Field Crops Research最新文献

{"title":"Grain yield and functional substance content in colored ratoon rice system under low solar radiation stress in southern China","authors":"Shaokun Song ,&nbsp;Heng Zhang ,&nbsp;Long Chen,&nbsp;Yixue Mu,&nbsp;Song Li,&nbsp;Ye Tao,&nbsp;Zaid Ulhassan,&nbsp;Haider Sultan,&nbsp;Lixiao Nie","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110162","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110162","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Context</h3><div>Ratoon rice has great potential for agricultural development in China due to its enhancement of the multiple-cropping index and reduction in the costs of seeds, fertilizers, and land preparation. Currently, growing public health awareness has sparked increased consumers attention in colored rice owing to its high bioactive compounds.Therefore, integrating colored rice into the ratoon rice system could be a promising cultivation strategy. Even so, rice production often struggles with rainy and low light weather in southern China, which poses a challenge to crop growth and yield improvement. However, the effects of low solar radiation stress on the regeneration rate, grain yield, and functional substance content in colored ratoon rice system remain understudied.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>A two-factor field experiment was conducted in 2023 and 2024, involving two colored rice genotypes (Tiandaohongdao II and Suixiangheinuo) and four shading intensities (0 %, 20 %, 40 %, and 60 %) applied during both the main and ratoon seasons, to evaluate the effects of varying shading intensities on the regeneration rate, grain yield, and functional substance content in the colored ratoon rice system.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The regeneration rate and ratoon-to-main crop yield ratio (RMYR) of both red and black rice varieties declined as shading intensity increased. Notably, across varying shading intensities, black rice exhibited higher regeneration rate (1.31) and RMYR (0.46) compared to red rice (1.23 and 0.38, respectively). However, grain anthocyanin, flavonoid, and total phenolic contents, and total antioxidant capacity in red rice grains decreased with increasing shading intensity, whereas in black rice grains, they were increased with the increase in shading intensity in both seasons. Therein, in the main and ratoon seasons, the grain anthocyanin content in black rice under 20 −60 % light shading was 28.51 %-52.72 % and 35.87 %-68.58 % higher than those without shading (971.59 μg g⁻¹ and 705.29 μg g⁻¹, respectively). Comprehensive analysis revealed that black rice exhibited a stronger regeneration rate, larger RMYR, and higher functional substance content under low solar radiation stress in the ratoon rice system.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>It is suggested that black rice varieties were prioritized for adoption in colored ratoon rice systems under low solar radiation stress in southern China.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"334 ","pages":"Article 110162"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2025-09-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145181265","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Exploring optimal crop management practices for high nitrogen fertilizer recovery efficiency of rice in 15N-labeled field studies","authors":"Zhangyi Xue ,&nbsp;Tianyang Zhou ,&nbsp;Zhikang Li ,&nbsp;Yajun Zhang ,&nbsp;Kuanyu Zhu ,&nbsp;Weiyang Zhang ,&nbsp;Zhiqin Wang ,&nbsp;Junfei Gu ,&nbsp;Jianchang Yang","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110164","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110164","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Context and problem</h3><div>Split nitrogen (N) fertilization strategy is popularly adopted in rice cultivation to synchronize soil N supply with crop N demand. Although N fertilizer applied at earlier stages is essential for promoting vigorous early plant growth, it is subject to leaching or volatilization, which may lead to nutrient loss and environmental pollution. Therefore, understanding the fates of basal and topdressing N fertilizers benefits in determining the right amount and timing of N application.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>This study aimed to explore the integration of knowledge about nitrogen fertilizer fate with other crop management practices to improve recovery efficiency (RE).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>There were five treatments: zero nitrogen input (0 N); local farmers’ practices (LFP); and three integrated crop management (ICM) strategies with stepwise additions: ICM1 (increased planting density plus optimized nitrogen rate and ratio); ICM2 (ICM1 + employing alternate wetting and moderate soil drying); and ICM3 (ICM2 + adding organic fertilizers). ¹⁵N-labelled fertilizer was applied at four growth stages: pre-transplanting (PT), early tillering (ET), panicle initiation (PI), and spikelet differentiation (SD). The total RE of nitrogen fertilizer was measured, and the REs of N fertilizers applied at PT, ET, PI and SD were analyzed by applying ¹⁵N-labelled urea.