Nanotechnology (NT) holds promise as a tool to improve crop yields and address current and future limitations in agricultural production by enhancing plant tolerance to abiotic stresses, such as droughts. Silicon nanoparticles (NPSi) are beneficial in mitigating biotic and abiotic stresses. However, the impact of the combined synthesis of NPSi with metals (SiZnONP) under drought stress conditions is poorly understood. An experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of Si NPs on the growth of maize (Zea mays) under water deficit conditions in a greenhouse. Four levels of SiNP and SiZnONP (0, 50, 100, and 200 mg/L) were applied weekly as a foliar spray after maize sowing. Two water levels (100% and 35% of soil water-holding capacity) were introduced 50 days after sowing for the remaining growth period. The lowest biomass, stem diameter, leave number, and height were observed in the plants under drought stress (control). The SiNP treatments improved plant growth indicators and photosynthesis, especially in drought stress grains. The improvement in maize growth was consistent across different levels of Si NPs, with the highest effect seen with NPsSi-ZnO at 50 mg/L (81.05±1.2 cm). In plants treated with SiZnONPs, the levels of proline, peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) [771. 97 μg/mg, 4.48 ± 0.2 UI/mg; 19.28 ±0.11 UI/mg, and 0.27 ± 0.06 UI/mg] were higher compared to plants under drought stress conditions [650 ± 31.44 μg/mg, 2.93 ± 0.61 UI/mg; 14.58 ±021 UI/mg, and 0.17 ± 0.03 UI/mg]. However, the levels of H₂O₂ showed an opposite trend. The application of SiNPs notably enhanced the histological features of roots under drought conditions.

The reasonable management, protection and maintenance of the fertility and productive potential of soil, a resource that is not very renewable, are essential to ensure food security and sustainability. This work aims to study the properties and fertility of soils in the Faregh area, which is the first to be equipped with irrigation in the Doukkala area. The physicochemical characterization of the soils was carried out by means of laboratory analyses, and the assessment of their fertility was carried out on the basis of recognized standards and using statistical methods. Soil samples were taken at the 0-30 cm level at 80 sites. The measured physicochemical parameters were as follows: clay (A), silt (L), sand (S), exchangeable potassium (K), assimilable phosphorus (P), pH, organic matter (OM) and boron (B). The results obtained show that the soils have a balanced sandy texture (A = 15.43, L = 14.35, S = 70.22%) with a high variability (CV > 35%) for A and L and average variability (20.29%) for S. The soils studied are poor in OM (average = 1.05%) with an average variability (CV = 34.4%), while the pH has a neutral tendency (average = 7.43). In 76.3% of the cases, it presents a low variability (CV = 6.96%). The soils are rich in K (135.41 ppm) for 63.7% of the soils and P (73.79 ppm) for 82.6% of the soils. However, the majority of the soils (82.5%) are poor in boron (average = 0.42 ppm). These three parameters have a high variability (CV > 35%). The texture and pH of the soils are suitable for sugar beet cultivation. The contributions of K and P depend on the yield to be achieved, and boron must be added to avoid yield losses. Organic matter must be recovered by adding manure and through good management of residues.

Land is a non-renewable resource essential for human development, supporting our need for food, shelter, and growth. However, since the 20th century, land degradation has rapidly increased due to environmental damage, population growth, urbanization, industrial expansion, and unsustainable land use. This degradation has become a critical environmental, social, and economic problem worldwide. Sustainable land management practices, such as agroforestry, are promising solutions for restoring degraded lands and maintaining soil health. Therefore this study was conducted with the aim to evaluate the effects of organic manures on soil physicochemical properties within a newly established wild pomegranate-based agroforestry system on land that had been abandoned for several years. This research was conducted at Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, during the year 2020-21. Four treatments studied during the experiment were: T1—Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (RDF), T2—Farm Yard Manure (FYM), T3—Goat Manure, and T4—Control. Additionally, two varieties of Pisum sativum i.e. Pusa Pragati and JK-124 Hybrid, were included to assess their performance. Soil physicochemical properties were tested before the start of the experiment and at the end of the experiment. The results showed that soil properties improved significantly by the end of the experiment. Improvements were observed particularly under the application of T3: Goat Manure producing the best results for soil physicochemical properties. These enhancements contribute to a more favorable environment for plant growth and overall soil health. The model can be a potential land use system economically as well as ecologically for the region but needs more elaborative studies over the longer period of time

