Foliar nitrogen management for improving growth and yield of dryland wheat

Abstract

Foliar nitrogen (N) application is considered an important factor affecting phenology, growth, yield, and yield components of dryland wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). A field experiment was conducted to study effects of foliar N on dryland wheat (cv. Prisabk-2004) at the Agronomy Research Farm, The University of Agriculture Peshawar, Pakistan, during winter 2010-2011. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design using four replications. A plot size of 3 m by 4 m, having 8 rows, 4 m long and 30 cm apart was used. A total of 80 kg N ha-1 in the form of urea was applied. Out of 80 kg N ha-1, 70 kg N ha-1 was applied to the soil at sowing time, and the remaining 10 kg N ha-1 was applied in the form of foliar spray (2% N). The required foliar N was applied in various combinations (splits) at different growth stages viz. 30, 60, 90 and 120 days after emergence (DAE). Phenological development (days to anthesis and physiological maturity) was delayed, yield components and yield increased significantly (p ≤ 0.05) with foliar N over control (water spray without N). Wheat grain yield increased to the highest level (4427 kg ha-1) when 100 % foliar N was applied (no split) at 90 DAE, followed by 4050 kg ha-1 at 120 DAE, while the control (no foliar N) resulted in the lowest grain yield (2573 kg ha-1). We concluded from this study that 2 % foliar N application in a single split either at 90 or 120 DAE could improve wheat productivity under dryland condition.