Improve Wheat Yield Research Articles

Optimizing Sowing Time and Density Can Synergistically Improve the Productivity and Quality of Strong-Gluten Wheat in Different Ecological Regions of Shandong Province

Timely sowing is a crucial cultivation practice for enhancing crop productivity. In Shandong Province, inadequate supporting cultivation techniques are the primary factors limiting the yield and quality improvement of high-quality strong-gluten wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). A promising strategy for achieving synergistic improvements in both yield and quality involves matching the sowing date and density to the specific ecological conditions of each region. To explore this approach, we conducted continuous field experiments at three testing stations—Jining, Dezhou, and Yantai—across the major wheat-growing regions of Shandong Province from 2019 to 2021. Four sowing dates (T1: October 5; T2: October 15; T3: October 25; and T4: November 5) and seven planting densities (ranging from 135 × 104 plants ha−1 to 405 × 104 plants ha−1, denoted as D1–D7) were tested at each location. The results revealed that the wheat yield in each ecological zone initially increased, then decreased as the sowing dates were delayed. In Jining and Dezhou, high grain yields were typically observed at all densities under T3, while Yantai showed optimal yields under T2. Specifically, Jining achieved the highest grain yield of 9326.6 kg ha−1 with 315 × 104 plants ha−1 on October 25 (T3D5), while Dezhou and Yantai reached their maximum yields under 225 × 104 plants ha−1 on October 15 (T2D3), with yields of 8784.0 kg ha−1 and 9366.3 kg ha−1, respectively. Except in Dezhou, the wheat quality compliance rate at all sites followed an increasing trend initially, which then declined with later sowing dates. In Jining and Yantai, high-quality compliance rates were most frequently achieved under T2, while Dezhou showed optimal quality rates under T1. In conclusion, selecting appropriate sowing dates and densities can lead to synergistic improvements in both grain yield and quality of strong-gluten wheat across Shandong’s wheat-growing regions.

Improving wheat seed germination using plasma treatments

Gliding arc discharge can improve wheat yields in colder climates.

Herbicide and irrigation management options in conventionally-tilled wheat: deciphering water and energy budgeting, and grain and monetary output in north-Indian plains

In South Asia, declining water tables due to increased irrigation and labor shortages for manual weeding pose significant challenges for wheat production. Additionally, herbicide resistance, often resulting from poor management practices, further complicates weed problems. The objective of this study was to assess the impacts of traditional irrigation regimens (IRs) and herbicide application on wheat crops. The findings showed that when irrigation was applied at 100 mm CPE (IR4), and at 40 mm CPE (IR1), different combinations of herbicide to weed managment were tested. In comparison to the other treatments, application of irrigation at 40 mm cumulative pan evaporation (IR1) along with the Pendimethalin1000 g ha−1 (pre-em) in combination with clodinafop-propargyl 10% + metribuzin 22% + sulfosulfuron 4.2% at a rate of 1125 g ha−1 at 30 DAS (WM1) produced the best results in terms of crop yields, economic returns, relative water content, consumptive use, rate of water use, water use efficiency, water productivity, energy input–output, energy returns, energy productivity, energy intensity, specific energy, energy efficiency, maximum field capacity, available soil water, and soil profile moisture extraction pattern. The only exceptions were Pendimethalin1000g ha−1 (pre-em) combined with carfentrazone ethyl 20% + sulfosulfuron 25%WG), at the rate of 100 g ha−1 at 30 DAS (WM2) and the weed-free treatment (WM5), where the differences were not statistically significant. The yield of wheat grain (14.26 kg ha−1) and straw (14.41 kg ha−1) decreased as the unit dry matter production of weeds increased. The study recommends exploring additional weed control strategies and irrigation management options in future improve wheat yields in conventionally-tilled systems.