Humus-rich soils are vital to arable farming, particularly in regions like Central and Eastern Europe, where they dominate the uppermost soil layers. These soils are characterised by their loose structure, which supports crop growth, but they are also vulnerable to degradation due to soil mechanics such as the consolidation coefficient (CV) and impact value (IV). These factors affect soil particle firmness, structure, and nutrient availability. Despite their importance, the correlation between CV and IV has not been sufficiently studied. This research aimed to investigate the relationship between these two variables. An experiment was conducted at Látókép Experimental Station (Debrecen, Hungary) using a calibrated EM38 sensor mounted on a metal-free sledge. The sensor was towed across a dry, non-irrigated plot, recording 1,443 soil conductivity readings at a depth of 0.5 m. The plot’s elevation averaged 118 m, with coordinates of 21.44681° longitude and 47.55311° latitude. The collected data were analysed using Excel, Past4.11, and MedCal Statistical Software, with a predetermined null hypothesis significance level of p ≥ 0.05. The results revealed a skewness range from -0.747 to 0.185 and a p-value of 0.0001, indicating a strong correlation between CV and IV. The p-value suggested that the null hypothesis could be rejected, supporting the existence of a significant relationship. Conclusively, CV and IV are closely related in humus-rich soils, and their concurrent measurement is essential when using EM38 sensors. This will help improve the understanding of soil consolidation, providing valuable insights for maintaining soil health and optimising agricultural productivity.

Biochar is a carbon rich material, produced through the thermal conversion of a wide range of feedstocks at elevated temperatures and under oxygen-deprived conditions¹. Considering its positive physical and chemical effects on soil properties, and due to its extensive pore structure, large surface area, and high adsorption capacity, significant research has been conducted on biochar use as controlled-release fertilizers (CRFs)^2,3. In the present work vineyard pruning’s were used to produce different biochars: (1) at industrial ovens from Ibero Massa Florestal (BIMF); (2) using a flow of CO₂ (BCO₂) in a laboratorial furnace; (3) and by pre-treating milled vineyard pruning’s with AlCl₃ and MgCl₂ solutions, and afterwards pyrolyzing in a laboratorial furnace. Following, the biochars capacity to adsorb nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P) and potassium (K) in function of the pH was investigated. The most promising biochar and most adequate pH value for N and P adsorption were selected for further optimizations, namely effect of adsorbent dosage, kinetic assays and adsorption isotherms. In contrast, K adsorption results across all biochars and pH values were not favourable, so no further optimizations were pursued. Langmuir model showed the best fit for the adsorption isotherms and the maximum Langmuir adsorption capacities corresponded to 10.4 mg N/g biochar for BIMF biochar and 12.7 mg P/g biochar for BMgCl₂. These results suggest that vineyard pruning’s, presently considered an undervalued residue, could be used for the production of an economically valuable product, following the principles of circular economy. Additionally, this study also suggests that CRFs prepared from vineyard pruning’s and possibly from other cellulosic agro-industrial residues could be used as a substitute for conventional fertilizers, which are associated with many environmental issues.

Climate change, water scarcity and smallholder farms are the most important challenges facing Egyptian agriculture and food security. Egypt is considered a water-stressed region, with about 150 mm of rain falling only on the northern coast and a 50% shortage of the Nile’s water resource. The proper handling of water, energy, food and ecosystem (WEFE nexus) may alleviate these conflictions among limited resources.

