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Plant Science Today (PST)

Research Articles

Vol. 13 No. sp2 (2026): Recent Advances in Agriculture

Synergistic impact of NPK and nano-fertilisers on growth, productivity and soil microbial dynamics of wheat

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.12063
Submitted
30 September 2025
Published
15-06-2026

Abstract

This study looked at how nano-nutrients affected the growth, grain quality and soil health of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in the crop research centre of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology (SVPUAT), Meerut, throughout the 2018-20 rabi seasons. The wheat cultivar DBW-17 was used in 42 plots (3 × 3 m) using a randomised block design comprising 14 treatments, which were replicated thrice. Throughout the crop cycle, the arrangement permitted sequential damaging sampling and enabled the use of common field equipment. Foliar application of nano nitrogen (N) + phosphorous (P) + potassium (K) + zinc (Zn) at 100 % of the recommended NPK dose significantly enhanced growth indices, yield attributes and final grain yield. The protein content of the grain went up to 10.9 % and the protein yield went up to 584.2 kg ha-1, which is a 10 % increase in protein content and a 40.6 % increase in protein yield compared to regular NPK fertilisation. Tests conducted after harvest revealed that the soil contained higher levels of microorganisms and nutrients, indicating that the soil's health had increased. Furthermore, root biomass and nutrient uptake were improved by nano-nutrient treatments. Overall, the findings demonstrate that adding nano-nutrients to conventional NPK fertilisation can significantly increase soil fertility, wheat productivity and the long-term viability of agriculture.

 

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