Evaluating the Impact of Phosphatic Fertilizers on Soil Nutrients and Morphological Traits of Wheat Varieties Under Field Conditions

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A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of phosphatic fertilizers, including DAP, NP, and SSP, applied at dose of 84 kg P 2 O 5 ha⁻¹, on soil nutrient dynamics and the morphological traits of three wheat varieties: TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83. For the experiment was utilized a randomized complete block design with treatments applied to soil and crops under controlled field conditions. Soil properties such N, P, K, EC, pH, and OM, along with wheat morphological traits, were assessed. The results indicate that DAP fertilizer significantly increased soil N and P levels, while SSP was more effective in enhancing soil K. SSP also increased soil EC, whereas pH decreased with all phosphatic fertilizers compared to the control. Among the wheat varieties, TJ-83 exhibited the highest grain yield (3049 kg ha⁻¹) with NP fertilizer. Notably, DAP improved the seed index and grain nutrient content compared to other treatments, with by 51.33g for TD-1 variety. These findings align with other studies report by the scientist, highlighting the efficacy of phosphatic fertilizers in improving soil fertility and crop traits under challenging soil conditions. This finding contributes to optimizing phosphorus fertilizer use for sustainable wheat production and emphasizes the need for long-term experiments integrating innovative amendments like biochar and nanotechnology to enhance soil health and crop productivity. Agronomy Phospahtic fertilizers nutrients uptake plant growth yield wheat varieties Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 Introduction Wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) is a member of Poaceae family and is one of the world's most important grain crops (De Sousa et al. 2021 ). It is a crucial global staple food that fulfills the protein needs of a significant portion of the population (Zhang et al. 2024 ). Wheat is used in producing crumpets, cookies, bread, biscuits, noodles, chapatis, flour, animal feed, roasted grains, and other products (Babu et al. 2021 ). Wheat production must increase to bridge the gap between demand and consumption as the population grows exponentially (Rask and Rask 2011 ). China leads global wheat production, contributing 17% with 135.8 million tonnes in 2022-23 followed by India with 105 million tonnes, while Russia, production was 85.2 million tonnes and also the top global exporter, meanwhile Pakistan production were 26.2 million tonnes in 2022 (Mottaleb et al. 2023 ; Dadrasi et al. 2023 ). Pakistan's wheat sector faces a challenge in meeting the country's growing demand, as the average yield per hectare is lower than its potential, and the population is increasing rapidly (Ahmad and Farooq 2010 ). The performance of the wheat sector is crucial to ensuring national food security and has a significant impact on the country economic stability, especially for vulnerable urban populations (Shiferaw et al. 2013 ; Ali et al. 2022 ). The main reason of low wheat corp production in Pakistan is water and soil degradation, lack of best farming practices, improper use of fertilizer pests control and plant diseases, weeds, climate change, seed quality, limited access to credit and markets, agricultural research and extension, and government policy and support (Khan 2019 ; Adnan et al. 2020 ). Furthermore, wheat crop faces numerous biotic and abiotic stresses despite its low production (Hossain et al. 2021 ). Under the abiotic stressors the phosphorus is a major limiting nutrient for crop yields in Pakistan, particularly due to the high calcium content in many of its soils, which leads to phosphorus fixation (Zaidi et al. 2023 ). Phosphate fertilizers are applied to soil to enhance the production of crops (Guelfi et al. 2020). The efficiency of phosphorus base fertilizer use remains sub-optimal, with only 15–20% of applied phosphorus being available to the first crop, largely due to the formation of insoluble phosphorus compounds in the soil (Vance 2022 ). This problem is compounded by Pakistan's heavy reliance on imported phosphorus fertilizers, which are increasingly expensive and subject to supply chain disruptions (Aziz et al. 2023 ). The soils of Pakistan are alluvial, calcareous, alkaline and 90% deficient in phosphorus (Rashid et al. 2010 ). The application of P fertilizers to calcareous soils, with pH levels greater than 7.5 has been a major concern due to P fixation (Devau et al. 2011 ; Bolan et al. 2023 ). When P is applied to the soil, the plant takes up only small percentage; the remainder is either permanently or temporarily fixed in forms varying in plant availability (Syers et al. 2008 ; Demiraj et al. 2018 ; Lahori et al. 2019 ). The temporarily fixed P, also called residual P, becomes available with time, but at slow rates (Schröder et al. 2011 ). Amanullah et al. (2009) stated that the P fertilizer source is considered as one of the most important factors affecting crop growth and yield. The P fertilizer use can help to reduce the adverse effect of drought under rainfed conditions (Shirmohammadi et al. 2020 ). Phosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient that drives plant metabolism, supporting a wide range of biochemical reactions that govern plant growth and development (Malhotra et al. 2018 ). Its role in photosynthesis allows plants to utilize solar energy, while also influencing key developmental processes, including root development, stem elongation, flower initiation, seed production, and disease susceptibility, ultimately impacting crop yields and quality (Griffith 2022 ). The availability of phosphorus in the soil-plant system is driven by a multitude of factors, including biological, chemical, and physical processes, which are strongly influenced by soil type and environmental conditions, ultimately determining the dynamics of phosphorus transformation and mobility (Kunwar et al. 2018 ). The widespread occurrence of calcareous soils with high calcium levels in Pakistan is a critical factor contributing to the low efficiency of phosphorus recovery, highlighting the need for strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of calcium on phosphorus availability (Qadir et al. 2024 ). Due to the limited availability of premium rock phosphate (RP) in Pakistan, there is a growing demand for affordable, indigenous phosphorus sources (Mohanty et al. 2021 ). Although RP contains 28–30% phosphorus, its slow release makes it unsuitable as a fertilizer without additional processing (Billah et al. 2019 ). Maximizing crop yields requires careful management of phosphorus fertilizer forms and application phases (Roberts and Johnston 2015 ). In Pakistan, phosphorus-based fertilizers, including single superphosphate (SSP), di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), and triple superphosphate (TSP), are widely used, with DAP primarily imported from Jordan, the USA, and Morocco (Fayiga and Nwoke 2016 ; De Boer et al. 2019 ). Scientific research has demonstrated that Nitro phosphate (NP) and SSP fertilizers are more effective than DAP in enhancing crop yields, with phosphorus application during sowing proving particularly successful in regions with conditions similar to those in Sindh (Memon and Rashid 2021 ). The effectiveness of phosphorus application depends heavily on timing, as delayed applications often fail to compensate for early-season losses, highlighting the importance of strategic nutrient management (Hopkins and Hansen 2019 ). Khursheed et al. ( 2024 ) assessed the impact of different phosphatic fertilizers on phosphorus fractions and morphophysiological parameters of wheat in saline sodic soil. Azeem et al. ( 2018 ) examined the influence of DAP, NP, TSP and SSP fertilizers on growth, yield and yield attribute of two maize varieties. Chen et al. ( 2024 ) observed the alone and combined application of calcium magnesium phosphate (CMP), single super phosphate (SSP), di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), and mono-ammonium phosphate (MAP) on improving P uptake, growth and yield parameters by maize crop in acidic and alkaline soil. The main purpose of P fertilizers applying and its application at affordable price is a major issue in agriculture. Yet the unbalanced use of P fertilizers can either reduce the nutrient application or may lead to fixation of P causing environmental pollution. The application of P at an affordable rate can reduce the input for farmers. The rise in DAP fertilizer prices available in market has developed interest in the use of (NP and SSP). Nitro phosphate and SSP are locally available, making them more affordable fertilizer source This study was conducted at the Wheat Research Institute in Sakrand, District Nawabshah, Pakistan, to evaluate the availability of phosphorus from three sources—DAP, NP, and SSP—and