Crop physiology and nutrient management strategies for yield optimization in degraded soils

Abstract

Degraded soils represent a major limitation to global agricultural productivity, particularly in regions suffering from nutrient depletion, salinization, erosion, or compaction. As climate change exacerbates soil degradation and reduces nutrient use efficiency, understanding crop physiological responses and optimizing nutrient management becomes critical for ensuring food security. This paper reviews the physiological mechanisms of crops grown in degraded soils, explores current nutrient management strategies tailored for low-fertility conditions, and evaluates innovative approaches such as biofertilizers, controlled-release fertilizers, and regenerative soil practices used in countries like the United States, Australia, and Brazil. The paper concludes by proposing integrative frameworks for yield optimization under degraded soil conditions based on crop physiology, precision nutrient delivery, and adaptive management strategies.