Dry areas suffer not only from limited rainfall but also natural leakage 90% of rainwater is lost directly or indirectly, and is unavailable for agriculture or domestic use. Water harvesting is a low-cost, easy-to-use, environmentally-friendly way to recover a large part of this lost water.

How does water harvesting work? Which sites or areas are best suited and how can these areas be identified? How to design, build and maintain a water harvesting system tailored to local needs? How can water harvesting contribute to combating land degradation, enhancing food security and adapting to climate change? This book provides the answers.

The book is based on many years of research, training and development by three of the world s leading experts in water management and agriculture. It is authoritative, comprehensive, and easy to read, containing practical examples, many illustrations and little jargon. This volume will be of great interest to researchers, development workers, farmers, policymakers, students of the natural sciences in fact, anyone interested in efficient, sustainable management of water resources and agriculture.

This book focuses on best management practices for drip irrigated crops. It cover irrigation methods, scheduling of micro irrigation, and mulching and crop performance. Micro irrigation techniques with diverse crops are discussed, including sweet pepper, chili, tomatoes, cauliflower, wheat, sweet peas, sugarcane, and potatoes. The performance of the various techniques has been tested and evaluated in the field. Written by experts on micro irrigation, this valuable book is a must-have for micro irrigation professionals as well as advanced students.

Plant Transformation via Agrobacterium Tumefaciens compiles fundamental and specific information and procedures involving in vitro soybean transformation, which forms the basis for the Agrobacterium-mediated genetic manipulation of soybean using plant tissue culture. This method serves as one of the most preferred, reliable and cost-effective mechanism of transgene expression in both leguminous recalcitrant species and non-legume crops. The technology is favoured due to its simplicity, feasibility and high transformation rates that are so far achieved mostly in monocot plants and a few dicot genotypes. This book provides a comprehensive review of plant transformation which remains necessary for many researchers who are still facing protocol-related hurdles. Among some of the major topics covered in Plant Transformation via Agrobacterium Tumefaciens are the history and discovery of Agrobacterium bacterium, longstanding challenges causing transformation inefficiencies, types and conditions of explants, development of transgenic plants for stress resistance, and the role of transgenic plants on animal/human health, including the environment. Plant Transformation via Agrobacterium Tumefaciens helps the reader to understand how soybean, like many other orphan legume crops, faces the risk of overexploitation which may render the currently available varieties redundant and extinct should its narrow gene pool not improve. Plant transformation serves as a key technique in improving the gene pool, while developing varieties that are drought tolerant, have enhanced nutritional value, pest resistant and reduce the destruction by disease causing microorganims. This book is an essential foundation tool that is available for researchers and students to reinforce the application of Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation in soybean.

Global demand for wheat, rice, corn, and other essential grains is expected to steadily rise over the next twenty years. Meeting this demand by increasing production through increased land use is not very likely; and while better crop management may make a marginal difference, most agriculture experts agree that this anticipated deficit must be made up through increased crop yields. The first resource of its kind, Physiology and Biotechnology Integration for Plant Breeding assembles current research in crop plant physiology, plant biotechnology, and plant breeding that is aimed toward improving crop plants genetically while supporting a productive agriculture ecosystem. Highly comprehensive, this reference provides access to the most innovative perspectives in crop physiology - with a special emphasis on molecular approaches - aimed at the formulation of those crop cultivars that offer the greatest potential to increase crop yields in stress environments. Surveys the current state of the field, as well as modern options and avenues for plant breeders and biotechnologists interested in augmenting crop yield and stability With the contributions of plant scientists from all corners of the globe who are actively involved in meeting this important challenge, Physiology and Biotechnology Integration for Plant Breeding provides readers with the background information needed to understand this cutting-edge work, as well as detailed information on present and potential applications. While the first half of the book establishes and fully explains the link between crop physiology and molecular biology, the second part explores the application of biotechnology in the effective delivery of the high yield and environmentally stable crop plants needed to avert the very real possibility of worldwide hunger.

