Optimizing Fertilizer Management for Improved Phosphorus Use Efficiency and Sustainable Wheat Production

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18974055

Abstract

Phosphorus (P) is an indispensable nutrient for wheat production, yet its low use efficiency poses substantial challenges to sustainable agriculture. Worldwide, wheat farming frequently involves over-application of P fertilizers, resulting in environmental problems like eutrophication and soil P buildup, while phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) stays suboptimal due to soil fixation and inadequate management. This comprehensive review integrates recent studies on optimizing fertilizer management to boost PUE and foster sustainable wheat production. Core strategies encompass site-specific P applications informed by soil P pools, selection of P-efficient varieties, integrated nutrient management merging chemical and organic inputs, and precision methods such as intercropping, rotation, and novel fertilizers like nano-DAP. Data from field trials in regions including China, India, Ethiopia, and Algeria show that balanced P rates (e.g., 50-100 kg P₂O₅ ha⁻¹) can elevate yields by 10-50% and PUE by 20-60% relative to excessive use. For example, in calcareous soils, triple superphosphate (TSP) and ammonium polyphosphate (APP) enhance P availability, while in non-calcareous soils, TSP and diammonium phosphate (DAP) excel. The dynamic optimization of soil phosphorus (DOP) approach, maintaining soil P within agronomic (19-27 mg kg⁻¹) and environmental thresholds (40-52 mg kg⁻¹), could slash P fertilizer use by up to 50% without yield losses. Challenges involve soil variability, climate shifts, and accessibility of testing. Future avenues include breeding for P-efficient traits, leveraging digital precision tools, microbial inoculants, and policies promoting sustainable practices. Integrating these can yield higher productivity, lower environmental footprints, and extended P resource longevity, bolstering global food security.