Nutrient management in agronomy: Best practices for maximizing crop yield and soil health

Abstract

Nutrient Management (NM) is vital in the field of agronomy, as an excess of nutrients can significantly harm the environment and ecosystems, while insufficient nutrients can directly lead to reduced crop yields. This situation ultimately threatens the financial stability, livelihood, and sustainability of farmers who depend heavily on their agricultural output for income. The noble pursuit of optimal farming practices primarily focuses on enhancing crop yields by making the best possible use of available sunlight, land, and other agricultural resources. Recent shifts in agronomy are reshaping traditional views and approaches, highlighting the strategic and intentional use of various vital assets and resources to effectively boost crop yields and promote better soil health over time, which is essential in maintaining agricultural productivity. This comprehensive meta-analysis outlines a variety of effective NM practices and delves deeply into their wide-ranging implications for human health, economic prosperity, and long-term environmental sustainability, all of which are increasingly critical issues in today's rapidly changing world. The integration of sustainable practices into nutrient management not only aids in achieving optimal yields but also addresses broader ecological concerns, ensuring that agriculture can coexist harmoniously with the environment.