their effects on primary macronutrients, soil chemical properties, and the morphological traits of three wheat varieties: TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83, under field conditions. The objectives included comparing the impact of DAP, NP, and SSP fertilizers on plant height (cm), number of tillers per plant, spike length (cm), grains per spike, seed index (1000-grain weight in grams), grain yield (kg ha⁻¹), and nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content (%) in the grains and straw of the TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83 varieties. Materials and methods Study area and description The research study was conducted at the experimental area of Wheat Research Institute Sakrand (Fig. 1 ). The experiment was conducted over a 100 x 100 sq. ft. area using a randomized complete block (RCB) design with a two-factor arrangement and three replications. The treatments included three wheat varieties (TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83) and three phosphorus sources (DAP, NP, and SSP), along with a control treatment. This resulted in a total of 36 plots, each with a subplot size of 225 sq. ft. (15 x 15 ft.), consisting of 20 rows spaced 22.5 cm apart. A conceptual flow diagram is indicated in (Fig. 2 ) explain the detailed study design. [Insert Fig. 1 here] [Insert Fig. 2 here] Experimental set-up Recommended dose of P 2 O 5 at 84 kg ha − 1 separately from DAP, NP and SSP was applied to each treatment (except control) at the time of sowing. Recommended dose of N (168 kg ha − 1 N) and K (60 kg ha − 1 K 2 O) was applied to all the treatments. Potassium was applied in the form of Potassium Sulfate, K₂SO₄ - SOP) and all was applied during sowing period. In case of N, it was applied in the form of urea in two phases, half at sowing phase, other half was applied during first irrigation with a total of 5 irrigation phases. The quantity of N added to treatments applied with DAP or NP was adjusted. For sowing of wheat crop, initially the plot was deep ploughed to remove the hard pan at sub-soil layer and followed by precision plot leveling with laser land leveler. The experimental plot was ploughed with Goble Disc Harrow (GDH), and after a soaking dose, a cross-wise cultivator was run and planked. The sowing was done in rows by means of single hand seed drill with a seed rate of 125 kg ha − 1 . The seed was obtained from the wheat research institute Sakrand, Sindh Pakistan. Soil and plant sampling A composite soil sample before sowing and fertilizer application from the experimental area at 0–15 and 15–30 cm depth and was send to laboratory for basic soil analysis. After harvesting, separately composite soil samples from all 36 plots at 0–15 and 15–30 cm depths were collected. The samples were air dried, ground sieved through 2mm sieve and analyzed for physico-chemical properties were the obtained result are specified in Table 1 . The crop was harvested at maturity about 16 weeks after sowing. Whole Plant samples (except roots) were collected from same plots, rinsed with tap water and double washed with distilled water to remove the soil particles. The plant part straw and grain samples were dried separately at 65 ° C and ground in an agate mill. After harvesting of three wheat varieties, randomly tree composite soil samples were collected from the rhizosphere of each treated block at 0-15cm depth, aiming to test the following parameters: EC, pH, OM, N, P and K. Table 1 Some physical and chemical properties of the soil used for field experiment Name of property Depth cm Texture Sand (%) Silt (%) Clay (%) 0–15 cm 15–30 cm 28.00 56.50 15.50 52.75 33.75 13.50 Textural Class Silt loam Sandy loam EC (dS m − 1 ) (1:2 soil water extract) 0.38 0.29 pH (1:2 soil water extract) 7.69 7.24 Organic matter (%) 0.91 0.60 CaCO 3 (%) 10.90 8.60 Kjeldahl’s N (%) 0.043 0.032 NH 4 HCO 3 -DTPA extractable P (mg kg − 1 ) 1.60 1.44 NH 4 OAc extractable K (mg kg − 1 ) 166.00 152.00 [Insert Table 1 here] Soil analysis All the samples were analyzed for some physico-chemical properties by standard methods. Particle size distribution was determined by Bouyoucos hydrometer method (Bouyoucos 1962). Soil electrical conductivity (EC) and pH were determined in 1:5 soil water extract using EC meter and pH meter respectively. Organic matter was determined by Walkley-Black method as given in Jackson (1969) which involved oxidation of organic carbon by potassium dichromate (K 2 Cr 2 O 7 ) and subsequent determination of the unutilized dichromate by oxidation-reduction titration with ferrous ammonium sulfate. Calcium carbonate in soil was determined by acid neutralization method (Kanwar and Chopra 1959). Kjeldahl’s for total N (Jackson 1962), ABDTPA for P and K (Soltanpour and Workman 1979) were used for determination. Determination of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in soil All the samples before and after harvest of wheat were analyzed for Kjeldahl’s N, and ABDTPA extractable P and K. Kjeldahl’s N was estimated by digesting the contents in H 2 SO 4 followed by distillation and finally titrating the distillate with acid (Jones 1991). Available P and K were extracted with AB-DTPA (Soltanpour and Workman 1979) and the P in the extracts was determined by ammonium molybdate method as given by Murphy and Riley (1962); while K was analyzed directly by emission spectroscopy using flame photometer (Knudsen et al. 1982). The N, P and K data of original soil samples are indicated in Table 1 . Agronomic observations Some agronomic observations were recorded after the harvest of wheat. The method used for each observation is detailed is indicated in Table 2 . Table 2 Agronomic parameters of three wheat verities Parameter Details Plant height (cm) Plant height was recorded at maturity of the crop in randomly selected plants using measuring tape from bottom to tip of spike in centimeters. Tillers plant − 1 Total tillers for randomly selected plants were counted at the time of maturity and averaged. Spike length (cm) The length of all the spikes from randomly selected plants was measured in centimeters with measuring tape and average were worked out. Grains spike − 1 The number of grains in each spike of the randomly selected plants was counted at the time of harvest and average was worked out. Seed index (g) One thousand grains plot − 1 were counted at random and weighed to record the seed index (g). Grain yield (kg ha − 1 ) The grain obtained after threshing was weighed and on the basis of grain yield plot − 1 and grain yield ha − 1 was calculated in kilograms after the following formula: \(\:Grain\:yield\:{ha}^{-1}=\frac{{Grain\:yield\:(kg\:plot}^{-1})}{{Plot\:size\:(m}^{2})}\:x\:10000\) [Insert Table 2 here] Plant analysis The ground samples of wheat straw and grain were subjected to N, P and K analysis. Nitrogen in wheat straw and grain was analyzed by Kjeldahl’s method. Nitrogen content was determined by Kjeldahl’s method by digesting the contents in H 2 SO 4 followed by distillation and finally titrating the distillate with acid (Jones 1991). Phosphorus and K samples of wheat straw and grain were analyzed by wet digestion method using HClO 4 :HNO 3 mixture (1:5). The digests were analyzed for P by developing vanadomolybdo phosphoric acid yellow color method (Cottenie 1980) and K by emission spectroscopy using flame - photometer (Knudsen et al. 1982). Statistical analysis All the data was presented as mean values of three replicates in this investigation. The mean data has been used for make graphs by using Prism 5 software. The redundancy analysis was performed among the studied parameters by using Canoco 5. Results and discussions Characterization of soil basic properties This study was based on field experiment involving the effect of DAP, NP and SSP fertilizers by using In a factorial combination along with replicated three times on the growth and yield parameters of wheat varieties. The particle size analysis revealed that the soil before wheat sowing comprised 28.00% sand, 56.50% silt, and 15.50% clay at a depth of 0–15 cm. At 15–30 cm, the composition shifted to 52.75% sand, 33.75% silt, and 13.50% clay. The soil’s textural class was classified as silt loam at 0–15 cm and sandy loam at 15–30 cm. The soil was non-saline, with an electrical conductivity (EC) of 0.38 and 0.29 dS m⁻¹, and exhibited a medium alkaline reaction (pH 7.69 and 7.24, respectively, at the two depths). It was low in organic matter (< 0.86%) and moderately calcareous, with CaCO₃ content of 0.90% at 0–15 cm and 8.60% at 15–30 cm. Nutrient analysis showed Kjeldahl nitrogen (N) levels of 0.043% and 0.032%, AB-DTPA extractable phosphorus (P) at 1.60 and 1.44 mg/kg, and NH₄OAc extractable potassium (K) at 166.00 and 152.00 mg/kg at 0–15 cm and 15–30 cm depths, respectively (Babar et al. 2024 ). Impact of phosphatic fertilizers on EC, pH, OM, N, P and K in soil The application of phosphatic fertilizers significantly increased the electrical conductivity (EC) of the soil