Scientists from all over the world have used our brilliantly bright light to study these challenges for farmers and more.

1. Improving food security

University of Saskatchewan researchers boosted the confidence of West African farmers with evidence that fertilizer microdosing is a sound practice.

2. Getting to the root of aluminum in soil

From down under, a scientist from The University of Queensland examined roots of wheat to learn how aluminum in soil kills plants.

3. Waxing elequent on drought

The role of wax in helping plants tolerate drought is being explored by U of S scientists.

4. Taming fire for fertilizer

A Swiss scientist identified why biochar (a specialized charcoal for agricultural practices) in soil captures and releases nutrients slowly, improving crop yields.

5. Foraging for salt

Digging into the roots of alfalfa will provide U of S scientists with crucial information as they work to develop plants with roots that are able to resist salinity in soil.

6. Extending the growing season

Early fall frosts cut short the growing season on the Prairies, but U of S scientists are trying to develop plants that withstand those first frosts in order to give crops more time to grow and ripen.