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How Can We Improve M editerranean Cropping Systems?
Author(s) -
Benlhabib O.,
Yazar A.,
Qadir M.,
Lourenço E.,
Jacobsen S. E.
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
journal of agronomy and crop science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.095
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1439-037X
pISSN - 0931-2250
DOI - 10.1111/jac.12066
Subject(s) - cropping , cropping system , agronomy , environmental science , sustainability , soil fertility , agroforestry , productivity , food security , tillage , agriculture , irrigation , crop rotation , crop yield , population , crop , geography , biology , soil water , economics , ecology , demography , macroeconomics , archaeology , sociology , soil science
In the M editerranean region, crop productivity and food security are closely linked to the adaptation of cropping systems to multiple abiotic stresses. Limited and unpredictable rainfall and low soil fertility have reduced agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. For this reason, crop management technologies have been developed, with a special focus on the M editerranean region, to enhance crop production by increasing land productivity and sustaining soil fertility under influence of climate changes and population increases. The main objective of this study was to analyse dryland M editerranean cropping systems, and to discuss and recommend sustainable cropping technologies that could be used at the small‐scale farm level. Four crop management practices were evaluated: crop rotations, reduced tillage, use of organic manure, and supplemental and deficit irrigation. Among the tested interventions, incorporation of crop residues coupled with supplementary irrigation showed a significantly positive effect on crop productivity, yield stability and environmental sustainability.