Impact of Foliar Supplementation of Nitrogenous Fertilizer on Yield Attributes and Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Foliar application of nitrogenous fertilizers has become a key factor in improving nitrogen use efficiency, boosting crop yields, and reducing farming costs. Liquid fertilizers are essential for precise nutrient management, ensuring crops receive the necessary nutrients throughout their growth cycle, thereby enhancing yield potential. A field experiment was conducted in the Rabi seasons of 2022-23 and 2023-24 to examine the impact of soil and foliar nitrogen supplementation on wheat growth. The experiment followed a Split Plot Design with three main plots and five subplots, each repeated thrice. The main plots included various nitrogen doses: M1 (100% recommended dose of nitrogen, RDN), M2 (75% RDN), and M3 (50% RDN). The subplots tested different foliar treatments: S1 (one spray of nano urea at the tillering stage), S2 (two sprays of nano urea at the tillering and jointing stages), S3 (two sprays of 5% urea at the tillering and jointing stages), S4 (one spray of NPK 19:19:19 at the tillering stage), and S5 (no spraying, control). The results showed that the full recommended nitrogen dose significantly improved wheat yield and related characteristics. The 100% RDN increased grain yield (4309 kg/ha), straw yield (6307 kg/ha), biological yield (10616 kg/ha), harvest index (40.58%), number of ear heads per square meter (324.39), ear head length (10.11 cm), number of grains per ear head (47.93), and 1000-grain weight (42.49 g) compared to the 75% and 50% RDN treatments. Moreover, foliar nitrogen application enhanced grain and straw yields. The highest ear head number (320.69), ear head length (9.89 cm), grains per ear head (47.44), 1000-grain weight (42.03 g), grain yield (4229 kg/ha), straw yield (6301 kg/ha), biological yield (10530 kg/ha), and harvest index (40.69%) were observed with two sprays of 5% urea at the tillering and jointing stages. This treatment performed similarly to two sprays of nano urea. Therefore, two spray of urea (5%) at tillering (45 DAS) and jointing (65 DAS) stage of wheat along with RDF would improve the performance of Wheat.

Improving wheat yield prediction through variable selection using Support Vector Regression, Random Forest, and Extreme Gradient Boosting

Improving wheat yield prediction through variable selection using Support Vector Regression, Random Forest, and Extreme Gradient Boosting

Single- and multi-locus genome-wide association study reveals genomic regions of thirteen yield-related traits in common wheat

Genetic dissection of yield-related traits can be used to improve wheat yield through molecular design breeding. In this study, we genotyped 245 wheat varieties and measured 13 yield-related plant height-, grain-, and spike-related traits, in seven environments, and identified 778 loci for these traits by genome-wide association study (GWAS) using single- and multi-locus models. Among these loci, nine were major, of which seven were novel, including Qph/lph.ahau-7A for plant height (PH) and leaf pillow height (LPH), Qngps/sps.ahau-1A for number of grains per spike (NGPS) and spikelet number per spike (SPS), Qsd.ahau-2B.1 and Qsd.ahau-5A.2 for spikelet density (SD), Qlph.ahau-7B.2 for LPH, Qgl.ahau-7B.3 for grain length (GL), and Qsl.ahau-3A.3 for spike length (SL). Through marker development, re-GWAS, gene annotation and cloning, and sequence variation, haplotype, and expression analyses, we confirmed two novel major loci and identified potential candidate genes, TraesCS7A02G118000 (named TaF-box-7A) and TraesCS1A02G190200 (named TaBSK2-1A) underlying Qph/lph.ahau-7A for PH-related traits and Qngps/sps.ahau-1A for spike-related traits. We also reported two favorable haplotypes, including TaF-box-Hap1 associated with low PH and LPH and TaBSK2-Hap3 associated with high NGPS and SPS. In summary, these findings can be applied to improve wheat yield and enrich our understanding of the complex genetic mechanisms of yield-related traits.

A comprehensive map of DNA-segment copy number variation in 491 genomes of common wheat uncovers genes associated with multiple agronomic traits.

