The application of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) along with silicon (Si) can help improve rice yield and nutritional quality, reduce the use of chemical fertilizers, and protect the environment. Hence, the impacts of different strains of PGPR along with various Si sources on yield and macro- and micronutrient uptake in rice grains were investigated. The experiment was carried out as a split plot in a randomized complete block design with three replications during 2022-2023. The experimental treatments included the main plot assigned to PGPR (control, Pantoea agglomerans strain O4 (PGPR1), Pseudomonas putida strain P13 + Pantoea agglomerans strain P5 (PGPR2), Pseudomonas koreensis strain S14 + Pseudomonas vancouverensis strain S19 (PGPR3), and Pseudomonas japonica strains FZ.29-1 + FZ.21-1 (PGPR4)), and the sub-plot assigned to Si sources (control, calcium silicate, and Si-nanoparticles (NPs)). The results showed that the PGPR1- treated plants showed higher nitrogen (N) concentration and grain yield than other bacterial strains. PGPR2 and PGPR3 saved higher phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in the grain, respectively, whereas PGPR4 produced the greatest zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), and Si concentration in the rice grain. The foliar application of Si-NPs on rice plants resulted in significant improvements in grain N, Fe, and Si concentration as well as enhanced yield when compared with calcium silicate. Overall, the results highlight that the application of PGPR1 plus Si-NPs can help increase the grain yield and nutritional value of rice.

Rootstock cultivars of the genus Prunus spp. are selected for their compatibility with scion cultivars, ease of propagation, and increases in fruit quality and yield. However, kinetic, morphophysiological, and nutritional variables that determine the efficiency of absorption and use of nutrients, such as phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), are not usually considered in genetic improvement programs. This study aimed to identify the Prunus spp. rootstock with the greatest efficiency in absorption and use of P and K through kinetic and morphophysiological parameters. The trial was carried out in a completely randomized experimental design with six replicates, using ‘Granada’ as a scion peach grafted on two clonal rootstocks: cv. Rigitano (Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc) and the rootstock selection RB-MAC-12-08 [P. persica (L.) Batsch]. The period of P and K depletion was evaluated for 102 h. Kinetic variables (Vmax, Km, Cmin, and I), tree morphological variables of shoot and root system, biomass production, P and K concentrations in tree tissues, and photosynthetic variables were evaluated. The RB-MAC-12-08 rootstock selection showed the best photosynthetic performance and the highest values of dry mass weight production of shoots and roots, as well as the greatest accumulation of P and K in tree tissues, which contributed to greater efficiency of P and K use. On the other hand, even though ‘Rigitano’ showed a higher nutrient influx rate, this did not result in higher nursery tree growth rates, possibly due to its lower efficiency in use of these nutrients, which implied lower photosynthetic performance and reduced biomass.

The study aimed to assess how AI-assisted management influences plant growth, overall yield, and the occurrence of diseases in maize and wheat crops. In 2023, a field trial took place near Beijing, China, involving two neighboring plots of 5 hectares each, with similar soil characteristics and climate conditions. Each plot was divided into 10 subplots for two crops—maize and wheat - each covering 2.5 hectares. The control plot was managed using traditional agricultural practices, whereas the experimental plot employed an AI-driven system that combined soil and weather monitoring sensors, computer vision technology, and machine learning models such as Gradient Boosted Regression Trees (GBRT), Support Vector Machines (SVM), and YOLOv5 convolutional neural networks. Real-time data triggered automated irrigation and pesticide application. AI-supported maize germinated faster (5 ± 1 days vs. 7 ± 1, p < 0.05) and reached greater height (230 ± 15 cm vs. 180 ± 23, p < 0.01) than controls. Wheat height also increased (75 ± 3 cm vs. 63 ± 4, p < 0.01). Maize and wheat yields rose modestly but significantly: from 9.5 ± 0.5 to 9.9 ± 0.3 t/ha (p < 0.01) and from 4.2 ± 0.3 to 4.5 ± 0.2 t/ha (p < 0.05), respectively. Incidence of viral, fungal, and insect pest infections declined significantly in experimental plots (e.g. fungal infections in maize: 9 ± 2% vs. 3 ± 2%, p < 0.05). AI-driven crop management accelerated early growth, improved yield, and reduced disease and pest burden in a single-season trial.