after harvesting TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83 compared to the control. The highest increase in soil EC was observed in the control treatment, rising from 1.01 to 1.12 dS m⁻¹ following the application of SSP fertilizer after harvesting the TD-1 variety. Similarly, soil EC increased from 0.87 to 1.04 dS m⁻¹ with NP fertilizer application after harvesting SKD-1, and from 1.03 to 1.06 dS m⁻¹ with SSP fertilizer application after harvesting TJ-83 (Fig. 3 a). The rise in soil EC can be attributed to the dissociation of ammonium and phosphate ions from DAP fertilizer, which increases ion concentration in the soil solution. NP fertilizer also influences soil EC, though its effect varies depending on the formulation and application rate. In contrast, SSP fertilizer has a more pronounced impact on soil EC due to its higher phosphate content. Studies have demonstrated that SSP can significantly elevate soil EC, particularly when applied in larger quantities. These findings are consistent with those of Sánchez-Rodríguez et al. ( 2024 ), who reported an increase in soil EC following the application of DAP and SSP fertilizers under laboratory incubation conditions. The maximum reduction in soil pH was observed with the application of DAP fertilizer, decreasing from 7.5 to 7.3 after harvesting TD-1. Similarly, soil pH declined from 7.8 to 7.1 with NP fertilizer application after harvesting SKD-1, and from 7.6 to 7.2 with SSP fertilizer application after harvesting TJ-83 (Fig. 3 b). These results indicate that phosphatic fertilizers significantly lower soil pH, with SSP fertilizer causing the most substantial reduction. This acidifying effect can be attributed to the ammonium ion (NH₄⁺) in DAP, which undergoes nitrification and releases hydrogen ions (H⁺), thereby reducing soil pH. NP fertilizer typically has a slightly acidic to neutral effect on soil pH, as the nitrate ion (NO₃⁻) contributes to soil acidity, while the phosphate ion (PO₄³⁻) helps buffer pH. In contrast, SSP fertilizer has a stronger acidifying effect due to the residual sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) used in its production, as well as the release of hydrogen ions (H⁺) from phosphate ions (PO₄³⁻). These findings align with those of Sánchez-Rodríguez et al. ( 2024 ), who reported a significant decrease in soil pH following SSP fertilizer application. The organic matter (OM) content in the soil exhibited varied responses to different phosphatic fertilizers. After harvesting TD-1, OM content increased from 0.82–0.86% with DAP fertilizer application but decreased from 0.82–0.78% with SSP fertilizer. Similarly, after harvesting SKD-1, OM content rose from 0.84–0.85% with DAP fertilizer but declined from 0.84–0.80% with SSP fertilizer. Furthermore, after harvesting TJ-83, OM content increased from 0.81–0.87% with DAP fertilizer but decreased from 0.81–0.79% with SSP fertilizer (Fig. 3 c). These results suggest that DAP fertilizer has a neutral to slightly positive effect on soil organic matter (SOM), likely due to the stimulation of microbial activity by ammonium ions (NH₄⁺), which enhances organic matter decomposition and SOM accumulation. In contrast, SSP fertilizer may reduce SOM due to its acidic nature, which can inhibit microbial activity. These observations are partially supported by Solangi et al. ( 2015 ), who found no significant changes in OM content at a 0–15 cm soil depth following DAP and SSP fertilizer applications in wheat cultivation. Conversely, Lahori et al. ( 2019 ) reported an increase in OM content with rock phosphate application under a 0–90-day incubation study. The soil nitrogen (N) content exhibited a notable increase following the application of DAP fertilizer, surpassing the effects of NP and SSP fertilizers. Specifically, the N content rose from 0.0561–0.0971% after harvesting the TD-1 variety, from 0.0659–0.0916% after harvesting SKD-1, and from 0.0568–0.0921% after harvesting TJ-83 (Fig. 3 d). These findings align with the observations of Saleem et al. ( 2021 ), who reported a significant enhancement in N solubility after 30 days of incubation in clay loam soil treated with KFeO₂-coated DAP fertilizer. Similarly, the phosphorus (P) concentration in the soil demonstrated a marked increase with the application of DAP fertilizer compared to NP and SSP fertilizers. Post-harvest soil analysis revealed that P levels increased from 1.91 to 3.09 mg kg⁻¹ for TD-1, from 1.69 to 3.23 mg kg⁻¹ for SKD-1, and from 1.71 to 3.12 mg kg⁻¹ for TJ-83 (Fig. 3 e). These results are consistent with the findings of Solangi et al. ( 2015 ), who observed a comparable rise in soil P content with DAP and SSP fertilizers relative to control treatments. Additionally, Lahori et al. ( 2019 ) demonstrated enhanced P solubility and increased organic matter (OM) content in P-deficient soils amended with rock phosphate over a 0–90-day incubation period. Further supporting these results, Khursheed et al. ( 2024 ) confirmed that the total P availability in saline-sodic soils significantly improved with the application of DAP, SSP, and NP fertilizers. Similarly, Sánchez-Rodríguez et al. ( 2024 ) reported a significant improvement in soil P solubility with the use of DAP and SSP fertilizers. The potassium (K) content in the soil also showed a consistent increase following the application of DAP fertilizer, outperforming NP and SSP fertilizers. Post-harvest measurements indicated that K levels rose from 169.2 to 176.4 mg kg⁻¹ for TD-1, from 171.6 to 181.9 mg kg⁻¹ for SKD-1, and from 182.4 to 187.6 mg kg⁻¹ for TJ-83 (Fig. 3 f). These findings are corroborated by Solangi et al. ( 2015 ), who reported a positive impact of DAP fertilizer on soil K levels, with an increase from 170.16 to 176.77 mg kg⁻¹ at a 0–15 cm soil depth compared to untreated soil. [Insert Fig. 3 a-f here] Impact of phosphatic fertilizers on morphological traits of three wheat varieties The plant height of three wheat varieties—TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83—was evaluated under field conditions following the application of diammonium phosphate (DAP), nitrogen-phosphorus (NP), and single superphosphate (SSP) fertilizers. The maximum plant height increased from 58.83 cm in the control treatment to 74.10 cm with NP fertilizer for TD-1, from 61.97 cm to 75.60 cm with DAP for SKD-1, and from 64.93 cm to 93.07 cm with NP for TJ-83. These differences in plant height can be attributed to the inherent characteristics of the varieties: TJ-83 is a tall variety, SKD-1 is of medium height, and TD-1 is a dwarf variety, with a height approximately three times smaller than the other varieties. Notably, NP fertilizer demonstrated the highest potential for enhancing plant height in TJ-83, followed by TD-1 and SKD-1 (Fig. 4 a). Ali and Khalid ( 2015 ) reported that SSP fertilizer resulted in the maximum number of tillers. Similarly, Zhou et al. ( 2023 ) observed an increase in plant height in tartary buckwheat with the application of low phosphorus fertilizer at a rate of 40 kg·ha⁻¹. In this study, the number of tillers per plant increased from 8.33 in the control to 14.00 with SSP application for TD-1, from 7.00 to 10.00 with NP for SKD-1, and from 7.00 to 9.33 with DAP for TJ-83. These results indicate that NP fertilizer was highly effective in increasing the number of tillers per plant in the TJ-83 variety (Fig. 4 b). Khan et al. ( 2010 ) also found SSP fertilizer to be highly effective in increasing tiller numbers, followed by triple superphosphate (TSP), NP, and DAP. In contrast, Ali et al. ( 2012 ) reported a greater number of tillers with DAP compared to NP fertilizer. The highest spike length increased from 6.60 cm in the control to 9.94 cm with DAP for TD-1, from 7.02 cm to 10.31 cm with DAP for SKD-1, and from 6.32 cm to 11.84 cm with DAP for TJ-83. These findings suggest that DAP fertilizer significantly improved spike length, particularly in the TJ-83 variety (Fig. 4 c). Khan et al. ( 2010 ) also reported that DAP and SSP fertilizers resulted in the highest spike length compared to the control. The number of grains per spike increased from 21.26 in the control to 42.60 with DAP for TD-1, from 24.80 to 46.67 with DAP for SKD-1, and from 27.13 to 61.60 with DAP for TJ-83. These results highlight the effectiveness of DAP fertilizer in maximizing the number of grains per spike, particularly in TJ-83 (Fig. 4 d). Reddy and Singh ( 2003 ) noted that SSP fertilizer yielded the highest grain production, followed by NP and DAP. Zhou et al. ( 2023 ) also found that medium phosphorus application (80 kg·ha⁻¹) resulted in the highest grain weight per plant in tartary buckwheat. The seed index (1000-grain weight, g) increased from 32.67 g in the control to 51.33 g with NP for TD-1, from 46.00 g to 46.33 g with SSP for SKD-1, and from 33.00 g to 48.33 g with SSP for TJ-83. NP fertilizer showed the highest potential for increasing the seed index in TD-1, followed by SKD-1 and TJ-83 (Fig. 4 e). Liang et al. (2024) reported