DNA-segment copy number variations (DSCNVs), such as deletions and duplications, are important sources of genomic structural variation. However, types and sizes of DSCNVs in wheat, as well as their genome-wide distribution and potential functions are poorly known. Here, we identified 198,985 DSCNVs by investigating 491 genomes of common wheat, which accounted for 20% of the entire genome. Interestingly, approximately 38% of genes were linked to DSCNVs. The number of DSCNVs within each accession ranged between 47,366 to 96,342, with a total size varying from 421.3 to 1267.9 Mb. Furthermore, we found that 957 and 1,304 DSCNVs had been favored by breeders in China and the United States, respectively. By conducting DSCNVs-based genome-wide association studies for the principal component of plant development and yield component traits, 34 loci were identified to be directly or indirectly involved in controlling multiple traits formation. Notably, a newly discovered DSCNVs covering TaFT-D1 exhibited a significant association with flowering time and other agronomic traits. Overall, our findings highlight the potential of DSCNVs in driving fundamental discoveries in plant science. The comprehensive DSCNVs map and DSCNV-associated genes should also facilitate future research efforts to improve wheat yield, quality and adaption.

Enhancing water stress tolerance in wheat: Advanced phenotyping methods for improved genotype selection in arid regions

AbstractWater scarcity poses a significant challenge to wheat cultivation, especially in Egypt, where wheat is a staple crop. The study aimed to enhance water stress tolerance in wheat by using advanced phenotyping methods to improve genotype selection in arid regions. The objective was to evaluate various wheat genotypes for their drought tolerance and to explore the effectiveness of high‐throughput phenotyping methods such as canopy temperature (CT), normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), and water‐soluble carbohydrates (WSC) as non‐destructive tools for selection. Two field trials were conducted using 15 wheat genotypes in a randomized complete block design with three replications under well‐watered and water‐stressed conditions. Phenotyping methodologies, including NDVI, CT, and WSC, were used to assess the plants. The results showed strong correlations between these phenotyping methods and wheat yield, with genotype 10 showing the highest yield under stress conditions. The study reported broad‐sense heritability values of 0.89 for CT, 0.78 for NDVI, 0.96 for WSC, and 0.69 for grain yield, indicating the robustness of these traits as indicators for selecting water stress‐tolerant wheat genotypes. In conclusion, advanced phenotyping methods, such as CT, NDVI, and WSC, proved to be quick and reliable indicators for screening wheat genotypes in water‐stressed environments. This approach can significantly contribute to breeding programs to improve wheat yield and water productivity in arid regions. These findings underscore the importance of integrating high‐throughput phenotyping in crop improvement strategies for drought‐prone areas.Key Points Water‐soluble carbohydrates, canopy temperature, and NDVI effectively predict water‐stress‐tolerant genotypes. Genotypes 8 and 10 exhibited the highest grain yield and water productivity under water‐stressed environments. High‐throughput phenotyping enables rapid, non‐destructive evaluation of wheat genotypes for water stress tolerance.

Integration of compost with mineral NPK fertilizers for improving wheat yield and soil health

Integration of compost with mineral NPK fertilizers for improving wheat yield and soil health

Responses of soil water supply during the wheat growing season to agricultural management practice in Northern China: A meta-analysis

Context or problemAchieving efficient use of water resources is crucial for ensuring food security in the face of the problems posed by water scarcity and the growing demand for food. Wheat is one of the major crops in the north of China, improving the soil water supply (ΔSWS) through effective agricultural management practices during the wheat growing season is a key strategy to reduce water crises. Objective or research questionThere is much uncertainty regarding the effects of different agricultural management practices (eg. fertilizer practice, mulching practice, irrigation practice, soil amendment or straw returning and tillage practice) on ΔSWS for wheat production. MethodsThis meta-analysis was based on 2523 comparisons in 274 publications from 1999 to 2021 to evaluate the effects of agricultural management practices on ΔSWS during the wheat-growing season in Northern China. ResultsIrrigation and soil amendment practices reduced ΔSWS by 76.95 % and 50.63 %, whereas the wheat yield increased by 21.22 % and 8.86 %, respectively. Fertilizer, tillage, and mulching practices increased ΔSWS by 70.41 %, 32.83 %, 24.6 % and improved wheat yield by 31.1 %, 9.41 %, and 16.26 %, respectively. The effects of different drivers on soil water availability under different agricultural management practices were quantified using linear regression analysis. Irrigation management increased ΔSWS capacity under higher mean annual precipitation, and lower seasonal precipitation, seasonal average temperature, soil pH, seasonal relative humidity, irrigation amounts. Fertilizer practice significantly increased ΔSWS capacity at higher seasonal wind speeds and irrigation amounts. Tillage practice had the best effect on enhancing ΔSWS capacity below 5 °C and lower relative humidity. When the N application less than 210 kg/hm2, seasonal wind speed > 1.31 m/s, seasonal sunshine duration > 900 h, higher seasonal relative humidity and seasonal average temperature conditions, mulching was the best practice to improve ΔSWS capacity. ConclusionsAppropriate agricultural management practices combined with key factors can maximize improve ΔSWS capacity. Implications or significanceThe results provide a reference for fully exploiting ΔSWS capacity using appropriate agricultural management practices under different environment conditions, thereby improving water use efficiency for wheat production in Northern China.

