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The rice-wheat cropping system is the largest cereal-based agricultural production system in India. It provides considerable significance to national food, nutrition, and livelihood security. However, the extensive use of resources under rice-wheat system has resulted in significant issues, including a decline in groundwater levels, indiscriminate use of fertilizers, the burning of rice residues, increased emissions of greenhouse gases, and the development of herbicide-resistant weeds which led to stagnant crop productivity and reduced profitability. This study was conducted at the research farm of ICAR-IIWBR, Karnal, India, to evaluate the combined effects of conventional and nano urea on productivity, profitability, and efficient nitrogen management strategy in wheat under rice-wheat system. The study evaluated eight treatment combinations of nitrogen application through conventionally applied urea (46% N) and foliar applied nano urea (4% N). The results of the study showed that the application of 150 kg N/ha in three equal splits as basal and just before 1st and 2nd irrigation, either alone (T2) or along with a spray of nano urea (T5), resulted in the highest grain yield and profitability. Top dressing of urea just before irrigation with a dose of nitrogen 150 kg/ha applied in three equal splits (T2) resulted in 420 kg/ha additional grain yield over top dressing at 7-10 days after irrigation with same dose (T3). Treatment T5 recorded the highest gross and net returns with 2492.5 and 1804.0 US $/ha. The study's findings suggest that efficient nitrogen management is essential for sustainable wheat production in India. The application of 150 kg N/ha in three equal splits, either alone or along with a spray of nano urea, is a promising strategy for improving wheat productivity and profitability in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving nutrient use efficiency and system productivity with a positive nutrient balance in rice-wheat cropping system (RWCS) is vital for long-term food security. Two-year field trials were conducted with the objective of computing the effect of different rates, time, method, and source of potassium (K) fertilization on nutrient recovery efficiency, nutrient balance, and system productivity in a dry direct-seeded RWCS with eight treatments. The two-split (half basal and half at panicle initiation) application of 60 kg K2O/ha resulted in 37.5% and 19.2% increase in recovery efficiency of K in rice and wheat, respectively over basal application of 60 kg K2O/ha. Besides, the split-application of K increased the nitrogen recovery efficiency in rice and wheat by 11.2% and 10.8%, respectively. Similarly, the phosphorus recovery efficiency was increased by 3.6% and 7.4% in rice and wheat, respectively. The split application of 60 kg K2O/ha also increased the K harvest index (% of the total K absorbed is transferred to grain) by 0.7% and 2.7% in rice and wheat, respectively over applying entire K at basal. Similarly, the system productivity (11.26 t/ha) was increased by 8% over applying entire K at basal. In the absence of top-dressing of K (30 kg/ha), two foliar-sprays of 2.5% K provide equal benefits of top dressing. Application of 90 kg K2O/ha lowered the K negative balance (−99 kg/ha/year) considerably compared to two-split application of 60 kg K2O/ha (−152.5 kg/ha/year). Thus, optimization of K fertilization in RWCS will increase the system productivity, nutrient use efficiency, and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the nutritional status of soybean and wheat and the relationship with grain yield and biometric components after lime and phosphogypsum (GY) reapplication. Treatments consisted of two lime application methods, surface liming and incorporated liming, to different levels of base saturation (BS) (44, 70, and 90%), in addition to surface liming to 70% BS associated with a standard dose (70GY1) or double dose (70GY2) of GY. Treatments were applied in 2012 and reapplied in 2016. The results refer to the 2018/2019 soybean season and the 2019 wheat season. Lime + GY treatment increased leaf area, plant height, leaf dry matter, and stem dry matter in soybean but had no effect on specific leaf area (235.4 cm2 g−1), stem diameter (6.08 mm), number of pods per plant (71.7), grain number per plant (165), or thousand grain weight (117 g). Liming to 90% BS reduced leaf manganese contents in both crops and leaf iron content in soybean. GY application improved the calcium status of both crops and the sulfur status of soybean. However, 70GY2 reduced leaf magnesium contents in soybean and wheat. Soil tillage without lime reduced wheat yield by 12% compared with no-till. Soybean yield correlated positively with leaf nitrogen (0.79), leaf phosphorus (0.91), leaf area (0.62), and thousand grain weight (0.65), whereas wheat yield correlated with leaf phosphorus (0.83), calcium (0.75), and sulfur (0.74). For improved soybean and wheat performance, it is preferable to apply lime and GY to the soil surface (70GY1), permanently maintaining no-till practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are doubts about nitrogen (N) management and the use of growth regulator in wheat. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the wheat performance as a function of topdressing N applied at different phenological stages of crop, and the use of trinexapac-ethyl (TE) growth regulator associated with N fertilization in subtropical regions in southern Brazil. In each environment, two experiments were carried out, all with an experimental design in 2 × 4 factorial scheme. The factors in experiment 1 were topdressing N application at seedling emergence and tillering stages and N rates (0, 40, 80, and 120 kg N ha−1); and in experiment 2: use of TE (with and without) and N rates (0, 40, 80, and 120 kg N ha−1) applied at tillering. The augment of N in topdressing increases the lodging. The use of TE minimizes the lodging. In environment with irrigation, the application of intermediate N rates at crop emergence reduces lodging. The yield components are altered by the rates and stages of N application, with variable responses according to the cultivation environment. The stage of application does not affect grain yield. N fertilization increases the yield, being that in Ponta Grossa the wheat is more responsive to higher N input. In certain environments, TE reduces the number of spikes m−2 and increases the number of grains per spike. TE impairs yield when associated with N non-application in topdressing. On the other hand, it maximizes the effect of N fertilization on yield, when using higher N rates in topdressing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the essential role of nano-fertilizers in crop production, studies have yet to be conducted to evaluate nano-molybdenum (Mo) application on winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The present study assessed the efficacy of nano-Mo on the Mo-uptake, plant growth, and winter wheat yield. Wheat was grown in the pot experiment using four experimental groups (deionized water: C, nano potassium molybdate: NMoK, potassium molybdate: MoK, and ammonium molybdate: MoA), each with six replicate samples applied-foliar three times in a 30-day interval. The results revealed that NMoK improved Mo accumulation in grains, stomatal conductance, root dry weight, yield, and the number of spikes per pot of wheat compared with MoK. Additionally, NMoK treatment significantly increased wheat grain yield by 46.29%, 13.94%, and 17.70% compared with C, MoK, and MoA treatments, respectively. These results demonstrated that the nano-Mo application may enhance Mo-inefficient wheat growth, thus, increasing its productivity under acidic soil conditions. The principal component analysis (PCA) elucidates that all variables reside within the positively correlated variable domain. This encompasses parameters related to yield, photosynthetic machinery, and Mo uptake by various plant organs. Through cluster analysis, the nano-Mo group exhibited a more pronounced influence on the variables than the without-Mo and non-nano-Mo groups. Based on our findings, nano-Mo could be a suitable alternative to non-nano molybdenum fertilizers. This recommendation is particularly relevant for enhancing the growth of winter wheat crops cultivated in acidic soil conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing interest in developing agricultural practices that can improve crop performance while preserving natural resources. Plant biostimulants are thought to play a role in reaching this goal, in particular by increasing the nitrogen use efficiency. However, a notable research gap exists concerning the effects of foliar applications of natural zeolites as plant biostimulants on crop performance. To address this knowledge gap, a greenhouse experiment was set up in order to study the response of maize and wheat traits, specifically the biomass productivity and nitrogen uptake, as well as the response of soil extracellular enzymes to the foliar applications of a natural zeolite in combination with different levels of nitrogen fertilization, that is, 100%, 75%, and 50% of the optimal dose. Foliar application of zeolite in wheat and maize plants led to an increase in root nitrogen concentration of about 10%, particularly at the lowest nitrogen fertilization rate. This response was accompanied