Cool season grain legumes including pea, faba bean, lentil, chickpea and grass pea are extensively grown in many parts of the world. They are a primary source of proteins in human diet. This volume deals with the most recent advances on genetics, genomics and breeding of these crops. The "state of the art" for the individual crops differs; however, their phylogenetic proximity justifies the utility of the knowledge available in one crop for speeding up researches and improvement in other crops. The first five chapters are devoted individually to the five crops followed by four chapters presenting comprehensive reviews on recent advances in the fields of functional genomics, comparative genomics, proteomics and metabolomics and transgenesis and three general chapters on nitrogen fixation, broomrapes and future prospects. This book contains information useful not only to the scientists and scholars working on the cool season grain legumes but also to those working on other legume species.

The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) is a pivotal piece of recent legislation, providing a route map for the use of such resources for sustainable agriculture and food security.

Plant Genetic Resources and Food Security explains clearly the different interests and views at stake between all players in the global food chain. It touches upon many issues such as international food governance and policy, economic aspects of food and seed trade, conservation and sustainable use of food and agricultural biodiversity, hunger alleviation, ecological concerns, consumers' protection, fairness and equity between nations and generations, plant breeding techniques and socio-economic benefits related to food local economies.

The book shows that despite the conflicting interests at stake, players managed to come to an agreement on food and agriculture for the sake of food security and hunger alleviation in the world. Published with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and with Bioversity International.

Plant diseases cause serious threats to the successful cultivation of horticultural crops, resulting in huge losses in their yields. These plant diseases are known to affect horticultural crops at various growth stages and reduce the yield as well as quality of fruits and vegetables. Diseases also cause subsequent postharvest transit and storage losses. This 4-volume set provides the latest diagnostic information along with effective management solutions to the problems of diseases of field crop plants caused by phytopathogens. In volume 1, each chapter includes an introduction, disease symptoms, causal organisms, disease cycles, epidemiology, and management of economically important plants. With contributions from national scientists who are engaged in teaching, research, and extension services who share their experiences here, the chapters explore apples, amla (or Indian gooseberry), avocado, Indian bael, banana, Indian jujube, citrus, grapes, guava, hazelnut, and more. The volumes provide an abundance of information for understanding and managing plant diseases, with emphasis on diagnostic techniques. The collection includes: Volume 1: Fruit Crops Volume 2: Vegetable Crops Volume 3: Ornamental Plants and Spice Crops Volume 4: Important Plantation Crops, Medicinal Crops, and Mushrooms

This third volume of the 4-volume set focuses on the diseases prevalent in ornamental plants and spice crops. The management of any disease successfully involves its detailed study regarding symptoms, causal agent, disease cycle, and epidemiology. To address this, the authors in this volume, all nationally known scientists in their respective fields who are engaged in teaching, research, and extension services, have contributed their experience and knowledge on recent developments in the field of plant diseases. Focusing on ornamental plants (such as carnations, chrysanthemums [or crown daisies], dahlias, gladioli, marigolds, roses, zinnias), and spice crops (such as black pepper, coriander, ginger, turmeric, and others), the authors offer detailed accounts of the main diseases affecting these plants. Included are introductions to the plants, disease symptoms, causal organisms, disease cycles, epidemiology, and management of the diseases of these economically important crops. The volumes provide an abundance of information for understanding and managing plant diseases, with emphasis on diagnostic techniques. The collection includes: Volume 1: Fruit Crops Volume 2: Vegetable Crops Volume 3: Ornamental Plants and Spice Crops Volume 4: Important Plantation Crops, Medicinal Crops, and Mushrooms

Volume 2 of this 4-volume set tackles the problems presented by diseases in vegetable crops that can reduce yield and quality. The effective management of plant diseases involves a detailed study of the disease symptoms, causal agents, disease cycles, and epidemiology. Written by nationally known scientists in their respective fields, the chapters incorporate the experience and knowledge of the authors. The chapters provide an introduction along with plant disease symptoms, causal organisms, disease cycles, epidemiology, and effective management solutions for diseases of economically important vegetables. Some of the vegetables addressed include brinjal (or eggplant), chili, cole crops (such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, collards, kale, and kohlrabi), cucurbits (gourds), garlic, green peas, potatoes, and more. The volumes provide an abundance of information for understanding and managing plant diseases, with emphasis on diagnostic techniques. The collection includes: Volume 1: Fruit Crops Volume 2: Vegetable Crops Volume 3: Ornamental Plants and Spice Crops Volume 4: Important Plantation Crops, Medicinal Crops, and Mushrooms

