Field Crop 2024, Vol.7, No.2, 93-104 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/fc 101 9.5 Results and insights The results of this case study highlight the trade-offs between traditional and modern maize cultivation practices. Modern practices significantly enhance maize productivity, with higher grain and straw yields compared to traditional methods (Veeranna et al., 2023). However, traditional practices contribute to better soil health, as evidenced by higher enzyme activities and nutrient content in the soil (Veeranna et al., 2023). This suggests that while modern practices are more efficient in terms of yield, traditional practices may offer long-term sustainability benefits by maintaining soil fertility and reducing chemical inputs. In conclusion, the choice between traditional and modern maize cultivation practices depends on the specific goals of the farmers and the long-term sustainability considerations. Integrating elements of both practices could potentially offer a balanced approach, optimizing productivity while preserving soil health and environmental quality. 10 Challenges and Limitations 10.1 Traditional practices Traditional maize cultivation practices often face several challenges and limitations. One significant issue is the low light use efficiency and radiation use efficiency in traditional intercropping systems, such as maize-soybean intercropping, which results in lower comparative profits and incompatibility with mechanization (Iqbal et al., 2018). Additionally, traditional farming practices tend to have lower water and nitrogen use efficiencies, leading to higher resource wastage and environmental impact (Li et al., 2015). The traditional methods also often fail to optimize the canopy structure and soil conditions, which are crucial for maximizing photosynthetic rates and grain yields (Piao et al., 2016). Furthermore, traditional practices are less adaptable to modern agricultural demands, such as the need for higher yields and efficient resource use (Xiao and Tao, 2016). 10.2 Modern practices Modern maize cultivation practices, while offering numerous advantages, also come with their own set of challenges. For instance, the adoption of strip tillage, which improves arthropod biodiversity, often results in a significant reduction in maize yield, making it less appealing to farmers focused on maximizing output (Norris et al., 2016). Modern practices also require substantial technological advancements and compatible mechanization to be fully effective, which can be a barrier for smallholder farmers (Iqbal et al., 2018). Additionally, the shift to modern cultivars and agronomic management practices has been shown to increase yields, but these gains are often offset by the negative impacts of climate change, such as reduced solar radiation and increased temperatures (Xiao and Tao, 2016). Moreover, the high input costs associated with modern practices, such as optimized fertilization and irrigation, can be prohibitive for many farmers (Jin et al., 2012; Li et al., 2015). 10.3 Integration of practices Integrating traditional and modern maize cultivation practices could potentially offer a balanced approach, but this integration is not without its challenges. One major issue is the need for technological advancements and agronomic measures to make traditional practices compatible with modern mechanization (Iqbal et al., 2018). Additionally, while integrated practices like ridge-furrow with plastic film mulching can improve water use efficiency and nitrogen uptake, they require careful management to avoid issues such as soil degradation and increased labor costs (Li et al., 2017). The integration also demands a thorough understanding of both traditional and modern techniques to optimize planting geometry, canopy structure, and nutrient management effectively (Piao et al., 2016). Furthermore, achieving a balance between enhancing biodiversity and maintaining high yields remains a significant challenge in integrated systems (Norris et al., 2016). Finally, the variability in environmental conditions and resource availability across different regions can complicate the implementation of integrated practices, necessitating region-specific adaptations and solutions (Xiao and Tao, 2016). By addressing these challenges and limitations, it is possible to develop more sustainable and efficient maize cultivation systems that leverage the strengths of both traditional and modern practices.
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