by an increase in aboveground to belowground uptake nitrogen ratio. Furthermore, there was a significant reduction of about 20% in root biomass in both crops with zeolite application across the entire nitrogen fertilization gradient. These plant-level responses were associated with a significant increase in the activity of carbon-degrading and nitrogen-degrading enzymes at the soil level in response to zeolite applications. Our findings provide a compelling proof-of-concept for the beneficial effects of foliar-applied zeolite as a biostimulant for crops, emphasizing the critical need for additional field research to validate our greenhouse results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of the characteristics of zinc (Zn) uptake by plant roots may help in understanding the reasons for variations in the Zn deficiency tolerance of plant cultivars. We investigated the apoplastic and symplastic Zn uptake and proton secretion by roots of three bread wheat genotypes (Triticum aestivum cvs. Rushan, Kavir, and Falat) and a durum wheat genotype (Triticum durum cv. Yavarus) under influence of histidine addition in a nutrient solution. Seedlings of wheat genotypes were planted in a nutrient solution containing 10 mM Zn with or without added 50 mM histidine (His). A control with no added Zn or histidine was also used. A significant variation was found among wheat genotypes in shoot Zn content and the characteristics of Zn uptake by roots. The addition of Zn enhanced shoot Zn content compared to the control while the effect of His was genotypedependent. His addition in combination with Zn enhanced shoot Zn content in Rushan and Falat but not in Kavir and Yavarus compared with the only Zn supply treatment. For all wheat genotypes, the addition of Zn enhanced the total, apoplastic, and symplastic root Zn concentration compared to the control. The highest and lowest amounts of proton (H+) were secreted from the roots of Rushan and Yavarus genotypes, respectively. In all wheat genotypes except Falat, the combined addition of zinc and histidine enhanced root H+ secretion compared with the only supply of Zn. Higher plant Zn uptake was associated with a higher ability to secretion of H+ from roots and higher proportion of symplastic to apoplastic Zn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the experiment was to investigate the relationship between the accumulation of polyamines during the filling period of wheat grain with yield and grain protein under dryland and supplemental irrigation (SI) conditions and also the effect of foliar spraying of urea on the amount of polyamines in grain a factorial experiment was conducted based on randomized complete block design with three replications during two cropping seasons. The examined treatments included water availability (dryland and SI), wheat cultivars (Homa, Sardari, Rijaw, Ouhadi, and Azar2), and foliar application of urea (control and 4% urea foliar application). The results demonstrated that SI (10%) reduced and urea foliar (12%) application increased the percent of grain protein. SI reduced the contents of three PAs by 24%: spermine, spermidine, and putrescine. But urea foliar application increased the three PAs in the first and second years by 31% and 27% in dryland conditions and 12% and 4% in SI conditions, respectively. These results indicated that there is less need for PAs in SI conditions, and they thus exhibit poorer accumulation in the grain; in dryland conditions, however, their content increases with greater access to foliar nitrogen. Older cultivars Sardari and Azar 2 had more polyamines. According to the observed positive correlation between 1000-grain weight and the three PAs under stress conditions, PAs are probably involved in the improvement of grain filling, and urea foliar application can affect drought tolerance by increasing PA accumulation. Moreover, cadaverine exhibited a different function from the other PAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was developed to investigate the interactive effect of silicon (Si) application and the inoculation of plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) Azospirillum brasilense on wheat nutrient uptake and accumulation on biomass and grains when combined with nitrogen (N) application rates. The study was set up in a Rhodic Hapludox under no-till system, located in Selvíria, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil (tropical Savannah region). Treatments were tested in a randomized complete block design with four replicates, arranged in a full factorial design 2 × 2 × 5 and included: i) two soil amendment sources (Ca and Mg silicate as Si source and dolomitic limestone); ii) two seed inoculation (with and without A. brasilense) and iii) five N application rates applied as side-dress (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 kg ha−1). Increasing N application rates positively influenced wheat nutrition with increased nutrient and Si uptake in shoot. Calcium and Mg silicate positively influenced wheat nutrition with greater shoot Si and grain N, P, K, B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn and Si uptake. In addition, Si was the third and sixth element most absorbed in wheat shoot and grain respectively. Inoculation with A. brasilense was found to increase nutrient uptake with greater shoot K and S and grain N, P, K, Mg, S, B, Cu, Mn, Zn and Si uptake. Azospirillum brasilense inoculation provided greater N uptake, with an increase of 5.8 and 8.9% on shoot and grain uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low availability of manganese (Mn) induces its deficiency in wheat grown particularly in course textured soil. Growing Mn efficient and responsive genotypes on light textured soils is sustainable approach to higher Mn accumulation in wheat grain. For this, sixteen wheat genotypes viz. bread, durum and triticale, were investigated for two years with foliar application of Mn. Diverse wheat genotypes responded differently toward yield and quality parameters. Maximum increment in grain and straw yield was observed in PDW314 (39.3%) and TL2908 (26.1%), over control. On the other hand, Mn concentration in grain and straw increased to maximum in PDW 274 (51.3%) and PBW621 (51.2%), over control. Among bread, durum and triticale genotypes, PBW343U (61.8%), PDW274 (91%) and TL2969 (37.8%) strongly responded to Mn application and supported by higher Mn accumulation. Average grain yield efficiency index (GYEI) and Mn accumulation efficiency index (MAEI) were 89.0 and 71.7, respectively. Due to higher yield and higher Mn accumulation than GYEI and MAEI, the genotypes HD2967, PBW725, PBW677, PBWZn1, TL2969, PDW233 were categorized as efficient and responsive, which may prove beneficial for wheat production at large scale under Mn deficient soil. Additional supply of Mn also significantly improved the phenolic content, flavonoids content and total antioxidant activity, while reducing the tannins and phytate content in all genotypes. Based on obtained results, PBW677, PBWZn1 and TL2969 were screened as most desirable genotypes as they possess high GYEI, MAEI, high antioxidant activity and low antinutrient content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAP) over conventional phosphorus fertilizer in terms of phosphorus nutrition and other nutrients through which it enhances the growth of wheat plants. The experiment was carried out with wheat plants under real field conditions for two consecutive years. Under laboratory conditions, nHAP was synthesized and characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopes (SEM), and elemental dispersive X-rays (EDX). The substance we synthesized according to the characterization tests mentioned here is nano-hydroxyapatite. The application of nHAP was carried out at decreasing rates (80, 60, 40 kg P2O5 ha−1) before sowing, and their effects were compared with 80 kg P2O5 ha−1 diammonium phosphate (DAP) as a reference treatment. Phosphorus and other mineral element concentrations were determined in all plant samples taken at the beginning of the booting stage. In addition, grain samples were taken at harvest. In the nHAP treatment, the plants' phosphorus, nitrogen and potassium concentrations increased by approximately 25%, 17% and 10%, respectively. This was compared to the DAP treatment. The concentrations of iron and zinc in grain also increased by 46% and 15%, respectively. These increases in grains are particularly noteworthy for biofortification studies. In conclusion, nHAP can be an alternative to conventional fertilizers by reducing phosphorus consumption. However, more studies are required on different plants and long-term field studies regarding the uptake, translocation and interactions of nHAP with other elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crop residues are a neglected source of sustainable agriculture since they are produced in large quantities, yet farmers frequently burn them. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of nitrogen (N) application rate and residue management strategies for wheat production on changes in soil enzyme activity, microbial count, and chemical properties at various growth stages. Different combinations of N fertilizer rates, tillage, and residue management practices for wheat were investigated in split-plot design. The main plots were assigned for two N applications rates (N75 and N100, 75 and 100% recommended dose of N, whereas the subplots were assigned for seven treatments as: (1) conventional tillage (CT)-rice residue removed (R), (2) sowing with rotoseeder (RS)-R, (3) sowing with Happy Seeder (HS)+ loose rice residue removed (R50), (4) HS + 100% rice residue retained (R100), (5) RS + R50, (6) RS + R100, (7) CT + R100. The results revealed that N100 and HS + R100 increased wheat yield, chemical and biochemical properties, with the exception of polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase. All biochemical characteristics were greater during vegetative and reproductive growth stages than before seeding and harvesting. Dehydrogenase, polyphenol oxidase, and flourescein diacetate were found as the most sensitive indicators using principle component analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of synthesized nano-sized ZnO particles (ZnO NPs) on wheat germination and growth parameters (Triticum aestivum L.) was studied compared to bulk Zn. Results showed that adding bulk Zn resulted in no significant differences in germination parameters compared to the control samples. On the other hand, the addition of ZnO NPs showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in all germination parameters in comparison to the blank (control) samples. Moreover, the general average Zn concentrations in the plant were 141 and 253 mg kg−1 (dry weight) for bulk Zn and ZnO NPs treated plants, respectively, indicating preferential uptake of ZnO NPs. The addition of c. 10 mg L−1 of ZnO NPs to the wheat shoot system promoted chlorophyll formation equal to 100 mg L−1 addition of bulk Zn. Adding bulk Zn and ZnO NPs reduced root growth substantially compared to the control samples. The effective toxic dose (so-called EC50) for ZnO NPs and bulk Zn was 20.7 and 522 mg Zn L−1, respectively, indicating much higher toxicity of ZnO NPs and highlighting the nano-specific toxicity of nano-sized Zn. The wheat uptake of ZnO NPs was well fitted to a nonlinear Freundlich-like expression, suggesting that our model could effectively predict mass production fertilization procedures. The present study may thus help to increase Zn biofortification in cereals by using ZnO NPs, which may in turn be very helpful for populations suffer from Zn malnutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticles (NPs), due to their specific physical and chemical properties, can cause benefits and risks once they are released into the environment. Consideration of nano-specific impacts of nanomaterials is essential for the safe design of NPs applications. In the present study, the effects of ZnO NPs and ZnSO4 application on low temperature-induced responses was investigated in two wheat cultivars (Triticum aestivum L. spring cultivar Sivand and the winter cultivar Pishgam). Seedlings were grown in a Johnson nutrient solution and then exposed to the uptake solution containing zinc (Zn) from two sources of ZnSO4 and ZnO NPs and subjected to temperature treatments by incubating them in the dark at +25, +9, and −4 °C for 18 h. Our results indicate that ZnO NPs and ZnSO4 did not show the same effects on wheat cultivars at freezing temperature. The ZnO NPs led to an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) content, higher electrolyte leakage, and intensified the freezing effects compared to ZnSO4 and Zn-free treatments, in Sivand. At optimum temperature, root MDA content and electrolyte leakage index (ELI) was greater in Sivand plants compared to Pishgam. The differences indicate that the two cultivars differ in their responses to ZnO NPs application and low temperatures. In general, Sivand reacted more sensitively to the ZnO NPs treatment compared to ZnSO4. Freezing temperature resulted in higher activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), MDA content and ELI in both wheat cultivars. In Sivand, with regard to the activity of SOD, MDA content and ELI, ZnO NPs cause effects different from that of ZnSO4, which indicates that ZnO NPs used under the current experimental conditions because nano-specific risks under low temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of nitrogen and potassium levels in biomass production and efficiency in water consumption of wheat BRS 394 in brazilian Cerrado. The experiment consisted of fractioned factorial combination of five levels of (N): (0, 70, 140, 210 and 280 kg ha−1) and five levels of potassium (K): (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 kg ha−1), randomized block design and four replications. The shoot biomass, the number of spikelets per ear and the efficiency of water use for biomass production were evaluated as a function of the N and K levels used in the present study. Analysis of variance at 5% and 10% was performed using F test for the surface response model and when not significant to the first and second degree regression using the R software. The combination of N(238 kg ha−1) and K(97 kg ha−1) increased spikelet yield per spike (15.5), during 2019 harvest. The fertilization with N(115 and 125 kg ha−1) in an isolated way guaranteed maximum shoot biomass yield(5827 kg ha−1) and wheat water use efficiency (32.9 g L−1), during 2018 harvest, respectively. The N provided isolated increases in number of spikelets per spike in 2018 harvest, as well as for shoot biomass and water use efficiency in 2019. The main use of nitrogen fertilization and its combination with potassium provide gains in the production of shoot biomass and water use efficiency of wheat BRS 394 in brazilian Cerrado. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High soil pH constrains the availability of many plant nutrients including phosphorus (P). Sulfur (S) application to soil is a commonly used method to reduce the soil pH in the plant root zone, increase the availability of nutrients and thus obtain a higher yield. However, the particle size of the S is the most important factor in decreasing the soil pH. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different doses of micronized S application (0, 125, 250, and 375 kg ha−1) on the chemical properties of calcareous soil and the yield and nutrient contents of two wheat cultivars (Burgos and Zhivago). The results indicated that soil pH and CaCO3 content of soil decreased with increasing doses of S application. Soil organic carbon content slightly increased with all S applications in Burgos wheat variety. The highest increase was recorded in the 375 kg ha−1 S application, but no significant difference was determined in the Zhivago variety. The available Cu content in soil varied between 3.43 and 3.55 mg kg−1, Fe content was between 13.86 and 14.93 mg kg−1, Mn content was between 22.73 and 25.65 mg kg−1, and Zn content was between 0.53 and 0.62 mg kg−1. The results revealed that soil pH and CaCO3 content decreased with liquid micronized S applications, however, the effect of S applications on exchangeable cations and heavy metal content was not significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foliar fertilization is an important agricultural practice. How crop plants considerably response to small amounts of foliar-applied minerals is not fully understood. In this study, we tested whether foliar-applied potassium (K) stimulates soil K uptake by plant roots. Firstly, K uptake from nutrient solution by wheat seedling was investigated with and without foliar application of K. To dissect net K uptake, quantified amount of foliar-applied K (∼19.2 mg pot−1), and K uptake by non-foliar-fertilized plants was subtracted from whole plant K uptake (foliar-treated). In the second set of experiment, maize was grown in soil, and 2% K2SO4 (∼45.4 mg K pot−1) was foliar-applied to dissect soil indigenous K uptake. In addition to elevated K level in both crops, the net K uptake via wheat and maize roots quantified ∼23% and 55%, respectively higher with foliar application of K. It is coupled with improving phenotypic observations, comprising root biomass (32–56%), root-to-shoot ratios (7–38%), and water contents (13–15%) by plotting multivariate analysis. Further, the elevated leaf gas exchange measurements and chlorophyll contents by 10% in wheat and 14% in maize ensured the optimum photosynthetic activity in foliar-applied seedlings. Notably, after crop harvesting, ∼10% lower biological available K in the soil of foliar-applied maize was found. In sum, our findings provide scientific basis that foliar K fertilization improves soil K uptake by wheat, maize, and probably, closely related to cereal crops. It also suggests a novel aspect for further investigation to understand the underlying signaling pathway(s). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High grade rock phosphates (HGRP) are only used to prepare phosphorus (P) fertilizers. But the finite reserve of HGRP is pushing the agricultural sectors to use low grade rock phosphates (LGRP) for growing crops. In this study an attempt was made to treat LGRP with oxalic acid and use it as a supplement to P fertilizer for growing wheat in Inceptisol. Incubation study revealed that oxalic acid treated rock phosphate (RP) can significantly increase soil available P status as compared to inert untreated RP treatment. Pot study established that oxalic acid treated RP (@60 mg P2O5 kg−1) under DAP30+ RP60(OA) treatment has supplemented 50% P fertilizer without affecting wheat yields and P uptake. DAP30+ RP60(OA) treatment also had maintained significantly higher Saloid-P, organic-P and statistically at par available P, dehydrogenase, acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase activities as compared to chemical fertilizer treatment (DAP60). Thus it can be inferred that, application of oxalic acid treated LGRP (@ 60 mg P2O5 kg−1) can supplement 50% of the P fertilizer demand to grow wheat in Inceptisol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of nanotechnology in agriculture has become an area of great interest for soil scientists. Therefore, it is important and necessary to investigate the effects of nanoparticles on plant growth and its nutritional interactions. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of acid modified rice husk (MRH) and nano-Silicon (Si) derived from rice husk on the growth and phosphorus uptake and phosphorus use efficiency in Si accumulator wheat and non-accumulator lettuce plants. MRH and nano-Si were applied at 200 mg kg−1 and P was applied 100 mg kg−1 for wheat and 200 mg kg−1 for lettuce plants. The highest dry weight was obtained with the application of nano Si + P treatment; while both MRH and nano-Si had no significant effect over the applied 100 mg P kg−1. Phosphorus fertilization significantly reduced Si concentrations in both plants of wheat and lettuce. However, the decrease in Si concentration was partly compensated by nano-Si treatment. When P was applied together with nano-Si, its uptake and phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) significantly increased in wheat plants as compared to other treatments. Nano-Si derived from rice husk is a sustainable waste biomass and is an important alternative Si fertilizer source, which can be a valid strategy for the effective use of P fertilizers. The depletion of available Si in soil can be recovered by applying nano-Si as a fertilizer. The overall results obtained from the current research were promising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the effects of soil-applied different molybdenum concentrations (0.1, 0.5, 2.5, 12.5 or 62.5 mg kg−1) in the form of sodium molybdate on growth performance, seed production, biochemical parameters, and uptake of Mo in wheat were investigated. Results indicate that Mo doses higher than 2.5 mg kg−1 of soil were observed to be toxic to wheat and retarded the growth as well as seed production. The change in biochemical constituents were correlated with soil Mo concentrations. Chlorophyll and carbohydrate contents increased under lower concentrations of Mo applied. In turn, Mo concentrations beyond 2.5 mg kg−1 significantly increased soluble proteins, total phenolic compounds, and free proline contents. The contents of Mo in root and shoot of wheat plants increased with increased Mo concentrations in the soil. Among the various concentrations of Mo studied, 2.5 mg kg−1 was moderately toxic while 12.5 and 62.5 mg kg−1 were highly toxic and induced stress responses to confer tolerance in wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although boron (B) is essential micronutrient, higher soil B concentrations become toxic to the plants in arid and semi-arid regions of the world. Very little is known about the pH related nutrient solubility, including transpiration-mediated B uptake by plants. The effects of high B (200 μM) and low to high pH (3.0–10.0) on B toxicity, transpiration and nutrient uptake by wheat and rapeseed were studied. Plants were grown for 5 weeks under greenhouse conditions and analyzed for elements concentrations. Regardless of high B or not, low pH favored in the higher B accumulation in roots and shoots of both plant species. However, both plant species exhibited a differential B uptake pattern in roots and shoots. Both low and high pH levels in combination with high B decreased the plant biomass, transpiration, N and Mg concentrations, whereas increased the K, Ca, S, Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn concentrations. With the increase in pH 3.0–10.0, excess B decreased the Cl concentrations in wheat and rapeseed. In conclusion, low pH and high B supply enhanced the transpiration-assisted B uptake by plants although pH alone had little effects on B concentrations. Furthermore, nutritional disorder caused by high B in conjunction with low to high pH (3.0–10.0) inhibited the plant growth and transpiration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impact of nitrogen (N) supply on photosynthesis and N, P, and K status of wheat, particularly ancient wheats lacks clarity. Hence, clarification of post-anthesis photosynthesis and N, P, and K status of ancient emmer compared to the improved durum and bread wheats was aimed at. Five field-grown ancient emmer, one improved durum and an improved bread wheat exposed to a wide range of N fertilizer (i.e. 0, 25, 50, and 75 kg ha−1 N) were tested in two consecutive years. Chlorophyll and carotenoids concentrations of the emmer and improved wheats were increased by 39–63% and 29–45%, respectively in response to N supply. Mesophyll conductance and net photosynthetic rate of the improved bread wheat were increased by 150% and 60%, respectively, with increase in N supply, but those of the emmer wheats were decreased in response to the medium (0–43%) and high N (0–37%) supplies. Emmer wheat out-numbered the improved wheats in terms of mesophyll conductance and net photosynthetic rate under the low N supply but the reverse was true with the high N supply. Leaf (1–2.2, 3.2–7.7, and 16.8–35 mg g−1, respectively) and grain (2.38–6.4, 5.6–12.1, and 20.5–28.9 mg g−1, respectively) P, leaf N, and grain K concentrations responded positively to the N supply and emmer wheats equaled or exceeded those of the improved wheats particularly when grown in the absence of high N supplies. The presented data indicates that ancient emmer wheats are potent to be employed to incorporate nutrient-acquiring traits into the modern wheats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of the foliar application of B, Zn, and Mn nano-chelates in separate and combined forms and determine what level of nano-chelates fertilizer treatment most significantly enhances the grain yield of wheat (Azar-2 cultivar) under rainfed and supplementary irrigation conditions. The experiment was performed as a split-plot experiment with three replications in two crop years (2014–2015). The main plot included two irrigation regimes ((I1) rainfed irrigation and (I2) supplementary irrigation) during two stages of development (spike emergence and grain filling). The sub-plot had eight foliar application levels: B, Zn, Mn, B + Zn, B + Mn, Zn + Mn, B + Zn + Mn, and distilled water (control). The foliar application of B, Zn, and Mn nano-chelates combined with supplementary irrigation or its sole application dramatically increased wheat's resistance to drought stress. Thousand kernel weight and the number of kernels per spike play a decisive role in grain yield. Therefore, the foliar application of nano-fertilizers can increase grain yield by improving these components. The highest grain yield (2528.33 kg/ha−1) was obtained in the supplementary irrigation condition after the combined foliar application of B + Mn + Zn nano-chelates. This condition led to a 41% increase compared to the highest grain yield obtained under rainfed conditions after the foliar application of Zn nano-chelates (1490 kg/ha−1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was designed to isolate potassium solubilizing bacteria (KSB) and evaluate their capacity to mobilize available potassium (K) from soil to plants. Screening of KSB for plant growth-promoting (PGP) properties and K-solubilizing efficiency resulted in the selection of nine potential strains. Identification of the 16S rRNA gene of KSB confirmed that these isolates belong to the genera Bacillus and Pseudomonas. Optimization of physicochemical parameters revealed that pH 7 and 37 °C were the most suitable conditions for K solubilization by all test strains. The K-mobilizing activity was also observed at pH 7 and 25 °C, followed by pH 4 and 37 °C. However, the isolates did not solubilize K at pH 9 after incubation under the tested conditions (25 °C, 37 °C and 40 °C). The PGP effect of these strains was confirmed by an increase in root length of wheat seedlings by 16.0-40.0%. A significant enhancement (2-3 times) in biomass (both fresh and dry weight) was also observed in plants propagated from seedlings that were previously treated with KSB strains, in comparison with control plants. Apart from the growth enhancement, KSB strains mobilized 53.6-304.8% K from natural soil to wheat seedlings under optimized conditions in a greenhouse setup. However, the influx of K upon treatment with strains showing extreme mobilization capacity was negatively correlated with the chlorophyll content of the plants. Overall, four isolates, KSB9 (B. fungorum), KSB7 (P. aeruginosa), KSB20 (B. paramycoides), and KSB18 (P. aeruginosa) exhibited efficient PGP properties with optimum K-mobilizing potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dual purpose wheat i.e., for grain as well as for green fodder purposes is a novel concept in the world. In view of this, the experiment was conducted on Research Farm of Agronomy, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during rabi season of 2017–2018 and 2018–2019 to study the effect of different seed rates and fertilizer levels on green fodder, grain productivity and economics of dual purpose wheat in western Haryana. The field experiment was laid out in split plot design with two varieties i.e., C 306 and WH 1105 with cutting management practices in main plots and different seed rates with various fertilizer levels in sub plots. Significantly higher green fodder yield, yield attributes, NPK, protein and crude protein content of green fodder were observed in cultivar WH 1105 over C 306 and wheat supplied with 130% RDF over 115 and 100% RDF with either seed rate. Cultivation of C 306 under cut management practices sown at 125 kg/ha seed rate with 130% RDF was observed more economical with higher B-C ratio than WH 1105 and no cut management system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N) fertilizer-use efficiency (20 − 50%) is low in wheat fields in India. Coated urea can increase N-use efficiency in wheat, but a desirable coating for use with urea is not widely accepted yet. Therefore, to study the efficacy of coated urea on productivity and economics of wheat, an experiment was conducted at Research Farm of SKUAST-J, India, during winter season of 2017 − 2018 and 2018 − 2019. