less studied and exploited in Iran. Since the planting date has the greatest impact on the physiological characteristics of the crop compared to other cropping treatments, so choosing the appropriate planting date can also create the greatest correlation between plant growth trends and climatic conditions. Undoubtedly, the use of biological fertilizers, in addition to the positive effects it has on all soil properties, is also economically, environmentally and socially fruitful and can be a suitable and desirable alternative to chemical fertilizers. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the response to deficit irrigation, planting date and application of different biofertilizers in quinoa.
The excessive use of chemical fertilizers is a leading cause of environmental pollution in the agriculture sector. Therefore, optimizing fertilizer application is a crucial approach to boost production while minimizing environmental harm. On the other hand, application of chemical fertilizers along with manure can be considered as the proper management system that led to reduce the amount of chemical fertilizers and adverse effects on environment and also improve nutrition for plants. Response-surface methodology is a powerful tool to optimize production resources which decreases cost and time of the experiments by reducing number of them. Therefore, the aim of the study was optimization of chemical fertilizers of nitrogen and phosphorus along with manure application in fodder maize production.
Water is now the main limiting factor for crop production in arid and semi-arid regions. Water-cut or irrigation interruption has been suggested as one of the main strategies agro-technique to get the most benefit from limited water resource available. In this regard, plant growth stage, time of stress induction and the genotype are the main key factors to determine the degree of success. Canola is one of the most important oil crop. It can survive some degree of water stress while there is a need for research to find the most appropriate genotypes for plantations in water-limited areas.
Applying innovative nanotechnology in agriculture is considered as one of the promising approaches to obtain significant increases of crop yield. Nanoparticles (NPs) are considered potential agents for agriculture as fertilizers and growth enhancers and using of nano-fertilizers has led to an increasing in the efficiency of nutrients, the correct management of fertilizer consumption, and a reduction of the frequency of fertilizer application. Stimulants are compounds that initiate signals for cells to increase or decrease the production of secondary metabolites and plant defense response. Stimulants such as Putrescine play a role in regulating various plant physiological processes. In this regard, considering the importance of using new technologies, including nanotechnology, in sustainable agriculture to increase the quantitative and qualitative performance of agricultural products, especially oil-medicinal plants, and the lack of sufficient information about the use of iron nanoparticles and polyamine putricine in Camelina plant nutrition, The effect of foliar spraying of these stimulants on functional, morphological and physiological traits of Camelina plant (Soheil veriety) was evaluated.
Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important crops in the world as well as in Iran. It has experienced many improvements in terms of yield and quality traits during recent decades. Wheat, like energy, is known as a strategic commodity and is one of the important indicators of agriculture. This plant has the highest area under cultivation and production among other cereals in the world. Planting date is an important factor in crop production because meteorological parameters vary with changes in planting date. Delay in planting is one of the problems that is common in almost all wheat growing areas of Iran and is one of the main causes of reduced yields of wheat cultivars. Yield reduction rate varies depending on the delay in planting and cultivars, and the results of some experiments indicate that this amount sometimes reaches more than 35% of potential grain yield. Phenology and growth rate due to their effect on duration and the occurrence of different stages of development and the environmental conditions prevailing in each of these stages, are the key point of adaptation to various environmental conditions such as delayed planting date. This experiment was designed to identify the changes in yield and yield components and phenological stages of new bread wheat cultivars with different growth habits and to investigate the possibility of introducing cultivars compatible with delayed planting date in the region.
Agriculture is a cornerstone of many developing economies, providing food, income, and employment for millions of people. It is also projected to play a vital role in feeding a global population of 9.1 billion people by 2050. However, there are growing concerns about the environmental impact of agriculture, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions like Iran. Managing water and fertilizer usage in agriculture is crucial to ensuring food security and sustainability. However, conducting field experiments to assess the interaction of all factors involved is expensive and time-consuming. This research focuses on optimizing maize production in Kerman province, a region where maize is a major crop. The research is motivated by the need to improve resource management in Iran, where water and fertilizer resources are limited. The APSIM model is used to determine the best management scenario for maize production in Kerman province. APSIM is a crop growth simulation model that can be used to predict the impact of different management practices on crop yield, water use efficiency, and nutrient use efficiency. The use of APSIM in this research provides a cost-effective and time-efficient alternative to conducting extensive field experiments. The results of this research will contribute to the development of sustainable and efficient agricultural practices in Kerman province and similar regions. These regions are characterized by resource constraints, such as limited water and fertilizer availability. The research aimed to simulate the effect of management parameters (planting date and irrigation) on Crop yield and subsequently achieve the optimal management scenario.
One of the main challenges of modern agriculture in ensuring food security is development of strategies to deal with potential negative impacts and adapt to climate change. To address this challenge, it is crucial to investigate the effects of climatic factors on agricultural production at a spatiotemporal dimension, develop and utilize crop management decision-support tools, and support targeted agronomic research and policy. These endeavors necessitate the availability of accurate and standardized meteorological data.
Studying growth degree days and wheat phenology can significantly enhance our understanding of how wheat growth responds to climate change and aid farmers in adapting to and effectively mitigating its influence.
Salinity stands as a significant environmental stressor that profoundly curtails the growth and yield of crop plants. This adversity also extends to the impairment of pigments and plastids, leading to diminished chlorophyll indices, rates, and grain-filling durations. To counteract the deleterious impact of such stressors on plant growth, a spectrum of strategies has been devised. Prominent among these strategies are plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, exemplified by azospirillum, and the utilization of nanoparticles like zinc and silicon. These factors play a pivotal role in elevating yield outcomes. Zinc's pivotal involvement spans protein metabolism, photosynthetic activities, and diverse physiological traits within plants. Particularly noteworthy is its contribution to rectifying zinc deficiency, a particularly critical concern in plants cultivated in high-pH soils. Notably, recent research has illuminated the potential of applying minute quantities of micronutrients, notably zinc via foliar spraying, in bolstering plant resilience against salt stress. Likewise, silicon emerges as a supplemental micronutrient that imparts heightened resistance to environmental stresses, fostering increased resilience within biological systems. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of application of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria and nanoparticles (zinc and silicon) on the yield, photosynthetic pigments, and filling components of triticale grain under salt stress.
Global warming directly affects agricultural production and food security (Ainsworth & Ort, 2010). Temperature controls the rate of plant metabolic processes that ultimately affect biomass production and grain yield (Hay & Walker, 1981). Although farmers are not able to control the climatic conditions, management and changes in factors such as irrigation, soil, crop varieties, activities, and technologies used in the cultivation of crops can reduce the harmful effects of climate change (Moradi et al., 2014). One of the reliable approaches to studying the effects of climate change on agricultural production is using crop growth models. The present study was conducted to simulate the effects of climate change on phonological stages and yield of maize and to investigate the possibility of mitigating the negative effects of climate change on maize by changing the sowing date and selecting suitable cultivars as management strategies for adaptation to climate change in Kermanshah region.