This fourth volume of this 4-volume set discusses the key diseases, typical symptoms, and management strategies of several economically important plants. Each chapter presents an introduction along with a detailed account of symptoms, causal organisms, disease cycles, epidemiology, and management of a selection of major plantation crops, medicinal crops, and mushrooms. The book features chapters contributed by eminent professionals in the field, who have incorporated their own experience and knowledge along with an overview of the recent developments in their fields. They provide information on the diagnostic tools and management techniques needed for such plantation crops as areca nut (or betel nut), cocoa (or chocolate), coconut, coffee, and tea; such medicinal crops as isabgol and senna; along with several kinds of mushrooms. The volume also includes photographs that show symptoms of important diseases, which are helpful in disease diagnosis. The volumes provide an abundance of information for understanding and managing plant diseases, with emphasis on diagnostic techniques. The collection includes: Volume 1: Fruit Crops Volume 2: Vegetable Crops Volume 3: Ornamental Plants and Spice Crops Volume 4: Important Plantation Crops, Medicinal Crops, and Mushrooms

This full-color introduction to agronomy and crop science offers both traditional agricultural students and students with nonagricultural backgrounds a timely look at the principles of crop science, sustainable agriculture, and a host of related societal issues. A must-read text for anyone interested in what are arguably the most profoundly important issues of our time, INTRODUCTION TO AGRONOMY, second edition addresses the basics of safe and sustainable food and fiber production as well as big picture topics such as energy, ecology, and environmental quality. Throughout the text, readers will find information and illustrations on the latest agricultural methods, regulations, and practices--and how each is impacting our society and each individual within it.

Explores the Sustainable Development of Agriculture in Technology Precision agriculture technology, when properly integrated into the crop production process, can greatly improve overall production and sustainability. Precision Agriculture Technology for Crop Farming focuses on the technology of site-specific crop management; detailing applications for sensing, data handling, modeling, and control. Written by experts who have contributed significantly to the development of precision agriculture technology, this book reviews its history-establishing background on the various processes and applications-describes the current status, and offers insight into the future technology of precision agriculture. Introducing processes and applications based on a global scale, the book reveals how precision agriculture can be used in large-scale agriculture, community agriculture, and diversified farming. It includes site-specific information from a variety of information sources for planning, planting, growing, and harvesting agricultural crops. It also presents a new concept based on the control system theory that can be used to formulate systematic methods for more effective precision crop production. In addition, this author: Describes yield monitors and guidance systems, GPS-based soil sampling, real-time crop and soil sensors, and remote sensing Evaluates a Japanese model of community-based precision agriculture aimed at high profitability and reliability under regional and environmental constraints Highlights autonomous vehicles, field robots, and other intelligent machinery, emerging developments, and future technology in the field of production agriculture Precision Agriculture Technology for Crop Farming provides an overview of precision agriculture technology development, discusses current and future considerations, and aims to facilitate the successful integration of precision agriculture technology.

This volume concentrates on the recent scientific advancements in agricultural biotechnology and reintegrates it with socio-economic, industrial and intellectual property aspects of agricultural biotechnology and its implications for accomplishing the sustainable development goals. Adopting a unique approach, this book amalgamates science and business perspectives from an insider's viewpoint on the agro-biotech industry, laying the foundations for students and professionals alike. This book: Is a first of its kind by addressing the recent issues emerging in agro-based economies. Will be a single-point source for recent advancements in agro-based global bioeconomy. Empowers the utilization of biotechnology to address worldwide ecological issues by supporting sustainable resolutions for global agricultural markets. Gives both foundational hypothesis and functional direction on commercialization and regulatory issues. Empowers the usage of adaptable approaches that can adjust to and uphold socially and financially valuable agro-based technologies.

This book presents several pre- and postharvest strategies that have been developed to modify these physiological activities, resulting in increased shelf life. The book also discusses the best technologies that positively influence quality attributes of the produce, including senescenal changes and, afterwards, the consumers' decision to purchase the product in the marketplace. With contributions from experts with experience in both developed and developing regions, the book includes chapters covering thorough discussions on postharvest management strategies of fresh horticultural commodities.