Titanium, a beneficial element, has shown potential in promoting plant growth, stress resilience, and nutrient uptake in various crops. This study aims to investigate the effective concentration (500, 1000, and 1500 ppm for cabbage; 50, 100, 150 ppm for capsicum) and application method (seed or foliar) of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-TiO2) in combination with different nutrient sources (chemical fertilizers only; integration of chemical fertilizers with vermicompost) on yield and physiological attributes of cabbage and capsicum. The data from two-year open-field experiments, laid out in randomized block design, revealed that application of nano-TiO2 @1000 ppm through seed treatment with integration of chemical fertilizers and vermicompost significantly increased net head weight, harvest index, protein, and chlorophyll contents (a & b) in cabbage. On the other hand, foliar application of nano-TiO2 @500 ppm with chemical fertilizer recorded maximum value of gross head weight in cabbage. On the other hand, in capsicum, integration of chemical fertilizers and vermicompost along with seed treatment of nano-TiO2 @50 ppm enhanced pericarp thickness, ascorbic acid, protein, and chlorophyll contents (a & b); and foliar spray with nano-TiO2 @100 ppm increased number of fruits per plant, although the effect on ascorbic acid in cabbage and fruit shape index in capsicum was non-significant. Results of study confirmed that yield and physiological metrics of cabbage and capsicum were improved by efficient nutrient management, when nanoparticles are applied along with integration of organic and inorganic sources. The given module fostered the vision of combining sustainable nutrient strategies and nanoparticles application for enhancing vegetable productivity.

Optimizing nutrient management is essential for enhancing both the productivity and essential oil quality of short-duration vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides (L.) Roberty) varieties. Despite this importance, limited data exist regarding the fertilizer requirements of early-maturing genotypes, underscoring the need for systematic evaluation to identify nutrient levels that maximize yield and nutrient use efficiency. Accordingly, the present study was conducted at the CIMAP Research Center, Bengaluru, during the 2021–22 and 2022–23 growing seasons with the objective to determine the optimal inorganic fertilizer dose for the early-maturing vetiver variety ‘CIM-Khusinolika,’ aiming to achieve higher root yield and enhanced essential oil composition. The study showed that applying NPK fertilizer at 125:50:50 kg ha−1 significantly enhanced vetiver performance and nutrient use efficiency. This treatment (125:50:50 kg ha−1) produced the tallest plants (139.68 cm), the highest number of tillers per plant (66.34), and longest roots (57.29 cm), outperforming 150:50:50 kg ha−1 and control. Dry root weight peaked at 30.09 q ha−1 with 125:50:50 application, slightly higher than 29.08 q ha−1 recorded with 150:50:50. Agronomic use efficiency of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium ranged from 8.92 to 12.72, 23.18 to 32.32, and 23.38 to 31.32, respectively. Applying 40 kg ha−1 of potassium and phosphorus increased yield by about 108% and 111%. Essential oil content ranged from 1.96 to 2.09%, with key compounds like Khusinol (47.60–50.40%), (E)-Isovalencenol (4.83–5.50%), α-Vetivone (3.57–4.30%), and β-Vetivone (2.00–2.43%). Thus, appropriately nutrient application is crucial to maximize the economic benefit and reduce the detrimental environmental impact of over-fertilization.

The supply and balance of potassium (K) in agricultural systems with major global impact, such as sugarcane production, are increasingly important for achieving more sustainable management. This study aimed to evaluate the K balance in the soil-plant system in a sugarcane production area as a function of K fertilization. The experimental design was randomized complete blocks, with five treatments and five replications in two harvest seasons (2018/2019 and 2019/2020). Treatments consisted of five rates of K2O: (0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 kg ha−1 year−1). Several evaluations were performed as following: sugarcane straw decomposition and K+ release rates; soil K+ content (from 0.0– to 0.8–m depth) and plant K+ content (stems and tips); and K+ balance in the soil-plant system. Data were subjected to analysis of variance, using polynomial regression analysis for significant variables. On average, after each crop, 55% of the plant residues are decomposed, where 95% of the K present in the straw is mineralized and released into the soil within 65 days after mechanized harvesting. For the conditions evaluated, the exchangeable K content in the soil increases significantly, especially in the surface layers of the soil (0–0.2 and 0.2–0.4 m). After the two evaluation cycles, the 150 kg ha−1 K2O rate, although it does not result in the highest stalk yield, is the one that provides the greatest positive K balance in the soil (101.2 kg ha−1), leaving a larger stock of this nutrient for subsequent crop production cycles.

While chemical fertilizers are essential for fulfilling crop nutrient demands, the ongoing depletion of soil nutrients presents a significant challenge to soybean cultivation. Therefore, the present research aimed to integrate the bioformulations with chemical fertilizers to enhance growth, symbiotic traits, productivity, and profitability of soybean. The experiment comprised of 10 treatments viz., control (without fertilizers and bioformulation), 100% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) (25 N:75 P2O5 kg ha−1), 75% RDF, 75% RDF + Bio-Zn, 75% RDF + Bio-NPK, 75% RDF + Bio-Zn + Bio-NPK, 75% RDF + microbial consortium (MC) (Rhizobium + Bacillus aryabhattai + Burkholderia arboris), 125% N + 80% P2O5, and 100% N + 60% P2O5 + LSBR 3 in a randomized complete block design replicated thrice. The results revealed that growth attributes remained statistically comparable across treatments, whereas nodule dry weight and number of pods plant−1 increased significantly with 75% RDF with bioformulations (MC and Bio-Zn + Bio-NPK) and RDF treatments over control. The integration of 75% RDF with bioformulations (MC and Bio-Zn + Bio-NPK) resulted in a statistically similar seed yield to 100% RDF while achieving higher net returns and benefit–cost ratio. These findings demonstrate that reducing chemical fertilizer use by 25% through integration with bioformulations can sustain soybean yield and profitability, offering a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable nutrient management strategy.

