@article{Wu2026, 
author = {Xiaorong Wu and Xudong Zhang and Zhiqiang Yuan and Huina Chai and Baoping Yang and Zhikuan Jia and Qingfang Han and Lijun Li},
title = {Optimization of N nutrition and fertilizer rate for dryland maize based on critical N dilution curve},
year = {2026},
journal = {The Crop Journal},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {1020-1027},
keywords = {Critical nitrogen dilution curve, Bayesian statistics, Nitrogen nutrition index, Yield, Rainfed agriculture},
url = {https://www.sciopen.com/article/10.1016/j.cj.2025.12.013},
doi = {10.1016/j.cj.2025.12.013},
abstract = {This study aimed to develop a nitrogen fertilization strategy for rainfed maize systems on the Loess Plateau, based on an optimal available nitrogen supply, to meet soil N availability with crop demand while minimizing groundwater quality damage from nitrate leaching. A three-year field experiment was conducted with varying planting density and N rate. The optimal relative yield was achieved at an integrated nitrogen nutrition index of 1.0 with an available N supply (ANS, mineral N fertilizer plus initial soil nitrate N) around 300 kg ha−1, which represented the optimal level for minimizing soil nitrate residues without yield penalty. This ANS-based framework offers a practical strategy for sustainable N management in rainfed maize production under variable climatic conditions.}
}