Molecular Soil Biology 2024, Vol.15, No.4, 163-171 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/msb 169 cropping systems that optimize crop yield while maintaining soil health and minimizing environmental impact. 7.3 Future research directions Future research should focus on exploring the long-term impacts of different straw incorporation rates and nitrogen fertilization levels on soil health and crop productivity. Studies should investigate the optimal combinations of straw and nitrogen that maximize nitrogen use efficiency and minimize environmental pollution. Additionally, research should examine the effects of straw incorporation and nitrogen fertilization under different climatic conditions and soil types to develop region-specific recommendations. Further studies are also needed to understand the underlying mechanisms by which straw incorporation and nitrogen fertilization influence soil microbial activity, nutrient cycling, and plant physiology. Finally, the economic feasibility and practical implementation of these practices should be evaluated to ensure their adoption by farmers on a large scale. By addressing these research gaps, we can develop more effective and sustainable agricultural practices that enhance crop productivity, improve soil health, and protect the environment (Hagos et al., 2020; Sharma et al., 2021). 8 Concluding Remarks The integration of straw incorporation and nitrogen (N) fertilization has shown significant positive effects on maize growth, nitrogen uptake efficiency, and overall crop quality. Key findings from various studies indicate that combining straw mulch with nitrogen fertilizer significantly improves soil fertility, photosynthetic efficiency, nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), and maize yield. For instance, the FS+N treatment increased photosynthetic efficiency by 56%, nitrogen uptake by 60%, and grain yield by 29% compared to the control. Straw incorporation enhances soil water retention, root distribution, and nitrogen uptake, which collectively contribute to higher grain yields and water use efficiency (WUE). Long-term straw incorporation consistently improves soil fertility indices, leading to increased grain yield and nitrogen harvest index (NHI). The optimal nitrogen rate for maize production can be reduced when combined with straw incorporation, thus promoting sustainable nitrogen management. Based on the findings, the following recommendations are proposed for farmers and policymakers to enhance nitrogen uptake efficiency and improve maize quality sustainably. Adopt straw incorporation practices. Farmers should incorporate straw into the soil at appropriate rates (e.g., 5 000 kg/ha) along with nitrogen fertilization (e.g., 172 kg N/ha) to improve soil health and crop yield. Optimize nitrogen application. Policymakers should promote the use of optimized nitrogen rates (e.g., 187 kg N/ha) combined with straw incorporation to reduce nitrogen leaching and enhance nitrogen use efficiency. Encourage long-term practices. Long-term straw return practices should be encouraged as they significantly improve soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, and yield stability, contributing to sustainable agriculture. Support research and extension services. Continuous research and extension services should be supported to educate farmers on the benefits of integrated straw and nitrogen management practices and to develop region-specific guidelines. Sustainable nitrogen management in maize production is crucial for achieving high yields while minimizing environmental impacts. The integration of straw incorporation with optimized nitrogen fertilization has proven to be an effective strategy to enhance nitrogen uptake efficiency, improve soil health, and increase crop quality. By adopting these practices, farmers can achieve better economic returns and contribute to environmental sustainability. Future research should focus on refining these practices under varying climatic conditions and soil types to ensure their broader applicability and effectiveness. Acknowledgments The authors are grateful to the two anonymous peer reviewers for their feedback on the manuscript. Funding This work was supported by the College Students' Science and Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program Project (Research on the Physiological Mechanisms of Enhancing Maize Yield and Nutritional Quality through the Interaction and Synergy of Straw Return and Fertilizer #GJ202211439016).
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