Straw is a byproduct of grain production, which in modern agronomy is no longer considered waste. For farmers and gardeners, this material is valuable as an effective source of organic matter and essential macro- and micronutrients, contributing to the restoration of soil fertility. In addition, straw serves as an important component in technological processes: from mulching fruit trees to its use as a nutrient substrate for growing cucumbers and mushrooms, as well as a staple in livestock feeding.
This collection gathers materials that reveal the multifaceted application of straw and crop residues in crop production and livestock farming. Readers will find detailed information on the chemical composition of organic fertilizers, the impact of plant residues on soil structure, and the water regime in orchards. Separate articles are devoted to technologies for growing vegetable crops on straw substrates, as well as issues of effective collection and preparation of crop residues using modern harvesting machinery. This series of publications will help structure knowledge about the competent use of resources remaining after the harvesting of grain crops.