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The 2-year field results showed that the RE of fertilizer N was 23.6–41.3 %, with 23.8–31.2 % of the applied ¹⁵N remaining in the 0–20 cm soil layer at crop maturity. Ammonia volatilization (53.2–76.6 kg N ha⁻¹) is the main source of nitrogen losses, accounting for 47.8–56.1 % of the total nitrogen loss. The RE of N applied at PT, ET, PI, and SD was 17.3–35.1 %, 22.3–35.8 %, 36.0–55.0 %, and 31.9–45.5 %, respectively. Meanwhile, at each of these growth stages, 20.0–28.2 %, 21.0–29.3 %, 29.1–36.6 %, and 28.9–39.3 % of the applied nitrogen fertilizer remained residual in the soil. Significant nitrogen losses occurred during the initial growth phases, leading to lower RE. ICMs improved overall RE by 19.1–43.7 % compared to LFP, mainly by improving the RE of N fertilizer applied at earlier stages (for PT, 29.6–61.3 %; for ET, 15.4–60.3 %) through enhanced root development and soil quality.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>There is considerable potential to enhance the application and utilization of nitrogen fertilizer during the early growth stages. Integrating multiple crop management practices can effectively enhance RE of N fertilizer, particularly for N fertilizers applied at earlier growth stages.</div></div><div><h3>Implication</h3><div>This study provides novel insights into enhancing RE of nitrogen fertilizer through optimized crop management practices.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"334 ","pages":"Article 110164"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2025-09-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145155994","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Global insights into nitrogen losses and efficiency in rice, wheat, and maize cultivation","authors":"Debashis Chakraborty ,&nbsp;Jagdish Kumar Ladha ,&nbsp;Bappa Das ,&nbsp;Dharamvir Singh Rana ,&nbsp;Mahesh Kumar Gathala ,&nbsp;Mangi Lal Jat ,&nbsp;Timothy J. Krupnik","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110138","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110138","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Context</h3><div>Nitrogen (N) use efficiency (NUE) and N losses in cereal systems are central to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on food security and environmental sustainability. However, global variations in NUE across cereals, regions, and management conditions remain poorly quantified, especially in relation to the relative roles of synthetic and non-synthetic N inputs.</div></div><div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>This study aimed to (i) assess global differences in NUE and N losses among maize, rice, and wheat; (ii) compare efficiencies derived from synthetic versus total N inputs; (iii) evaluate regional and temporal patterns; and (iv) identify key drivers and management implications to enhance NUE and mitigate losses.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A global dataset was assembled to calculate NUE indicators including partial factor productivity of N (PFPN), agronomic efficiency of N (AEN), recovery efficiency of synthetic N (REN-S), recovery efficiency of total N (REN-T), and the fraction of N derived from non-synthetic sources (Ndfs). Synthetic and total N losses (Nloss-S and Nloss-T) were estimated. Trends were analyzed by crops, region, and time, and drivers of N loss were identified in relation to soil and management factors.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Maize showed the highest NUE metrics (PFPN: 56.9 %; AEN: 21.0 %) and REN-S (45.6 %), while rice recorded the highest REN-T (63.6 %). On average, REN-S was 17 % lower than REN-T, indicating overestimation of N losses when only synthetic N is considered. Rice exhibited the largest non-synthetic N contribution (Ndfs: 57.1 %) and the strongest legacy effect of synthetic N. Africa achieved the highest PFPN and AEN, largely due to low synthetic N inputs, and also showed improvements in NUE over time. Non-synthetic N consistently contributed more to crop uptake than synthetic N across cereals. Key drivers of N loss included synthetic N application rates, soil texture, and pH, with distinct loss pathways evident across soil types.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions and Implications</h3><div>Global differences in NUE and N losses highlight the importance of crop- and region-specific management. Accounting for both synthetic and non-synthetic N inputs provides a more accurate assessment of NUE and N losses, avoiding systematic overestimation. Strategies to improve NUE should focus on optimizing non-synthetic N use, leveraging legacy effects, and tailoring practices to soil and environmental conditions. Holistic approaches—including improved irrigation and precise N placement—are essential to enhance productivity while reducing environmental impacts. Future research should prioritize region-specific solutions and sustainable integration of non-synthetic N sources to support both food security and environmental goals.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"334 ","pages":"Article 110138"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2025-09-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145181266","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Multifactor analysis of land use transitions in a drought-affected rice region","authors":"Luke A. Salvato,&nbsp;Cameron Pittelkow,&nbsp;Bruce A. Linquist","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110145","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110145","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Context</h3><div>Rapid land use change can have large impacts on water resources, local economies, supply chains, and the environment. Understanding the complexity of land use change demands analysis at multiple levels.