Legume-based intercropping systems have the potential for a more efficient use of water resources. This depends on various factors such as environmental conditions and genotypic characteristics. Therefore, several genotypes of legumes and non-legumes of arable, grassland and woody crops were tested comparing intercropping and pure stands under both greenhouse and field conditions. Greenhouse experiments with winter faba bean and winter wheat under water deficit revealed genotypic differences in the suitability for intercropping as well as effects on the microbial community. Field experiments with direct and remote measurements showed that including legumes in arable and grassland low-input systems improves water use efficiency and productivity in comparison to pure non-legumes. The grassland mixing partners perennial ryegrass and chicory had additional effects. Furthermore, arable intercropping reduced nitrous oxide emissions compared to fertilized wheat stands. From the consolidated results, some winter faba bean and white clover genotypes could be identified for further breeding for intercropping systems. In summary, intercropping with legumes improves the water use efficiency and the general performance and sustainability of the agro-ecosystem.

Advances in Agronomy continues to be recognized as a leading reference and a first-rate source for the latest research in agronomy. Each volume contains an eclectic group of reviews by leading scientists throughout the world. Five volumes are published yearly which ensures that authors' contributions are disseminated to the readership in a timely manner. As always, the subjects covered are varied and exemplary of the myriad of subject matter dealt with by this long-running serial. - Timely and state-of-the-art reviews - Distinguished, well recognized authors - A venerable and iconic review series - Timely publication of submitted reviews

Global crop production must substantially increase to meet the needs of a rapidly growing population. This is constrained by the availability of nutrients, water, and land. There is also an urgent need to reduce the negative environmental impacts of crop production. Collectively, these issues represent one of the greatest challenges of the twenty-first century. Sustainable cropping systems based on ecological principles are the core of integrated approaches to solve this critical challenge. This special issue provides an international basis for revealing the underlying mechanisms of sustainable cropping systems to drive agronomic innovations. It includes review and original research articles that report novel scientific findings on improvement in cropping systems related to crop yields and their resistance to biotic and abiotic stressors, resource use efficiency, environmental impact, sustainability, and ecosystem services.

From climate change to farming systems to genetic modification of organisms, Crop Physiology, Second Edition provides a practical tool for understanding the relationships and challenges of successful cropping. With a focus on genetic improvement and agronomy, this book addresses the challenges of environmentally sound production of bulk and quality food, fodder, fiber, and energy which are of ongoing international concern. The second edition of Crop Physiology continues to provide a unique analysis of these topics while reflecting important changes and advances in the relevant science and implementation systems. Contemporary agriculture confronts the challenge of increasing demand in terms of quantitative and qualitative production targets. These targets have to be achieved against the background of soil and water scarcity, worldwide and regional shifts in the patterns of land use driven by both climate change and the need to develop crop-based sources of energy, and the environmental and social aspects of agricultural sustainability. - Provides a view of crop physiology as an active source of methods, theories, ideas, and tools for application in genetic improvement and agronomy - Written by leading scientists from around the world - Combines environment-specific cropping systems and general principles of crop science to appeal to advanced students, and scientists in agriculture-related disciplines, from molecular sciences to natural resources management