Nitrogen Management in Crop Production

Nitrogen is an essential plant nutrient which is considered as a mineral element. Nitrogen deficiency reduces the fertility of the soil and affects the crop production severely. Plants absorb nitrogen through their roots in the form of nitrate and ammonium ions. It plays a crucial role in photosynthesis and is responsible for the activation of various enzymes. Nitrogen based fertilizers are the most important means of nitrogen management. They play an important role in the areas with prolonged wet field conditions which makes the soil nitrogen deficient. However, excess nitrogen in the soil can cause nitrogen pollution. Alternative nitrogen sources such as organic residues and biological nitrogen fixation could be used to manage nitrogen effectively and increase the crop yield while reducing the harmful effects on the environment. The various studies that are constantly contributing towards advancing technologies and evolution of this field are examined in detail. Also included herein is a detailed explanation of the various concepts and applications of nitrogen management in crop production. For all those who are interested in crop production, this book can prove to be an essential guide.