Agronomy

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14 pages, 2504 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Agronomic Comparisons of Heirloom and Modern Processing Tomato Genotypes Cultivated in Organic and Conventional Farming Systems

by Domenico Ronga, Federica Caradonia, Antonella Vitti and Enrico Francia

Agronomy 2021, 11(2), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11020349 - 15 Feb 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2186

Abstract

The yield and fruit quality of processing tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) have increased markedly over the past decades. The aim of this work was to assess the effects of the organic (OFS) and conventional farming systems (CFS) on the main agronomic parameters [...] Read more.

The yield and fruit quality of processing tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) have increased markedly over the past decades. The aim of this work was to assess the effects of the organic (OFS) and conventional farming systems (CFS) on the main agronomic parameters involved in processing tomato yield components and fruit quality traits of heirloom and modern genotypes. Marketable yield increased from heirloom to modern genotypes, both in OFS and in CFS, showing a difference of ≈20 t per hectare in favor of CFS. Total fruit yield (TY) was not improved from heirloom to modern assessed genotypes, and a difference of ≈35 t per hectare was observed in favor of CFS. In both farming systems, the highest marketable yield of modern genotypes was due to a higher number of fruits per plant, harvest index, nitrogen agronomic efficiency (NAE), and fruit water productivity. Moreover, the main growth parameters involved in the yield differences between OFS and CFS were the number of leaves per plant, the average fruit weight, the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), and NAE. It is noteworthy that fruit quality improvement in terms of color and brix per hectare was paralleled by a decrease of tomato pH in both farming systems. According to our results, we conclude that to reduce the current yield gap between OFS and CFS, agronomic and breeding efforts should be undertaken to increase leaf area index, fruit number per plant, and NAE for better genotype adaptation to organic farming systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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14 pages, 758 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Organic and Conventional Farming on Grain Yield and Protein Composition of Chickpea Genotypes

by Michele Andrea De Santis, Michele Rinaldi, Valeria Menga, Pasquale Codianni, Luigia Giuzio, Clara Fares and Zina Flagella

Agronomy 2021, 11(2), 191; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11020191 - 20 Jan 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2321

Abstract

Chickpea is a key crop in sustainable cropping systems and for its nutritional value. Studies on agronomic and genetic influences on chickpea protein composition are missing. In order to obtain a deep insight into the genetic response of chickpeas to management in relation [...] Read more.

Chickpea is a key crop in sustainable cropping systems and for its nutritional value. Studies on agronomic and genetic influences on chickpea protein composition are missing. In order to obtain a deep insight into the genetic response of chickpeas to management in relation to agronomic and quality traits, a two-year field trial was carried out with eight chickpea genotypes under an organic and conventional cropping system. Protein composition was assessed by SDS-PAGE in relation to the main fractions (vicilin, convicilin, legumin, lectin, 2s-albumin). Crop response was highly influenced by year and presumably also by management, with a −50% decrease in grain yield under organic farming, mainly due to a reduction in seed number per m². No effect of crop management was observed on protein content, despite significant differences in terms of protein composition. The ratio between the major globulins, 7s vicilin and 11s legumin, showed a negative relationship with grain yield and was found to be higher under organic farming. Among genotypes, black-seed Nero Senise was characterized by the highest productivity and water-holding capacity, associated with low lectin content. These findings highlight the importance of the choice of chickpea genotypes for cultivation under organic farming in relation to both agronomic performance and technological and health quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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12 pages, 1133 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Different Fertilization Strategies on the Grain Yield of Field Peas (Pisum sativum L.) under Conventional and Conservation Tillage

by Milan Macák, Eva Candráková, Ivica Đalović, P. V. Vara Prasad, Muhammad Farooq, Joanna Korczyk-Szabó, Peter Kováčik and Vladimír Šimanský

Agronomy 2020, 10(11), 1728; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10111728 - 06 Nov 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2334

Abstract

Weather, tillage, and fertilization are the major factors affecting the grain yield of field peas (Pisum sativum L.). However, the impact of tillage and fertilization on yield is not well understood. Therefore, this experiment was initiated in 1999. In this manuscript, we [...] Read more.

