Effect of Organic Manure, Inorganic Fertilizer and Bio-fertilizer Formulations on Soil Micronutrient Availabilty and Growth Attributes of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Abstract

A two-year (2023–25) field study in Kanpur, India, evaluated the effect of integrated nutrient management (INM) on wheat growth and soil fertility. Using a randomized block design with nineteen treatments, the experiment assessed impacts on plant population, height, and available soil zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe). The results consistently demonstrated that a holistic approach combining 100% NP + FYM + S + Zn + Fe + LB- Soil Application was superior. This treatment recorded the highest pooled values for plant population (48.48 m-2), plant height (31.45 and 92.23 cm at 45 and 90 DAS respectively), available soil Zn (0.600 ppm), and Fe (4.50 ppm). These findings affirm that a balanced, integrated nutrient strategy is highly effective, not only for maximizing the vegetative vigor and growth of wheat but also for concurrently improving soil fertility. This approach offers a viable pathway for sustainable wheat production, enhancing nutrient use efficiency and contributing to a more resilient agricultural system.