Agriculture 5.0: Artificial Intelligence, IoT & Machine Learning provides an interdisciplinary, integrative overview of latest development in the domain of smart farming. It shows how the traditional farming practices are being enhanced and modified by automation and introduction of modern scalable technological solutions that cut down on risks, enhance sustainability, and deliver predictive decisions to the grower, in order to make agriculture more productive. An elaborative approach has been used to highlight the applicability and adoption of key technologies and techniques such WSN, IoT, AI and ML in agronomic activities ranging from collection of information, analysing and drawing meaningful insights from the information which is more accurate, timely and reliable.It synthesizes interdisciplinary theory, concepts, definitions, models and findings involved in complex global sustainability problem-solving, making it an essential guide and reference. It includes real-world examples and applications making the book accessible to a broader interdisciplinary readership. This book clarifies hoe the birth of smart and intelligent agriculture is being nurtured and driven by the deployment of tiny sensors or AI/ML enabled UAV's or low powered Internet of Things setups for the sensing, monitoring, collection, processing and storing of the information over the cloud platforms. This book is ideal for researchers, academics, post-graduate students and practitioners of agricultural universities, who want to embrace new agricultural technologies for Determination of site-specific crop requirements, future farming strategies related to controlling of chemical sprays, yield, price assessments with the help of AI/ML driven intelligent decision support systems and use of agri-robots for sowing and harvesting. The book will be covering and exploring the applications and some case studies of each technology, that have heavily made impact as grand successes. The main aim of the book is to give the readers immense insights into the impact and scope of WSN, IoT, AI and ML in the growth of intelligent digital farming and Agriculture revolution 5.0.The book also focuses on feasibility of precision farming and the problems faced during adoption of precision farming techniques, its potential in India and various policy measures taken all over the world. The reader can find a description of different decision support tools like crop simulation models, their types, and application in PA. Features: Detailed description of the latest tools and technologies available for the Agriculture 5.0. Elaborative information for different type of hardware, platforms and machine learning techniques for use in smart farming. Elucidates various types of predictive modeling techniques available for intelligent and accurate agricultural decision making from real time collected information for site specific precision farming. Information about different type of regulations and policies made by all over the world for the motivation farmers and innovators to invest and adopt the AI and ML enabled tools and farming systems for sustainable production.

The present multi-volume treatise has been planned to discuss important aspects of the crop-plant physiological aspects, viz., hormones, nutrients, cell membranes, and induced proteins, as related to different types of stresses each in separate volumes. Another type of stress which can be classed under biotic, environmental (sil) or chemical, viz., the stress of allelochemicals which has not been discussed before as a stress factor, will be discussed in a separate volume emphasizing its practical/ ap-plied aspects, rather than mentioning only the allelopathic effects. In this volume on Hormone Relations, different stresses have been arranged in order of their importance and work done.

The development of transgenic crops is revolutionary, but what does it mean for food production, prices and the environment? This is the first book to examine the economic evidence in a methodical way. It initially describes the historical evolution of biotechnology and defines key terms, before moving on to explore transgenic technology and food regime concepts. The book analyzes genetically modified organism (GMO) policy as part of overall agrarian policy, considering neoregulation in the USA, the EU, Brazil, Russia, China, India, South Africa and Serbia; as well as discussing agricultural performance, support and trade relations. The effect of transgenic food production on world food prices is also examined, along with food security at global and regional levels, and the links between GMOs and world hunger. The environmental implications of transgenic technology are considered through analysis of pesticide and fertilizer usage and efficiency, and pesticide consumption in GMO and non-GMO producing countries. Finally, the book considers the entry of transgenic ingredients into the food chain and lists the products affected. Key features: - Detailed analysis of economic data. - Comparison of international trends, including BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and Serbia. - Evaluation of environmental and food security implications. - Glossary of important terms. This book will be valuable for agricultural economists, including students at Masters and PhD level. It will also be of interest to agricultural engineers, food technologists, nutritionists, industry representatives, policy makers, policy advisers and analysts and NGOs.