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>Our objective was to understsand the response of land use change from a 14-year drought period across the rice dominated ecosystems of California. Specifically, we quantieid when and where fields were clutviated with rice, let fallow, or converted to perennial tree crops. We studied this response in terms of crop prices, drought conditions, and soil properties.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Land use changes were analyzed from 2008 to 2021 using remotely sensed land cover data. Economic and climate data were utilized, and geospatial soil data sets were used in a machine learning framework.</div></div><div><h3>Results and conclusions</h3><div>While the dominant crop in the region is rice, drought led to a decrease in rice production and an increase in fallow area (up to 70,000 ha); however, during drought, walnut and almond area increased by 16,400 ha (6 % of the total rice area) due to sustained high prices for these crops. Ironically, orchard crops have greater water demand than rice, requiring a regular annual supply of water. The shift to orchard crops was limited to soils with a lower clay content (&lt;40 % clay). The interior basins of this region have higher clay content, and it is unlikely that under current conditions these soils will shift to crops other than rice.</div></div><div><h3>Significance</h3><div>This study demonstrates how biophysical, environmental, and economic forces can drive and constrain land use changes in the short-term. Understanding these short-term dynamics has important implications for long term planning and policy making.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"334 ","pages":"Article 110145"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2025-09-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145155996","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Compound dry/wet and hot extremes decreased wheat/maize yield revealed by SHAP-RF and R-Vine Copula","authors":"Song Li ,&nbsp;Yi Li ,&nbsp;Guiyuan Zhang ,&nbsp;Licheng Wang ,&nbsp;Maokai Song ,&nbsp;Yurui Fan ,&nbsp;Kadambot H.M. Siddique","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110161","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110161","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Context</h3><div>Global warming is intensifying compound climate extremes, such as compound dry/wet and hot days (CDHD/ CWHD), posing severe threats to agricultural productivity and food security. Traditional risk assessments often focus on single climatic hazards, underestimating the synergistic impacts of compound events on crop yields, particularly for major staples like wheat and maize in China.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>This study aims to systematically evaluate the spatiotemporal dynamics of CDHD and CWHD during the growing seasons of winter/spring wheat and spring/summer maize across China’s six major agricultural regions from 1961 to 2023, and to quantify their nonlinear impacts on crop yields using modeling frameworks.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The Non-Stationary Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (NSPEI) and dynamic thermal thresholds were used to identify CDHD/CWHD. Crop yields under rainfed (water-stressed) conditions were simulated using the DSSAT-CERES model, rigorously calibrated and validated with field data. The Shapley Additive Explanation-Random Forest (SHAP-RF) method quantified the relative contribution of climatic variables to yield variability, while the R-Vine Copula function estimated yield reduction probabilities under varying compound stress conditions.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>and conclusions: (1) The frequency and intensity of CDHD and CWHD increased significantly (p &lt; 0.001), with CDHD occurring more frequently than CWHD; (2) Compound events explained yield variability (up to 47.3 % relative importance) more effectively than single climatic factors, with CDHD exhibiting the strongest negative impact; (3) Spring maize and spring wheat were highly sensitive to CDHD, with yield reduction probabilities reaching 0.70–0.85, whereas winter wheat showed greater tolerance (probability: 0.57); (4) Regional heterogeneity was evident, e.g., summer maize yield in the Loess Plateau was negatively correlated with precipitation due to nutrient leaching from heavy rainfall.</div></div><div><h3>Implications</h3><div>or significance: This study provides a novel, interpretable framework for assessing compound climate impacts on agriculture, highlighting the critical role of CDHD in driving yield losses. The findings support the development of climate-resilient cropping systems and targeted adaptation strategies, facilitating a shift from single-risk management to integrated multi-stress regulation in a warming climate.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"334 ","pages":"Article 110161"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2025-09-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145155992","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Calibration and validation of the AquaCrop model for wheat grown under full and deficit irrigation with acidic soil management strategies","authors":"Desale Kidane Asmamaw ,&nbsp;Kristine Walraevens ,&nbsp;Habtamu Assaye ,&nbsp;Fenta Nigate ,&nbsp;Enyew Adgo ,&nbsp;Abera Asefa ,&nbsp;Wim M. Cornelis","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110160","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110160","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Context</h3><div>Previous studies using the AquaCrop model have shown that deficit irrigation (DI) and soil management independently influence wheat production. However, their combined effects on wheat production remain poorly understood. To address this research gap, a comprehensive study involving field experiments and modeling was conducted to evaluate how the interaction between DI and integrated acidic soil management (IASM) impacts soil water content, canopy cover, biomass, and grain yield.