Weather, tillage, and fertilization are the major factors affecting the grain yield of field peas (Pisum sativum L.). However, the impact of tillage and fertilization on yield is not well understood. Therefore, this experiment was initiated in 1999. In this manuscript, we report the data recorded during the period of 2011–2015 to quantify the impacts on yield. Field peas were planted in seedbeds prepared through conventional tillage (CT)—moldboard ploughing to the depth of 0.22 m; and minimum tillage (MT)—disking to the depth of 0.12 m. The crop received three fertilization treatments, including zero fertilization (control); nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK) mineral fertilization treatment; and NPK mineral fertilization plus the incorporation of pre-crop biomass. Five years’ average data indicated the highest yield on fertilized treatments (2.85–2.98 t ha⁻¹ vs. 2.66 t ha⁻¹) regardless of the tillage. When comparing the yield of fertilized treatments, the yield under CT (2.98 t ha⁻¹) was significantly higher than that of MT (2.85 t ha⁻¹). However, on non-fertilized treatments (less fertile plots), a higher yield was recorded under MT (2.71 t ha⁻¹) compared with CT (2.40 t ha⁻¹). Overall, the results of this study suggest that fertilizer application together with incorporation of the above-ground biomass of the previous crop may help sustain pea grain yield. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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16 pages, 1182 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comparative Study of Organic and Conventional Management on the Rhizosphere Microbiome, Growth and Grain Quality Traits of Tritordeum

by Giovanna Visioli, Marta Lauro, Teofilo Vamerali, Cristian Dal Cortivo, Anna Panozzo, Silvia Folloni, Cristina Piazza and Roberto Ranieri

Agronomy 2020, 10(11), 1717; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10111717 - 05 Nov 2020

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2728

Abstract

Tritordeum is a novel hexaploid cereal derived from the cross between a wild Chilean barley species (Hordeum chilense Roem. et Schultz) and durum wheat (Triticum turgidum ssp. durum Desf.) that is potentially of great interest for human nutrition. In this study, [...] Read more.

Tritordeum is a novel hexaploid cereal derived from the cross between a wild Chilean barley species (Hordeum chilense Roem. et Schultz) and durum wheat (Triticum turgidum ssp. durum Desf.) that is potentially of great interest for human nutrition. In this study, a commercial and an experimental Tritordeum cultivar were analyzed in comparison with a reference durum wheat under conventional and organic management. We demonstrate that Tritordeum is better adapted to organic farming through an increase in the below-ground rhizosphere community of the Bacteroidetes phylum, which includes many bacteria species known to exert beneficial effects on plants, particularly for root growth. Despite a considerably lower grain yield, Tritordeum had better quality traits than durum wheat, particularly under organic farming vs. conventional management, with respect to total protein contents, high molecular weight glutenin subunits, antioxidant free phenols and nutrients (i.e., calcium, potassium, sulphur, iron, and zinc), depending on the cultivar. We conclude that Tritordeum is a promising cereal in light of its quality traits and adaptability to sustainable crop management practices, such as organic farming, although further improvement in yield potential should be pursued by breeding and by optimising the cultivation method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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16 pages, 3044 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does Conversion to Organic Farming Impact Vineyards Yield? A Diachronic Study in Southeastern France

by Anne Merot and Nathalie Smits

Agronomy 2020, 10(11), 1626; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10111626 - 22 Oct 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2453

Abstract

Given the need to reduce pesticide use and rising consumer demand for healthy food, organic vineyard areas have increased since 2000. Converting to organic farming requires numerous changes in pest and disease management, fertilization and weeding techniques. These changes can lead to difficulties [...] Read more.

Given the need to reduce pesticide use and rising consumer demand for healthy food, organic vineyard areas have increased since 2000. Converting to organic farming requires numerous changes in pest and disease management, fertilization and weeding techniques. These changes can lead to difficulties in sustaining yields. Some studies have highlighted higher yields in conventional farming than in organic agriculture, but knowledge on yield dynamics during conversion is lacking. A set of 26 plots, under conventional management and in conversion to organic farming, were monitored from 2013 to 2016 in southern France throughout the three-year conversion phase to investigate the dynamics of grape yield and yield components. The survey showed that the yield and yield components remained similar levels as in conventional farming from the third year of conversion. However, the first two years of conversion were a transitional and less successful period during which yield and yield components decreased. Based on the in-depth analysis of the yield components, we have put forwards hypotheses on the processes at play and technical advice that could support winegrowers as they convert to organic farming. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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15 pages, 1751 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Organic Carrot (Daucus carota L.) Production Has an Advantage over Conventional in Quantity as Well as in Quality

by Ingrid Bender, Liina Edesi, Inga Hiiesalu, Anne Ingver, Tanel Kaart, Hedi Kaldmäe, Tiina Talve, Ilmar Tamm and Anne Luik

Agronomy 2020, 10(9), 1420; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10091420 - 18 Sep 2020

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5350

Abstract

Organic production is one of the fastest growing food sectors globally. However, average yield in organic vegetable production is up to 33% lower than in conventional production. This difference could be due to higher fertilization rates in conventional, compared to organic, farming. We [...] Read more.

