What is Agronomy? Meaning, Terms & Resources

Agronomy

Definition of Agronomy

Agronomy is the branch of agricultural science that focuses on the production of crops and the management of soils to improve agricultural productivity, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. It combines knowledge from biology, chemistry, ecology, genetics, meteorology, and soil science to optimize crop growth, soil health, and farm management. Agronomy encompasses practices such as soil preparation, nutrient management, irrigation, pest and disease control, crop rotation, and the development of high-yield and resilient crop varieties.

Why Agronomy Matters

Agronomy matters because it underpins food security, resource efficiency, and sustainable farming systems. Through agronomic research and practices, farmers can increase crop yields, improve soil fertility, and reduce environmental impacts. Agronomy helps ensure that agricultural production meets the growing global demand for food, fibre, and bioenergy, while preserving natural resources for future generations.

Agronomy also plays a central role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, and land degradation. By applying science-based approaches, agronomists can promote sustainable management of crops and soils, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and support ecosystem restoration.

Furthermore, agronomy contributes to economic stability and livelihoods. Millions of people worldwide rely on agronomic innovations, research, and advisory services to improve productivity, reduce losses, and support agribusinesses and rural communities.

Related Terms

Agriculture – The practice of cultivating land to grow crops and raise animals.
Crop Rotation – Planning a sequence of crops on the same land to maintain soil fertility and reduce pests.
Soil Science – The study of soil properties, formation, and management for crop growth.
Horticulture – The science and practice of growing fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
Sustainable Agriculture – Farming methods that protect resources for future generations.
Precision Farming – The use of technology to monitor and manage crops and soil for optimized production.

Useful Resources

Explore these authoritative resources to learn more about agronomy, crop management, and sustainable farming practices:

Agronomy – Wikipedia– Overview of agronomy, history, and modern applications.
Agronomy | Britannica – Clear, accessible explanation of agronomic principles and practices.
SRUC – Soils & Plants Research – Scotland’s Rural College conducts applied research on soils, crops, and plant systems to support sustainable agriculture, including soil health, nutrient management, and resilient cropping systems.
AHDB Agronomy Guides – The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board provides UK-focused agronomy guides, technical advice, and research updates for cereals, oilseeds, potatoes, and other crops.
Agronomy (MDPI) – Open Access Journal– A widely indexed peer‑reviewed journal covering agronomy and agroecology research, useful for up‑to‑date scientific articles and trends in crop systems and soil management.
Agronomy Journal– One of the oldest and most established scientific journals in agronomy, publishing research on soil science, crop science, and production agriculture.
Agronomy for Sustainable Development– A high‑impact scientific journal focusing on crop systems within the context of sustainable agriculture and environmental interactions.
International Journal of Research in Agronomy – A monthly research journal covering a broad range of agronomic topics including crop physiology, soil interactions, and sustainable management.
Agronomy4Me.org – Educational agronomy resources geared toward students and teachers, with guides and career information about agronomy as a science and profession.
CGIAR Open Learning Portal (Excellence in Agronomy)– A free online platform offering courses and resources for agronomy learners worldwide, created by the CGIAR Initiative on Excellence in Agronomy.
Root2Res EU Research Partners– European collaborative research on roots, soil and crop performance.