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with 11 treatment combinations, replicated thrice. The treatments comprised of various doses of different types of coated urea viz prilled urea, Neem coated urea (NCU), Zinc coated urea (ZnCU), and Neem + Zinc coated urea (NCU + ZnCU). Different doses of coated urea fertilizers showed significant effect on the growth, yield, economics, and nutrient uptake of wheat crop. Application of 100% of recommended (Rec.) nitrogen (N) through ZnCU + Rec. Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K) and Zinc (Zn) (T8) showed significantly better growth, yield attributing characters and grain and straw yield, during both the years of study and remained statistically at par with the application of 85% of Rec. N through ZnCU + Rec. P, K, & Zn (T7), 100% of Rec. N through NCU + ZnCU + Rec. P, K, & Zn (T11), 85% of Rec. N through NCU + ZnCU + Rec. P, K, & Zn(T10) and 100% of Rec. N through NCU + Rec. P, K, & Zn (T5).Similarly, nutrient uptake (N, K and Zn), net returns, and B:C ratio were also observed to be significantly higher with the application of 100% of Rec. N through ZnCU + Rec. P, K, & Zn than other treatments. However, maximum mean Agronomic use efficiency (AUE) and Recovery use efficiency (RUE) of 36.2% and 30.0%, respectively, were found with the application of 85% of Rec. N through ZnCU + Rec. P, K, & Zn (T7) over the application of100% of Rec. N through urea + Rec. P, K, & Zn(T2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of humic acid (HA) on the nutritional value and quality of wheat grain and flour has rarely been studied. A field experiment to determine the effect of fertigation of HA and Azotobacter chroococcum UT1 (AZ) on nutrient elements (P, K, Zn, Fe, Mn and Cu), dry gluten, protein and essential amino acids of two wheat cultivars (Chamran and Kouhdasht), comparing four treatments (control, HA, AZ and HA × AZ) using randomized complete block design with four replicates was conducted at the research station of Chardavol in Iran. The 2 years data during 2019 and 2020 indicated that the fertigation of HA and its interaction with AZ (HA × AZ) improved the nutrient elements, dry gluten and protein concentration of wheat grain and flour in both wheat cultivars in comparison with the control treatment. Inoculation of AZ reduced dry gluten of flour in the Kouhdasht cultivar by 6.34%. The application of HA × AZ also significantly enhanced the concentration of essential amino acids of wheat grain and flour in both wheat cultivars by 7.24–11.6%. In similar treatments, the concentration of nutrient elements, dry gluten, protein and essential amino acids of the Chamran cultivar were higher than those in Kouhdasht cultivar. Therefore, it can be concluded that the combined application of HA and AZ can be a suitable recommendation for improving wheat quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Application of a dose of fertilizer nitrogen (N) at sowing of wheat is a widely adopted management strategy in Egypt and several wheat growing regions in the world. The objective of this investigation was to study the effect of delaying the application of this dose on yield and N use efficiency. The treatments in the field experiment conducted in 2018/19 consisted of applying 150, 200, 250 and 300 kg N ha−1 in three equal split doses. In the second experiment conducted in 2019/20, 200 and 250 kg N ha−1 were applied in three unequal split doses. In both the experiments, the first split dose was applied at 0, 10 or 20 days after sowing (DAS) while second and third split doses were applied at 30 and 50 DAS, respectively. The data indicated that applying the first dose of N at 0 DAS resulted in highest N uptake levels at 20 DAS. However, N uptake at later stages dramatically changed to reach highest when applying the first dose at 20 or 10 DAS. This was significantly reflected on grain yield and N use efficiency. For example, when a total of 250 kg N ha−1 was applied in the second season, postponing the first dose from 0 to 20 DAS resulted in an increase of 10.5% in grain yield and 10% in N recovery efficiency. Thus, this study reveals that delaying application of the first dose of fertilizer N up to 20 DAS of wheat can result in increased fertilizer use efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhizobacteria stimulate plant growth, and are profoundly known for increasing crop production and lowering crop input costs by replacing chemical fertilizer applications. The application of PGPR (Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria) not only regulates the nutritional and hormonal balance of plants, but also increases resistance against plant pathogens. The interaction of PGPR with bulk soil or with microbes in the rhizosphere indirectly boosts plant growth rates, and PGPR can be declared a biofertilizer. Therefore, the intent of the study was to analyze the influence of indigenous rhizospheric bacteria and the mode of action of PGPR on improved yield (Triticum aestivum L.) as a biofertilizer under both in vivo and in vitro conditions. Based on their engagement in producing ACC (Aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid) deaminase, phosphorus solubilization, indole acetic acid (IAA), siderophore, potential strains have been identified. PGPR with the recommended dose urea, Diammonium phosphate (DAP) and Muriate of potash (MOP) were utilized. Inoculants of wheat seeds with urea (CH4N2O), DAP [(NH4)2HPO4] and MOP enhanced the growth drastically. For half of the suggested doses of synthetic fertilizers and a strain consortium, the strains were used in various combinations to achieve a maximum yield compared to the single use of the recommended fertilizer dose and a strain consortium.16Sr RNA gene sequencing, fatty acid profile, and biology further established certain strains. An inoculated bacterium has greater capacity and leads to improved crop production, enhanced yield when spread in conjunction under field conditions and therefore can reduce chemical fertilizer use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An investigation was carried out to determine the impact of seed priming i.e. non-primed and primed seed with 2.0% KCl for 12 hr and twice foliar nutrition i.e. no spray, 0.5% ZnSO4, 0.5% CaCl2, 0.5% KNO3, and 2.0% urea on yield execution of normal sown (November 28) and late sown (Late sown) wheat. The results revealed that in both years of study, wheat planted on November 28 produced significantly higher grain yield with a comparable difference in number of spikes per square meter, spike length, number of fertile spikelets per spike, number of grains per spike, and 1000-grain weight. There was 23.0% and 24.0% decrease in grain yield for the late sowing on Late sown when compared with normal sowing on November 28 in first year and second year, respectively. Primed seeds were not significantly impacted in comparison to the non-primed seed. In contrast with no spray, spraying of various nutrients twice at maximum tillering and 80% flowering recorded significant improvement in yield of wheat crop. Highest yields were recorded with a foliar spray of 2.0% urea followed by 0.5% ZnSO4, 0.5% KNO3, and 0.5% CaCl2. The significant interaction between sowing dates and foliar spraying demonstrates that foliar spray of urea at the rate of 2.0% and ZnSO4 at the rate of 0.5% at maximum tillering and 80% flowering stage were financially more reasonable choices for both the planting dates and can increase grain yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus (P) induced zinc (Zn) deficiency has emerged as an important nutritional constraint for field crop production, and thus, it is essential to optimize P and Zn levels for balanced fertilizer applications. To study the effects of soil applied P and Zn fertilizers on Zn–P interactions and productivity of wheat crop, the experiment was conducted at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India, during 2017–2018 and 2018–2019. The experiment, comprised two types of soils viz., low and high in P content, with four Zn levels (0, 2.5, 5, and 10 mg kg−1) and five P levels (0, 5, 10, 20, and 30 mg kg−1), conducted in complete randomized design with three replications. The results indicated that under low P soil, wheat yield, Zn and P uptake increased with