Effect of nano micronutrients and cytokinin on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in different irrigation conditions

Different strategies are required to mitigate drought stress in plants. In order to effect of nano micronutrient and cytokinin on wheat under different irrigation regimes, the experiment was performed in Karaj city, Iran. The experimental factors included irrigation regimes at three levels [I1: normal irrigation, I2: normal irrigation from planting date to pollination stage, and irrigation at 60% available moisture discharge afterward, I3: normal irrigation from planting date to pollination stage, then holding cutoff irrigation], was considered as the main plots. Nano microelements at five levels: [control, zinc, iron, selenium and a combination of three elements (zinc + iron + selenium)], and cytokinin at four levels [control, flowering stage, milking development, flowering stage + milking development], were placed as the subplots. The results indicated that irrigation, cytokinin and nano micronutrients were significant in the traits of this study. The interaction effects of the treatments were not significant. Drought significantly decreased grain yield and biomass. In irrigation treatments, I1 increased grain yield (70.8%), chlorophyll index (80.44%), and superoxide dismutase (57.71%) compared to I3. In nano micronutrients, the combination of three elements promoted grain yield (75%), chlorophyll index (87.67%), and superoxide dismutase (68.76%). Cytokinin plays a significant role in wheat yield promotion. In cytokinin spraying, the flowering + milking treatment raised grain yield (71.56%), chlorophyll index (62.97%), and superoxide dismutase (41.13%). The present study may thus help to increase wheat yield with normal irrigation, the interaction of microelements (zinc + iron + selenium) and cytokinin in flowering + milking stages and can suggest improving wheat yield.

Genetic Basis of Tillering Angle from Other Plants to Wheat: Current Progress and Future Perspectives.

Plant architecture is an important agronomic trait that impacts crop yield. The tiller angle is a critical aspect of the plant's structural organization, which is influenced by both internal and external factors. The genetic mechanisms underlying the tiller angle have been extensively investigated in other plants. However, research on wheat is relatively limited. Additionally, mechanics has emerged as a connection between biochemical signaling and the development of three-dimensional biological forms. It not only reveals how physical interactions at the cellular level influence overall morphogenesis but also elucidates the interplay between these mechanical processes and molecular signaling pathways that collectively determine plant morphology. This review examines the recent advancements in the study of tillering angle in wheat and other plants. It discusses progress in research ranging from observable characteristics to the regulation of genes, as well as the physiological and biochemical aspects, and the adaptability to environmental factors. In addition, this review also discusses the effects of mechanical on plant growth and development, and provides ideas for the study of mechanical regulation mechanism of tillering angle in wheat. Consequently, based on the research of other plants and combined with the genetic and mechanical principles, this approach offers novel insights and methodologies for studying tillering in wheat. This interdisciplinary research framework not only enhances our understanding of the mechanisms underlying wheat growth and development but may also uncover the critical factors that regulate tillering angle, thereby providing a scientific foundation for improving wheat yield and adaptability.

Identification and validation of two quantitative trait loci showing pleiotropic effect on multiple grain-related traits in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.).