South of Iran has been located in the dry belt and desert strip thus water stress has always been one of the serious problems in its agriculture (Buzarjomehri et al., 2020). Intercropping is the cultivation of two or more plant species in a specific land and growing season, which is important in agricultural systems with limited resources and low input (Brooker et al., 2015). Due to the differences in the rooting depth, lateral expansion, and root density of cereals and legumes, they have been the best candidates for intercropping traditionally for limited soil water and nutrient availability environments (Babalola, 1980; Haynes, 1980). Application of bio-fertilizers (PGPR bacteria) that have nitrogen (N) fixation and phosphorus (P) solubilizing activity (Azospirillum brasilense and Pseudomonas fluorescence, respectively) is a promising approach for obtaining N, P, and water-restricted areas (Tien et al, 1979; Barea, 2015). Organic manures enhance soil water holding capacity and serve as excellent slow-release sources of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in the soil (Risse et al., 2006). This study aimed to investigate the effect of different fertilizer systems (chemical, integrated, and bio-organic) on triticale grain yield and its components in sole and intercropped triticale in triticale/chickpea system under late season water stress in a hot and dry area of southern Iran (Fars province - Darab).
Intensive agriculture, despite high production, has adverse environmental effects, mainly due to the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers. Therefore, we need alternative agricultural systems that are more economically and environmentally sustainable to produce crops. One of the sustainable methods in the production of agricultural products is intercropping. Intercropping of two or more species in a plot of land can increase biodiversity and resource utilization as agricultural perspective, which in turn can lead to increased yield stability. Intercropping uses resources more efficiently than monoculture, preventing the growth and spread of weeds by shading and suffocating weeds, and in some cases with allelopathic. Intercropping of cereals and legumes is recommended for the development of sustainable food production systems, especially in planting systems based on reduced consumption of foreign inputs. The importance of these systems depends on the nitrogen stabilized by the legumes. The aim of this experiment was to study the effects of row intercropping of barley and vetch and different levels of ammonium nitrate fertilizer on weed biomass, yield components and yield of two species in Karaj climatic condition.
The increasing demand for medicinal plants in traditional medicine as well as the pharmaceutical industry has created the need for some plants to be grown commercially, but the lack of soil moisture poses a serious threat to their production. Planting method can affect the emergence and growth rate of crop and lead to decrease water consumption and increase irrigation water efficiency as yield increases. Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) is one of the drought tolerant plants. Saving water consumption by cultivating drought tolerant plants has been proposed as a strategy to combat drought. It should be noted, however, that irrigation without proper planning can reduce the growth and production of crops. In this regard, determining time of deficit irrigation with minimum damage is an appropriate solution that achieves optimum yield while saving water consumption. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different irrigation regimes and planting method on some physiological traits, yield and water use efficiency of Roselle plant.
The relationship between economic development and the environment is known as one of the most important issues facing societies. If in the context of sustainable development, economic and environmental activities are considered together, the environment and economic development are two complementary factors and, as a result, it will lead to ecological balance. In this case, economic activities will not disturb this balance. Presently, the imperative of safeguarding the environment and attaining sustainable development has ascended to a prominent position on the agendas of diverse societies, Iran included. This commitment is underscored by the execution of comprehensive economic, social, and cultural initiatives aimed at fostering long-term ecological resilience and balanced societal progress. Therefore, to preserve the environment and meet the goals of sustainable development, as well as to guide and rationally manage plans and projects, especially in the agricultural sector, serious measures should be taken. Therefore, this study was carried out to evaluate the operational, environmental, and eco-efficiency of the major agricultural products of the irrigation and drainage networks of Gotvand.
The irrigation and drainage network of Gotvand is located in the southwest of Iran in Khuzestan province. This network is designed to irrigate lands located in three regions of Gotvand, Aghili, and Dimcheh, enclosed between two rivers, Karun and Lor. According to the official statistics of government organizations, the consumption of fertilizers and chemical poisons in the lands covered by this network is 3.6 times the average limit in Iran. The excess irrigation water in this network is returned to the rivers by the built-in drains and causes water pollution downstream of the network. Therefore, considering that environmental protection is one of the most important aspects of sustainable development, it is very important to investigate the effects of the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers in agriculture and to introduce solutions to improve the efficiency of the environment in the study area.
Long-term use of chemical fertilizers can cause many adverse effects. In addition, excessive consumption of chemical fertilizers can lead to decreased food safety and low quality of vegetables, such as the accumulation of nitrates in plants. Today, using organic fertilizers is an efficient way to achieve sustainable agricultural development. The release rate of nutrients from organic fertilizers is slow and hardly exceeds the absorption capacity of plants compared to chemical fertilizers.
For optimal production and maintaining its stability, environmental and weather conditions must be determined from the perspective of capabilities and limitations. For this purpose, it requires reliable regional data such as planting date, ripening time, plant density, soil, and meteorological information, which are generally not available for most regions. Obtaining this information is very time-consuming and expensive in many areas and is often simply not possible. Therefore, zoning can facilitate access to this information on a large scale. In other words, if the regions that are similar in terms of climate, soil, and management conditions are identified, the time and cost needed to collect information on a wide scale will be minimal.
Introduction
Nowadays, the cultivation of plants adapted to adverse conditions, such as drought and salinity, in the country has been considered. Meanwhile, Kochia scoparia, one of the forgotten plants, due to its classification in the group of halophytes, has specific characteristics suitable for cultivation in low-water and saline areas (Salehi, Kafi, & Kiani, 2012). This plant is known as an important annual forage crop, and its grains also have high nutritional value and oil, which can be considered for future industrial applications (Salehi et al., 2012). Studies on the salinity tolerance of the Kochia plant have shown that it is suitable for cultivation in saline areas, and in terms of quantity and quality, can compete with conventional forage plants. The use of natural organic materials, such as humic acid, has received more attention. These materials, as part of soil organic matter, are influenced by physical, chemical, and microbiological changes in biological molecules (Sabzevari & Khazaei, 2009; Dong, Córdova-Kreylos, Yang, Yuan, & Scow, 2009). Additionally, nitrogen is the most important element needed for plant growth and development. It is also a key component in many biological compounds, including proteins, nucleic acids, some hormones, and chlorophyll. Nitrogen plays an essential role in photosynthetic processes and the final function of plants (Kaur, Gupta, & Kaur, 2002; Taiz, Zeiger, Møller, & Murphy, 2015). As a result of this research, a combination of nitrogen and humic acid can be used as nutritional resources in salt stress conditions.
Materials and Methods
This experiment was conducted in the form of split plots based on the randomized complete block design with three replications in the Saline Research Farm of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad in the 2015 growth season. The main plot included drought stress with a four-week interruption of irrigation at three levels of control (irrigation until the end of the growing season), after establishment (50 days after planting), the beginning of flowering (71 days after planting) and late flowering (82 days after planting) The subplot was included nitrogen application at three levels of zero, 100 and 200 kg.ha-1 from urea fertilizer source. The optimum level of humic acid (2 per thousand) was done as seed at the time of planting for all treatments.
Results and Discussion
The results showed that the drought stress during vegetative and reproductive growth stages had a negative effect on the Kochia plant. However, its effect in the early stages of vegetative growth (after establishment) was greater than the stress at the end of the season (late flowering). Drought stress has a negative effect on Kochia grain yield by reducing the concentration of chlorophyll a, altering the chlorophyll a to b ratio, decreasing carotenoid concentration, and affecting relative leaf water content. However, seed treatments of humic acid and its combination with 100 kg.ha-1 nitrogen level by increasing th
Drought stress and consequent lack of available water for plants is one of the main causes of accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in various organs of plants, which is effective in reducing the yield of cereals such as wheat. The antioxidant system, which contains various enzymes and genes, is responsible for removing and detoxifying plants from ROS. Unfortunately, genes responding to drought stress and their enzymatic activities associated with spike and flag leaf of wheat have received less attention. Therefore, in the present study, photosynthetic parameters, key enzymes of the antioxidant system, and expression analysis of some genes involved in this system under field capacity (FC) and drought stress (DS) conditions in spike and flag leaves of wheat were investigated.