Organic production is one of the fastest growing food sectors globally. However, average yield in organic vegetable production is up to 33% lower than in conventional production. This difference could be due to higher fertilization rates in conventional, compared to organic, farming. We aimed to compare yield and quality characteristics of carrots produced under equal nitrogen fertilization rates over four years in organic and conventional conditions. We found a 14.5% higher marketable, and 10.0% lower discarded, yield in the organic compared to the average conventional treatments. In addition, carrots managed organically had 14.1% lower nitrate and 10.0% higher vitamin C content than carrots managed conventionally. There were no convincing effects of cultivation system on the nitrogen, total sugar, or dry matter content of carrots. Organically managed carrots were free of pesticide residues, while several residues were found in carrots managed conventionally. Our study reveals that organic management of carrots may exceed that of conventional methods in yield and several quality characteristics, while being free of pesticide residues. Organic fertilizer gave an advantage over mineral fertilizer, when equal rates of nitrogen were used in both production systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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19 pages, 3498 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems on the Yield and Chemical Composition of Three Courgette Cultivars

by Klaudia Kopczyńska, Renata Kazimierczak, Dominika Średnicka-Tober, Anna Szafirowska, Marcin Barański, Ewa Rembiałkowska and Ewelina Hallmann

Agronomy 2020, 10(9), 1341; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10091341 - 06 Sep 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2770

Abstract

Courgette is a popular vegetable belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. It is known for its good adaptation to different weather conditions, although it performs best in a warm and humid climate. Since the yield and various quality characteristics of vegetables are known to [...] Read more.

Courgette is a popular vegetable belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. It is known for its good adaptation to different weather conditions, although it performs best in a warm and humid climate. Since the yield and various quality characteristics of vegetables are known to be strongly influenced by a number of weather, agronomic, and genetic (variety/cultivar) factors, in this study we aimed to compare three cultivars of courgette (Atena, Lajkonik and Soraya) grown in two consecutive growing seasons in the organic and conventional agronomic systems. The concentrations of nitrates, nitrites, carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin, β-carotene) and chlorophylls (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b) in courgette fruits were analyzed by HPLC. The growing season had a predominant effect on the yield as well as the majority of the analyzed compositional parameters of the courgette fruits. The studied cultivars differed significantly in the concentration of lutein, β-carotene, and chlorophylls, although some significant interactions between the cultivar and the growing season were observed. On average, organically grown courgettes were characterized by a significantly higher yield, as well as higher dry matter and chlorophyll content, however, this agronomic system’s effect was not consistent among all the studied cultivars in the two seasons. The study suggests that organic practices have a potential to provide high yields of good quality crops, comparable (or, in the case of some parameters, better) than the conventional, resource-intensive horticulture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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14 pages, 851 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rice Yield Gaps in Smallholder Systems of the Kilombero Floodplain in Tanzania

by Julius Kwesiga, Kristina Grotelüschen, Kalimuthu Senthilkumar, Daniel Neuhoff, Thomas F. Döring and Mathias Becker

Agronomy 2020, 10(8), 1135; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10081135 - 05 Aug 2020

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3750

Abstract

To meet the growing rice demand in Africa, gaps between actual and attainable yields have to be reduced. In Tanzania, this particularly concerns smallholder rain-fed production systems in the floodplains. After quantifying the existing yield gaps, key contributing factors need to be analyzed [...] Read more.

To meet the growing rice demand in Africa, gaps between actual and attainable yields have to be reduced. In Tanzania, this particularly concerns smallholder rain-fed production systems in the floodplains. After quantifying the existing yield gaps, key contributing factors need to be analyzed to improve site-specific management. Field experiments were conducted for three years and in three pedo-hydrological environments (fringe, middle, and center positions) of the Kilombero floodplain to evaluate: (1) The grain yield under farmers’ management (actual yield), (2) yield with the best-recommended management (attainable yield), and (3) the non-limited yield simulated by the APSIM model (potential yield). In the field, we additionally assessed incremental effects of (1) field bunding and soil levelling, (2 and 3) additionally applying of 60 kg N ha⁻¹, as urea or as farmyard manure (FYM), and (4 and 5) incorporating in-situ-grown leguminous green manures. Attainable yields were determined with mineral N application at 120 kg ha⁻¹, additional PK fertilizer and supplemental irrigation. On average across years and positions, the potential, the attainable, and farmers’ actual yields were 11.5, 8.5, and 2.8 t ha⁻¹ indicating a high total yield gap. About 16–38%, 11–20%, and 28–42% of this gap could be attributed to non-controllable yield-reducing (i.e., pest and diseases), yield-limiting (i.e., water and nutrient deficiencies), and yield-defining factors (i.e., poor soil and crop management), respectively. Results indicate a closure of the exploitable yield gap (differences between attainable and farmers’ actual yields) by up to 6.5 t ha⁻¹ (nearly 60% of the potential yield). This exploitable yield gap was larger in 2016 than in 2017. Also, the gap was larger in the water-limited fringe and middle than in the frequently submerged center positions. Simple field bunds combined with land levelling could close 15–35% of the exploitable yield gap, depending on field positions and year. FYM or green manures were less effective than mineral N; however, in 2017 and in the wetter middle and center positions, they reduced the yield gap by >50%. We conclude that yield gaps in rainfed rice in Kilombero floodplain are large, but that a site- and system-specific adaptation of crop management can close much of the exploitable yield gap and increase grain yields by 0.7–4.8 t ha⁻¹. Similar benefits may be obtained in other hydrologically variable floodplain environments of the region and beyond. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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18 pages, 1908 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Conversion to Organic Farming on Pest and Disease Control in French Vineyards