that the application of polyphosphate (poly P) fertilizer significantly increased the 1000-grain weight of wheat under field conditions. The highest grain yield (kg·ha⁻¹) increased from 1234 in the control to 3330 with NP for TD-1, from 1391 to 3345 with NP for SKD-1, and from 1185 to 3049 with NP for TJ-83. These results underscore the effectiveness of NP fertilizer in increasing grain yield, particularly in TJ-83 (Fig. 4 f). Zhou et al. ( 2023 ) also observed the highest yield in tartary buckwheat with medium phosphorus application (80 kg ha⁻¹) compared to the control. [Insert Fig. 4 a-f here] Impact of phosphatic fertilizers on N, P and K content in wheat straw and grains The nitrogen (N) content in wheat straw significantly increased from the control treatment values of 0.007–0.016% for TD-1, 0.007–0.017% for SKD-1, and 0.007–0.018% for the TJ-83 variety following the application of diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertilizer. These results indicate that DAP fertilizer was highly effective in enhancing N content in wheat straw, particularly for the TJ-83 variety (Fig. 5 a). Ma et al. ( 2013 ) reported that nitrogen uptake in maize shoots increased by 11–31% with the application of banded phosphorus combined with ammonium (MAP, DAP, or ASP), followed by banded phosphorus combined with urea (UP). Similarly, the phosphorus (P) content in wheat straw increased from control treatment values of 0.0193–0.0956% for TD-1, 0.0288–0.0541% for SKD-1, and 0.0256–0.0648% for TJ-83 with the addition of NP fertilizer. These findings suggest that NP fertilizer has significant potential for increasing P content in wheat straw, particularly for the TD-1 variety (Fig. 5 b). Solangi et al. ( 2015 ) observed that the maximum P concentration in wheat straw was achieved with the application of DAP fertilizer. Chen et al. ( 2024 ) found that P uptake in maize shoot biomass was higher with the application of DAP and single superphosphate (SSP) fertilizers compared to control soil. Khursheed et al. ( 2024 ) also reported increased P uptake in wheat plant tissue with the application of DAP, NP, and SSP fertilizers compared to control soil. The potassium (K) content in wheat straw increased from control treatment values of 2.60–3.44% with NP fertilizer for TD-1, 2.64–3.27% with SSP fertilizer for SKD-1, and 2.67–3.60% with NP fertilizer for TJ-83. These results highlight that NP fertilizer was highly effective in enhancing K content in wheat straw, particularly for the TJ-83 variety (Fig. 5 c). Khursheed et al. ( 2024 ) also noted that K accumulation in wheat plant biomass was enhanced with the addition of DAP, NP, and SSP fertilizers compared to control soil. The nitrogen (N) content in wheat grain increased from control treatment values of 1.12–1.79% with DAP fertilizer for TD-1, 1.13–1.80% for SKD-1, and 1.14–1.83% for TJ-83. The highest N accumulation was observed in the TJ-83 variety with DAP fertilizer, likely due to the 18% N2O content in DAP. These results suggest that the TJ-83 variety has a greater potential for N accumulation in seeds compared to TD-1 and SKD-1 (Fig. 5 d). Khursheed and Mahammad ( 2015 ) reported that total N content in wheat grain increased from 2.90–3.97% with the application of DAP fertilizer. The phosphorus (P) content in wheat grain increased from control treatment values of 0.246–0.406% with SSP fertilizer for TD-1, 0.228–0.259% for SKD-1, and 0.279–0.246% with DAP fertilizer for TJ-83. The highest P accumulation was observed in the TD-1 variety with SSP fertilizer, likely due to the 46% gypsum (CaSO 4 · 2H 2 O) content in SSP, which may neutralize or reduce soil pH, thereby increasing P solubility in the soil and its uptake by wheat grains (Fig. 5 e). Solangi et al. ( 2015 ) also reported that the highest P accumulation in wheat grains occurred with the application of DAP and SSP fertilizers compared to control soil. The potassium (K) content in wheat grain increased from control treatment values of 1.200–1.569% with DAP fertilizer for TD-1, 1.300–1.340% with SSP fertilizer for SKD-1, and 1.200–1.334% with SSP fertilizer for TJ-83. These results indicate that DAP fertilizer has significant potential for increasing K content in wheat grains, particularly for the TD-1 variety, followed by SKD-1 and TJ-83 (Fig. 5 f). Solangi et al. ( 2015 ) found that the maximum K content in wheat grains was achieved with the application of DAP fertilizer compared to the control treatment. [Insert Fig. 5 a-f here] Redundancy analysis of studied traits Redundancy analysis (RDA) was performed to evaluate the relationships among soil electrical conductivity (EC), pH, organic matter (OM), N, P, K, plant height, number of tillers per plant, spike length, number of grains per spike, seed index, grain yield, and N, P, K content in wheat straw and grains for the TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83 varieties following the application of DAP, NP, and SSP fertilizers (Fig. 6 ). The RDA results explained 98.81% of the total variance in soil parameters. Soil pH was negatively correlated and distantly related to EC, N, P, K in soil, plant height, number of tillers per plant, spike length, number of grains per spike, seed index, grain yield, and N, P, K in wheat straw and grains for all varieties. Soil EC was significantly correlated and closely associated with P in wheat straw, K in soil, P in wheat grains, seed index, K in wheat grains, number of tillers per plant, K in wheat straw, and N in wheat grains. Soil organic matter (OM) was significantly correlated with N in soil, number of grains per spike, spike length, N in wheat straw, plant height, P in soil, and grain yield following the application of phosphatic fertilizers. [Insert Fig. 6 here] Conlusion In conclusion, the application of phosphatic fertilizers (DAP, NP, and SSP) significantly increased soil electrical conductivity (EC) and decreased soil pH compared to the control. DAP fertilizer increased soil organic matter (OM), whereas SSP fertilizer had a negative impact on OM. The concentrations of N, P, and K in soil were enhanced with the application of phosphatic fertilizers. DAP fertilizer was particularly effective in increasing N and P in soil, while SSP fertilizer showed greater potential for enhancing K in soil compared to the control. Phosphatic fertilizers also significantly improved plant height, number of tillers per plant, spike length, number of grains per spike, seed index (1000-grain weight), and grain yield for the TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83 varieties compared to the control treatment. Additionally, phosphatic fertilizers increased N, P, and K content in wheat straw and grains. The highest N content in wheat straw was observed in the TJ-83 variety with DAP fertilizer, while the highest P content in wheat straw was noted in the TJ-83 variety with SSP fertilizer. The highest K content in wheat straw was observed in the TJ-83 variety with NP fertilizer. In wheat grains, the highest N accumulation was found in the TJ-83 variety with DAP fertilizer, the highest P accumulation in the TD-1 variety with SSP fertilizer, and the highest K accumulation in the TD-1 variety with DAP fertilizer. For future research, long-term field experiments are recommended to evaluate the consistent effects of these fertilizers on wheat growth and yield. Further studies should also investigate the impact of phosphatic fertilizers co-amended with pristine biochar, modified biochar, nanotechnology, press mud compost, and minerals on wheat growth, yield, and soil health. Abbreviations TD-1 Triple dwarf SKD-1 Sakrand TJ-83 Tandojam DAP Diammonium phosphate NP Nitrophos SSP Single super phosphate EC Electrical conductivity OM Organic matter N Nitrogen P Phosphorus K Potassium Declarations All authors declare that this work is authentic and in accordance with research ethic. Acknowledgements The authors thank to soil salinity and reclamation research institute Tandojam for help in testing plant samples. Authors’ contributions Conceptualization: K.H.K and M.M, Writing– original draft: A.H.L and ED, Methodology: K.H.K and AH.L, Data Curation: K.H.K, E.D, A.H.L and M.M, Visualization: H.B, Validation: S.S., Software: A.H.L and A.A., Investigation: Z.A, Data curation: K.H.K, M.M and A,H.L., Resources: K.H.K and M.M., Supervision: M.M., Funding acquisition M.M., Project administration: M.M, Format analysis: H.B, S.S, M.A.P, Writing-Review and Editing, A.H.L and E.D. All authors have read and approved the manuscript. Funding This work was not financially supported by any organization. Data availability The data will made available on request. Ethics approval and consent to participate All authors consent to participate. Consent for publication All authors consent for publication. Competing interests All the authors declare that they have no competing interests. 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Agronomy 13(7):1886 Additional Declarations The authors declare potential competing interests as follows: The authors have no financial or non-financial competing interests to declare. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. Our growing team is made up of researchers and industry professionals working together to solve the most critical problems facing scientific publishing. Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-6910660","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":472334272,"identity":"fd50d6dd-950f-4f1f-9613-5e1ee372fc90","order_by":0,"name":"Khalid Hussain Khokhar","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Soil Fertility Research Institute ARC Tandojam,70060, Sindh Pakistan.","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Khalid","middleName":"Hussain","lastName":"Khokhar","suffix":""},{"id":472334273,"identity":"df0d156b-bca6-408d-8ea2-1490278d55f5","order_by":1,"name":"Erdona 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area\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Figure1.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6910660/v1/aafda614649e0b173da1a1dc.png"},{"id":84910037,"identity":"bed06e85-1e23-44cb-8eb9-7c3a62027a56","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-06-18 16:48:52","extension":"png","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":790146,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eA conceptual flow diagram of study area\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Figure2.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6910660/v1/ebb0afcd95aa0392f41c0889.png"},{"id":84910919,"identity":"87e27770-2250-49b7-af25-b87119e34540","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-06-18 16:56:52","extension":"png","order_by":3,"title":"Figure 3","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":728777,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eImpact of different phosphatic fertilizers on soil EC (\u003cstrong\u003ea\u003c/strong\u003e), pH (\u003cstrong\u003eb\u003c/strong\u003e), OM (\u003cstrong\u003ec\u003c/strong\u003e), N in soil (\u003cstrong\u003ed\u003c/strong\u003e), P in soil (\u003cstrong\u003ee\u003c/strong\u003e), and K in soil (\u003cstrong\u003ef\u003c/strong\u003e) after harvesting of wheat varieties\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Figure3.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6910660/v1/0bb22fa2735417b4aa71ce24.png"},{"id":84910038,"identity":"2c1ee018-2f1b-4a30-b624-1e965ed7158d","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-06-18 16:48:52","extension":"png","order_by":4,"title":"Figure 4","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":668781,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eImpact of different phosphatic fertilizers on plant height (\u003cstrong\u003ea\u003c/strong\u003e), number of tillers (\u003cstrong\u003eb\u003c/strong\u003e), spike length (\u003cstrong\u003ec\u003c/strong\u003e), number of grains per spike (\u003cstrong\u003ed\u003c/strong\u003e), seed index (\u003cstrong\u003ee\u003c/strong\u003e), and grain yield (\u003cstrong\u003ef\u003c/strong\u003e) of three wheat varieties.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Figure4.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6910660/v1/0f2e349a1fa78d46eb2a1254.png"},{"id":84910040,"identity":"98e4caf2-d6d5-45cd-b45b-ae69b8cd1ceb","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-06-18 16:48:52","extension":"png","order_by":5,"title":"Figure 5","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":709866,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eImpact of different phosphatic fertilizers on nitrogen content in wheat straw (\u003cstrong\u003ea\u003c/strong\u003e), phosphorus content in wheat straw (\u003cstrong\u003eb\u003c/strong\u003e), potassium content in wheat straw (\u003cstrong\u003ec\u003c/strong\u003e), nitrogen content in wheat grain (\u003cstrong\u003ed\u003c/strong\u003e), phosphorus content in wheat grain (\u003cstrong\u003ee\u003c/strong\u003e), and potassium content in wheat grain (\u003cstrong\u003ef\u003c/strong\u003e) of three wheat varieties.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Figure5.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6910660/v1/3547c3d92363941ba07103a7.png"},{"id":84910046,"identity":"68ae9df9-e796-490b-be44-6abc5c027866","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-06-18 16:48:53","extension":"png","order_by":6,"title":"Figure 6","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":506358,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eRedundancy analysis among the soil nutrients and morphological traits of wheat varieties after application of phosphatic fertilizers.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Figure6.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6910660/v1/f2455eb93307f325cbecdec8.png"},{"id":84911200,"identity":"34fd6c1d-2aa9-4bc0-b26c-c6e27db17ab0","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-06-18 17:04:55","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":5382779,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6910660/v1/50ac407e-7b9d-4778-9456-b2e1acec0e5a.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"The authors declare potential competing interests as follows: The authors have no financial or non-financial competing interests to declare.","formattedTitle":"\u003cp\u003eEvaluating the Impact of Phosphatic Fertilizers on Soil Nutrients and Morphological\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTraits of Wheat Varieties Under Field Conditions\u003c/p\u003e","fulltext":[{"header":"Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eWheat (\u003cem\u003eTriticum aestivum\u003c/em\u003e L.) is a member of Poaceae family and is one of the world's most important grain crops (De Sousa et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). It is a crucial global staple food that fulfills the protein needs of a significant portion of the population (Zhang et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR50\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). Wheat is used in producing crumpets, cookies, bread, biscuits, noodles, chapatis, flour, animal feed, roasted grains, and other products (Babu et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Wheat production must increase to bridge the gap between demand and consumption as the population grows exponentially (Rask and Rask \u003cspan citationid=\"CR38\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2011\u003c/span\u003e). China leads global wheat production, contributing 17% with 135.8\u0026nbsp;million tonnes in 2022-23 followed by India with 105\u0026nbsp;million tonnes, while Russia, production was 85.2\u0026nbsp;million tonnes and also the top global exporter, meanwhile Pakistan production were 26.2\u0026nbsp;million tonnes in 2022 (Mottaleb et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR35\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e; Dadrasi et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). Pakistan's wheat sector faces a challenge in meeting the country's growing demand, as the average yield per hectare is lower than its potential, and the population is increasing rapidly (Ahmad and Farooq \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2010\u003c/span\u003e). The performance of the wheat sector is crucial to ensuring national food security and has a significant impact on the country economic stability, especially for vulnerable urban populations (Shiferaw et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR44\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e; Ali et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). The main reason of low wheat corp production in Pakistan is water and soil degradation, lack of best farming practices, improper use of fertilizer pests control and plant diseases, weeds, climate change, seed quality, limited access to credit and markets, agricultural research and extension, and government policy and support (Khan \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Adnan et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Furthermore, wheat crop faces numerous biotic and abiotic stresses despite its low production (Hossain et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Under the abiotic stressors the phosphorus is a major limiting nutrient for crop yields in Pakistan, particularly due to the high calcium content in many of its soils, which leads to phosphorus fixation (Zaidi et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR49\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). Phosphate fertilizers are applied to soil to enhance the production of crops (Guelfi et al. 2020). The efficiency of phosphorus base fertilizer use remains sub-optimal, with only 15\u0026ndash;20% of applied phosphorus being available to the first crop, largely due to the formation of insoluble phosphorus compounds in the soil (Vance \u003cspan citationid=\"CR48\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). This