Balanced fertilization refers to the application of plant nutrients in optimum ratio and adequate amounts. It is the proper supply of all nutrients (macros and micros) throughout the growth of a crop. (Yang, P. & Ou, Y. 2023. Guide for monitoring and evaluation of the public agricultural extension and advisory service system. Rome, FAO. https://doi.org/10.4060/cc4014en)
Yield loss is defined as the difference between the actual yield and the attainable yield. (Savary S, Nelson A D, Djurle A, Esker P D, Sparks A, Amorim L, Bergamin Filho A, Caffi T, Castilla N and Garrett K 2018 Concepts, approaches, and avenues for modelling crop health and crop losses Eur. J. Agron. 100 4–18)
The difference between crop yield obtained in a given area and attainable yield. (FAO. 2025. The State of the World’s Land and Water Resources for Food and Agriculture 2025 – The potential to produce more and better. Rome. https://doi.org/10.4060/cd7488en)
Cultivation in irrigated or flooded systems. (Adapted from University College London, 2024. Early Rice Project https://www.ucl.ac.uk/rice/early-rice-project)