by Anne Merot, Marc Fermaud, Marie Gosme and Nathalie Smits

Agronomy 2020, 10(7), 1047; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10071047 - 20 Jul 2020

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3674

Abstract

Since 2006, an increasing number of French vineyards have chosen to convert to organic farming. One major change in vineyard practices includes replacing chemical pesticides with copper and sulfur-based products in line with Council Regulation (EC) No. 834/2007. This change can make overall [...] Read more.

Since 2006, an increasing number of French vineyards have chosen to convert to organic farming. One major change in vineyard practices includes replacing chemical pesticides with copper and sulfur-based products in line with Council Regulation (EC) No. 834/2007. This change can make overall management and pest and disease control more difficult and potentially lead to yield losses. From 2013 to 2016, a network of 48 vineyard plots, in southern France, under conventional management and in conversion to organic farming were monitored throughout the three-year conversion phase to investigate the grapevine phytosanitary management of four major pests and diseases and variations in control efficiency. The severity of downy and powdery mildew, grape berry moths, and Botrytis bunch rot were assessed and linked to the protection strategy. The findings showed that pests and diseases were controlled in the third year of conversion at similar efficiency levels as in conventional farming. However, the first two years of conversion were a transitional and less successful period during which higher incidences of cryptogamic diseases were observed. This demonstrates a need for winegrowers to receive more in-depth technical advice and support, especially on pest and disease control, during this critical transition period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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16 pages, 427 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chemical Properties of Soil in Four-Field Crop Rotations under Organic and Conventional Farming Systems

by Cezary A. Kwiatkowski and Elżbieta Harasim

Agronomy 2020, 10(7), 1045; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10071045 - 20 Jul 2020

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4726

Abstract

In agriculture, the farming system significantly affects chemical soil properties. The organic system, which is based among others on the use of natural (organic) fertilizers, promotes increased soil contents of humus, organic C, and micronutrients. The conventional system, in turn, may cause soil [...] Read more.

In agriculture, the farming system significantly affects chemical soil properties. The organic system, which is based among others on the use of natural (organic) fertilizers, promotes increased soil contents of humus, organic C, and micronutrients. The conventional system, in turn, may cause soil acidification if high rates of mineral (particularly nitrogen) fertilization are used. The crop plant species also modifies soil chemistry by providing different (quantitatively and qualitatively) crop residues. The study was conducted over the period 2013–2016 in Czesławice (Lublin Region, Poland). The aim of this study was to determine the content of some chemical components determining the quality of loess soil on which four plant species were grown under organic and conventional farming systems. This research involved the determination of some parameters of the chemical composition of the soil: soil pH, total sorption capacity, humus content, macronutrient (P, K, Mg) and micronutrient (B, Cu, Mn, Zn) content, organic carbon, and total nitrogen content. The content of different forms of nitrogen, N-NO₃ and N-NH₄, was also determined. The experimental design included two crop rotations (organic and conventional) in which identical plant species were grown: potato—winter wheat—field bean—spring barley. The experiment was established on loess soil with the grain size distribution of silt loam and classified as good wheat soil complex (soil class II). It was carried out as a split-plot design in three replicates, and the area of a single plot was 80 m². Soil samples were taken using a soil sampling tube from an area of 0.20 m² (from the 0–25 cm layer) in each plot at the end of the growing season of the specific crops grown. Over the four year study period, it was found that the organic system contributed to an increased soil content of magnesium, boron, copper, manganese, zinc, organic carbon, and total nitrogen. Moreover, organic cropping promoted more favorable soil pH and higher soil humus content. Organic cropping significantly improved the total sorption capacity of the soil compared to conventional cultivation. Moreover, the organic system contributed to a higher soil content of nitrogen in the form of N-NH₄ and its lower content in the form of N-NO₃. Under the conventional system, in turn, a higher soil phosphorus and potassium content was observed. To sum up, the study confirmed the assumed hypothesis that the organic farming system would contribute to an improvement in the chemical quality indicators of loess soil. Regardless of the cropping system, potato and field bean had the most beneficial effect on soil chemistry, whereas cereal crops showed the weakest effect. Winter wheat and spring barley had an effect on significantly lower total sorption capacity of the soil and a significantly lower soil content of N-NO₃ and N-NH₄. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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10 pages, 427 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Cropping Method and Botanical Form on Seed Yielding and Chemical Composition of Chickpeas (Cicer arietinum L.) Grown under Organic System