problem is compounded by Pakistan's heavy reliance on imported phosphorus fertilizers, which are increasingly expensive and subject to supply chain disruptions (Aziz et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). The soils of Pakistan are alluvial, calcareous, alkaline and 90% deficient in phosphorus (Rashid et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR37\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2010\u003c/span\u003e). The application of P fertilizers to calcareous soils, with pH levels greater than 7.5 has been a major concern due to P fixation (Devau et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2011\u003c/span\u003e; Bolan et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). When P is applied to the soil, the plant takes up only small percentage; the remainder is either permanently or temporarily fixed in forms varying in plant availability (Syers et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR47\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2008\u003c/span\u003e; Demiraj et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Lahori et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). The temporarily fixed P, also called residual P, becomes available with time, but at slow rates (Schr\u0026ouml;der et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR43\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2011\u003c/span\u003e). Amanullah et al. (2009) stated that the P fertilizer source is considered as one of the most important factors affecting crop growth and yield. The P fertilizer use can help to reduce the adverse effect of drought under rainfed conditions (Shirmohammadi et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR45\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePhosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient that drives plant metabolism, supporting a wide range of biochemical reactions that govern plant growth and development (Malhotra et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR32\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). Its role in photosynthesis allows plants to utilize solar energy, while also influencing key developmental processes, including root development, stem elongation, flower initiation, seed production, and disease susceptibility, ultimately impacting crop yields and quality (Griffith \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). The availability of phosphorus in the soil-plant system is driven by a multitude of factors, including biological, chemical, and physical processes, which are strongly influenced by soil type and environmental conditions, ultimately determining the dynamics of phosphorus transformation and mobility (Kunwar et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). The widespread occurrence of calcareous soils with high calcium levels in Pakistan is a critical factor contributing to the low efficiency of phosphorus recovery, highlighting the need for strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of calcium on phosphorus availability (Qadir et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR36\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). Due to the limited availability of premium rock phosphate (RP) in Pakistan, there is a growing demand for affordable, indigenous phosphorus sources (Mohanty et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR34\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Although RP contains 28\u0026ndash;30% phosphorus, its slow release makes it unsuitable as a fertilizer without additional processing (Billah et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). Maximizing crop yields requires careful management of phosphorus fertilizer forms and application phases (Roberts and Johnston \u003cspan citationid=\"CR40\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e). In Pakistan, phosphorus-based fertilizers, including single superphosphate (SSP), di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), and triple superphosphate (TSP), are widely used, with DAP primarily imported from Jordan, the USA, and Morocco (Fayiga and Nwoke \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e; De Boer et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). Scientific research has demonstrated that Nitro phosphate (NP) and SSP fertilizers are more effective than DAP in enhancing crop yields, with phosphorus application during sowing proving particularly successful in regions with conditions similar to those in Sindh (Memon and Rashid \u003cspan citationid=\"CR33\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). The effectiveness of phosphorus application depends heavily on timing, as delayed applications often fail to compensate for early-season losses, highlighting the importance of strategic nutrient management (Hopkins and Hansen \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). Khursheed et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e) assessed the impact of different phosphatic fertilizers on phosphorus fractions and morphophysiological parameters of wheat in saline sodic soil. Azeem et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e) examined the influence of DAP, NP, TSP and SSP fertilizers on growth, yield and yield attribute of two maize varieties. Chen et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e) observed the alone and combined application of calcium magnesium phosphate (CMP), single super phosphate (SSP), di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), and mono-ammonium phosphate (MAP) on improving P uptake, growth and yield parameters by maize crop in acidic and alkaline soil. The main purpose of P fertilizers applying and its application at affordable price is a major issue in agriculture. Yet the unbalanced use of P fertilizers can either reduce the nutrient application or may lead to fixation of P causing environmental pollution. The application of P at an affordable rate can reduce the input for farmers. The rise in DAP fertilizer prices available in market has developed interest in the use of (NP and SSP). Nitro phosphate and SSP are locally available, making them more affordable fertilizer source This study was conducted at the Wheat Research Institute in Sakrand, District Nawabshah, Pakistan, to evaluate the availability of phosphorus from three sources\u0026mdash;DAP, NP, and SSP\u0026mdash;and their effects on primary macronutrients, soil chemical properties, and the morphological traits of three wheat varieties: TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83, under field conditions. The objectives included comparing the impact of DAP, NP, and SSP fertilizers on plant height (cm), number of tillers per plant, spike length (cm), grains per spike, seed index (1000-grain weight in grams), grain yield (kg ha⁻\u0026sup1;), and nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content (%) in the grains and straw of the TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83 varieties.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Materials and methods","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eStudy area and description\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe research study was conducted at the experimental area of Wheat Research Institute Sakrand (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e). The experiment was conducted over a 100 x 100 sq. ft. area using a randomized complete block (RCB) design with a two-factor arrangement and three replications. The treatments included three wheat varieties (TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83) and three phosphorus sources (DAP, NP, and SSP), along with a control treatment. This resulted in a total of 36 plots, each with a subplot size of 225 sq. ft. (15 x 15 ft.), consisting of 20 rows spaced 22.5 cm apart. A conceptual flow diagram is indicated in (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e) explain the detailed study design.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003e[Insert\u003c/b\u003e Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e \u003cb\u003ehere]\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003e[Insert\u003c/b\u003e Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e \u003cb\u003ehere]\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExperimental set-up\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecommended dose of P\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e5\u003c/sub\u003e at 84 kg ha\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e separately from DAP, NP and SSP was applied to each treatment (except control) at the time of sowing. Recommended dose of N (168 kg ha\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e N) and K (60 kg ha\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e K\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO) was applied to all the treatments. Potassium was applied in the form of Potassium Sulfate, K₂SO₄ - SOP) and all was applied during sowing period. In case of N, it was applied in the form of urea in two phases, half at sowing phase, other half was applied during first irrigation with a total of 5 irrigation phases. The quantity of N added to treatments applied with DAP or NP was adjusted. For sowing of wheat crop, initially the plot was deep ploughed to remove the hard pan at sub-soil layer and followed by precision plot leveling with laser land leveler. The experimental plot was ploughed with Goble Disc Harrow (GDH), and after a soaking dose, a cross-wise cultivator was run and planked. The sowing was done in rows by means of single hand seed drill with a seed rate of 125 kg ha\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e. The seed was obtained from the wheat research institute Sakrand, Sindh Pakistan.