Advances in Agronomy continues to be recognized as a leading reference and a first-rate source for the latest research in agronomy. As always, the subjects covered are varied and exemplary of the myriad of subject matter dealt with by this long-running serial. - Maintains the highest impact factor among serial publications in agriculture - Presents timely reviews on important agronomy issues - Enjoys a long-standing reputation for excellence in the field

Advances in Agronomy continues to be recognized as a leading reference and a first-rate source of the latest research in agronomy. Major reviews deal with the current topics of interest to agronomists, as well as crop and soil scientists. As always, the subjects covered are varied and exemplary of the myriad subject matter dealt with by this long-running serial. Editor Donald Sparks, former president of the Soil Science Society of America and current president of the International Union of Soil Science, is the S. Hallock du Pont Chair of Plant and Soil Sciences at The University of Delaware. Volume 82 contains eight state-of-the-art reviews on topics of interest in the plant and soil sciences. Three of the reviews present cutting-edge molecular scale techniques and approaches that directly impact food production, crop improvement, and environmental quality and sustainability.

Examines the factors influencing water productivity in nine key plantation crops in the context of increased pressure on water resources.

This book considers research findings that can inform the practice of managing tea crops.

The science and technology of producing and using plants for food, fiber, fuel and land reclamation is called agronomy. It integrates the principles of soil science, plant genetics, plant physiology and meteorology. Plant breeding is an important tool of agronomy. The selective breeding of plants has resulted in the production of crops with enhanced yields and nutritional value. This has been observed in major crops such as wheat, corn and soybeans. There has also been a significant use of biotechnology to extend and expedite the development of crop varieties with desired traits. Modern agronomy also focuses on soil analysis to determine the soil that is most conducive to plant growth. These analyses aid in balancing soil nutrients for optimum results. The ever growing need of advanced agricultural technology is the reason that has fueled the research in the field of agronomy in recent times. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in agronomy. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make it an invaluable source of knowledge.

Recognition of the importance of soil organic matter (SOM) in soil health and quality is a major part of fostering a holistic, preventive approach to agricultural management. Students in agronomy, horticulture, and soil science need a textbook that emphasizes strategies for using SOM management in the prevention of chemical, biological, and physical problems. Soil Organic Matter in Sustainable Agriculture gathers key scientific reviews concerning issues that are critical for successful SOM management. This textbook contains evaluations of the types of organic soil constituents—organisms, fresh residues, and well-decomposed substances. It explores the beneficial effects of organic matter on soil and the various practices that enhance SOM. Chapters include an examination of the results of crop management practices on soil organisms, organic matter gains and losses, the significance of various SOM fractions, and the contributions of fungi and earthworms to soil quality and crop growth. Emphasizing the prevention of imbalances that lead to soil and crop problems, the text also explores the development of soils suppressive to plant diseases and pests, and relates SOM management to the supply of nutrients to crops. This book provides the essential scientific background and poses the challenging questions that students need to better understand SOM and develop improved soil and crop management systems.

Crop modelling has huge potential to improve decision making in farming. This collection reviews advances in next-generation models focused on user needs at the whole farm system and landscape scale.