by Jerzy Księżak and Jolanta Bojarszczuk

Agronomy 2020, 10(6), 801; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10060801 - 04 Jun 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2975

Abstract

A field study was conducted at the Agricultural Experimental Station in Grabów in Poland between 2017–2018. This study evaluated seed yield and chemical composition of chickpeas (Cicer arietinum L.) under organic conditions, either growing as a sole crop, or with barley ( [...] Read more.

A field study was conducted at the Agricultural Experimental Station in Grabów in Poland between 2017–2018. This study evaluated seed yield and chemical composition of chickpeas (Cicer arietinum L.) under organic conditions, either growing as a sole crop, or with barley (Hordeum vulgare) or oats (Avena sativa L.) as supporting plants. Two chickpea types were included in experiment scheme: kabuli and desi. The experiment was established as a split-plot design with four replicates. The study showed that a higher total seed yields of both forms of chickpeas grown in both pure sowing and with spring cereals was obtained in 2018 than 2017. The higher yield in this study period was the result of a greater number of pods, seeds, and higher weight of the chickpea seed and cereal grains on a plant. Higher yields were noted in chickpeas grown with supporting crops than in sole cropping. Significantly better thousand seed weight of both botanical forms of chickpeas was observed in chickpeas grown in sole cropping than with supporting plants. Regardless of cropping method, the desi form was characterized by higher yields than the kabuli type, and its percentage in seed yields of chickpeas grown with cereals was higher than the kabuli type. The highest seed yields were obtained in chickpeas grown with oats. Neither chickpea type had a significant effect on the height of cereal plant, the number of grains on each plant, the number of producing shoots or thousandgrainweight of the two cereal species. Regardless of cropping method, the highest content of fiber and fat was determined in desi-type seeds, while the highest protein and phosphorus content was characterized kabuli-type seeds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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22 pages, 3173 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Management Drives Differences in Nutrient Dynamics in Conventional and Organic Four-Year Crop Rotation Systems

by Sharon L. Weyers, David W. Archer, Jane M.F. Johnson and Alan R. Wilts

Agronomy 2020, 10(6), 764; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10060764 - 27 May 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2412

Abstract

Application of exogenous N fertilizers provides agronomic benefits but carries environmental liabilities. Managing benefits and liabilities of N-based fertilizers in conventional (CNV) and organic (ORG) cropping systems might be improved with better knowledge of nutrient dynamics, the generation of intrinsic N, and maintenance [...] Read more.

Application of exogenous N fertilizers provides agronomic benefits but carries environmental liabilities. Managing benefits and liabilities of N-based fertilizers in conventional (CNV) and organic (ORG) cropping systems might be improved with better knowledge of nutrient dynamics, the generation of intrinsic N, and maintenance of soil organic matter. This study evaluated mineral N dynamics, yields, residue inputs, and change in soil organic C (SOC) and total N (TN) in strip-tilled, four-year crop rotations [corn (Zea mays L.)-soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.)-wheat under-seeded with alfalfa (Triticum aestivum L./Medicago sativa L.)-alfalfa] over eight years of production under CNV management using mineral-N (NO₃NH₄) and chemical pesticides or ORG management using organic-N (animal manure) and no chemical treatments. In ORG, N availability increased over time, but did not benefit ORG yields due to poor control of insects and weeds. Corn, soybean, and wheat grain yields were 1.9 to 2.7 times greater in CNV. In general, SOC was lost in CNV but did not change in ORG. Cumulative yield N removals exceeded cumulative fertilizer-N inputs by an average of 78% in CNV and 64% in ORG. These results indicated ORG management supported N availability by generating intrinsic N. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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21 pages, 2142 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Impact Assessment of Organic vs. Integrated Olive-Oil Systems in Mediterranean Context

by Angela Maffia, Maria Pergola, Assunta Maria Palese and Giuseppe Celano

Agronomy 2020, 10(3), 416; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10030416 - 19 Mar 2020

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5459

Abstract

Olive oil is a widely used consumer product, so producers and consumers are increasingly looking for sustainable productions. The olive-oil production chain requires continuous improvements to gradually replace the most environmentally impactful practices with others that are more sustainable. This research aimed to [...] Read more.

