Summary
This meta-analysis of 115 studies found the organic-to-conventional yield gap to be 19.2% (±3.7%), smaller than previously reported. Notably, two diversification practices—multi-cropping and crop rotation—substantially narrowed the gap to 9% and 8% respectively when applied in organic systems. The analysis revealed no significant yield differences based on crop legume status, perennial versus annual growth, or geographic development level, suggesting that strategic agroecological management investment could substantially improve organic productivity in targeted contexts.
Regional applicability
This global meta-analysis synthesises evidence from diverse agricultural contexts and should be applicable to United Kingdom farming policy and practice. The findings support investment in organic system diversification practices (crop rotation and multi-cropping) as evidence-based strategies to improve UK organic farm productivity and competitiveness without sacrificing environmental objectives.
Key measures
Organic to conventional yield gap (percentage difference); effect of crop type, management practices, multi-cropping, crop rotation, and geographic development status on yield gap
Outcomes reported
Meta-analysis comparing organic and conventional crop yields across 115 studies (>1000 observations), examining how diversification practices (multi-cropping and crop rotation) affect the yield gap between organic and conventional systems.
Topic tags
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