Since the development of crop cultivation and their yield depend on irrigation and since drought is one of the features of our country, one of the solutions to deal with these problems is the implementation of applied research in the field of stress-resistant plants cultivation such as quinoa. Also, considering the important role of potassium and zinc elements in the plant, providing a sufficient amount of these elements under drought stress can be effective in increasing the plant's resistance to this type of stress. Considering the genetic differences of plants and their different reactions in the face of environmental stress such as drought stress, and different fertilization of genotypes, it seems necessary to carry out this research to investigate the application of potassium and zinc chelates on the morpho-physiological and yield indicators of three quinoa genotypes under drought stress conditions in Razavi Khorasan climate.
Grasspea (Lathyrus sativus L.) is one of the most important forage crops in the world. It contains 12 to 20% protein. Silicon (Si) existing in the Earth’s crust is classified as the most abundant element after oxygen. Although silicon is not considered an essential element for plant growth, but a number of studies have reported that it as an important factor in plants that plays an important role in the resistance mechanisms of plants against environmental stress. Also, it plays a crucial physiological role in photosynthetic rate and chlorophyll content. One of the most effective factors in increasing the Grasspea biomass is seed inoculation with plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). Some of the benefits provided by PGPR are the ability to produce gibberellic acid, cytokinins and ethylene, N2 fixation, solubilization of mineral phosphates and other nutrients. Numerous studies have shown a substantial increase in dry matter accumulation via inoculation with PGPR. Some researchers reported that seed inoculation with PGPR enhanced relative water content and photochemical efficiency of PSII lathyrus under water limitations. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of nano silicon and seed inoculation with plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria on biomass, nodulation and some physiological traits of Grasspea.
Assessment of Sieve Slope, Sieve Range and Fan Suction on Cleaning Efficiency...J. Agricultural Machinery
Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an annual plant of the legume genus that is cultivated in 109 countries due to its high-quality oil and seed protein. In Iran, this crop is cultivated on an area of 3000 hectares, with an average yield of 4 tons per hectare. Threshing performance significantly affects seed loss and physical damage, including cracking and crushing of seeds during harvest. Therefore, over the last century, extensive research has been conducted on different types of threshing methods, as well as the design and development of various threshing machines.
Research on seed crops such as cereals and seeds suggest that factors such as the rotational speed of the thresher, threshing-concave distance, feeding rate, and shape of threshing teeth play a crucial role in determining the threshing efficiency and quality of the threshed seeds. Although limited research has been conducted on peanut threshing, there are currently no combine-machines available for this crop on global markets. Therefore, this study aims to investigate several working parameters of an experimental peanut thresher, including the effect of sieve angle, sieve range of movement, and suction speed on the separation unit.
A Multi-Objective Optimization to Determine The Optimal Patterns of Sustainab...J. Agricultural Machinery
Introduction
The development of mechanization and machine technology can have positive and negative effects on the economic, social, and environmental conditions of a region. Conflicts in these areas complicate the selection and optimization of sustainable mechanization systems. One of the basic questions in the selection of a sustainable agricultural mechanization system is how and with what methodology would it be possible to propose the closest mechanization model that will overcome the simultaneous contradictions between the three pillars of sustainability; taking into account the natural and technical limitations in agricultural production. What is the appropriate approach considering the economic, environmental, and social aspects? The current research aims to provide a framework for an optimal mechanization model to achieve the goals of agricultural sustainability so that it can be implemented and applied practically. It is possible to provide a model that addresses the conflicting economic, social, and environmental aspects by quantitatively optimizing the level of mechanization.
Materials and Methods
In this study, a framework is applied whereby contradictory goals of agricultural sustainability can be achieved simultaneously. After selecting the indices and data collection, by combining Shannon entropy and TOPSIS, the similarity index was obtained for each objective. The similarity indices and values of the Benefit-Cost Ratio calculated for each system were considered as coefficients of three objective (economic, social, and environmental) functions in multi-objective optimization. The multi-objective optimization model was applied to achieve sustainable mechanization patterns and was solved using the NSGA-II algorithm. For framework validation, paddy production mechanization systems in the Ramhormoz region located in southwestern Iran were analyzed with constraints: land, water, and machinery. The five mechanization systems of paddy production included puddled transplanted, un-puddled transplanted, water seeded, dry seeded, and, no-till.
Results and Discussion
Pareto-optimal solutions of different scenarios with water and machine constraints showed that this framework cannot only meet the sustainable goals, but also the optimal allocation of mechanization systems is identified and the effect of different scenarios under different constraints can be examined. The sustainability goals between the no-tillage and planting with puddling systems are highly contradictory. The no-tillage system has the highest score in the environmental aspect and the lowest score in the social and economic aspects. This modern system was developed in Ramhormoz three years ago and has faced technical, economic, and social challenges ever since. The cultivated area using this system was 43 hectares in 2019. Despite the speed and ease of planting with this system, and its direct environmental benefits, the possibility of fungal outbreaks is raised due to the pre
Seed pretreatment is one of the simple techniques that can increase seed vigor and seedling establishment, and thus plant yield. Seed pretreatment can be done with water (hydropriming), inorganic salts such as potassium nitrate (halopriming), and growth regulators such as salicylic acid (hormone priming) and ascorbic acid (vitamin priming). Another effective factor in producing strong seeds is proper nutrition of the mother plants. Proper nutrition of the maternal plant in the form of foliar sprays with essential elements leads to the production of high-quality seeds, which affects germination and yield. Considering the positive role of seed pretreatment in improving germination rate and seedling establishment, and increasing seed yield of various plants as a result of foliar application of growth regulators and inorganic salts, this experiment was conducted to study the effect of seed pretreatment and foliar spraying with salicylic acid, ascorbic acid and potassium nitrate on improving physiological and biochemical characteristics, yield and yield components of borage.
Introduction
Prolonged droughts and lack of water resources, followed by the salinity of water and soil resources, have faced many limitations in the production of some conventional agricultural and garden plants, especially in arid and semi-arid regions of the country. Therefore, the introduction of new plants with high yield potential, which have suitable growth in saline soils, the threshold of their seed yield reduction is high, and the production product is of high quality has been considered in Iran. Quinoa with the scientific name Chenopodium quinoa Willd. It is an annual plant originating from Latin America, which, despite its high nutritional value, tolerates a wide range of abiotic stresses and can grow in marginal lands. For this reason, this experiment was conducted to investigate the performance of quinoa plant genotypes against different levels of salinity in the research field of the Gorgan Agricultural Meteorological Research Department.
Materials and Methods
Cultivation of seeds of nine genotypes Titicaca (control number), Giza1, RedCarina, Q18, Q21, Q22, Q26, Q29, and Q31 obtained from Karaj Seedling and Seed Breeding Research Institute in a factorial experiment based on a complete random block design. Plastic pots were made with a bed of sand and clay in a ratio of two to one on March 5, 2019. The application of NaCl salt solution treatments at the levels of zero, 10, 20, and 30 decisiemens/m started after the establishment of the plant and reached the six-leaf stage and lasted for 45 days. After salinity treatment, morphological traits including plant height, stem diameter, number of sub-branches, inflorescence length, inflorescence width, biomass, 1000 seed weight, and seed weight per plant were measured.