Zn addition up to 5 mg kg−1 and P addition up to 10 mg kg−1. However, in high P soil, wheat yield, Zn and P uptake increased with Zn addition of 10 mg kg−1 and with no P addition. Among different treatments, P10Zn5 gave the highest wheat yield, content, and uptake of Zn and P in low P soil. Similarly, in high P soil, treatment P0Zn10 reported the highest wheat yield, Zn and P uptake by wheat. The levels of Zn and P viz., P10Zn5 and P0Zn10 showed synergistic effects in terms of wheat yield, content, and uptake of Zn and P, respectively. Thus, the study is beneficial to optimize levels of P and Zn fertilization under low and high P soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity is one of the major abiotic stresses that is deteriorating soil fertility and reducing essential nutrients acquisition by plants around the world. Among staple food, wheat can be a primary source of micronutrients like Fe and Zn. The saline/saline-sodic and calcareous soils are deficient in Fe and Zn. In these regards, the aim of present study was to screen out wheat genotypes which can efficiently utilize Fe and Zn in saline conditions. Therefore, ten wheat genotypes (i.e., Ujala-2016, Punjab-2011, Galaxy-2013, Faisalabad-2008, Anaj-2017, SARC-I, SARC-VIII, Lasani-2008, Sehar-2006 and Inqalab-91) were exposed to varying rates of Zn (0.2, 0.4 µM) and Fe (25, 50 µM) under saline and normal conditions in a solution culture experiment. Salinity was developed by using NaCl salt, while the sources of Zn and Fe were ZnSO4.7H2O and FeSO4.7H2O, respectively. The data of various wheat growth and ionic parameters including root/shoot dry weight, chlorophyll contents, Zn, Fe, K and Na concentration in root and shoot of wheat genotypes were recorded using standard procedures. The results showed that Fe and Zn application significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased wheat plant growth under salt stress. Among tested genotypes, Faisalabad-2008 and Galaxy-2013 performed better under saline conditions with maximum biomass production, Zn, Fe and K absorption. Thus, these both genotypes were found to be good source for future wheat breeding programs or can be grown by farmers owing to efficient Fe and Zn utilization as a gateway toward the production of Fe and Zn biofortified wheat under saline conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the beneficial effects of seed priming and foliar spray of potassium silicate on antioxidant activities under different salinity levels, thereby potentially improving wheat growth. Seeds were soaked into solutions containing potassium silicate (K2SiO3, 1.5 mM) for 6 h, while foliar spray with K2SiO3 (4 mM) was applied at the early and the late stages of tillering. Lake Urmia water was used to prepare salinity levels of 0, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, and 14 dS m−1. For such traits as anthocyanin, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, guaiacol peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase activity, an initial increase was observed at lower salinity levels; higher salinities subsequently decreased these traits or they remained mostly constant. Salinity also increased phenol, malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide, and polyphenol oxidase, but decreased flavonoid, nitrate content, and nitrate reductase activity. Seed priming and foliar spray provided effective approaches to reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) manifestation in wheat grown under saline conditions. The improved antioxidant defense abilities by seed priming and foliar spray alleviated the oxidative damage of proteins and lipids and improved nitrate content and nitrate reductase activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High biomass and nutrient acquisition are desirable for oat (Avena sativa L.) as a cover crop. However, our understanding of oat genotypes suitable for cover crops and associated traits is limited. The objectives of this experiment on growing oat as a cover crop, after winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) harvest, were to determine biomass production, nutrient uptake of a set of oat genotypes, and to identify phenotypic traits that can be used as indicators to select cultivars suitable for cover crops. The results showed that the top biomass-producing genotypes took up larger amounts of soil nutrients, up to 142 kg N ha−1 and 17 kg P ha−1 in 2016, and 43.5 kg N ha−1 and 8.3 kg P ha−1 in 2017. The biomass production was significantly related to plant height and leaf area index (LAI) in both years, and to the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) in 2017. Both NDVI and LAI were closely related to the total amounts of N and P uptake. The poor association between biomass and NDVI in 2016 was due to vigorous growth of volunteer wheat and weeds as well as severe rust (Puccinia coronata f. sp. avenae Eriks.) infestation. Our results suggest that it is important to choose oat varieties as cover crops. Leaf area index can be used as a nondestructive indicator for final biomass and nutrient acquisition, while both NDVI and LAI are important traits for choosing oats as soil conservation cover crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Mediterranean, unbalanced precipitation distribution causes drought stress in rainfed wheat cultivation. Under such conditions, supplemental irrigation (SI) is a highly efficient practice to reduce the adverse effects of drought stress and improve yield. The present study aimed to assess the effects of SI on traits related to N accumulation and remobilization, chlorophyll concentration, yield and yield components, and water use efficiency (WUE) in different cultivars. Two field experiments with four irrigation levels (I0= rainfed, I1= SI at booting stage, I2= SI at booting and anthesis stages, I3= SI at booting, anthesis, and grain filling stages) and five cultivars (Rejaw, Sardari, Homa, Azar2, and Sirwan) was conducted during the 2015–2016 and 2016–2017 wheat growing seasons. Overall, results showed that SI notably had a positive effect on chlorophyll concentration, N content of plant parts, N remobilization (NR), grain number per spike, 1000-grain weight, biological yield, and grain yield in cultivars. Although the grain yield in the three SI treatments was 237.1 kg ha−1 and 630.4 kg ha−1 more than the other two (I2) and one (I1) SI, respectively, but the WUE was slightly lower in this treatment. The cultivars exhibited apparent differences in their responses to SI. The Sirwan cultivar showed a higher reaction to SI amongst cultivars. The highest N remobilization efficiency (NRE) was observed in I1 (73.69%) and I0 (73.34%) irrigation treatments. Sardari (74.03%) and Azar2 (73.60%) cultivars had higher NRE than other cultivars. The minimum contribution of NR to grain appeared in the I3 treatment (74.54%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper (Cu) foliar spray is a requested technique to prevent Cu deficiency in cereals grown in calcareous soil. The reasonable Cu foliar feeding requires identifying the Cu phytotoxic threshold. Such a threshold will help producers to prevent the negative impact of excessive foliar Cu application. The aim was to compare the phytotoxic effect of foliar Cu spray on wheat and barley. The field experiments were conducted in calcareous soil (16.5% of free carbonates) that contains 0.26 mg kg−1 of Cu (DTPA-Extraction). Six Cu foliar spray concentrations were tested in wheat (0% or control; 0.2%; 0.4%; 0.6%; 0.8% and 1%) and barley (control; 0.2%; 0.4%; 0.6%; 1% and 2%) using a randomized complete blocks with five replications. Leaf Cu was supplied at the stem extension and booting stages using the sulfate form (CuSO4.5H2O). Cu foliar spray of 0.2% resulted in leaf damage for wheat. Barley did not show phytotoxic symptoms even at 2% of Cu. A significant decline in wheat grain yield (-20%) was recorded at Cu foliar spray of 1% compared to control. For barley, a grain yield decline (-14%) was induced at 2% Cu foliar spray compared to the optimum yielding recorded at 0.94% of Cu. The Cu flag leaf content reached 130 and 13 mg.kg−1, respectively, for wheat and barley at 1% of sprayed Cu. The flag leaf contents on other nutrients were invariable. The current study demonstrates that the negative impact of Cu phytotoxicity was more pronounced in wheat compared to barley at excessive Cu concentration of foliar feeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N) is a major nutrient influencing the wheat grain yield. The experiment was conducted to need-based N application using leaf color chart (LCC) and GreenSeeker on grain yield and quality. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with the combination of three varieties (WH 1105, HD 2967 and PBW 621) in main plots and seven nitrogen management practices [absolute control, N150 kg/ha, N by LCC ≥ 4 135/125 kg N ha−1, N by LCC ≥ 4 145/135 kg Nha−1, N by LCC ≥ 4 155/145 kg ha−1, Green Seeker (129.3 kg N/ha) and N 225 kg ha−1] in sub-plots replicated thrice. Wheat varieties WH 1105, HD 2967 and PBW 621 showed similar grain yields. The protein content of PBW 621 was better than WH 1105 and HD 2967. GreenSeeker guided 122.9-133.3 kg N ha−1 for wheat varieties found more efficient than blanket N recommendation of 150 kg N ha−1. The N management with LCC 145 kg/ha (LCC ≥ 4:155/45) saved 5 kg N/ha. The N management with LCC 145/135 kg N ha−1 (LCC ≥ 4) saved 15 kg N ha−1 but with a yield penalty of 3.2% as compared to 150 kg N ha−1. Comparable quality with GreenSeeker and LCC 145 kg N ha−1 was observed as compared to blanket 150 kg N ha−1 application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A two-year field investigation was conducted to find out the right time, method, rate and source of potassium (K) fertilization for maximizing nutrient and water use efficiency and quality in a basmati rice-wheat cropping system. The split application of a recommended dose of K (RDK = 60 kg K2O ha−1) as half basal (B) and remaining half at panicle/ear initiation (PI/EI) stages significantly increased the system water productivity (SWP) (0.60 kg ha−1mm−1) and system irrigation water use efficiency (SIWUE) (1.26 kg ha−1mm−1) by 9.1% and 7.1% respectively over basal application of entire RDK. Likewise, in basmati rice, the split application of 100% RDK increased the water productivity (WP) and irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE) by 10.9% and 10.6% respectively over basal dressing of 100% RDK. The split application of RDK and supplementation of K through foliar spray besides basal K application increased the nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium concentration in grain and straw of both the crops. With respect to grain quality, the split application of 100% RDK increased the protein content by 2.3% in basmati rice, and 2.8% in wheat over basal application of 100% RDK. Similarly, the split application of RDK increased the hulling, milling and head rice recovery percentage of basmati rice by 1.3%, 6.6% and 3.3% respectively over basal application of RDK. The root length and dry weight of wheat was increased by 6.9% and 21% by split application of RDK over basal dressing of same dose of K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to realize the synergistic improvement of high efficiency nitrogen utilization and wheat economic yield, where two treatments of traditional farmer fertilization (TFF) and nitrogen fertilizer precision management (NFPM) were set up. Under the condition of NFPM, the grain yield of wheat increased by 7.9%∼11.6%, nitrogen application rate decreased by 30.2%∼44.8%, nitrogen uptake efficiency increased by 43.4%∼63.3%, nitrogen apparent utilization efficiency increased by 30.7%∼68.7%, and nitrogen agronomic efficiency increased by 50.6%∼81.3%. It confirmed that NFPM based on the characteristics of wheat fertilizer demand can significantly reduce the amount of nitrogen fertilizer input and achieve a higher yield level, which provides a theoretical basis for the realization of the synergistic goal of nitrogen reduction and efficiency increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Appropriate fertilization methods and high efficiency of N fertilizers are crucial to achieve high yields and curtail N losses. This study documented the comparative effectiveness of one-time root zone fertilization (ORZF) and polymer coated urea (PCU) as alternate ways to enhance grain yield and reduce potential N losses in wheat. The study was planned using two N fertilization methods [split-surface broadcasting (SSB) and ORZF], two N sources [ordinary urea (OU) and PCU] along with a control treatment following a completely randomized design. The SSB proved more efficient by showing 9% higher grain yield than ORZF, irrespective of N sources. The PCU resulted in 8% and 10% more grain yield than OU when applied through SSB and ORZF method, respectively. Likewise, maximum total N uptake was achieved with PCU than OU with an increment of 15% (SSB) and 7% (ORZF). The NUE indices remained statistically similar between methods, however, SSB showed higher values than ORZF. On the other hand, N sources had a pronounced effect on these indices which improved considerably with the PCU than OU under both methods. Maximum N losses were quantified with the OU in both methods (56% in SSB, and 54% in ORZF). Conversely, these losses were significantly reduced to 42% in SSB and to 48% in ORZF with the addition of PCU. The findings suggested that the application of PCU can be an effective way to improve wheat productivity and reduce N losses but ORZF is not a suitable alternative to SSB for wheat crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ionome is defined as the mineral element composition of an organism or tissue and is genetically and environmentally influenced. Although nutrient deficiency changes the plant ionome, the differences among different species have not been elucidated fully. In the present study, we examined the ionomic responses to nutrient deficiency in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), maize (Zea mays L.), sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), and soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) to understand the differences in response to nutrient deficiency among different plant species. The plants were cultivated in fields with four fertilizer treatments: complete fertilization, without nitrogen, without phosphorus, and without potassium. Each plant species was sampled just before the flowering stage, and mineral concentrations of each organ were analyzed. The species-specific and nonspecific changes in accumulation by the treatment were observed in different elements. Under phosphorus deficiency, sunflower showed a different variation in the ionome profile than the other species, particularly in the increased accumulation of many metal elements. Increased accumulation of many elements was observed in all plant species under potassium deficiency. Under nitrogen deficiency, leaf molybdenum accumulation was increased in non-leguminous plants. An unknown role of molybdenum in the metabolic responses to the nitrogen deficiency was predicted. To carry out further research based on the results of such ionomics studies may reveal the unknown function of essential elements in metabolic responses in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-intensity crop-production seeking for higher grain yields increases nutrient demand by plants. A field experiment was performed in Parana State, Brazil, on a clayey Haplic Cambisol to evaluate the effects of phosphogypsum and nitrogen (N) amendments on a wheat–soybean rotation. Phosphogypsum was surface-applied to plots at 0, 2, 4, and 6 Mg ha−1 before wheat sowing and two rates of urea at 40 and 80 kg N ha−1 were applied to subplots in top dressing at tillering of wheat. Phosphogypsum improved the yield performance of wheat–soybean rotation. Wheat grain yield increased by 20% due to phosphogypsum application only when a higher rate of urea at 80 kg N ha−1 was applied in top dressing, indicating an influence of the interaction between N and sulfur (S). Soybean grain yield increased by 16% with phosphogypsum application, regardless of the urea-N rates to the previous wheat crop. Higher grain yields of wheat and soybean were related to higher levels of Ca2+ and S in the soil profile (0–0.40 m). Although there was a slight involvement of phosphogypsum in reducing aluminum Al3+ toxicity in the subsoil due to a reduction in Al3+ saturation caused by increased Ca2+ concentration, the improvements imparted by the use of phosphogypsum resulted mainly from increased S concentration. The results showed that the critical levels of SO4–S by 0.01 mol L−1 Ca(H2PO4)2 were 14 and 27 mg dm−3 at 0–0.20 m and 0–0.40 m depths, respectively, for the wheat–soybean cropping system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we conducted experiments using wheat to elucidate whether the increased accumulation of molybdenum in leaves under nitrogen deficiency is due to the plant's own metabolic response, and further to estimate the role of molybdenum in the nitrogen deficiency response. Even under different growth conditions such as soil culture, hydroponic culture, and aseptic culture, the nitrogen deficiency always increased the molybdenum accumulation in leaves of wheat. Because molybdenum supply to the soil enhanced the growth of wheat under nitrogen deficiency but did not increase plant nitrogen concentration, the increased molybdenum uptake might be involved in the adaptive mechanisms to nitrogen deficiency by increasing nitrogen use efficiency. Wheat under nitrogen deficiency accumulated more molybdenum in lower leaves. Moreover, the nitrogen concentration of wheat grown under nitrogen deficiency increased in the lower leaves and decreased in the upper leaves with the application of molybdenum. These results suggest that molybdenum might affect nitrogen translocation from older to younger leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Indo-gangetic plains, the continuous cultivation of rice-wheat cropping system in light-textured soils has aggravated a manganese (Mn) deficiency. Wheat is sensitive to Mn availability in soil and its deficiency has become one of the major constraints in sustaining its productivity on soils cropped with rice. Thus, field experiments were conducted to evaluate the response of tank-mixed formulations of manganese sulfate (MnSO4·7H2O) and urea (CO(NH2)2) at critical growth stages. The experiment comprised of six different treatments of MnSO4·7H2O (0.5%) and tank-mixed formulation of MnSO4·7H2O (0.5%) and CO(NH2)2 (1%) sprayed 35, 50 and 70 days after sowing (DAS). The results revealed that for biofortification, tank mixed formulation of MnSO4·7H2O (0.5%) with and without