Eveland and her team’s laboratory research mapped a genetic locus in the Setaria genome that influences the growth of sterile branches, known as bristles, which appear on the grain-bearing flower clusters of certain grass species. Their findings revealed that these sterile bristles are initially programmed to develop into spikelets—grass-specific structures responsible for producing flowers and grains. The plant biologists demonstrated that the transformation from spikelet to bristle occurs early in the flower cluster’s development and is regulated by a class of plant hormones known as brassinosteroids (BRs). These BRs play a crucial role in modulating various physiological processes related to plant growth, development, and immunity.
Moreover, researchers discovered that localized disruption of BR synthesis could result in the formation of two flowers per spikelet instead of the typical single flower. Consequently, these BR-dependent phenotypes represent two promising pathways for enhancing grain production in millets, particularly for subsistence crops in many developing countries that have yet to benefit from genetic improvement efforts. While the implications of this study are significant for boosting global crop yields, extensive further research is necessary to explore commercial applications for the crops that food manufacturers prioritize, such as corn, sorghum, rice, wheat, and barley.
In parallel, food manufacturers and retailers are making investments aimed at improving crop output and the food supply. General Mills has allocated nearly $3 million to research soil health on wheat farms, focusing on practices like reduced tillage, the planting of cover crops during winter, and advanced nutrient management, all of which can enhance soil health and positively impact the environment. In 2016, Cargill and Walmart collaborated with General Mills to investigate methods for improving soil health and water quality on farms, recognizing the necessity of healthy soil for sustaining a profitable business.
Experts anticipate that there will be insufficient food to meet global demands by 2050, prompting scientists and entrepreneurs to explore innovative solutions to nourish the planet’s expanding population. However, it remains uncertain whether potential future increases in crop yields would lead to declines in commodity prices and whether consumers would eventually benefit from lower retail costs.
In discussing agricultural practices, it’s essential to understand the difference between calcium carbonate and calcium citrate. These substances play distinct roles in soil health and plant nutrition. Calcium carbonate, commonly used to improve soil pH, contrasts with calcium citrate, which is often utilized for its bioavailability in enhancing nutrient absorption. The difference between calcium carbonate and calcium citrate becomes particularly relevant in the context of advanced nutrient management strategies being researched by food companies. Ultimately, these efforts and the insights gained from studies like Eveland’s may pave the way for improving crop productivity and food security in the future.