Introduction
Sunflower, one of the primary oilseed crops worldwide, is cultivated extensively due to its suitability for agricultural needs, high oil yield, and nutritional and medicinal value. However, drought remains the most critical limiting factor affecting sunflower productivity. In arid and semi-arid regions, the intensity of drought stress is predicted to increase in the future. Unfortunately, severe drought stress leads to significant reductions in both seed and oil production. While sunflower is moderately drought-tolerant, understanding the physiological and agronomic aspects of drought stress is crucial for sustainable management. Given that water, scarcity poses a significant threat to crop productivity and environmental resources are diminishing, effective irrigation management under water scarcity is becoming increasingly important.
Materials and Methods
In order to study the effects of deficit irrigation on grain yield and physiological traits of six sunflower cultivars, a field experiment was carried out in a split-plot arrangement based on randomized complete block design with three replications in 2019-2020 growing season. The experimental site was located in the research farm of the Safiabad Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center. Main plots consisted of three irrigation regimes including; control, moderate, and severe deficit irrigation (50, 70, and 90% of available moisture, respectively), and sub plots consisted of six sunflower cultivars including; Oscar, Felix, Shakira, Savana, Labad and Monaliza.
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Similar to Agroecological Analysis of Sugar Beet Ecosystem (Beta vulgaris L.) in Torbat-e Heydarieh
Water is now the main limiting factor for crop production in arid and semi-arid regions. Water-cut or irrigation interruption has been suggested as one of the main strategies agro-technique to get the most benefit from limited water resource available. In this regard, plant growth stage, time of stress induction and the genotype are the main key factors to determine the degree of success. Canola is one of the most important oil crop. It can survive some degree of water stress while there is a need for research to find the most appropriate genotypes for plantations in water-limited areas.
Applying innovative nanotechnology in agriculture is considered as one of the promising approaches to obtain significant increases of crop yield. Nanoparticles (NPs) are considered potential agents for agriculture as fertilizers and growth enhancers and using of nano-fertilizers has led to an increasing in the efficiency of nutrients, the correct management of fertilizer consumption, and a reduction of the frequency of fertilizer application. Stimulants are compounds that initiate signals for cells to increase or decrease the production of secondary metabolites and plant defense response. Stimulants such as Putrescine play a role in regulating various plant physiological processes. In this regard, considering the importance of using new technologies, including nanotechnology, in sustainable agriculture to increase the quantitative and qualitative performance of agricultural products, especially oil-medicinal plants, and the lack of sufficient information about the use of iron nanoparticles and polyamine putricine in Camelina plant nutrition, The effect of foliar spraying of these stimulants on functional, morphological and physiological traits of Camelina plant (Soheil veriety) was evaluated.
Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important crops in the world as well as in Iran. It has experienced many improvements in terms of yield and quality traits during recent decades. Wheat, like energy, is known as a strategic commodity and is one of the important indicators of agriculture. This plant has the highest area under cultivation and production among other cereals in the world. Planting date is an important factor in crop production because meteorological parameters vary with changes in planting date. Delay in planting is one of the problems that is common in almost all wheat growing areas of Iran and is one of the main causes of reduced yields of wheat cultivars. Yield reduction rate varies depending on the delay in planting and cultivars, and the results of some experiments indicate that this amount sometimes reaches more than 35% of potential grain yield. Phenology and growth rate due to their effect on duration and the occurrence of different stages of development and the environmental conditions prevailing in each of these stages, are the key point of adaptation to various environmental conditions such as delayed planting date. This experiment was designed to identify the changes in yield and yield components and phenological stages of new bread wheat cultivars with different growth habits and to investigate the possibility of introducing cultivars compatible with delayed planting date in the region.
Agriculture is a cornerstone of many developing economies, providing food, income, and employment for millions of people. It is also projected to play a vital role in feeding a global population of 9.1 billion people by 2050. However, there are growing concerns about the environmental impact of agriculture, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions like Iran. Managing water and fertilizer usage in agriculture is crucial to ensuring food security and sustainability. However, conducting field experiments to assess the interaction of all factors involved is expensive and time-consuming. This research focuses on optimizing maize production in Kerman province, a region where maize is a major crop. The research is motivated by the need to improve resource management in Iran, where water and fertilizer resources are limited. The APSIM model is used to determine the best management scenario for maize production in Kerman province. APSIM is a crop growth simulation model that can be used to predict the impact of different management practices on crop yield, water use efficiency, and nutrient use efficiency. The use of APSIM in this research provides a cost-effective and time-efficient alternative to conducting extensive field experiments. The results of this research will contribute to the development of sustainable and efficient agricultural practices in Kerman province and similar regions. These regions are characterized by resource constraints, such as limited water and fertilizer availability. The research aimed to simulate the effect of management parameters (planting date and irrigation) on Crop yield and subsequently achieve the optimal management scenario.
One of the main challenges of modern agriculture in ensuring food security is development of strategies to deal with potential negative impacts and adapt to climate change. To address this challenge, it is crucial to investigate the effects of climatic factors on agricultural production at a spatiotemporal dimension, develop and utilize crop management decision-support tools, and support targeted agronomic research and policy. These endeavors necessitate the availability of accurate and standardized meteorological data.
Studying growth degree days and wheat phenology can significantly enhance our understanding of how wheat growth responds to climate change and aid farmers in adapting to and effectively mitigating its influence.
Salinity stands as a significant environmental stressor that profoundly curtails the growth and yield of crop plants. This adversity also extends to the impairment of pigments and plastids, leading to diminished chlorophyll indices, rates, and grain-filling durations. To counteract the deleterious impact of such stressors on plant growth, a spectrum of strategies has been devised. Prominent among these strategies are plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, exemplified by azospirillum, and the utilization of nanoparticles like zinc and silicon. These factors play a pivotal role in elevating yield outcomes. Zinc's pivotal involvement spans protein metabolism, photosynthetic activities, and diverse physiological traits within plants. Particularly noteworthy is its contribution to rectifying zinc deficiency, a particularly critical concern in plants cultivated in high-pH soils. Notably, recent research has illuminated the potential of applying minute quantities of micronutrients, notably zinc via foliar spraying, in bolstering plant resilience against salt stress. Likewise, silicon emerges as a supplemental micronutrient that imparts heightened resistance to environmental stresses, fostering increased resilience within biological systems. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of application of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria and nanoparticles (zinc and silicon) on the yield, photosynthetic pigments, and filling components of triticale grain under salt stress.
Global warming directly affects agricultural production and food security (Ainsworth & Ort, 2010). Temperature controls the rate of plant metabolic processes that ultimately affect biomass production and grain yield (Hay & Walker, 1981). Although farmers are not able to control the climatic conditions, management and changes in factors such as irrigation, soil, crop varieties, activities, and technologies used in the cultivation of crops can reduce the harmful effects of climate change (Moradi et al., 2014). One of the reliable approaches to studying the effects of climate change on agricultural production is using crop growth models. The present study was conducted to simulate the effects of climate change on phonological stages and yield of maize and to investigate the possibility of mitigating the negative effects of climate change on maize by changing the sowing date and selecting suitable cultivars as management strategies for adaptation to climate change in Kermanshah region.
