Field Crop 2024, Vol.7, No.2, 79-92 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/fc 88 10 Case Study 10.1 Detailed examination This case study examines the impact of integrated agronomic practices (IAP) on maize yield and nutrient use efficiency (NUE) across various soil fertility conditions. The study spans multiple regions and incorporates diverse agronomic strategies to enhance maize productivity and sustainability. 10.2 Agronomic practices used The integrated agronomic practices evaluated in this case study include a combination of optimal planting density, split fertilizer application, subsoiling tillage, and the use of organic and inorganic fertilizers. These practices were tailored to different soil fertility conditions to maximize their effectiveness. Optimal Planting Density and Split Fertilizer Application: The use of optimal planting density and split fertilizer application was a common strategy across several studies. This approach aimed to enhance nutrient uptake and improve crop growth by ensuring that nutrients were available when the plants needed them most (Liu et al., 2018; Wang et al., 2020b; Shekhawat, 2021). Subsoiling Tillage: Subsoiling tillage was employed to improve soil structure and root penetration, which in turn enhanced nutrient uptake and water retention. This practice was particularly effective in fields with low soil fertility (Shekhawat, 2021). Combination of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers: The integration of organic fertilizers (such as poultry manure, vermicompost, and biochar) with inorganic fertilizers was a key component of the IAP. This combination aimed to improve soil fertility, enhance nutrient use efficiency, and increase crop yield (Sailaza and Kannamreddy, 2020; Urmi et al., 2022; Sarwar et al., 2023). Integrated Weed and Nutrient Management: In some regions, integrated weed and nutrient management practices were implemented to reduce weed competition and enhance nutrient availability for maize. This approach included the use of organic manures and chemical herbicides in a complementary manner (Ghosh et al., 2020). Conservation Agriculture and Precision Nutrient Management: Conservation agriculture practices, such as reduced tillage and residue management, were combined with precision nutrient management to improve water use efficiency and crop productivity. This approach was particularly effective in regions with water scarcity issues (Jat et al., 2018). 10.3 Results and lessons learned The implementation of integrated agronomic practices led to significant improvements in maize yield and nutrient use efficiency across various soil fertility conditions. The key findings and lessons learned from this case study are as follows: Increased Maize Yield: The use of IAP resulted in substantial increases in maize yield compared to traditional farming practices. For instance, in fields with low soil fertility, IAP increased maize grain yield by 25% and 28% in 2013 and 2014, respectively. In fields with high soil fertility, the yield increase was even more pronounced, with gains of 36% and 37% in the same years (Shekhawat, 2021). Enhanced Nutrient Use Efficiency: IAP significantly improved NUE by increasing nitrogen uptake and reducing nitrogen losses. This was achieved through better root development, increased soil mineral nitrogen content, and optimized fertilizer application timing. The partial factor productivity, agronomic efficiency, and recovery efficiency of applied nitrogen were all higher under IAP compared to traditional practices (Wang et al., 2020b; Shekhawat, 2021; Sarwar et al., 2023). Improved Soil Fertility and Sustainability: The integration of organic fertilizers with inorganic fertilizers enhanced soil fertility by increasing organic carbon content, total nitrogen, and other essential nutrients. This not only improved crop yield but also contributed to long-term soil health and sustainability (Sailaza and Kannamreddy, 2020; Urmi et al., 2022; Sarwar et al., 2023).
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