The Handbook of Postharvest Technology presents methods in the manufacture and supply of grains, fruits, vegetables, and spices. It details the physiology, structure, composition, and characteristics of grains and crops. The text covers postharvest technology through processing, handling, drying and milling to storage, packaging, and distribution. Additionally, it examines cooling and preservation techniques used to maintain the quality and the decrease spoilage and withering of agricultural products.

This book addresses topics related to the impact of invasive species including biosecurity, demographics, species diversity, and food security. It is meant for researchers, upper-level students, and policy makers, and provides a factual basis for the underlying science and a discussion of that information with respect to current and future impacts and possible solutions. This book explores the nexus of climate change and biological invasions, resulting impacts (biological and economic) and assesses ways to reduce vulnerability and increase the resiliency and sustainability of managed and unmanaged ecosystems. The book has three parts, focusing on: (1) the dimensions of the problem; background and science; (2) case studies; (3) Management: detection, prevention, control and adaptation. This revised edition examines a wide range of topics and regions, the underlying science, examples (case studies) from around the world, and ways and means to recognize, manage and control the consequences. It includes new cases and new threats; for example, a chapter summarizing case studies regarding climate change and invasive species that are also disease carriers (e.g. ticks and Lyme disease). Covers a wide range of topics and areas Examines the synergy between invasive species and climate change Explains options to control and mitigate effects This book is of interest to academics, researchers and students studying climate change and invasive species. Those interested in the environment and ecology, land managers, policy makers, agronomists, federal and state departments of natural resources, climate change activists, and public health professionals.

Written by leading global experts, including pioneers in the field, the four-volume set on Hyperspectral Remote Sensing of Vegetation, Second Edition, reviews existing stateof- the-art knowledge, highlights advances made in different areas, and provides guidance for the appropriate use of hyperspectral data in the study and management of agricultural crops and natural vegetation. Hyperspectral remote sensing or imaging spectroscopy data has been increasingly used in studying and assessing the biophysical and biochemical properties of agricultural crops and natural vegetation. Volume III, Biophysical and Biochemical Characterization and Plant Species Studies demonstrates the methods that are developed and used to study terrestrial vegetation using hyperspectral data. This volume includes extensive discussions on hyperspectral data processing and how to implement data processing mechanisms for specific biophysical and biochemical applications such as crop yield modeling, crop biophysical and biochemical property characterization, and crop moisture assessments. The concluding chapter provides readers with useful guidance on the highlights and essence of Volume III through the editors' perspective. Key Features of Volume III: Covers recent abilities to better quantify, model, and map plant biophysical, biochemical water, and structural properties. Demonstrates characteristic hyperspectral properties through plant diagnostics or throughput phenotyping of plant biophysical, biochemical, water, and structural properties. Establishes plant traits through hyperspectral imaging spectroscopy data as well as its integration with other data, such as LiDAR, using data from various platforms (ground-based, UAVs, and earth-observing satellites). Studies photosynthetic efficiency and plant health and stress through hyperspectral narrowband vegetation indices. Uses hyperspectral data to discriminate plant species and\or their types as well as their characteristics, such as growth stages. Compares studies of plant species of agriculture, forests, and other land use\land cover as established by hyperspectral narrowband data versus multispectral broadband data. Discusses complete solutions from methods to applications, inventory, and modeling considering various platform (e.g., earth-observing satellites, UAVs, handheld spectroradiometers) from where the data is gathered. Dwells on specific applications to detect and map invasive species by using hyperspectral data.

A multibillion dollar industry that has tripled in the last ten years, turfgrass management plays an important role in landscaping, golf courses, and other sports surfaces. Proper management and cultural practices are crucial for the performance of these versatile grasses, creating a demand among scientists, researchers, and industry professionals for better quality, hardier grasses. The mounting collection of research into new species, modern cultivars, and stress tolerant genotypes requires a high-quality, accessible resource. Filling a long-empty niche by compiling the most complete, up-to-date collection of contributions from internationally known specialists, Handbook of Turfgrass Management and Physiology is the only single source reference that covers every aspect of turfgrass maintenance and cultivation. Divided into several sections, this all-inclusive volume begins with an introductory chapter on turf related issues. The second section reveals detailed accounts of turfgrass growth, management, and cultural practices such as carbon metabolism and overseeding. Subsequent sections cover sports turf management and growth regulating factors, as well as breeding, genetics, and biotechnology. The text highlights research in turfgrass pathology and disease including nutritional disorders, rapid blight, and fungal diseases. The book reviews several methods of pest control using herbicides, as well as biological, and microbial control agents. It provides extensive information on the physiological responses of turfgrass to acidic soil, salinized water, temperature, light, depleted oxygen, reactive nitrogen use, and other environmental stressors. The final section looks at future and potential grasses requiring minimal maintenance and management. Offering hundreds of figures and tables, thousands of references, and an extensive index, Handbook of Turfgrass Management and Physiology is the definitive reference to the dynamic and growing world of turfgr