South of Iran has been located in the dry belt and desert strip thus water stress has always been one of the serious problems in its agriculture (Buzarjomehri et al., 2020). Intercropping is the cultivation of two or more plant species in a specific land and growing season, which is important in agricultural systems with limited resources and low input (Brooker et al., 2015). Due to the differences in the rooting depth, lateral expansion, and root density of cereals and legumes, they have been the best candidates for intercropping traditionally for limited soil water and nutrient availability environments (Babalola, 1980; Haynes, 1980). Application of bio-fertilizers (PGPR bacteria) that have nitrogen (N) fixation and phosphorus (P) solubilizing activity (Azospirillum brasilense and Pseudomonas fluorescence, respectively) is a promising approach for obtaining N, P, and water-restricted areas (Tien et al, 1979; Barea, 2015). Organic manures enhance soil water holding capacity and serve as excellent slow-release sources of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in the soil (Risse et al., 2006). This study aimed to investigate the effect of different fertilizer systems (chemical, integrated, and bio-organic) on triticale grain yield and its components in sole and intercropped triticale in triticale/chickpea system under late season water stress in a hot and dry area of southern Iran (Fars province - Darab).
Intensive agriculture, despite high production, has adverse environmental effects, mainly due to the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers. Therefore, we need alternative agricultural systems that are more economically and environmentally sustainable to produce crops. One of the sustainable methods in the production of agricultural products is intercropping. Intercropping of two or more species in a plot of land can increase biodiversity and resource utilization as agricultural perspective, which in turn can lead to increased yield stability. Intercropping uses resources more efficiently than monoculture, preventing the growth and spread of weeds by shading and suffocating weeds, and in some cases with allelopathic. Intercropping of cereals and legumes is recommended for the development of sustainable food production systems, especially in planting systems based on reduced consumption of foreign inputs. The importance of these systems depends on the nitrogen stabilized by the legumes. The aim of this experiment was to study the effects of row intercropping of barley and vetch and different levels of ammonium nitrate fertilizer on weed biomass, yield components and yield of two species in Karaj climatic condition.
The increasing demand for medicinal plants in traditional medicine as well as the pharmaceutical industry has created the need for some plants to be grown commercially, but the lack of soil moisture poses a serious threat to their production. Planting method can affect the emergence and growth rate of crop and lead to decrease water consumption and increase irrigation water efficiency as yield increases. Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) is one of the drought tolerant plants. Saving water consumption by cultivating drought tolerant plants has been proposed as a strategy to combat drought. It should be noted, however, that irrigation without proper planning can reduce the growth and production of crops. In this regard, determining time of deficit irrigation with minimum damage is an appropriate solution that achieves optimum yield while saving water consumption. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different irrigation regimes and planting method on some physiological traits, yield and water use efficiency of Roselle plant.
The relationship between economic development and the environment is known as one of the most important issues facing societies. If in the context of sustainable development, economic and environmental activities are considered together, the environment and economic development are two complementary factors and, as a result, it will lead to ecological balance. In this case, economic activities will not disturb this balance. Presently, the imperative of safeguarding the environment and attaining sustainable development has ascended to a prominent position on the agendas of diverse societies, Iran included. This commitment is underscored by the execution of comprehensive economic, social, and cultural initiatives aimed at fostering long-term ecological resilience and balanced societal progress. Therefore, to preserve the environment and meet the goals of sustainable development, as well as to guide and rationally manage plans and projects, especially in the agricultural sector, serious measures should be taken. Therefore, this study was carried out to evaluate the operational, environmental, and eco-efficiency of the major agricultural products of the irrigation and drainage networks of Gotvand.
The irrigation and drainage network of Gotvand is located in the southwest of Iran in Khuzestan province. This network is designed to irrigate lands located in three regions of Gotvand, Aghili, and Dimcheh, enclosed between two rivers, Karun and Lor. According to the official statistics of government organizations, the consumption of fertilizers and chemical poisons in the lands covered by this network is 3.6 times the average limit in Iran. The excess irrigation water in this network is returned to the rivers by the built-in drains and causes water pollution downstream of the network. Therefore, considering that environmental protection is one of the most important aspects of sustainable development, it is very important to investigate the effects of the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers in agriculture and to introduce solutions to improve the efficiency of the environment in the study area.
Long-term use of chemical fertilizers can cause many adverse effects. In addition, excessive consumption of chemical fertilizers can lead to decreased food safety and low quality of vegetables, such as the accumulation of nitrates in plants. Today, using organic fertilizers is an efficient way to achieve sustainable agricultural development. The release rate of nutrients from organic fertilizers is slow and hardly exceeds the absorption capacity of plants compared to chemical fertilizers.
For optimal production and maintaining its stability, environmental and weather conditions must be determined from the perspective of capabilities and limitations. For this purpose, it requires reliable regional data such as planting date, ripening time, plant density, soil, and meteorological information, which are generally not available for most regions. Obtaining this information is very time-consuming and expensive in many areas and is often simply not possible. Therefore, zoning can facilitate access to this information on a large scale. In other words, if the regions that are similar in terms of climate, soil, and management conditions are identified, the time and cost needed to collect information on a wide scale will be minimal.
Introduction
Nowadays, the cultivation of plants adapted to adverse conditions, such as drought and salinity, in the country has been considered. Meanwhile, Kochia scoparia, one of the forgotten plants, due to its classification in the group of halophytes, has specific characteristics suitable for cultivation in low-water and saline areas (Salehi, Kafi, & Kiani, 2012). This plant is known as an important annual forage crop, and its grains also have high nutritional value and oil, which can be considered for future industrial applications (Salehi et al., 2012). Studies on the salinity tolerance of the Kochia plant have shown that it is suitable for cultivation in saline areas, and in terms of quantity and quality, can compete with conventional forage plants. The use of natural organic materials, such as humic acid, has received more attention. These materials, as part of soil organic matter, are influenced by physical, chemical, and microbiological changes in biological molecules (Sabzevari & Khazaei, 2009; Dong, Córdova-Kreylos, Yang, Yuan, & Scow, 2009). Additionally, nitrogen is the most important element needed for plant growth and development. It is also a key component in many biological compounds, including proteins, nucleic acids, some hormones, and chlorophyll. Nitrogen plays an essential role in photosynthetic processes and the final function of plants (Kaur, Gupta, & Kaur, 2002; Taiz, Zeiger, Møller, & Murphy, 2015). As a result of this research, a combination of nitrogen and humic acid can be used as nutritional resources in salt stress conditions.
Materials and Methods
This experiment was conducted in the form of split plots based on the randomized complete block design with three replications in the Saline Research Farm of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad in the 2015 growth season. The main plot included drought stress with a four-week interruption of irrigation at three levels of control (irrigation until the end of the growing season), after establishment (50 days after planting), the beginning of flowering (71 days after planting) and late flowering (82 days after planting) The subplot was included nitrogen application at three levels of zero, 100 and 200 kg.ha-1 from urea fertilizer source. The optimum level of humic acid (2 per thousand) was done as seed at the time of planting for all treatments.