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSoil and plant sampling\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA composite soil sample before sowing and fertilizer application from the experimental area at 0–15 and 15–30 cm depth and was send to laboratory for basic soil analysis. After harvesting, separately composite soil samples from all 36 plots at 0–15 and 15–30 cm depths were collected. The samples were air dried, ground sieved through 2mm sieve and analyzed for physico-chemical properties were the obtained result are specified in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e. The crop was harvested at maturity about 16 weeks after sowing. Whole Plant samples (except roots) were collected from same plots, rinsed with tap water and double washed with distilled water to remove the soil particles. The plant part straw and grain samples were dried separately at 65\u003csup\u003e°\u003c/sup\u003e C and ground in an agate mill. After harvesting of three wheat varieties, randomly tree composite soil samples were collected from the rhizosphere of each treated block at 0-15cm depth, aiming to test the following parameters: EC, pH, OM, N, P and K.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSome physical and chemical properties of the soil used for field experiment\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eName of property\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c3\" namest=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDepth cm\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cspan type=\"Underline\" class=\"Underline\" name=\"Emphasis\"\u003eTexture\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSand (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSilt (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eClay (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e0–15 cm\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e15–30 cm\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e28.00\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e56.50\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e15.50\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e52.75\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e33.75\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e13.50\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTextural Class\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSilt loam\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSandy loam\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEC (dS m\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e) (1:2 soil water extract)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.38\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.29\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003epH (1:2 soil water extract)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.69\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.24\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOrganic matter (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.91\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.60\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCaCO\u003csub\u003e3\u003c/sub\u003e (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.90\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.60\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKjeldahl’s N (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.043\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.032\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNH\u003csub\u003e4\u003c/sub\u003eHCO\u003csub\u003e3\u003c/sub\u003e-DTPA extractable P (mg kg\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.60\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.44\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNH\u003csub\u003e4\u003c/sub\u003eOAc extractable K (mg kg\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e166.00\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e152.00\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003e[Insert\u003c/b\u003e Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e \u003cb\u003ehere]\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSoil analysis\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll the samples were analyzed for some physico-chemical properties by standard methods. Particle size distribution was determined by Bouyoucos hydrometer method (Bouyoucos 1962). Soil electrical conductivity (EC) and pH were determined in 1:5 soil water extract using EC meter and pH meter respectively. Organic matter was determined by Walkley-Black method as given in Jackson (1969) which involved oxidation of organic carbon by potassium dichromate (K\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eCr\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e7\u003c/sub\u003e) and subsequent determination of the unutilized dichromate by oxidation-reduction titration with ferrous ammonium sulfate. Calcium carbonate in soil was determined by acid neutralization method (Kanwar and Chopra 1959). Kjeldahl’s for total N (Jackson 1962), ABDTPA for P and K (Soltanpour and Workman 1979) were used for determination.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDetermination of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in soil\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll the samples before and after harvest of wheat were analyzed for Kjeldahl’s N, and ABDTPA extractable P and K. Kjeldahl’s N was estimated by digesting the contents in H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eSO\u003csub\u003e4\u003c/sub\u003e followed by distillation and finally titrating the distillate with acid (Jones 1991). Available P and K were extracted with AB-DTPA (Soltanpour and Workman 1979) and the P in the extracts was determined by ammonium molybdate method as given by Murphy and Riley (1962); while K was analyzed directly by emission spectroscopy using flame photometer (Knudsen et al. 1982). The N, P and K data of original soil samples are indicated in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eAgronomic observations\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eSome agronomic observations were recorded after the harvest of wheat. The method used for each observation is detailed is indicated in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAgronomic parameters of three wheat verities\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eParameter\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDetails\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePlant height (cm)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePlant height was recorded at maturity of the crop in randomly selected plants using measuring tape from bottom to tip of spike in centimeters.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTillers plant\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTotal tillers for randomly selected plants were counted at the time of maturity and averaged.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSpike length (cm)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe length of all the spikes from randomly selected plants was measured in centimeters with measuring tape and average were worked out.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGrains spike\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe number of grains in each spike of the randomly selected plants was counted at the time of harvest and average was worked out.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSeed index (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOne thousand grains plot\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e were counted at random and weighed to record the seed index (g).