Olive oil is a widely used consumer product, so producers and consumers are increasingly looking for sustainable productions. The olive-oil production chain requires continuous improvements to gradually replace the most environmentally impactful practices with others that are more sustainable. This research aimed to evaluate the environmental impacts of the production of olive oil in the Campania region by comparing six olive oil production systems (two organic certified, two integrated, and two organic—hobbyists). The environmental impacts for the production of one liter of oil—from field cultivation to oil distribution—were quantified by applying the life cycle assessment methodology. Impact categories were calculated according to the CML method, with particular attention paid to global warming potential. The production of one liter of oil caused CO₂eq emissions ranging from 0.22 to 3.39 kg. The least impacting cultivation method was the hobby one, which did not use pesticides and carried out organic fertilization. On average, packaging accounted for 60% of total impacts; consequently, the materials and formats choice by farms had strong effects on the environmental sustainability of oil production. This research highlights the problem of expressing sustainability judgments in agriculture, since there are no reference standards/targets that set limits beyond which agricultural productions are no longer sustainable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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15 pages, 1333 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Organic vs. Conventional Agricultural Practices on Selected Quality Features of Eight Potato Cultivars

by Renata Kazimierczak, Dominika Średnicka-Tober, Ewelina Hallmann, Klaudia Kopczyńska and Krystyna Zarzyńska

Agronomy 2019, 9(12), 799; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy9120799 - 23 Nov 2019

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 5192

Abstract

An organic agricultural system based on natural methods and means of production is an alternative to intensive agriculture. The available research suggests that organic crops, in comparison to the conventional ones, are richer in phenolics and other antioxidants while containing less undesirable pesticide [...] Read more.

An organic agricultural system based on natural methods and means of production is an alternative to intensive agriculture. The available research suggests that organic crops, in comparison to the conventional ones, are richer in phenolics and other antioxidants while containing less undesirable pesticide residues and nitrates. The aim of this study was to determine concentrations of polyphenols, lutein, vitamin C, and nitrates in eight potato cultivars (Mazur, Justa, Lawenda, Lech, Tacja, Laskana, Otolia, Magnolia) grown organically and conventionally in a controlled field experiment in Poland. Significant differences between potato tubers of the tested cultivars coming from organic and conventional production were identified for the majority of parameters. Higher concentrations of nitrates and lutein were found in conventional compared to the organic tubers, while organic potatoes were, on average, richer in phenolic compounds. Among the tested cultivars, Magnolia, Otolia, and Laskara were richest in vitamin C and phenolics. Otolia and Laskara also accumulated the highest levels of nitrates. If further confirmed, these observations might be of importance for the producers and consumers, who increasingly search for foods from sustainable and well-controlled agricultural systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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19 pages, 2247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Performances of Durum Wheat Varieties Under Conventional and No-Chemical Input Management Systems in a Semiarid Mediterranean Environment

by Umberto Anastasi, Sebastiano Andrea Corinzia, Salvatore Luciano Cosentino and Danilo Scordia

Agronomy 2019, 9(12), 788; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy9120788 - 22 Nov 2019

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3086

Abstract

Chemical input reduction in agricultural systems is strongly demanded with the aim to improve the quality and the safety of food/feed products in an environmental sustainable perspective. Durum wheat is the most important food crop widely grown across the Mediterranean basin. However, the [...] Read more.

Chemical input reduction in agricultural systems is strongly demanded with the aim to improve the quality and the safety of food/feed products in an environmental sustainable perspective. Durum wheat is the most important food crop widely grown across the Mediterranean basin. However, the choice of tailored-genotypes can represent a key strategy in resource limiting conditions. The present study investigated the performance of fourteen commercial durum wheat varieties, in terms of morphologic, productive and quality traits under two cropping systems, conventional (CH) and no-chemical input (NC), for two growing seasons. The NC cropping system affected plant phenology, grain yield, and its components (i.e., ears m⁻² and test weight). However, the negative influence exerted by the NC depended by the growing season (significant interaction between growing season and cropping system), which in turn affected the production behavior of genotypes (significant interaction between growing season and genotype). The additive main effect and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) analysis showed that genotype (G) effect explained the 4.3% of the total variability, the environment (E) the 71.7% and the G × E interaction the 9.4%. The AMMI stability value (ASV) indicated that Meridiano, Claudio, Saragolla, and Normanno were the most stable genotypes among environments (combination of years and management systems). An integrated environmental assessment, including a soil nitrogen balance, can help to provide a more holistic approach to the sustainability of the no-chemical Mediterranean cropping systems based on cereal-legume rotation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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20 pages, 1293 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Organic Manure Coupled with Inorganic Fertilizer: An Approach for the Sustainable Production of Rice by Improving Soil Properties and Nitrogen Use Efficiency

by Anas Iqbal, Liang He, Aziz Khan, Shangqin Wei, Kashif Akhtar, Izhar Ali, Saif Ullah, Fazal Munsif, Quan Zhao and Ligeng Jiang

