Agriculture

Diversifying crop rotation increases food production, reduces net greenhouse gas emissions and improves soil health

X. Yang, J. Xiong, et al.

This groundbreaking research by Xiaolin Yang, Jinran Xiong, Taisheng Du, and colleagues showcases the remarkable benefits of diversifying traditional cereal monoculture in the North China Plain with cash crops and legumes. Experiments revealed up to 38% increases in yield and 39% reductions in N2O emissions, paving the way for sustainable agriculture and enhanced farmer incomes.

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Abstract

This study demonstrates the benefits of diversifying traditional cereal monoculture (wheat-maize) in the North China Plain with cash crops (sweet potato) and legumes (peanut and soybean). Diversified rotations increased equivalent yield by up to 38%, reduced N2O emissions by 39%, and improved the greenhouse gas balance by 88%. Legumes stimulated soil microbial activity, increased soil organic carbon stocks by 8%, and enhanced soil health by 45%. Large-scale adoption could increase cereal production by 32% and farmer income by 20% while benefiting the environment.

Publisher

Nature Communications

Published On

Jan 03, 2024

Authors

Xiaolin Yang, Jinran Xiong, Taisheng Du, Xiaotang Ju, Yantai Gan, Sien Li, Longlong Xia, Yanjun Shen, Steven Pacenka, Tammo S. Steenhuis, Kadambot H. M. Siddique, Shaozhong Kang, Klaus Butterbach-Bahl

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