QKl/Tgw/Gns.yaas-2D associates with KL, TGW, and GNS, and QKl/Tgw.yaas-5A associates with KL and TGW. Significantly pleiotropic and additive effects of these two QTL were validated. The YM5 allele both at QKl/Tgw/Gns.yaas-2D and QKl/Tgw.yaas-5A was proved to be the best allelic combination for improving yield potential. Kernel length (KL), kernel width (KW), thousand grain weight (TGW), and grain number per spike (GNS) play important roles in the yield improvement of wheat. In this study, one recombinant inbred line (RIL) derived from a cross between Yangmai 5 (YM5) and Yanzhan 1 (YZ1) was used to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with KL, KW, TGW, and GNS across three years. Two pleiotropic QTL namely QKl/Tgw/Gns.yaas-2D and QKl/Tgw.yaas-5A were located in two genomic regions on chromosomes 2D and 5A, respectively. Breeder-friendly Kompetitive Allele-Specific PCR (KASP) markers for QKl/Tgw/Gns.yaas-2D and QKl/Tgw.yaas-5A were developed and validated in a set of 246 wheat cultivars/lines. Analysis of allelic combinations indicated that the YM5 allele both at QKl/Tgw/Gns.yaas-2D and QKl/Tgw.yaas-5A is probably the best one to promote TGW, GNS, and grain weight per spike. Based on the analysis of gene annotation, sequence variations, expression patterns, and GO enrichment, twenty-five and twenty-four candidate genes of QKl/Tgw/Gns.yaas-2D and QKl/Tgw.yaas-5A, respectively, were identified. These results provide the basis of fine-mapping the target QTL and marker-assisted selection in wheat yield-breeding programs.

Integrated Fertilizers for Sustainable Wheat Production to Improve Food Security—A Comprehensive Review

ABSTRACTWheat is a key cereal crop that is substantial to global food security. Fertilizers are crucial in wheat production and significantly impact the yield. This review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of inorganic, organic, and integrated fertilizers in terms of sustainable wheat production and economic and environmental benefits. For this review, we thoroughly examined 133 previous research findings. The results indicate that inorganic fertilizers play a vital role in improving wheat yield. However, continuous use of inorganic fertilizers pollutes the environment, affects beneficial microorganisms in the soil, and increases the emissions of greenhouse gases, consequently decreasing crop yield. Organic fertilizers enhance soil quality, which is critical for crop growth and development. However, a high concentration of methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and carbon dioxide (CO2) are emitted from organic fertilizers, but the CO2 emission rate is less than the sequestration rate. Integrated fertilizers trade off the drawbacks of both inorganic and organic fertilizers. Integrated fertilizers decrease nitrous oxide (N2O) and ammonia (NH3) emissions and carbon loss by 11%–24%, 13%–27%, and 18%, respectively, compared to the sole use of fertilizers. From the review analysis, the highest grain yield (4855 kg ha−1) and net benefit ($2836.66) are achieved by using a combination of 75% organic and 25% inorganic fertilizers at a rate of 120 kg N ha−1. Therefore, this combination is recommended for the users. Furthermore, a site‐specific approach research is needed on integrated fertilizers that simultaneously focus on economic and environmental profits. Also, there must be a policy that supports the farmers in teaching, training, and subsidizing them to adopt integrated fertilizers for sustainable wheat production and improving food security.

Delayed application of water and fertilizer increased wheat yield but did not improve quality parameters

Context or problemWheat is an important food crop for mankind, simultaneous improvement of wheat yield and quality is human most important goal, but they often cannot increase at the same time. Objective or research questionThe effects of irrigation mode, nitrogen application rate and topdressing time on yield and quality of two wheat varieties were studied, and the possibility of synergistic improvement of yield and quality was also explored. MethodsTwo irrigation treatments (conventional border irrigation and micro-sprinkling irrigation) were set up, and three nitrogen application rate treatments (120, 210 and 300 kg N ha−1) were set up under each irrigation treatment. The yield formation and quality parameters of wheat were investigated. ResultsThe grain yield, key enzyme activities of protein synthesis, protein content and dough processing quality of the two cultivars increased with the increase of nitrogen application rate. However, when the nitrogen level was higher than 210 kg N ha−1, the grain yield and processing quality of winter wheat did not increase further. Under the same nitrogen application rate, compared with conventional border irrigation (CBI), micro-sprinkling irrigation (MSI) significantly increased the grain yield and total protein content, but did not improve the ratio of glutenin to gliadin and dough processing quality parameters. ConclusionsUnder the experimental conditions, the synergistic improvement of wheat yield and quality parameters could be achieved by optimizing nitrogen application rate, and the delayed application of water and fertilizer could further increase wheat grain yield, but did not improve grain quality parameters. Implications or significanceThis study provided theoretical guidance for further improving the grain yield and quality of winter wheat in the North China Plain.