Agronomy 2019, 9(10), 651; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy9100651 - 18 Oct 2019

Cited by 103 | Viewed by 11778

Abstract

The current farming system is heavily reliant on chemical fertilizers, which negatively affect soil health, the environment, and crop productivity. Improving crop production on a sustainable basis is a challenging issue in the present agricultural system. To address this issue, we assumed that [...] Read more.

The current farming system is heavily reliant on chemical fertilizers, which negatively affect soil health, the environment, and crop productivity. Improving crop production on a sustainable basis is a challenging issue in the present agricultural system. To address this issue, we assumed that the combined use of organic manure and inorganic nitrogen (N) fertilizers can improve rice grain yield and soil properties without the expense of the environment. This study explores the combined effects of cattle manure (CM), poultry manure (PM), and chemical fertilizer (CF) on soil properties, rice growth, physiology, and grain yield and quality. Six treatments in the following combinations were included: T₁—no N fertilizer; T₂—100% CF; T₃—60% CM + 40% CF; T₄—30% CM + 70% CF; T₅—60% PM + 40% CF; and T₆—30% PM + 70% CF. Results showed that across the seasons, treatment T₆ increased the net photosynthesis rate, total biomass, grain yield, and amylose content by 23%, 90%, 95%, and 10%, respectively, compared with control. This increment in net photosynthetic rate and growth was the result of 24%, 14%, 19%, and 20% higher total root length, root surface area, root volume, and root diameter, respectively. Improvements in these attributes further enhanced the grain yield and nitrogen use efficiency of rice. No significant difference between T₄ and T₆ was observed. The correlation analysis also confirmed that root morphological traits were positively correlated with grain yield, N uptake, and biomass accumulation. Similarly, improvement in grain yield and NUE was also associated with improved soil properties, i.e., bulk density, soil porosity, soil organic carbon, and total N under combined organic and inorganic N fertilizers treatment. Conclusively, the integration of 30% N from PM or CM with 70% N from CF (urea) is a promising option not only for higher grain yield and quality of rice but also for improved soil health. This study provides a sustainable nutrient management strategy to improve crop yield with high nutrient use efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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14 pages, 253 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Agronomic Comparisons of Organic and Conventional Soybean with Recommended and High Inputs during the First 4 Years of Organic Management

by William Cox, Jerome Cherney and Mark Sorrells

Agronomy 2019, 9(10), 602; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy9100602 - 01 Oct 2019

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2196

Abstract

Organic soybean hectares will increase in the Northeast United States of America (USA) because of demand by the expanding organic dairy industry. We evaluated organic and conventional soybean with recommended and high inputs (high seeding rate + organic seed treatment in organic system) [...] Read more.

Organic soybean hectares will increase in the Northeast United States of America (USA) because of demand by the expanding organic dairy industry. We evaluated organic and conventional soybean with recommended and high inputs (high seeding rate + organic seed treatment in organic system) from 2015 to 2018 in New York, USA to determine if high input management could reduce the yield penalty in organic soybean. Organic compared with conventional soybean yielded similarly in 2015 and 2016 but ≈ 11% lower in 2017 and 2018. Organic compared with conventional soybean had similar early and harvest plant densities in 2017 but lower early and harvest plant densities in 2018 when both densities correlated with yield (r = 0.33 and 0.36, respectively). Weed densities in organic soybean were low (<0.77 weeds/m² in all years). Nevertheless, organic compared with conventional soybean in 3 of 4 years had greater weed densities, which had significant negative correlations with yield in 2015 (r = −0.36), 2017 (r = −0.53) and 2018 (r = −0.36). Organic compared with conventional soybean mostly had fewer pods/plant and greater seed weight but yield components showed no consistent correlations with yield. Organic soybean had similar weed densities and yield with recommended and high input management in all years indicating that growers should probably plant organic soybean at recommended seeding rates (370,500 seeds/ha) during the first 4 years of organic production under similar environmental conditions of this study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

19 pages, 941 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acrylamide-Formation Potential of Cereals: What Role Does the Agronomic Management System Play?

by Falko Stockmann, Ernst Albrecht Weber, Benjamin Mast, Pat Schreiter, Nikolaus Merkt, Wilhelm Claupein and Simone Graeff-Hönninger

Agronomy 2019, 9(10), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy9100584 - 26 Sep 2019

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2456

Abstract

As bakery products contribute considerably to the daily intake of the carcinogen acting substance acrylamide (AA), the aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the management system (conventional vs. organic farming) on AA precursor levels of free asparagine (Asn) across [...] Read more.