The objectives of the present studies were to elucidate the proper cropping pattern/s and cultural practices that may be used to maximize agricultural productions, land equivalent ratio (LER), and irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE) of corn as a major summer crop. The intercropping farming systems of soybean/mung bean as legume crops with corn accompanying to lower inputs than traditional/recommended ones were investigated in upper and northern Egypt.

Three field trials were carried out using Split-split plot arrangements of RCBD in Al-Minia (2021 and 2022 seasons) and Nubaryia (2022 season), representing the upper and northern locations. respectively.

The main plots were assigned to two irrigation regimes as recommended (7860 m³ ha^-1) vs. saving regime (5895 m³ ha^-1 as 75% of recommendation), as well as traditional ridges (distanced 70 cm) vs. bed ones (140 cm wide). First, split plots were occupied by cropping systems (intercropping vs. solid of each corn or soybean and mung bean). Foliar application and rhizobium inoculation were adopted for compensating the lower applied N fertilizers.

The intercropped corn/legumes reflected in higher land equivalent ratios (LERs) ranged from 1.32 to 2.287 (= 32.0- 128.7% progress). Nutrient foliar was reflected on the higher LERs than those of soil applications which were pronounced under the normal watering regime rather than the water saving one. Cropping patterns in wider ridges (Bed) were found in either solid or intercropping upgraded irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE), for which we recorded 2.993 and 3.558 of solid farming and intercropping, respectively, compared to the 0.318 of narrow ridges.

There is insufficient information showing that Enterobacter species that promote plant development are important for improving plants' vegetative growth. Enterobacter hormaechei, in contrast to Enterobacter cloacae, has received little research attention while having enormous promise for promoting plant development. This study conducts a thorough genomic exploration of Enterobacter hormaechei OYAS29, a potential plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium (PGPR) isolated from an undisturbed and uncontaminated farmland at the Federal University Oye Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. Through the application of cutting-edge sequencing technologies and bioinformatics evaluations, we decipher Enterobacter hormaechei OYAS29’s genomic characteristics, highlighting its genetic makeup that promotes sustainable plant growth. The genome falls within the superkingdom Bacteria and contains 2 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, 71 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and 4,083 protein-coding sequences (CDS). The annotation included 3,657 proteins with assigned functions, alongside 426 hypothetical proteins. Among the functional proteins, 851 were associated with KEGG pathways, 979 had Gene Ontology (GO) assignments, and 1,203 possessed Enzyme Commission (EC) numbers. Additionally, We found several genes, including trpABCFDRS, Ipdc, patB/malY, trps, and mtr, which are linked to the synthesis of IAA and tryptophan synthase, the nar and nir gene cluster (narHLKX, nirDB, and nasR) linked to nitrate reduction and nitrite oxidation. Given its pristine environmental origin and distinct genomic makeup, Enterobacter hormaechei OYAS29 is a promising ally for ecologically friendly and successful plant growth promotion in agricultural contexts. This study advances sustainable agriculture techniques that are adapted to regional ecosystems and contribute to the increasing body of knowledge on indigenous PGPRs.

The production of citrus, particularly Persian lime (Citrus latifolia Tanaka), is crucial for Mexico's economy, standing out due to its high demand in both local and international markets. Mexico is the second-largest producer of lime globally, with the state of Veracruz being the national leader in production. Although conventional cultivation relies on chemical fertilizers, organic production has gained significance due to its environmental and health benefits.

The study was conducted in the central region of Veracruz between January 2022 and March 2023, covering the municipalities of Cuitláhuac, Cotaxtla, Carrillo Puerto, Tlalixcoyan, and Tierra Blanca. A total of 119 producers participated, located through a citrus cooperative. A structured questionnaire was applied to gather data on the producers' profiles, orchard characteristics, and the use of organic fertilizers. Statistical analysis was performed using R software, employing Chi-squared tests to assess the relationship between sociodemographic variables and the use of organic fertilizers.