Plants are frequently exposed to unfavorable and adverse environmental conditions known as abiotic stressors. These factors can include salinity, drought, heat, cold, flooding, heavy metals, and UV radiation which pose serious threats to the sustainability of crop yields. Since abiotic stresses are major constraints for crop production, finding the approaches to enhance stress tolerance is crucial to increase crop production and increase food security. This book discusses approaches to enhance abiotic stress tolerance in crop plants on a global scale. Plants scientists and breeders will learn how to further mitigate plant responses and develop new crop varieties for the changing climate.

This new 2-volume set discusses the importance of fodder production of the minor fodder crops for animals. The volumes focuses on fodder production for forage crops, cover 17 major forage crops and 25 minor forage crops. The volumes discuss crop production methodology and agronomic management in a systemic way, providing an abundance of information on each type of forage crop discussed, including preferred soil type, land capability, cropping patterns, climate, and socioeconomic conditions. They also address pests of the various forage crops, disease management, agroforestry in fodder and forage crops, preservation of forage crops, and forage production and climate change. Forage crops are very essential for quality milk and meat production. Farm animals are normally fed fodder available from cultivated areas, supplemented by a small extent with harvested grasses and top feeds. The three major sources of fodder are crop residues, cultivated fodder, and fodder from trees, pastures, and grazing lands. The patterns and types of fodder crops vary by geographical location.

Capsicum, more commonly as chili or chili pepper, is an important global vegetable and spice crop. Anthracnose disease, caused by a complex of Colletotrichum species, is the major biotic stress limiting chili production in tropical and subtropical countries. Anthracnose disease mainly manifests itself as a post-harvest disease, resulting in large necrotic lesions on the fruit. This disease is mainly controlled by the application of a "cocktail" of fungicides as commercial resistant cultivars are not available. In recent years, insights into the complexity of the pathogen and the genomics of the host have been accomplished using cutting-edge molecular technologies. The author has been at the forefront of this technology revolution in Capsicum breeding through her research to understand the host and pathogen which has led to the development of new anthracnose resistant genotypes. Capsicum: Breeding Strategies for Anthracnose Resistance is structured based on a review of the origin and evolution of Capsicum, Capsicum genetic diversity and germplasm resources, the latest research in the biology and taxonomy of Colletotrichum pathogens of Capsicum, and the classic and molecular breeding for resistance in Capsicum to the suite of Colletotrichum pathogens that infect Capsicum globally. This book brings together knowledge on both the pathogen and the host, which is often overlooked when reviewing the breeding and genetics of a crop plant. It informs the facts behind breeding for resistance from both the host and pathogen perspectives.

This book is the first comprehensive assemblage of contemporary knowledge relevant to genomics and other omics in date palm. Volume 2 consists of 11 chapters. Part I, Nutritional and Pharmaceuticals Properties, covers the utilization of date palm as an ingredient of various food products, a source of bioactive compounds and the production of nanomaterials. Part II, Omics Technologies, addresses omics resources, proteomics and metabolomics. Part III, Molecular Breeding and Genome Modification, focuses on genetic improvement technologies based on mutagenesis, quantitative traits loci and genome editing. Part IV, Genomics of Abiotic and Biotic Stress, covers metagenomics of beneficial microbes to enhance tolerance to abiotic stress and the various genomics advances as they apply to insect control. This volume represents the efforts of 34 international scientists from 12 countries and contains 65 figures and 19 tables to illustrate presented concepts. Volume 1 is published under the title: Phylogeny, Biodiversity and Mapping.