Guest Editors
Prof. Dr. Isidora Radulov
Email: isidoraradulov@yahoo.com
Affiliation: Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Soil Science, University of Life Sciences "King Mihai I" from Timisoara, Aradului Street No. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
Homepage:
Research Interests: bioactives, innovative extraction techniques, plant nutrition, alternative fertilizers
Dr Adina Berbecea
Email: adina_berbecea@usvt.ro
Affiliation: Faculty of Agriculture, University of Life Sciences "King Mihai I" from Timisoara, Aradului Street No. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
Homepage:
Research Interests: fertilizers, heavy metals, soil pollution
Prof. Dr. Crista Florin
Email: florin_crista@usvt.ro
Affiliation: Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Soil Science, University of Life Sciences "King Mihai I" from Timisoara, Aradului Street No. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
Homepage:
Research Interests: fertilizers, soil fertility, nutrient management
Dr. Lato Alina
Email: alina_lato@usvt.ro
Affiliation: Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Soil Science, University of Life Sciences "King Mihai I" from Timisoara, Aradului Street No. 119, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
Homepage:
Research Interests: fertilizers, soil fertility, nutrient management
Summary
This special issue presents an integrative perspective on improving soil quality and plant health through innovative applications of natural extracts. It addresses pressing challenges such as soil acidity, nutrient depletion, and heavy metal contamination, proposing sustainable strategies that reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Emphasis is placed on plant-derived compounds—bioactive extracts, organic amendments, and biostimulants—and their capacity to enhance soil physicochemical properties, nutrient bioavailability, and microbial diversity.
Contributions explore how these natural substances influence soil structure, promote beneficial microbial interactions, and mitigate environmental stressors, while simultaneously improving crop yield and resilience. The issue bridges soil science and plant physiology, offering experimental studies, field trials, and molecular insights into plant–soil interactions. By advancing eco-friendly solutions, this collection supports global efforts toward sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation.
Ultimately, the special issue aims to foster interdisciplinary research and practical applications that lead to healthier soils and thriving plant ecosystems, providing a scientific foundation for holistic strategies in modern agroecosystems.
Keywords
soil improvement, natural extracts, plant growth, sustainable agriculture, soil-plant interactions, organic amendments