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>The aim of this study was to calibrate and validate AquaCrop, allowing to further investigate how the interaction between DI and IASM influences wheat production; and to evaluate the model's performance, with a focus on addressing specific challenges related to the calibration and validation of wheat growth under DI and IASM scenarios.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The accuracy of the AquaCrop model was evaluated for predicting soil water content (SWC), wheat (<em>Triticum aestivum</em> L.) canopy cover (CC), biomass, and grain yield (GY) under DI combined with IASM strategies. Model input data for calibration and validation were obtained from field experiments conducted in the 2018 and 2019 irrigated seasons. These experiments included four irrigation scenarios (full irrigation [100 % crop water requirement, ETc], 80 % ETc, 60 % ETc and 50 % ETc), and five IASM strategies. The SWC was measured before and after irrigation events, while CC and biomass accumulation (BM) were monitored every 15 days post-sowing. Final biomass (FBM) and GY were recorded at harvest. The model was calibrated using 2018 data and validated with 2019 data.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The simulated SWC, CC, BM, FBM, and GY results closely matched the field-measured results for all treatments. Statistical analysis revealed a precise agreement between simulated and field-measured values. The coefficients of determination (R²) ranged from 0.83 to 0.99, and the normalized root mean square error (NRMSE) ranged from 2.1 % to 9.1 % for SWC. For CC, R² ranged from 0.86 to 0.99 with NRMSE from 1.2 % to 9.8 %; for BM, R² ranged from 0.81 to 0.99 with NRMSE from 1.1 % to 7.8 %; and for GY, R² ranged from 0.87 to 0.99 with NRMSE from 1.4 % to 7.4 %.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The model performed well under severe water stress, proving its suitability for predicting wheat productivity. However, challenges were encountered in adjusting soil fertility levels, particularly with the uniform application of mineral fertilizers across all treatments. More iterations were required to match the simulated values with the field-measured values as water and soil fertility stress increased.</div></div><div><h3>Implications or significance</h3><div>Despite these challenges, the AquaCrop model demonstrated strong performance, especially under optimal soil fertility and irrigation conditions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"334 ","pages":"Article 110160"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2025-09-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145155995","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Coupling decision of water and nitrogen application in winter wheat via UAV hyperspectral imaging","authors":"Xuguang Sun ,&nbsp;Baoyuan Zhang ,&nbsp;Ziyi Zhang ,&nbsp;Cuijiao Jing ,&nbsp;Limin Gu ,&nbsp;Wenchao Zhen ,&nbsp;Xiaohe Gu","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110159","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110159","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Context</h3><div>Improving water and nutrient use efficiency is essential for increasing crop yields and addressing global population growth. Optimal irrigation and nitrogen topdressing levels can enhance crop water and nitrogen use efficiency. UAV remote sensing has emerged as an efficient tool for optimizing water and nitrogen management due to its ability to monitor crop traits in real-time.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>This study proposed a UAV-based hyperspectral imaging method to optimize water-nitrogen management in winter wheat.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>By analyzing the interaction between nitrogen fertilizer and irrigation, a coupling decision model was developed for precise water-nitrogen application. Leaf water content (LWC) and chlorophyll content (SPAD) were estimated using machine learning algorithms combined with sensitive band selection methods, such as Successive Projections Algorithm (SPA) and Competitive Adaptive Reweighted Sampling (CARS).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The SPA-Random Forest (RF) model performed best for LWC estimation (R² = 0.83, RMSE = 5.39 %), while the VIs-RF model was optimal for SPAD estimation (R² = 0.65, RMSE = 4.34 %). Conversion models linked LWC to soil water content (SWC) and SPAD to leaf nitrogen content (LNC), achieving R² values of 0.79 and 0.78, respectively.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The proposed water-nitrogen coupling model exhibited strong adaptability and stability during key growth stages by integrating hyperspectral inversion data with field measurements. This model enables dynamic water and nitrogen application rate adjustments across the growing period to achieve target yields, optimize application strategies, and enhance use efficiency.