Efficient Nitrogen Fertilizer Application and Watering Schedule for Wheat Crop

Introduction:

Water is essential for life, and its significance in agriculture cannot be overstated. In the arid and semi-arid regions of Sindh, where the entire country faces water scarcity challenges, effective water management is crucial for successful wheat cultivation. Additionally, optimizing the application of nitrogen fertilizer is vital for crop health and yield. This article provides guidelines on saving nitrogen fertilizer and outlines a recommended watering schedule for wheat crops.

Saving Nitrogen Fertilizer:

1. Time of Application:

   • Avoid broadcasting nitrogen fertilizer in direct sunlight on hot days.
   • Optimal times for application are in the morning after dew has settled or before sunset.

2. Immediate Watering:

   • Water the crop promptly after fertilizer application to facilitate dissolution and absorption into the soil.

3. In-Field Application:

   • When applying fertilizer in standing crops, do so after hoeing to ensure proper mixing with soil particles, preventing evaporation into the air.

4. Avoid Nitrate Fertilizer in Waterlogged Soils:

   • Refrain from applying nitrate fertilizer in standing water crops, such as rice, particularly in semi-arid soils.

Wheat Crop Watering Schedule:

• First Watering (20-25 days after sowing):

  • Initiate watering after the crop has germinated.

• Second Watering (40-45 days after sowing):

  • Water when the wheat plants begin forming branches.

• Third Watering (70-75 days after sowing):

  • Perform watering at the time of gob formation.

• Fourth Watering (90-95 days after sowing):

  • Water when wheat plants enter the flowering stage.

• Fifth Watering (110-115 days after sowing):

  • Apply water during grain formation.

• Sixth Watering (130-135 days after sowing):

  • Water during the grain-filling stage.

Water Conservation Tips:

• Be attentive to water shortages and conserve water, especially after rain.

Quality of Water:

• Ensure the water used for crops is of high quality to prevent salt accumulation and the development of saline soil. Conduct water tests, especially for groundwater sources.

Chemical Fertilizer Application:

For wheat crops, consider the following fertilizer recommendations:

• DAP (Diammonium Phosphate):

  • Apply 1.5 bags per acre at the time of sowing.

• Urea:

  • Apply 1 bag at the time of the first watering and another at the second watering.

• Alternative Fertilizer for Sodic Soils:

  • In sodic soils, avoid DAP and urea. Instead, use single superphosphate (3-4 bags at sowing) and ammonium nitrate or ammonium sulfate.

• Nitrophos (Alternative for Chemical Fertilizer):

  • If chemical fertilizer cannot be used at sowing, apply 2 bags per acre of nitrophos at the time of the first watering and 1 bag of urea at the second watering.

Conclusion:

By adhering to these guidelines, farmers can enhance the efficiency of nitrogen fertilizer application and optimize the watering schedule for wheat crops, contributing to improved crop health and increased yields in arid and semi-arid regions