Salt stress is the second most widespread soil problem after drought in arable crop production worldwide. Excess salt in soil adversely affects plant growth, development, and productivity when osmotic stress reduces water uptake by roots. This publication provides standard operating procedures for managing crop phenotyping in controlled/semi-controlled environments and natural field conditions. As a comprehensive reference, the publication will support IAEA Member States in the application of these procedures to increase the productivity of arable food crops to help withstand the impact of climate change on agriculture.

Cassava is the third largest source of human food and animal feed carbohydrates in the tropics, after maize and rice. It is a major food crop in Africa and is also grown in a number of countries in Asia. However, declining soil fertility and poor farming practices are serious problems for traditional cassava farms in both Asia and Africa. This publication is intended to assist Member States in enhancing their cassava production. It provides information on the best farm management practices and the role of nuclear and isotopic techniques to better understand nutrient nitrogen (N) uptake. The guidelines presented in the publication provide an integrated and crop-need-based nutrient, weed, insect pest and disease management plan for growing cassava. By using these improved crop management methods, farmers can optimize cassava yields and minimize production costs. They also contribute to a reduction in land degradation by soil erosion, particularly on sloping lands, thereby protecting the local environment. The intended end result is an enhancement of the quality and market value of cassava products.