</div></div><div><h3>Implications</h3><div>The findings underscore the significant potential of UAV-based hyperspectral technology in optimizing water-nitrogen management. This method provides a reference for improving water-nitrogen use efficiency from the perspective of water-nitrogen coupling on yield.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"334 ","pages":"Article 110159"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2025-09-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145119181","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Feeding ducks in ratoon rice field reduces weed competition with ratoon rice in central China","authors":"Chanchan Du ,&nbsp;Desheng Yang ,&nbsp;Luanluan Hu ,&nbsp;Jinjuan Zhu ,&nbsp;Weibin Wang ,&nbsp;Wenlong Zhao ,&nbsp;Shaobing Peng ,&nbsp;Shen Yuan ,&nbsp;Jianliang Huang","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110147","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110147","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Context</h3><div>Excessive herbicide use in rice production has led to herbicide-resistant weeds and environmental concerns. The ratoon rice-duck co-culture system (RRD) offers potential for reducing chemical inputs while sustaining productivity, yet its impact on weed dynamics remains insufficiently understood.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To assess rice yield and weed suppression under varying herbicide and fertilizer inputs in ratoon rice (RR) and RRD systems.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A two-year field experiment (2020–2021) was conducted in central China using a randomized complete block design with three replicates. Five treatments were tested: RR without herbicide and full fertilizer (RR-H₀F_f), RR with full herbicide and fertilizer rates (RR-H_fF_f), RRD without herbicide and full fertilizer (RRD-H₀F_f), RRD with 14% herbicide and full fertilizer (RRD-H_rF_f), and RRD with 14% herbicide and 70% fertilizer (RRD-H_rF_r).</div></div><div><h3>Results and conclusions</h3><div>Compared with RR-H₀F_f, integrating ducks into RR (RRD-H₀F_f, RRD-H_rF_f, and RRD-H_rF_r) significantly reduced weed species richness and biomass, while enhancing rice yield in both main and ratoon crops over two years. However, compared with fully herbicide-treated RR-H_fF_f, RRD-H₀F_f resulted in a tenfold increase in weed biomass and a 20% yield reduction. In contrast, RRD-H_rF_f with only 14% herbicide input, reduced weed density and biomass by 99.1% and 94.4%, respectively, while maintaining rice yield comparable to RR-H_fF_f. RRD-H_rF_f also significantly improved rice competitiveness relative to RRD-H₀F_f. No significant differences were observed between RRD-H_rF_f and RRD-H_rF_r in terms of weed suppression and yield, indicating that reducing fertilizer input to 70% did not compromise system performance.</div></div><div><h3>Significance</h3><div>These findings showed that RRD, when combined with minimal herbicide and reduced fertilizer inputs, can effectively suppress weeds and sustain rice yields. This integrated approach offers a promising strategy for reducing chemical dependency in sustainable ratoon rice production.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"334 ","pages":"Article 110147"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2025-09-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145119095","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Kernel weight and source/sink dynamics of temperate maize hybrids for diverse end uses across contrasting environments","authors":"Yésica D. Chazarreta ,&nbsp;Santiago Alvarez Prado ,&nbsp;Maria E. Otegui","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110156","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110156","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Context or problem&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Maize (&lt;em&gt;Zea mays L.&lt;/em&gt;) production in the temperate region of Argentina has shifted significantly over the last decade, due to the widespread adoption of late sowings aimed primarily at mitigating mid-summer water deficits. This shift has promoted the expansion of the production area, diversified crop end-uses, and introduced marked contrasts in growing conditions along the cycle, all trends that demand research attention to guide breeding efforts and management decisions.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Objective or research question&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;The main goal of this study was to assess the effects of environment (two years × two sowing dates) and crop management (nitrogen fertilization) on grain yield, kernel weight (KW), its physiological determinants, source/sink ratios, and water-soluble carbohydrates in stem (WSCS) in eight field-grown temperate maize hybrids bred for different uses (3 graniferous, 2 dual-purpose, 3 silage). Simulations assessed WSCS remobilization (null, partial, or total) between R2 and R6 for different production systems (18 scenarios) and climate conditions (41 growing seasons).