Enriched Linz-Donawitz (LD) slag application for improving grain yield and quality of wheat grown under nutritionally poor degraded soil

Aim: To evaluate the impact of enriched steel slag on the physico-chemical characteristics of soil and yield attributes of wheat under poor quality degraded soil. Methodology: Steel slag was biologically and organically amended with natural sources of phosphorus (P), sulfur (S), potassium (K) and nitrogen (N) and characterized for its nutrient content along with biological activity. The impact of resultant products was assessed on soil quality and yield component traits of wheat for two consecutive years (2021-2022 and 2022-23). Results: Application of slag based products significantly (p<0.05) improved the plant height, biological yield, grain yield and ear bearing tillers (EBT) of wheat even with 80% of recommended fertilizer dose (NPK). Further, in comparison to control, a moderation of soil pH (8.6 to 8.8), EC (0.18 to 0.20 dS m-1), OC (0.22 to 0.24 %) and essential mineral macronutrients viz., N (126 to 130 kg N ha-1), P (8.0 to 13.0 kg ha-1), K (100 to 125 kg ha-1) were observed with the application of amended steel slag products. No significant change with respect to existing heavy metal concentration viz., Co, Ni, Cd and Pb in soil was observed when supplemented with amended slag products. Interpretation: Steel slag can be transformed favorably for on-farm application to improve wheat yield besides serving as an environmentally sustainable alternate of soil conditioner for the management of degraded soil. Key words: Degraded soil, Heavy metals, Steel slag, Waste management, Wheat

The transcription factor TaNF-YB4 overexpression in wheat increases plant vigor and yield

Addressing food security is a priority in developing countries. This study aimed to improve wheat yield by overexpressing the TaNF-YB4 transcription factor, which is involved in carbon assimilation and stress tolerance. An expression cassette for TaNF-YB4 was developed in a modified wheat transformation vector (pSB219) and examined through transient expression in Nicotiana tabacum, followed by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of wheat variety FSD-2008. T0 transgenic plants were propagated to obtain T3 generation PCR-positive plants. Transgene expression was assessed in PCR-verified T2 plants using RT-PCR and qRT-PCR at six weeks post-germination. qRT-PCR analysis using the ΔΔCT method indicated higher TaNF-YB4 expression in transgenic lines than in the wild-type control plants. Improved agronomic and phenotypic traits were observed with a 6–36 % increase in 1000-grain weight in the selected transgenic lines. Root architecture assessments demonstrated enhanced root length, surface area, and projected area in transgenic lines compared with wild-type plants. Additionally, notable variances in total chlorophyll, protein, and sugar content levels were observed between the transgenic lines and control plants, demonstrating statistical significance with a p-value ≤ 0.05. This study indicates that low-level constitutive expression of TaNF-YB4 can enhance wheat yield, presenting a viable strategy for improving wheat productivity.

Relative Benefits of Aqueous Extract of Sorghum Residues with Herbicide on Weed Control and Yield of Wheat Varieties

Reducing herbicide use in agriculture is key for sustainability, addressing costs, environmental issues, and resistance problems. Using non-chemical methods like allelopathy in weed management offers a viable alternative. In this phenomenon, a field study was carried out at the Agronomy Field Laboratory (AFL) of Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Mymensingh, from November 2021 to March 2022, to assess the phytotoxic effects of herbicides combined with aqueous extract of sorghum (AES) on weed management and yield of wheat. This study used three wheat varieties viz. BARI Gom (wheat)-32, BARI Gom-33, and BWMRI Gom-1 and six treatment levels such as, no weeding, recommended dose of herbicide (RDH), 90% RDH + AES (1:20 w/v), 80% RDH + AES (1:20), 70% RDH + AES (1:20), and 60% RDH + AES (1:20). The experiment followed a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The RDH with AES and wheat variety significantly influenced weed population (WP) and dry weight (DW) of weeds. BARI Gom-32 produced the highest grain yield (GY) and other yield-contributing characteristics. The best results, including the highest numbers of tillers (NET) hill-1 (6.47), spike length (SL) (15.10 cm), number of spikelet spike-1 (NSS) (19.38), 1000-grain weight (TGW) (57.67g), GY (5.10 t ha-1), and straw yield (SY) (7.07 t ha-1) and harvest index (HI) (41.95%) were observed in plots treated with the RDH and the BARI Gom-32 variety, followed closely by those receiving 90% RDH + AES (1:20). The results demonstrate that varying concentrations of AES crop residue can effectively suppress weed growth and enhance wheat yield, suggesting that sorghum residues might be utilized to manage weeds effectively and sustainably while boosting wheat production. The study supports the potential of AES crop residue as an effective means to control weeds and significantly improve wheat yields. J Bangladesh Agril Univ 22(3): 326-334, 2024