Results and Discussion
The results showed that the drought stress during vegetative and reproductive growth stages had a negative effect on the Kochia plant. However, its effect in the early stages of vegetative growth (after establishment) was greater than the stress at the end of the season (late flowering). Drought stress has a negative effect on Kochia grain yield by reducing the concentration of chlorophyll a, altering the chlorophyll a to b ratio, decreasing carotenoid concentration, and affecting relative leaf water content. However, seed treatments of humic acid and its combination with 100 kg.ha-1 nitrogen level by increasing th
Drought stress and consequent lack of available water for plants is one of the main causes of accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in various organs of plants, which is effective in reducing the yield of cereals such as wheat. The antioxidant system, which contains various enzymes and genes, is responsible for removing and detoxifying plants from ROS. Unfortunately, genes responding to drought stress and their enzymatic activities associated with spike and flag leaf of wheat have received less attention. Therefore, in the present study, photosynthetic parameters, key enzymes of the antioxidant system, and expression analysis of some genes involved in this system under field capacity (FC) and drought stress (DS) conditions in spike and flag leaves of wheat were investigated.
Since the development of crop cultivation and their yield depend on irrigation and since drought is one of the features of our country, one of the solutions to deal with these problems is the implementation of applied research in the field of stress-resistant plants cultivation such as quinoa. Also, considering the important role of potassium and zinc elements in the plant, providing a sufficient amount of these elements under drought stress can be effective in increasing the plant's resistance to this type of stress. Considering the genetic differences of plants and their different reactions in the face of environmental stress such as drought stress, and different fertilization of genotypes, it seems necessary to carry out this research to investigate the application of potassium and zinc chelates on the morpho-physiological and yield indicators of three quinoa genotypes under drought stress conditions in Razavi Khorasan climate.
Grasspea (Lathyrus sativus L.) is one of the most important forage crops in the world. It contains 12 to 20% protein. Silicon (Si) existing in the Earth’s crust is classified as the most abundant element after oxygen. Although silicon is not considered an essential element for plant growth, but a number of studies have reported that it as an important factor in plants that plays an important role in the resistance mechanisms of plants against environmental stress. Also, it plays a crucial physiological role in photosynthetic rate and chlorophyll content. One of the most effective factors in increasing the Grasspea biomass is seed inoculation with plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). Some of the benefits provided by PGPR are the ability to produce gibberellic acid, cytokinins and ethylene, N2 fixation, solubilization of mineral phosphates and other nutrients. Numerous studies have shown a substantial increase in dry matter accumulation via inoculation with PGPR. Some researchers reported that seed inoculation with PGPR enhanced relative water content and photochemical efficiency of PSII lathyrus under water limitations. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of nano silicon and seed inoculation with plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria on biomass, nodulation and some physiological traits of Grasspea.
Assessment of Sieve Slope, Sieve Range and Fan Suction on Cleaning Efficiency...J. Agricultural Machinery
Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an annual plant of the legume genus that is cultivated in 109 countries due to its high-quality oil and seed protein. In Iran, this crop is cultivated on an area of 3000 hectares, with an average yield of 4 tons per hectare. Threshing performance significantly affects seed loss and physical damage, including cracking and crushing of seeds during harvest. Therefore, over the last century, extensive research has been conducted on different types of threshing methods, as well as the design and development of various threshing machines.
Research on seed crops such as cereals and seeds suggest that factors such as the rotational speed of the thresher, threshing-concave distance, feeding rate, and shape of threshing teeth play a crucial role in determining the threshing efficiency and quality of the threshed seeds. Although limited research has been conducted on peanut threshing, there are currently no combine-machines available for this crop on global markets. Therefore, this study aims to investigate several working parameters of an experimental peanut thresher, including the effect of sieve angle, sieve range of movement, and suction speed on the separation unit.
A Multi-Objective Optimization to Determine The Optimal Patterns of Sustainab...J. Agricultural Machinery
Introduction
The development of mechanization and machine technology can have positive and negative effects on the economic, social, and environmental conditions of a region. Conflicts in these areas complicate the selection and optimization of sustainable mechanization systems. One of the basic questions in the selection of a sustainable agricultural mechanization system is how and with what methodology would it be possible to propose the closest mechanization model that will overcome the simultaneous contradictions between the three pillars of sustainability; taking into account the natural and technical limitations in agricultural production. What is the appropriate approach considering the economic, environmental, and social aspects? The current research aims to provide a framework for an optimal mechanization model to achieve the goals of agricultural sustainability so that it can be implemented and applied practically. It is possible to provide a model that addresses the conflicting economic, social, and environmental aspects by quantitatively optimizing the level of mechanization.
Materials and Methods
In this study, a framework is applied whereby contradictory goals of agricultural sustainability can be achieved simultaneously. After selecting the indices and data collection, by combining Shannon entropy and TOPSIS, the similarity index was obtained for each objective. The similarity indices and values of the Benefit-Cost Ratio calculated for each system were considered as coefficients of three objective (economic, social, and environmental) functions in multi-objective optimization. The multi-objective optimization model was applied to achieve sustainable mechanization patterns and was solved using the NSGA-II algorithm. For framework validation, paddy production mechanization systems in the Ramhormoz region located in southwestern Iran were analyzed with constraints: land, water, and machinery. The five mechanization systems of paddy production included puddled transplanted, un-puddled transplanted, water seeded, dry seeded, and, no-till.
Results and Discussion
Pareto-optimal solutions of different scenarios with water and machine constraints showed that this framework cannot only meet the sustainable goals, but also the optimal allocation of mechanization systems is identified and the effect of different scenarios under different constraints can be examined. The sustainability goals between the no-tillage and planting with puddling systems are highly contradictory. The no-tillage system has the highest score in the environmental aspect and the lowest score in the social and economic aspects. This modern system was developed in Ramhormoz three years ago and has faced technical, economic, and social challenges ever since. The cultivated area using this system was 43 hectares in 2019. Despite the speed and ease of planting with this system, and its direct environmental benefits, the possibility of fungal outbreaks is raised due to the pre
Seed pretreatment is one of the simple techniques that can increase seed vigor and seedling establishment, and thus plant yield. Seed pretreatment can be done with water (hydropriming), inorganic salts such as potassium nitrate (halopriming), and growth regulators such as salicylic acid (hormone priming) and ascorbic acid (vitamin priming). Another effective factor in producing strong seeds is proper nutrition of the mother plants. Proper nutrition of the maternal plant in the form of foliar sprays with essential elements leads to the production of high-quality seeds, which affects germination and yield. Considering the positive role of seed pretreatment in improving germination rate and seedling establishment, and increasing seed yield of various plants as a result of foliar application of growth regulators and inorganic salts, this experiment was conducted to study the effect of seed pretreatment and foliar spraying with salicylic acid, ascorbic acid and potassium nitrate on improving physiological and biochemical characteristics, yield and yield components of borage.
Similar to Agroecological Analysis of Sugar Beet Ecosystem (Beta vulgaris L.) in Torbat-e Heydarieh (20)
Introduction
Prolonged droughts and lack of water resources, followed by the salinity of water and soil resources, have faced many limitations in the production of some conventional agricultural and garden plants, especially in arid and semi-arid regions of the country. Therefore, the introduction of new plants with high yield potential, which have suitable growth in saline soils, the threshold of their seed yield reduction is high, and the production product is of high quality has been considered in Iran. Quinoa with the scientific name Chenopodium quinoa Willd. It is an annual plant originating from Latin America, which, despite its high nutritional value, tolerates a wide range of abiotic stresses and can grow in marginal lands. For this reason, this experiment was conducted to investigate the performance of quinoa plant genotypes against different levels of salinity in the research field of the Gorgan Agricultural Meteorological Research Department.
