Soil Physical and Chemical Properties and Productivity of Four Wheat (Triticum Aestivum L.) Genotypes under Nutrient Recovered from Yellow Water

Abstract

The increasing cost and environmental impacts of inorganic fertilizers necessitate sustainable alternatives for improving wheat productivity. This study evaluated the effects of nutrient recovered from yellow water (NRYW) on soil properties, growth, yield, and grain quality of four Triticum aestivum accessions under controlled conditions. The experimental design was completely randomized design arranged in factorial (4 x 8), with NRYW applied at rates of 0 – 30 t ha⁻¹ and compared with NPK fertilizer (200 kg ha⁻¹). The application of nutrient recovered from yellow water significantly improved soil chemical properties, particularly pH, calcium, and magnesium, as well as nitrogen and phosphorus levels. Growth responses varied among accessions; although plant height, leaf number, and tillering were not significantly affected entirely, but root development and chlorophyll content were remarkedly improved. Yield components showed notable enhancement under NRYW, including reduced days to flowering and maturity, increased spike length, and higher 1000-grain weight, resulting in improved grain yield in most accessions. For the proximate composition of the grain was significantly enhanced, with increases in protein, fibre, fat, and carbohydrate contents; this indicating improved nutritional quality of the grain obtained. However, responses were genotype-dependent, with superior performance observed in selected accessions. In summary, the application of NRYW demonstrated effectiveness to wheat growth and yield compared to NPK fertilizer. This study offers a viable, cost efficient, and environmentally sustainable soil amendment source. Therefore, its adoption could enhance soil fertility, improve wheat growth and productivity, and support circular nutrient management systems, particularly in resource scarce localities.