Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) Practices on Wheat Growth & Yield
Abstract
Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) plays a pivotal role in global food security, being a primary source of carbohydrates and nutrients for millions of people worldwide. However, the intensive agricultural practices necessary to meet the growing food demand have often led to soil degradation and reduced soil fertility. Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) has emerged as a sustainable approach that combines the use of organic and inorganic fertilizers, along with bio-fertilizers, to enhance crop productivity while maintaining soil health. This review critically examines recent studies on the application of INM practices in wheat cultivation, focusing on their impact on wheat growth and yield. The integration of organic manures, such as farmyard manure and compost, with chemical fertilizers has been shown to improve soil structure, increase microbial activity, and enhance nutrient availability. Moreover, the use of bio-fertilizers, including nitrogen-fixing bacteria and phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms, has been demonstrated to boost growth and improves plant health. The review highlights the synergistic effects of combining these different nutrient sources, leading to optimized nutrient use efficiency and increased wheat yield and quality. Challenges associated with INM practices, such as the need for precise management and potential variability in results, are also discussed. Overall, this comprehensive review underscores the importance of adopting INM practices to achieve sustainable wheat production.
Keywords
Download Options
Introduction
Wheat is a vital staple crop globally, essential for food security. The Green Revolution boosted wheat production using high-yielding varieties and extensive chemical fertilizers and pesticides. However, this led to soil degradation, reduced biodiversity, and environmental pollution. Sustainable practices, like Integrated Nutrient Management (INM), are now emphasized to enhance productivity without harming soil and the environment. INM combines organic and inorganic fertilizers with bio-fertilizers, optimizing nutrient availability and improving soil health. This method enhances nutrient use efficiency, soil fertility, and reduces negative environmental impacts. INM involves careful application of chemical fertilizers, organic manures, and bio-fertilizers, creating a balanced nutrient supply for crops. Research shows that INM improves wheat growth, yield, and quality, enhancing soil structure, microbial activity, and nutrient cycling. Bio-fertilizers support plant health by promoting root growth and nutrient absorption. Despite its benefits, INM implementation is challenging due to the need for precise nutrient management, variability in soil types, and the requirement for farmers to understand INM principles. This review highlights the potential of INM to contribute to sustainable wheat production and long-term soil health by synthesizing the latest research findings on its effects and challenges.
Conclusion
Integrated nutrient management (INM) has emerged as a crucial strategy for enhancing wheat production by combining organic and inorganic inputs. Evidence from recent studies underscores that the integration of vermicompost, farmyard manure, and poultry litter with recommended chemical fertilizers significantly improves plant growth parameters, including plant height, tiller count, and grain yield. The addition of biofertilizers and optimal nitrogen levels further enhances these benefits, promoting better nutrient uptake and crop performance. Looking ahead, future research should focus on large-scale, long-term field trials to validate the economic viability and environmental sustainability of various INM practices. It will be important to refine nutrient application methods, explore innovative nutrient combinations, and assess their impacts on soil health and crop productivity. By doing so, the agricultural community can advance sustainable wheat cultivation practices, ensuring high yield and environmental stewardship.