As bakery products contribute considerably to the daily intake of the carcinogen acting substance acrylamide (AA), the aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the management system (conventional vs. organic farming) on AA precursor levels of free asparagine (Asn) across different cultivars of the cereal species, namely winter wheat (Triticum aestivum), winter spelt (Triticum aestivum ssp. spelta) and winter rye (Secale cereale) with simultaneous consideration of gained grain yields and flour qualities. For this purpose, orthogonal field trials were established at two sites in Southwest Germany over two growing seasons (2006–2007 and 2007–2008). The results indicated a significant impact of the management system on free Asn contents in white flour. Across all species, free Asn contents in the white flour was 26% lower under organic compared to conventional farming. The impact of the management system on individual cultivars was obvious with a maximum reduction in free Asn contents of 50% in wheat cultivars if organically produced (e.g., for cultivars Ludwig, Privileg, Capo). For spelt, a significant impact of the management system was only found in 2008 with a reduction in free Asn of up to 25% if organically produced. Across both cropping systems, cultivar Franckenkorn reached the lowest levels of free Asn. For rye, a significant impact of the management system was observed only in 2007 with 33% higher Asn amounts in the conventional management system. Independent of the cropping system, rye reached the highest levels of free Asn followed by wheat and spelt. Depending on species, there was also an impact of the two systems on crude protein. The organically cropped wheat had a significantly lower level, but this was not observed for spelt and for rye only in 2007. The possible reason for the low free Asn content in the organically produced wheat flour could partially be the lower crude protein amount. Furthermore, the results indicated that lower AA contents in bakery products can be achieved by proper selection of species (e.g., 66% lower if rye is replaced by wheat) and cultivars. With an appropriate choice of the cultivar, a reduction of up to 65% was possible within wheat, along with a reduction of 44% within spelt and 12.5% within rye. In summary, the results indicated that organically produced wheat especially offers the opportunity to significantly lower the AA potential of bread and bread rolls by the choice of raw materials low in free Asn. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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13 pages, 219 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Economic Responses of Maize, Soybean, and Wheat in Three Rotations under Conventional and Organic Systems

by William Cox, John J. Hanchar, Jerome Cherney and Mark Sorrells

Agronomy 2019, 9(8), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy9080424 - 02 Aug 2019

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2520

Abstract

Low prices have prompted growers to contemplate transitioning to an organic system. We evaluated red clover-maize-soybean-wheat (Cl-M-S-W), maize-soybean (M-S-M-S), and soybean-wheat/red clover-maize-soybean (S-W/Cl-M-S) rotations in organic and conventional systems in New York, USA from 2015 to 2018 to identify profitable organic practices. Organic [...] Read more.

Low prices have prompted growers to contemplate transitioning to an organic system. We evaluated red clover-maize-soybean-wheat (Cl-M-S-W), maize-soybean (M-S-M-S), and soybean-wheat/red clover-maize-soybean (S-W/Cl-M-S) rotations in organic and conventional systems in New York, USA from 2015 to 2018 to identify profitable organic practices. Organic compared with conventional maize in 2017 had 14.6% higher yield and $2107/ha higher returns above selected costs in the S-W/Cl-M-S rotation; and had $1007/ha higher returns in the M-S-M-S rotation, despite 3.6% lower yield and higher production costs, because of the organic price premium. Likewise, organic compared with conventional soybean had ~$800 to ~$900/ha higher returns in 2017 and 2018, despite ~10% lower yield and ~$50/ha higher production costs, because of the organic price premium. Organic compared with conventional wheat yielded ~4% higher with $125/ha higher returns, despite ~$435/ha higher production costs. Organic compared with the conventional system had $1018/ha higher returns in the Cl-M-S-W rotation, $1782/ha higher in the M-S-M-S rotation, and $2961/ha higher in the S-W/Cl-M-S rotation in 2017 and 2018. Although returns in 2015 and 2016 (no organic premium) were lower, the organic compared with the conventional system from 2015 to 2018 had $673/ha higher returns in the Cl-M-S-W rotation, $497/ha higher in the M-S-M-S rotation, and $2355/ha higher in the S-W/Cl-M-S rotation indicating that the S-W/Cl-M-S rotation was the most profitable organic rotation during the four-year period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic vs. Conventional Cropping Systems)

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