Materials and Methods
Cultivation of seeds of nine genotypes Titicaca (control number), Giza1, RedCarina, Q18, Q21, Q22, Q26, Q29, and Q31 obtained from Karaj Seedling and Seed Breeding Research Institute in a factorial experiment based on a complete random block design. Plastic pots were made with a bed of sand and clay in a ratio of two to one on March 5, 2019. The application of NaCl salt solution treatments at the levels of zero, 10, 20, and 30 decisiemens/m started after the establishment of the plant and reached the six-leaf stage and lasted for 45 days. After salinity treatment, morphological traits including plant height, stem diameter, number of sub-branches, inflorescence length, inflorescence width, biomass, 1000 seed weight, and seed weight per plant were measured.
Introduction
Sunflower, one of the primary oilseed crops worldwide, is cultivated extensively due to its suitability for agricultural needs, high oil yield, and nutritional and medicinal value. However, drought remains the most critical limiting factor affecting sunflower productivity. In arid and semi-arid regions, the intensity of drought stress is predicted to increase in the future. Unfortunately, severe drought stress leads to significant reductions in both seed and oil production. While sunflower is moderately drought-tolerant, understanding the physiological and agronomic aspects of drought stress is crucial for sustainable management. Given that water, scarcity poses a significant threat to crop productivity and environmental resources are diminishing, effective irrigation management under water scarcity is becoming increasingly important.
Materials and Methods
In order to study the effects of deficit irrigation on grain yield and physiological traits of six sunflower cultivars, a field experiment was carried out in a split-plot arrangement based on randomized complete block design with three replications in 2019-2020 growing season. The experimental site was located in the research farm of the Safiabad Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center. Main plots consisted of three irrigation regimes including; control, moderate, and severe deficit irrigation (50, 70, and 90% of available moisture, respectively), and sub plots consisted of six sunflower cultivars including; Oscar, Felix, Shakira, Savana, Labad and Monaliza.
Deficit irrigation offers a solution for optimizing crop production under water stress conditions, albeit with an initial reduction in yield per unit area. Employing deficit irrigation aids in farm management in scenarios where land availability isn’t constrained, enabling the determination of optimal cultivation patterns while conserving water consumption. However, deficit irrigation may influence plant growth and development by inducing drought stress. Due to several capabilities, quinoa shows resistance to solar radiation, temperature, water availability, and atmospheric CO2 concentration, which makes it possible to cultivate it in different agricultural areas. Quinoa also has a great capacity for cultivation in dry and low-water soils. Although growth analysis sometimes provides valuable clues, it does not provide any physicochemical information related to the environmental reactions of plants; in other words, the main benefit of many quantities involved in growth analysis is to provide an accurate estimate of the ability and efficiency of the plant in the community at certain time intervals. In general, growth analysis evaluates the system based on the results of physiological manifestations. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the physiological growth analyses of three quinoa cultivars under different moisture levels in summer and spring planting dates in the South Khorasan region.
Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the most important crops in the human food basket worldwide. It is a highly nutritious pulse crop with low digestible carbohydrates, protein, essential fats, fiber, and a range of minerals and vitamins. As the human population grows, the demand for this protein source increases and various approaches to its sustainable products are being developed. Autumn cultivation of chickpea in cold regions requires the introduction of cultivars tolerant to freezing stress. The ability of plants to overwinter depends on the biochemical and physiological responses induced by their cold acclimation duration. Cold acclimation mechanisms in the plant are a fundamental reason for plant tolerance increase in autumn cultivation. Hence, investigating the mentioned traits can help identify cold-tolerant genotypes. Identifying attributes that provide a suitable description of the diversity between genotypes is critical through canonical correlation analysis, cluster analysis, and determining the genetic distance.
Crop cultivars are the most important factor in crop optimum quantity and quality products achievement and cotton is one of the most industrial crops. Objectives of new cotton cultivars introduction are yield increase, earliness, and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Despite the improvement and introduction of numerous new cotton cultivars in Iran in recent years, new foreign cotton cultivars have also been registered, introduced, and commercialized for the first time in Iran. Therefore, the cultivation of new foreign cotton cultivars that show early maturity, high-yielding, and have good fiber quality is included in projects of the Ministry of Jihad of Agriculture for cotton cultivation development. This research was carried out to evaluate and compare the seed cotton yield and its components and some fiber qualitative characteristics of new cotton with thought VCU trial in South Khorasaد province in Birjand Mohammadieh agriculture research station to introduce and commercialize these cultivars.
Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) is the second most important sugar crop after sugarcane, which annually produces about 40% of total sugar production worldwide and is adapted to different climatic conditions (El-Hag et al., 2015). Due to global warming, autumn cultivation of sugar beet is predicted to become more priority in the future, but autumn cultivation is in danger of bolting and flowering in many areas. Excessive bolting reduces sugar content, root yield, and purity of raw syrup. In general, both early sowing and delayed sowing reduce root yield, sugar, and leaf area index and increase the percentage of impurities. Therefore, this experiment was designed and implemented with the aim of feasibility study of autumn cultivation of sugar beet and determination of the best planting date in North, Razavi, and South Khorasan provinces for three new varieties resistant to sugar beet.
The quantity and quality of forage plants are beneficial and useful due to their role in animal husbandry, reproduction and other livestock products. Due to the limitation of water resources, water-deficit as a significant biotic stress is the most severe threat to world food security and is responsible for many yield losses. Plants constantly modify their physiological processes in response to various biotic and abiotic stress to regulate the balance between plant growth and defense response. Many researchers have documented that plant nutrients are involved in biological processes of plants. It has been stated that the use of silicon by increasing the ability to absorb water can be useful to improve drought tolerance of sorghum, sorghum can with the help of silicon extract more water from dry soil and maintain more stomatal conductance.
Climate change is rapidly degrading the conditions of crop production. For instance, increasing salinization and aridity is forecasted to increase in most parts of the world. As a consequence, new stress-tolerant species and genotypes must be identified and used for future agriculture. Stress-tolerant species exist but are actually underutilized and neglected. Quinoa, scientifically known as Chenopodium quinoa Willd. is a member of the Amaranthaceae family. Promoting the cultivation and nutrition of quinoa will diversify food products in the country, sustainable production, increase farmers' incomes and provide part of the community's food needs. Crop simulation models have been used for various studies such as selecting the appropriate cultivar, determining the best planting date, predicting the effect of diversity and climate change on growth. Field research requires a lot of time and money, while computer simulation models can save time and money by conducting extensive experimental simulations.
Quinoa is a dicotyledonous plant from the Amaranthaceae family, with favorable nutritional value and a high potential for growth and production in adverse environmental conditions. Despite being three carbon, it has high water consumption efficiency and as a new crop, due to its wide adaptation to different environment conditions such as salinity and drought, as well as being premature, it is suitable for planting in arid and desert areas and has many factors. Genetic and environmental factors such as genotype, density, arrangement and planting date, soil salinity, and drought stress affect yield. Among these, drought is one of the most important non-living stresses that cause great damage to crops and horticulture in the world every year. And especially Iran, which is considered an arid and semi-arid country. The effect of moisture stress on plants varies depending on which stage of plant growth occurs and plants can work through various mechanisms such as reducing growth parameters, closing pores, reducing photosynthesis, changing regulatory mechanisms of ion transport, and increasing activity. Antioxidant enzymes cope with drought stress to some extent, although such mechanisms are energy-intensive and cause a decline in performance.