Soil salinity is a major constraint in sustainable agriculture, requiring eco-friendly solutions like nanotechnology. This study evaluated the potential of foliar application of silicon nanoparticles (Si-NPs) to mitigate salinity stress in sage (Salvia officinalis L.) under greenhouse conditions. A factorial experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design with four levels of Si-NPs (0, 50, 100, and 200 mg L−1) and four salinity levels (0, 50, 100, and 200 mM NaCl). Salinity stress at 100 and 200 mM significantly reduced plant biomass, chlorophyll concentration (31%), and relative water content (RWC, 24%). However, application of 100 mg L−1 Si-NPs effectively ameliorated these stress effects, increasing chlorophyll and RWC by 14% and 17%, respectively. Antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase and catalase) were elevated by over 82% under high salinity. Essential oil content increased at mild salinity (50 mM) but decreased at higher concentrations. Crucially, Si-NPs significantly enhanced essential oil yield, with the highest value achieved at 200 mg L−1. The beneficial effects of Si-NPs were attributed to improved ionic balance, increasing leaf potassium and phosphorus while decreasing sodium accumulation. For sustainable cultivation in salt-affected soils, our findings recommend foliar spraying of 100–200 mg L−1 Si-NPs. This practice effectively enhances sage’s tolerance by improving physiological and biochemical responses, leading to better growth and higher essential oil yield, offering a practical nano-enabled strategy for farmers to combat salinity stress and maintain profitable production.

Water scarcity and nutrient mismanagement are major challenges limiting rice productivity in many rice-growing regions worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the combined effects of irrigation schedules and phosphorus fertilizer rates on the yield and physiological traits of two rice varieties to identify optimal management strategies for sustainable production. The experiment was conducted using a split-split-plot design within a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications in 2019 and 2020. The tested factors included two rice varieties (Guilaneh and Hashemi), three irrigation schedules (continuous flooding, 5-day, and 10-day intervals), and three phosphorus levels (50, 75, and 100 kg ha−1). Significant main effects and interactions (two- and three-way) were observed for paddy yield, leaf relative water content, and chlorophyll content at the 1% and 5% levels. Biological yield was significantly influenced by the irrigation × phosphorus interaction. Guilaneh rice showed the highest paddy yield under the 5-day irrigation schedule with 50 and 100 kg ha−1 phosphorus, averaging 5.36 and 5.10 t ha−1 in the first year and 5.35 and 5.10 t ha−1 in the second year. The maximum biological yield (10.68 t ha−1) was also recorded under the 5-day schedule with 50 kg ha−1 phosphorus in the first year. Similar patterns were observed in the second year. These results suggest that the Guilaneh variety, combined with a 5-day irrigation interval and appropriate phosphorus fertilization, is a promising strategy for improving rice productivity in the studied region.

As concerns grow over the sustainability and environmental impact of conventional fertilizers, identifying eco-friendly and efficient nutrient sources has become essential for modern agriculture. This review assesses the potential of polyhalite as a sustainable multi-nutrient fertilizer to enhance soil and crop health. Polyhalite is a natural mineral that provides essential nutrients, including potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S). It effectively complements traditional and synthetic fertilizers by offering slow nutrient release while minimizing environmental impact through its low carbon footprint, minimal processing, and low salt index. Polyhalite has garnered attention as a viable alternative to traditional potassic fertilizers, particularly for boosting productivity. This review highlights polyhalite’s effectiveness in improving crop yield and quality, along with its positive effects on soil health across various soil types and cropping systems, thus supporting crop resilience and sustainable agriculture. However, we also address the challenges attributed to polyhalite, such as limited solubility, imbalanced nutrient ratios, market acceptance, geological constraints, and economic viability, which may hinder its broader adoption as a fertilizer. A scientometric analysis using R software and Scopus data was conducted to investigate global research trends in polyhalite and fertilizer studies. The results indicate that China leads in polyhalite research, followed by the United States, Brazil, and the United Kingdom. Despite promising outcomes, its widespread adoption confronts challenges related to regional availability, economic viability, and integration with conventional fertilizers. This review aims to critically evaluate polyhalite’s benefits and efficacy while addressing the key barriers to its broader use in sustainable agriculture.