Effects of N management optimization practices on rice productivity and N loss: a meta-analysis.

Introduction: Optimizing nitrogen (N) fertilizer management is key to reducing active N losses in farmland. While current research has proposed various methods to minimize N losses, it often overlooks the need for integrated strategies that address both N losses and crop productivity. By clarifying the impact of different N fertilizer optimization practices on crop productivity and N loss, rational N fertilizer management strategies can be adopted to achieve stable crop yields and reduction in N application rates.

Methods: Our study collected 476 peer-reviewed papers and used meta-analysis to analyze the impact of different N optimization management practices (combined application of organic-inorganic fertilizer, deep fertilization, and enhanced-efficiency fertilizer) on yield, N use efficiency, and N loss (NO emissions, NH volatilization, N runoff, and N leaching).

Results: Optimized N management led to a 5%-10% increase in yield, a 17%-21% improvement in N use efficiency, and reductions in NO (10%-37%), NH (7%-40%), N runoff (9%-20%), and N leaching (7%-10%) compared to standard farmer management practices.

Conclusion: Twice fertilization, the combination of organic and inorganic fertilizers, and the appropriate application of enhanced-efficiency fertilizer could improve rice yield, decrease N losses and ensure food security and improve the sustainable agricultural development.