Low-input cropping systems and efficiency of water and nitrogen use

J. K. Radke, R. W. Andrews, R. R. Janke, S. E. Peters

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

15 Citations (SciVal)

Abstract

This chapter discusses the implications of low-input systems for nitrogen (N) and water-use efficiency. It deals with crop yield efficiency, which refers to the relationship between yield and N application rate, and N recovery efficiency. The chapter focuses on several management strategies that are common, although not necessarily universal, to low input systems. It describes water-use efficiency when discussing the results of the Rodale Research Center experiments. The chapter explains the absence of or minimal use of pesticides in low-input systems. It considers the effects on soil structure and biological activity, and the implications of these effects on N losses and nitrogen-use efficiency (NUE). In order to optimize NUE in low-input systems, a greater understanding of the biological, chemical, and physical processes occurring in low-input systems is needed. Soil organic matter tends to be greater in cropping systems utilizing crop rotations than in continuous cropping, and in systems utilizing animal manures rather than commercial fertilizers.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCropping Strategies for Efficient Use of Water and Nitrogen
Publisherwiley
Pages192-218
Number of pages27
ISBN (Electronic)9780891183174
ISBN (Print)9780891180975
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 1 2015
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Animal manure
  • Low-input cropping experiment
  • Low-input cropping system
  • Management strategy
  • Nitrogen use efficiency
  • Pesticide minimal use
  • Rodale research center
  • Soil process
  • Water-use efficiency

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Engineering
  • General Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Low-input cropping systems and efficiency of water and nitrogen use'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this