Diversification and Management Practices in Selected European Regions. A Data Analysis of Arable Crops Production

Abstract

In the European Union, various crop diversification systems such as crop rotation, intercropping and multiple cropping, as well as low-input management practices, have been promoted to sustain crop productivity while maintaining environmental quality and ecosystem services. We conducted a data analysis to identify the benefits of crop associations, alternative agricultural practices and strategies in four selected regions of Europe (Atlantic, Boreal, Mediterranean North and Mediterranean South) in terms of crop production (CP). The dataset was derived from 54 references with a total of 750 comparisons and included site characteristics, crop information (diversification system, crop production, tillage and fertilization management) and soil parameters. We analyzed each effect separately, comparing CP under tillage management (e.g., conventional tillage vs. no tillage), crop diversification (e.g., monoculture vs. rotation), and fertilization management (e.g., mineral fertilization vs. organic fertilization). Compared with conventional tillage (CT), CP was higher by 12% in no tillage (NT), in fine- and medium-textured soils (8–9%) and in arid and semiarid sites located in the Mediterranean Region (24%). Compared to monoculture, diversified cropping systems with longer crop rotations increased CP by 12%, and by 12% in soils with coarse and medium textures. In relation to fertilization, CP was increased with the use of slurry (40%), and when crop residues were incorporated (39%) or mulched (74%). Results showed that conversion to alternative diversified systems through the use of crop rotations, with NT and organic fertilization, results in a better crop performance. However, regional differences related to climate and soil-texture-specific responses should be considered to target local measures to improve soil management.

Crop Rotation Enhances Agricultural Sustainability: From an Empirical Evaluation of Eco-Economic Benefits in Rice Production

“…Crop diversification through rotation can improve water as well as nutrient efficiency of rice production as a consequence of increased complementarity in the modes and forms of mineral elements consumed by different crops or crop genotypes [51]. Crop diversification through rotation may also alter soil chemical, physiological and/or biological properties, supporting large and sustainable production [52]. To materialize this advantage, nutritional requirement profiles and preferences of succeeding and preceding crops should be considered jointly.…”

Influence of Tillage on the Production Inputs, Outputs, Soil Compaction and GHG Emissions

“…The problem is the deteriorating condition of the soil and the subsequent reduction in soil fertility. Soils are often degraded, soil organic carbon stocks are depleted and biodiversity is lost [2][3][4]. In addition, intensively cultivated soils are frequently prone to erosion and disruption of the soil structure and changes in moisture regime.…”

“…Tillage systems research has been carried out in many countries around the world for decades concerning the economic, energy and environmental point of view. Optimization of tillage in terms of soil type and climatic conditions, together with the optimal nutrient supply, is a prerequisite for high yields, maintaining soil fertility, reducing ecosystem pollution and decrease of the energy intensity of crop production [4,28].…”

Soil-Improving Cropping Systems for Sustainable and Profitable Farming in Europe

“…However, diversification could contribute to more sustainable agricultural production through, e.g., the reallocation of some farming resources/material, such as lands, equipment, and labour, to other fields; other social or natural services, including changes in productive goals; and switching to nonfarming activities at both spatial and temporal scales [137]. In addition, diversification may alter soil chemical, physical, and/or biological properties, supporting large and sustainable production [138].…”