Cumin is one of the most important medicinal plants in Iran and is widely used in food, health and beauty industries due to its antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Yield of some crops are higher in autumn planting compared to spring. However, low temperature and inappropriate distribution of precipitation are of factors affecting seedling emergence and establishment. So it seems that seeds with higher germination also have better emergence and establishment producing more vigorous seedlings in further growth stages. So, to success in autumn-planting of cumin, it is necessary to have ecotypes with appropriate and even emergence in low temperature and water restricted conditions. Since water is of high paramount importance in germination and lower water potentials lead to lower accessibility of water to seeds, the aim of this experiment was to study seed germination response of different cumin ecotypes to low water potentials.
Salinity is one of the major constraints to wheat growth, which hampers production, causing yield loss in arid and semi-arid regions. Reductions in growth resulting from high salinity are because of both osmotic stress, inducing a water deficit, and the effects of excess Na+ and Cl– ions on critical biochemical processes. Salt stress induces a significant reduction in photosynthesis through the reduction of leaf area and photosynthetic pigments. Several strategies have been developed to decrease the toxic effects caused by high salinity on plant growth. Among them, the use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) such as Pseudomonas and Mycorrhiza play an important role in yield improvement. Many studies have been published on the beneficial effects of bacterial inoculation on plant physiology and growth under salt stress. One of the common hypotheses employed in most of the studies conducted under salinity stress was the lowering of ethylene level by the ACC-deaminase activities of PGPR and improved plant growth and yield under salinity stress.
It was reported that the application of Pseudomonas spp. improved plant growth by decreasing the uptake of Na+ and increasing the activities of antioxidant enzymes under salinity stress. The selective uptake of K+ as opposed to Na+ is considered one of the important physiological mechanisms contributing to salt tolerance in many plant species. Inoculation with PGPR significantly decreased Na+ uptake and increased K+ content and enhanced levels of K+ that could be to mitigate oxidative stress imposed by higher salinity. Some researchers have reported that PGPR species like Azotobacter and Pseudomonas increased the growth and biomass of canola (Brassica napus L.) under salinity stress.
A Better understanding of wheat physiological responses under salinity may help in programs in which the objective is to improve the grain yield under salinity stress. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the physiological, stomata conductance, along with root and shoot Na+/ K+ ratios) of wheat to cycocel and PGPR application under salinity stress.
Effects of Putrescine and Biofertilizers on Content of Na+ and K+ Root and Sh...
Agroecological Analysis of Sugar Beet Ecosystem (Beta vulgaris L.) in Torbat-e Heydarieh
1. Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research
Homepage: https://jcesc.um.ac.ir
Research Article
Vol. 20, No. 4, Winter 2023, p. 417-434
Agroecological Analysis of Sugar Beet Ecosystem (Beta vulgaris L.) in Torbat-e
Heydarieh
F. Moallem Banhangi1
, P. Rezvani Moghaddam 2*
, S. Khorramdel 3
, M. Nassiri Mahallati 4
Received: 01-02-2022
Revised: 12-04-2022
Accepted: 16-04-2022
How to cite this article:
Moallem Banhangi, F., Rezvani Moghaddam, P., Khorramdel, S., & Nassiri Mahallati, M.
(2023). Agroecological Analysis of Sugar Beet Ecosystem (Beta vulgaris L.) in Torbat-e
Heydarieh. Iranian Journal of Field Crops Research, 20(4), 417-434. (in Persian with
English abstract). https://doi.org/10.22067/jcesc.2022.75055.1147
Introduction
During the 1950s and 1960s, the green revolution led to a dramatic increase in global food and fodder
production to eliminate hunger and boost food security. This production enhancement was accompanied by an
intensified agricultural and chemical input consumption and increased cultivated area and mechanization.
Although yield per unit area has improved in most crops, concerns about food security for the world's rising
population are still significant. Guaranteeing food security in the future will necessitate a shift in management
approaches to boost output, agroecosystem sustainability, and stability and reduce the environmental harm
caused by agriculture. The first step to achieving sustainability and ecological intensification in agricultural
systems is to have a comprehensive agroecological analysis of agricultural systems in each region. Hence, the
complete evaluation and analysis of agroecological features according to their type in each region is necessary
for establishing an optimal management technique. After analyzing the present state of each region's shared
ecosystems, the optimal strategy for boosting production stability must be devised and implemented.
Materials and Methods
The goal of this study was to undertake a detailed investigation of the agroecological state of the sugar beet
ecosystems on a local scale. For this purpose, data were collected on the area under cultivation, yield, and input
consumption (including nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers and chemical pesticides) from 2001 to 2016. Data
was acquired from the Ministry of Agriculture and other related organizations and direct interviews with the
farmers. In addition, data on climatic parameters (including daily minimum and maximum temperatures,
precipitation, and sunny hours) were collected from the Torbat-e Heydariyeh meteorological station. This study
researched the most important agroecological indicators of sugar beet farming systems in the Torbat-e Heydarieh
region. Study indicators include variations in sugar beet cultivation area and yield, Potential yield via the
methods FAO and FAO modified, beet yield gap, Regional Yield Factor trend, Changes in the intensification,
yield stability, nitrogen uptake, and nitrogen utilization, and nitrogen use efficiency.
Results and Discussion
According to this study results, sugar beet production increased by 59 percent between 2001 and 2016.
During the research years, sugar beet ecosystems saw a drop in the cultivation area. Potential yield calculations
using both FAO and modified FAO methodologies revealed that potential yield was nearly consistent over the
research period in the region.
1- PhD Student of Agroecology, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran
2- Professor, Department of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran
3- Associate Professor, Department of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran
4- Professor, Department of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran
(*- Corresponding Author Email: rezvani@um.ac.ir)
https://doi.org/10.22067/jcesc.2022.75055.1147
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جلد ،ایران زراعی پژوهشهای نشریه
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شماره ،
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زمستان
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The sugar beet yield gap averaged 35 ton.ha-1
over the research period. According to the findings, the
percentage of sugar beet yield gap ranged from 53 to 69 %, with an average of 63 %. The extent of the yield gap
decreased over the research period. The study of the regional yield factor (RYF) revealed that improving the
management system resulted in higher actual yield and thus a smaller yield gap in sugar beet ecosystems. In
sugar beet cultivation systems, the results revealed that by increasing intensification, the stability decreased. In
sugar beet cultivation systems, there was a reduction in yield stability. Given that nitrogen consumption
efficiency is one of the most important factors influencing the degree of stability in agricultural systems, the
findings revealed that the rate of nitrogen uptake efficiency (NUpE), nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUtE), and
nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) all decreased during the studied years in the region.
Conclusion
According to the findings, the major cause of the increase in nitrogen consumption, growing intensification,
and decreasing stability in the analyzed systems appears to be a deficiency of nitrogen use efficiency and its
downward trend. As a result, planning and altering management methods focusing on enhancing Nitrogen use
efficiency may be proposed as the first step toward boosting sustainability in the Torbat-e Heydarieh sugar beet
agroecosystems.
Keywords: Data analysis, Intake efficiency, Regional yield factor, Stability