&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Results&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Grain yield and KW exhibited significant environment × nitrogen interactions. Nitrogen fertilization increased grain yield by 19–37 % and KW by 13–17 % in early sowings, whereas responses were limited in late sowings (+3–4 % for KW; negligible for yield). Grain hybrids exhibited the highest grain yield, followed by the dual-purpose and the silage type. Dual-purpose and silage hybrids exhibited the highest (293 mg) and the lowest (268 mg) mean KW across environments, respectively, while graniferous hybrids showed the highest source/sink ratio during the effective kernel-filling period (136 mg kernel&lt;sup&gt;−1&lt;/sup&gt;). WSCS remobilization during kernel filling was higher in late (68 %) than in early sowings (32 %), with no consistent differences among hybrid types. Simulations revealed that total WSCS depletion was most frequent in early sowings with low nitrogen (44–51 % of seasons) and late sowings with full nitrogen (34 % of seasons), regardless of water availability.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Conclusions&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Grain yield, KW determination, and WSCS dynamics are shaped by specific hybrid-type responses to sowing date and nitrogen supply. The sowing date × nitrogen interaction is critical, as insufficient nitrogen reduces KW and grain yield, especially in early sowings. The differential remobilization of WSCS underscores distinct carbon allocation strategies in early and late sowing dates and with contrasting nitrogen availability typical of maize production systems in the central region of Argentina.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Implications and significance&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Differences in WSCS depletion among environments and N levels have practical implications for lodging risk and silage quality. Our findings highlight physiological traits and interactions that can inform hybrid selection and nitrogen","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"334 ","pages":"Article 110156"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2025-09-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145119094","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Extension of the GreenLab in modelling maize canopy photosynthesis under high plant densities for trait discovery","authors":"Pengpeng Zhang ,&nbsp;Xiujuan Wang ,&nbsp;Jingyao Huang ,&nbsp;Yihui Zhang ,&nbsp;Zixiang Zhang ,&nbsp;Yan Yu ,&nbsp;Philippe de Reffye ,&nbsp;Mengzhen Kang ,&nbsp;Youhong Song","doi":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110155","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fcr.2025.110155","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Context</h3><div>Identifying traits that enhance canopy photosynthesis is particularly crucial for sustaining maize productivity under high plant densities. Utilizing a model-assisted approach is an effective strategy to achieve this goal.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>The objectives of this study were to (i) integrate a biochemical model of C₄ photosynthesis into the existing GreenLab to enhance its capacity for simulating canopy photosynthesis under varying plant densities; (ii) evaluate the model’s performance through simulations under different plant densities; and (iii) utilize the model to identify key physiological and structural targets that can enhance productivity under high plant densities.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>In this study, a two-year field trial of maize (<em>Zea mays</em> L<em>.</em>) was conducted under four plant densities i.e. 3, 6, 9, 12 plants m⁻². Simultaneously, the Functional-Structural Plant Model ‘GreenLab’ was extended by replacing its existing module for calculating canopy photosynthesis with an update of the C₄ photosynthesis model by <span><span>von Caemmerer (2021)</span></span>. Model parameters (i.e., leaf photosynthesis; sink strength, the capacity of each organ receives biomass; sink variation, each sink strength varies during the duration of organ expansion) governing maize growth and development were estimated using field data collected in 2022. The revised GreenLab was subsequently validated by demonstrating good agreement between independent simulations and experimental observations of maize growth and development across various plant densities in 2023.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Leaf photosynthetic and organ sink strength parameters decreased linearly with increasing plant density, while organ sink variation parameters linearly increased. Notably, maximal linear electron transport rate and reproductive organs sink strength and sink variation parameters were quite sensitive to plant density. Modelling trials using only the C₄ photosynthetic model revealed that canopy photosynthesis was limited by maximum Rubisco activity, maximal linear electron transport rate, and light distribution under high plant densities. Furthermore, additional modelling studies with the revised GreenLab suggested that synergistically modifying both maximal linear electron transport rate and leaf angle can maximize canopy photosynthesis, thereby improving maize productivity under high plant density.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Overall, this study successfully quantified the impact of modifying molecular targets through modelling on enhancing maize canopy photosynthesis under high plant density conditions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12143,"journal":{"name":"Field Crops Research","volume":"334 ","pages":"Article 110155"},"PeriodicalIF":6.4,"publicationDate":"2025-09-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145093774","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}