Certainly, here’s an article on fertilizer dose in wheat crop:
Fertilizer Dose in Wheat Crop
Wheat is one of the most important cereal crops cultivated worldwide, providing food for billions of people. As a heavy feeder, wheat demands an adequate supply of nutrients for optimal growth and yield. Inadequate fertilization leads to stunted growth, reduced yields, and poor quality grain. On the other hand, excessive fertilizer use can cause environmental pollution, excessive vegetative growth, and lodging. Therefore, it is essential to apply the right amount of fertilizer for maximum yield and quality. Here is a guide to the fertilizer dose for wheat crop.
Nitrogen (N)
Nitrogen is a vital nutrient for wheat growth and development, as it contributes to the plant’s leafy growth and protein synthesis. Wheat requires higher N application rates than other cereals due to its greater yield potential and protein content. The recommended N rate varies from 120 to 180 kg/ha, depending on the soil type, wheat cultivar, and previous crop. The N dose can be split into two or three applications, with most of the N dose applied at the time of sowing or during the tillering stage. Top-dressing should be timed to coincide with the onset of stem elongation or booting stage to avoid lodging.
Phosphorus (P)
Phosphorus is essential for root development, flowering, seed formation, and early crop growth. Wheat requires a moderate amount of P, and the recommended dose varies from 40 to 60 kg/ha, depending on the soil test level. Higher rates of P are recommended on acidic, sandy, or low P status soils. The P fertilizer should be placed in the seedbed or band applied at the time of sowing to ensure close contact with the roots.
Potassium (K)
Potassium plays a vital role in maintaining water balance, stress tolerance, disease resistance, and grain quality. Wheat requires a significant amount of K for optimal growth and yield, and the recommended dose ranges from 40 to 60 kg/ha. Higher rates of K are recommended on sandy or loamy soils with low exchangeable K levels. The K fertilizer should be broadcast at the time of sowing or incorporated into the soil before seeding.
Sulfur (S)
Sulfur is an essential macronutrient for wheat growth and development, contributing to protein synthesis and grain quality. Wheat requires an adequate amount of S, and the recommended dose varies from 20 to 30 kg/ha, depending on the soil test level. Higher rates of S are recommended on alkaline or clayey soils with low S availability. The S fertilizer should be incorporated into the seedbed or applied as a band at the time of sowing.
Micronutrients
Micronutrients such as zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and boron (B) are essential for wheat growth and development, as they play a vital role in enzyme activation, nutrient uptake, and hormone synthesis. Wheat requires a small amount of micronutrients, and the dose varies from 0.5 to 1 kg/ha, depending on the soil test level and the crop’s response. The micronutrient fertilizer should be applied as a foliar spray or mixed with the soil at the time of sowing.
In conclusion, the fertilizer dose for wheat crop depends on various factors, including soil type, cultivar, and previous crop. The right amount of fertilizer and the timely application can ensure optimal growth, yield, and quality of wheat. It is also essential to follow sustainable farming practices and avoid excessive fertilizer use to protect the environment and preserve soil fertility.