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Articles
The Impact of Nitrogen Management on Boosting Protein Levels in Legumes (Lentils, Chickpeas, and Beans)
Nitrogen is a vital nutrient for plant growth, playing a central role in enhancing both the quantity and quality of crops, especially legumes. In legumes such as lentils, chickpeas, and beans, protein content is one of their most valuable nutritional attributes, making them essential staples in global diets. Effective nitrogen management can significantly increase the protein levels in these crops, improving their nutritional value and supporting food security on a planetary scale. In this article, we’ll explore how nitrogen management…
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Which Nitrogen Fertilizer is Best for Citrus?
Nitrogen is a cornerstone element in the growth and development of citrus trees. It plays a vital role in metabolic processes, chlorophyll production, and ultimately, fruit yield. Choosing the right nitrogen fertilizer can significantly impact the growth rate and fruit quality of citrus crops, including oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and mandarins. In this article, we’ll explore the effects of popular nitrogen fertilizers for citrus: urea, ammonium nitrate, and ammonium sulfate. We’ll break it down step by step, drawing on best practices…
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How to Control Mosaic Virus Disease in Plants Through Proper Nutrition
Mosaic virus disease is one of the most common challenges in agriculture, significantly impacting crop yields and product quality. Symptoms often include alternating green and yellow stripes on leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. Fortunately, with the right plant nutrition strategies, you can largely prevent this virus from taking hold. In this article, we’ll explore the factors that contribute to the spread of mosaic viruses in plants. We’ll also dive into the principles of proper nutrition to avoid this issue altogether.…
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Managing Ammonium Sulfate Use to Prevent Groundwater Pollution
Chemical fertilizers, including nitrogen-based ones, have been a lifesaver for humanity. Without them, global food shortages would have likely reduced the world’s population by about 40% due to insufficient nutrients for crops. One particularly effective fertilizer for plant nutrition is ammonium sulfate. It plays a key role in boosting agricultural yields. However, excessive or improper use can lead to groundwater contamination, posing serious threats to environmental health. Managing ammonium sulfate use is essential for sustainable agriculture. Chemical fertilizers, including nitrogen-based…
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What Causes Tomato Cracking? Ways to Prevent It
Tomatoes are one of the most beloved and versatile vegetables (or fruits, if we’re being technical) in the world. They’re a staple in kitchens everywhere, from fresh salads and sandwiches to sauces, soups, and even juices. The average person consumes around 20 pounds of fresh tomatoes each year, and that’s not counting processed products like ketchup or pasta sauce. Globally, tomato production exceeds 180 million tons annually, making it a cornerstone of agriculture. But for gardeners, farmers, and even commercial…
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Tomato Blossom End Rot: Causes, Symptoms, & Prevention
Tomato blossom end rot (BER) is one of the most common and frustrating issues faced by tomato growers, leading to reduced crop quality and significant yield losses. This condition manifests as dark, sunken spots at the blossom end (opposite the stem) of the fruit. Unlike many plant ailments, blossom end rot is not caused by fungi or bacteria but is a physiological disorder linked to environmental and nutritional imbalances. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the causes of blossom end…
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Comprehensive Guide to Planting and Fertilizing Alfalfa
Alfalfa, often hailed as the “Queen of Forages,” is one of the most vital perennial forage crops worldwide. With its exceptional nutritional profile, adaptability to diverse climates, and ability to enhance soil health through nitrogen fixation, it has become a cornerstone for farmers, ranchers, and livestock producers. Beyond its role as a premium livestock feed, planting alfalfa improves soil fertility by partnering with Rhizobium bacteria to convert atmospheric nitrogen into plant-usable forms, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and promoting…
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How Nitrogen and Soil Microorganisms Influence Each Other
Nitrogen and the microorganisms living in soil each play essential roles in plant growth. What’s fascinating is how they positively impact one another. Nitrogen enhances the activity of these microorganisms, while the soil microbiome, including bacteria, fungi, and other microbes, contributes to nitrogen fixation and the overall nitrogen cycle. In this article, we’ll explore how nitrogen affects microbial activity and explain the role of microorganisms in the nitrogen cycle. Join us as we dive deeper into this symbiotic relationship. The…
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How to Boost Rice Tillering: Key Tips for Farmers
Rice tillering is one of the most critical stages in the growth of this staple crop, directly linked to higher yields and better product quality. The more tillers a rice plant produces, the greater the number of panicles (or heads), leading to a more bountiful harvest for farmers. In this article, we’ll explore the key factors that influence rice tillering and introduce essential fertilizers that can boost it. Stay with us as we break it down step by step, drawing…
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Why Do Fruits Become Tasteless? How to Improve Fruit Sweetness
One of the most common frustrations for gardeners, farmers, and everyday consumers is biting into a fruit that looks perfectly ripe on the outside but tastes bland and unappealing on the inside. This lack of sweetness and flavor can stem from a variety of factors, ranging from environmental conditions to how the plants are watered and fertilized. In this article, we’ll dive into the primary causes of tasteless fruit and explore proven strategies to enhance their sweetness. By understanding these…
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Which Form of Ammonium Sulfate is Best for Greenhouse Growers?
Effective plant nutrition management is a cornerstone of successful greenhouse cultivation, where the choice of fertilizers directly impacts crop yield, quality, and sustainability. Among the most widely used fertilizers in greenhouse settings is ammonium sulfate, valued for its rich nitrogen and sulfur content, which are essential for robust plant growth and high-quality produce. However, greenhouse growers often face a critical decision: which form of ammonium sulfate, liquid, crystalline, powdered, or granular, is best suited for their specific needs? Let’s see.…
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Best Soil for Growing Fresh Herbs and Greens
Fresh herbs and greens, commonly referred to as “Leafy Greens” or “Edible Greens“, are popular in many cultures, prized for their vibrant flavors and versatility. Whether you’re growing them in a garden, a small backyard plot, or a pot on your balcony, the key to lush, flavorful greens lies in choosing the right soil. The soil’s quality directly impacts the taste, color, freshness, and overall growth of your herbs. Poor soil can stunt growth and dull flavors, while the right…
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