Impacts of Humic Acid on Growth and Yield of Wheat: A Review

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a crucial crop, providing 20% of caloric intake for many populations worldwide. Soil organic matter, an essential component of soil, directly influences soil fertility and texture. Humic substances, derived from biomolecules' physical, chemical, and microbiological transformation, are integral to soil humus. Humic acid has become a standard method for enhancing crop growth, yield, and soil fertility. While the effects of humic acid on wheat have been extensively studied, the optimal type and application method for wheat cultivation remain undetermined. This review investigates sustainable wheat production methods using humic acid to mitigate the negative impacts of chemical fertilizers and climate change factors. Research indicates that humic acid significantly increases wheat plant growth parameters: shoot length (18%), root length (29%), shoot dry weight (76%), root dry weight (100%), and chlorophyll content (96%). Moreover, humic acid substantially improves wheat yield and yield components, including spike length (14.66%), number of spikes per square meter (28.73%), number of spikelets per spike (23.52%), and 1000-grain weight (23.90%). As a sustainable organic substance, humic acid application offers a promising approach to improving wheat production. This method could help meet the food demands of the growing global population, particularly in countries like Afghanistan, where food security is a pressing concern.

Heat stress tolerance in wheat seedling: Clustering genotypes and identifying key traits using multivariate analysis

Elevated atmospheric heat is considered as one of the bottlenecks for global wheat production. Screening potential wheat genotypes against heat stress and selecting some suitable indicators to assist in understanding thermotolerance could be crucial for sustaining wheat cultivation. Accordingly, 80 diverse bread wheat genotypes were evaluated in controlled lab condition by imposing a week-long heat stress (35/25 °C D/N) at the seedling stage. The response of heat stress was evaluated using multivariate analysis techniques on 20 morpho-physiological traits. Results showed significant variations in the studied traits due to the imposition of heat stress. Eleven seedling traits that contributed significantly to the genotypic variability were identified using principal component analysis (PCA). A substantial correlation between most of the selected seedling attributes was observed. Hierarchical cluster analysis identified three distinct clusters among the tested wheat genotypes. Cluster 1, consisting of 33 genotypes, exhibited the highest tolerance to heat stress, followed by Cluster 2 (18 genotypes) with moderate tolerance and Cluster 3 (29 genotypes) showing susceptibility. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) approved that nearly 93 % of the wheat genotypes were appropriately ascribed to each cluster. The squared distance analysis confirmed the distinct nature of the clusters. Using multi-trait genotype-ideotype distance index (MGIDI), all 12 identified tolerant genotypes (BG-30, BD-468, BG-24, BD-9908, BG-32, BD-476, BD-594, BD-553, BD-488, BG-33, BD-495, and AS-10627) originated from Cluster 1. Selection gain in MGIDI analysis, broad-sense heritability, and multiple linear regression analysis together identified shoot and root dry and fresh weights, chlorophyll contents (a and total), shoot tissue water content, root-shoot dry weight ratio, and efficiency of photosystem II (PS II) as the most vital discriminatory factors explaining heat stress tolerance of 80 wheat genotypes. The identified genotypes with superior thermotolerance would offer resourceful genetic tools for breeders to improve wheat yield in warmer regions. The traits found to have greater contribution in explaining heat stress tolerance will be equally important in prioritizing future research endeavors.