CO (NH2)2 (1.0%) at different growth stages resulted in significantly higher yield and Mn accumulation over control. The protein content, micronutrient concentrations (Zn, Fe and Mn) and accumulation in wheat were highest in the treatment having tank-mixed formulation of MnSO4·7H2O and CO(NH2)2 at 35, 50 and 75 DAS stages. However, it was statistically at par with tank-mixed formulation of MnSO4·7H2O (0.5%) and CO(NH2)2 (1.0%) sprayed at 35 and 50 DAS. The net return and B:C ratio were maximum (Rs 75,671 ha−1 and 2.97) in the treatment having tank-mixed formulation of MnSO4·7H2O plus CO(NH2)2 applied at 35 and 50 DAS. The results of the study concluded that the tank-mixed formulation is the appropriate combination for higher accumulation of Mn in wheat grains through biofortification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 4 years field study was conducted to improve nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) use efficiencies in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) using arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and precision N management. Split plot design was employed to rationalize N and P fertilizer use in two different experiments with AMF in the main plot and fertilizer application practice in the subplots. The AMF seed coating improved mycorrhization, root dry weight and P uptake. AMF coating of wheat seeds improved mean grain yield and agronomic efficiency of applied P fertilizer (AEP) by 11% and 55.4%, respectively. However, AMF seed coating did not improve chlorophyll content, normalized difference vegetative index, grain yield and agronomic efficiency of applied N fertilizer (AEN). Precision N management using leaf color chart (LCC), chlorophyll meter (SPAD), and GreenSeeker optical sensor (GS) sustained wheat grain yield equivalent to the soil-test based N fertilizer recommendation with 20–31 kg ha−1 less fertilizer N. Proximal sensing guided N use improved AEN by 21.9%–39.6% while mitigating global warming potential by 16%–24%. Integrated use of AMF seed coating and precision N management provides a potential solution to improve N and P nutrition and reduce environmental footprints of fertilizer N use in wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was conducted to evaluate the effect of tomato biochar (TB) produced at 500 °C pyrolysis temperature and two holding times (TB20 and TB80) on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seed germination and growth attributes under salinity stress (S) and non-saline conditions (NOS). TB20 and TB80 were mixed at the rates of 0.5%, 1%, and 2% (w/w) with clay soil for S and NOS and wheat plant seed were sown in these mixtures. The effects of factors (salt, TB, S × biochar dose (DB) and S × holding time (PT) interactions) on germination parameters such as shoot length (SL), root length (RL), shoot fresh weight (SFW) and dry weight (SDW), root fresh weight (RFW) and dry weight (RDW), germination capacity (GC), seedling vigor index (SVI), germination rate index (GRI) and some ratios were evaluated at the end of germination period. Besides overcoming the stressful effects of salt, positive effects were observed clearly for all treatments with TB application. GC, SVI, GRI, SL, RL, SFW, RFW, SDW, RDW values increased with TB application 14%, 107%, 13%, 78%, 27%, 82%, 36.5%, 70%, 27%, respectively, in non-saline conditions while they increased with TB application by 18%, 300%, 18%, 222%, 57%, 193%, 64%, 130%, 25%, respectively, compared to control treatment in saline conditions. Furthermore, TB80 was observed effective in S, while TB20 was effective in NOS conditions. Also, TB application at the rate of 0.5% in NOS and 2% in S showed better results for many of the values investigated compared to other application rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Managing nitrogen (N) inputs to sustain yields benefits while minimizing N losses is an important agronomic approach. The effect of affinity herbicides (H) (i.e., 0, 1, 2, and 3 kg/ha) and N treatments (Unfertilized, 0:100, 33:67, 67:33, and 100:0% N derived from FYM:Urea, respectively to supplies 120 kg N/ha) on N balance and wheat production was studied. Plant height and yield was improved with 2 kg H/ha. Soil N increased with fertilization in proportion to the amount of added manure coupled with yield improvement. The N removal in 100% urea represented a positive N balance (+1.5 kg N/ha) and losses, whereas FYM/urea showed negative N balances (−18.4 to −68.5 kg/ha) and conservation. This study demonstrated the importance of N sources for evaluating the potential N losses and significance of FYM usage for reducing the losses of N into the ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present field experiment was conducted at the Indian Institute of Soil Science, Bhopal on a clayey soil (Typic Haplusterts) during 2012–13 and 2013–14. The performance of soybean (Glycine max, cv. JS 335)–wheat (Triticum durum, cv. HI 8498) cropping system in terms of yield, nutrient uptake and economics under different organic and inorganic nutrient was assessed. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with seven treatments in four replications. The treatments involved different nutrient inputs viz. organic manure (OM) (T1); biodynamic preparation (BD) (T2); OM + panchagavya (OM + PG) (T3); OM + BD (T4); OM + PG + BD (T5); control (T6); and recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) (T7). Cattle dung manure on N equivalent basis to soybean in kharif and cattle dung manure (CDM) + vermicompost (VC) + poultry manure (PM) (1:1:1 on N equivalent basis) to wheat were applied as organic manure whereas nutrients were supplied in the form of chemical fertilizers in RDF treatment. The yield of soybean and wheat crops obtained with organic combinations were found comparable and even better (5–13% higher) with those obtained under RDF which enhanced nutrient removal by soybean and wheat crops. The soybean–wheat sequence registered an increment of 2–11% and 11–26% in total N and P uptake, respectively over RDF. The net returns obtained under organic treatments were found statistically at par with those obtained under RDF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agroforestry system (AFS) is considered to be sustainable agricultural practice delivering wide range of ecosystem services. Nutrients and light are principal limiting resources for understorey crops. To optimize productivity, recommendation is to use well adapted tree–crop–fertilizer combinations. Nitrogen (N) management for wheat poplar is essential for maximizing synergies but the data is scarce. Therefore, current study addressed the issue by monitoring wheat performance fertilized with N: control (N1), 60 (N2), 90 (N3), 120 (N4), 150 (N5), 180 (N6) and leaf color chart (LCC) based-115 (N7) kg ha−1 under 2-, 3-, 5- and 6-year poplar. Tree age and N levels were key determinants of yield with reduction in growth (number of tillers m−1, plant height, ear length), yield parameters (1000-grain weight, number of grains ear−1), yield and NUE of wheat with advancing tree age, maximum reduction under 6-year plantation. However, fertilization with N7 −115 kg N ha−1 showed highest increase in grain yield (95.1%), harvest index (20.1%), NUE (agronomic efficiency (AE) 53.5% and recovery efficiency (RE)-91.1%). Nutrient uptake by grains showed maximum decrease of 32.1 (N), 13.6 (P) and 22.8 (K)%, respectively under 6-year-poplar. Averaged over poplar age, the N fertilizer treatment N7 lead to maximum increase of 2.3-, 2.9- and 2.3-folds in N, P, K uptake by grains, respectively. Therefore, the N management of wheat with N7 −115 kg N ha−1 (LCC-based treatment) under poplar tree canopies show the potential to mitigate the risk of poor crop yield and contribute to food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A factorial split-plot experiment was performed in order to investigate the effect of foliar application of cycocel, iron and zinc micronutrients on the yield and some physiological traits of wheat under drought stress conditions in the form of complete randomized block design with three replications for two crop years in Robat Karim area (south of Tehran). In this study, irrigation at two levels (i1: normal irrigation and i2: irrigation interruption from the beginning of the reproductive stage) was considered as the main factor, the cycocel application at two levels (c1: non-application and c2: cycocel application at 0.5 L ha−1) and foliar application of micronutrients at four levels (f1: pure water (control), f2: iron foliar application, f3: zinc foliar application, and f4: iron + zinc foliar application (each at a ratio of 0.3%) were considered as the secondary factors. The application of cycocel under both normal irrigation and stress conditions at the reproductive stage increased seed yield and yield components. Iron + zinc foliar application with a mean of 5543 kg ha−1 had the highest seed yield while the lowest value belonged to the control treatment (pure water) with a mean of 4638 kg ha−1. In general, given the positive effect of cycocel and iron and zinc micronutrients on wheat crop characteristics, the application of these treatments under normal irrigation conditions and late season drought stress are recommended for the development of cultivation in temperate cold regions with semi-arid climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]