The producers' profile indicates that 83% are men, predominantly between 31 and 60 years old, with the majority having a high school education (45%). Additionally, 22% of producers implement technological packages. Most orchards are small, with 76% ranging from 1 to 5 hectares, and the plantations are young (71% being 1 to 3 years old). Regarding organic fertilization practices, 66% use sulfocalcic broth and supermagro, while 61% employ bovine compost. Producers with higher educational levels and access to technical assistance showed a greater tendency to apply organic fertilizers.

Persian lime production in Veracruz is primarily in the hands of small producers with young orchards. Although conventional methods dominate, there is a growing inclination towards more sustainable practices, which could promote greater sustainability in Persian lime production in Veracruz, Mexico.

Climate change and land use change are recognized as major global challenges owing to their direct impact on water resources and natural ecosystems. The deforestation process leads to the conversion of forest areas into other land uses, intensifying climate change through increased atmospheric CO2 and modified weather patterns while contributing to soil erosion and biodiversity loss. In this context, effective measures against deforestation require a thorough understanding of the spatiotemporal evolution of forest areas to mitigate its environmental impacts at different scales. Therefore, this study focuses on the Haouzia forest, located north of the city of El Jadida in Morocco, where rapid urban growth has exerted increased pressure on forests and agricultural land. Urban sprawl results in the significant conversion of forest land into urban areas, threatening local biodiversity and disrupting natural ecosystems. To assess and monitor these changes, we adopted an integrated approach combining the Google Earth Engine (GEE), geographic information systems (GIS) and field observations. GEE enables processing large quantities of high-resolution satellite images, facilitating the mapping and monitoring of deforestation over time. Simultaneously, field observations allowed us to understand the local dynamics of land use change better. As a result, we can confirm that the degradation of the Haouzia forest effectively reflects the impact of climate change on land use dynamics and urban expansion in this area. These results underline the importance of this multidisciplinary approach to understanding forest degradation processes and developing more effective and sustainable policies and management practices. Based on accurate and timely data on the state of forest lands and the pressures exerted by urbanization, this study aims to provide policymakers, managers, and local stakeholders with a useful database for preserving local forest ecosystems while promoting sustainable urban development.

This study was conducted in the Doukkala plain (western of Morocco), which has a semi-arid climate , to assess SOM levels and provide scenarios for remediating SOM depletion by rationally adding an organic amendment (manure or compost). Therefore, we exploited the potential of GIS and remote sensing techniques to calculate the recommended organic amendment requirement for each soil. SOM prediction was performed using a 15 m resolution pan-sharpened Landsat-8 image and an artificial neural network model. Furthermore, we estimated the organic amendments using an approach for a three-year crop rotation (3YCR). In addition, we set a target SOM level content of 1.5%, suitable for the main crops in the study area. The organic amendment was determined at 10% of organic matter over the 3YCR. The produced digital maps were aggregated into homogeneous areas to facilitate interpretation and use by local agricultural advisors. The findings demonstrate that vertisols, isohumic, immature, and fersiallitic soils lose an average of 0.59, 0.77, 1.04, and 1.09 t/ha/year, respectively. Fersiallitic and immature soils lose the most SOM due to their high mineralizing capacity, while vertisols and isohumic soils lose the least due to their low mineralizing potential. The global loss was estimated at an average of 0.80 t/ha/year. To restore the soils to 1.5% of SOM, the results indicate an average amendment of about 31 and 14 t/ha per 3YCR (with returning crop residue) and 47 and 21 t/ha per 3YCR (without returning) for manure and compost application, respectively. Returning crop residue to soil was expected to contribute 4.72 t/ha of SOM per 3YCR on average. Finally, aggregating the results into homogeneous areas could simplify the communication of recommendations while keeping roughly the same results as detailed maps. The adopted method and obtained results highlight the important role of geospatial tools in developing appropriate fertility plans and recommendations for other regions.