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGrain yield (kg ha\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe grain obtained after threshing was weighed and on the basis of grain yield plot\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e and grain yield ha\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e was calculated in kilograms after the following formula:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\:Grain\\:yield\\:{ha}^{-1}=\\frac{{Grain\\:yield\\:(kg\\:plot}^{-1})}{{Plot\\:size\\:(m}^{2})}\\:x\\:10000\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003e[Insert\u003c/b\u003e Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e \u003cb\u003ehere]\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePlant analysis\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe ground samples of wheat straw and grain were subjected to N, P and K analysis. Nitrogen in wheat straw and grain was analyzed by Kjeldahl’s method. Nitrogen content was determined by Kjeldahl’s method by digesting the contents in H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eSO\u003csub\u003e4\u003c/sub\u003e followed by distillation and finally titrating the distillate with acid (Jones 1991). Phosphorus and K samples of wheat straw and grain were analyzed by wet digestion method using HClO\u003csub\u003e4\u003c/sub\u003e:HNO\u003csub\u003e3\u003c/sub\u003e mixture (1:5). The digests were analyzed for P by developing vanadomolybdo phosphoric acid yellow color method (Cottenie 1980) and K by emission spectroscopy using flame - photometer (Knudsen et al. 1982).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec10\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eStatistical analysis\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAll the data was presented as mean values of three replicates in this investigation. The mean data has been used for make graphs by using Prism 5 software. The redundancy analysis was performed among the studied parameters by using Canoco 5.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e "},{"header":"Results and discussions","content":"\u003ch2\u003eCharacterization of soil basic properties\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis study was based on field experiment involving the effect of DAP, NP and SSP fertilizers by using In a factorial combination along with replicated three times on the growth and yield parameters of wheat varieties. The particle size analysis revealed that the soil before wheat sowing comprised 28.00% sand, 56.50% silt, and 15.50% clay at a depth of 0–15 cm. At 15–30 cm, the composition shifted to 52.75% sand, 33.75% silt, and 13.50% clay. The soil’s textural class was classified as silt loam at 0–15 cm and sandy loam at 15–30 cm. The soil was non-saline, with an electrical conductivity (EC) of 0.38 and 0.29 dS m⁻¹, and exhibited a medium alkaline reaction (pH 7.69 and 7.24, respectively, at the two depths). It was low in organic matter (\u0026lt; 0.86%) and moderately calcareous, with CaCO₃ content of 0.90% at 0–15 cm and 8.60% at 15–30 cm. Nutrient analysis showed Kjeldahl nitrogen (N) levels of 0.043% and 0.032%, AB-DTPA extractable phosphorus (P) at 1.60 and 1.44 mg/kg, and NH₄OAc extractable potassium (K) at 166.00 and 152.00 mg/kg at 0–15 cm and 15–30 cm depths, respectively (Babar et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eImpact of phosphatic fertilizers on EC, pH, OM, N, P and K in soil\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe application of phosphatic fertilizers significantly increased the electrical conductivity (EC) of the soil after harvesting TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83 compared to the control. The highest increase in soil EC was observed in the control treatment, rising from 1.01 to 1.12 dS m⁻¹ following the application of SSP fertilizer after harvesting the TD-1 variety. Similarly, soil EC increased from 0.87 to 1.04 dS m⁻¹ with NP fertilizer application after harvesting SKD-1, and from 1.03 to 1.06 dS m⁻¹ with SSP fertilizer application after harvesting TJ-83 (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003ea). The rise in soil EC can be attributed to the dissociation of ammonium and phosphate ions from DAP fertilizer, which increases ion concentration in the soil solution. NP fertilizer also influences soil EC, though its effect varies depending on the formulation and application rate. In contrast, SSP fertilizer has a more pronounced impact on soil EC due to its higher phosphate content. Studies have demonstrated that SSP can significantly elevate soil EC, particularly when applied in larger quantities. These findings are consistent with those of Sánchez-Rodríguez et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR42\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e), who reported an increase in soil EC following the application of DAP and SSP fertilizers under laboratory incubation conditions. The maximum reduction in soil pH was observed with the application of DAP fertilizer, decreasing from 7.5 to 7.3 after harvesting TD-1. Similarly, soil pH declined from 7.8 to 7.1 with NP fertilizer application after harvesting SKD-1, and from 7.6 to 7.2 with SSP fertilizer application after harvesting TJ-83 (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003eb). These results indicate that phosphatic fertilizers significantly lower soil pH, with SSP fertilizer causing the most substantial reduction. This acidifying effect can be attributed to the ammonium ion (NH₄⁺) in DAP, which undergoes nitrification and releases hydrogen ions (H⁺), thereby reducing soil pH. NP fertilizer typically has a slightly acidic to neutral effect on soil pH, as the nitrate ion (NO₃⁻) contributes to soil acidity, while the phosphate ion (PO₄³⁻) helps buffer pH. In contrast, SSP fertilizer has a stronger acidifying effect due to the residual sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) used in its production, as well as the release of hydrogen ions (H⁺) from phosphate ions (PO₄³⁻). These findings align with those of Sánchez-Rodríguez et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR42\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e), who reported a significant decrease in soil pH following SSP fertilizer application. The organic matter (OM) content in the soil exhibited varied responses to different phosphatic fertilizers. After harvesting TD-1, OM content increased from 0.82–0.86% with DAP fertilizer application but decreased from 0.82–0.78% with SSP fertilizer. Similarly, after harvesting SKD-1, OM content rose from 0.84–0.85% with DAP fertilizer but declined from 0.84–0.80% with SSP fertilizer. Furthermore, after harvesting TJ-83, OM content increased from 0.81–0.87% with DAP fertilizer but decreased from 0.81–0.79% with SSP fertilizer (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003ec). These results suggest that DAP fertilizer has a neutral to slightly positive effect on soil organic matter (SOM), likely due to the stimulation of microbial activity by ammonium ions (NH₄⁺), which enhances organic matter decomposition and SOM accumulation. In contrast, SSP fertilizer may reduce SOM due to its acidic nature, which can inhibit microbial activity. These observations are partially supported by Solangi et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR46\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e), who found no significant changes in OM content at a 0–15 cm soil depth following DAP and SSP fertilizer applications in wheat cultivation. Conversely, Lahori et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e) reported an increase in OM content with rock phosphate application under a 0–90-day incubation study. The soil nitrogen (N) content exhibited a notable increase following the application of DAP fertilizer, surpassing the effects of NP and SSP fertilizers. Specifically, the N content rose from 0.0561–0.0971% after harvesting the TD-1 variety, from 0.0659–0.0916% after harvesting SKD-1, and from 0.0568–0.0921% after harvesting TJ-83 (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003ed). These findings align with the observations of Saleem et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR41\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e), who reported a significant enhancement in N solubility after 30 days of incubation in clay loam soil treated with KFeO₂-coated DAP fertilizer. Similarly, the phosphorus (P) concentration in the soil demonstrated a marked increase with the application of DAP fertilizer compared to NP and SSP fertilizers. Post-harvest soil analysis revealed that P levels increased from 1.91 to 3.09 mg kg⁻¹ for TD-1, from 1.69 to 3.23 mg kg⁻¹ for SKD-1, and from 1.71 to 3.12 mg kg⁻¹ for TJ-83 (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003ee). These results are consistent with the findings of Solangi et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR46\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e), who observed a comparable rise in soil P content with DAP and SSP fertilizers relative to control treatments. Additionally, Lahori et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e) demonstrated enhanced P solubility and increased organic matter (OM) content in P-deficient soils amended with rock phosphate over a 0–90-day incubation period. Further supporting these results, Khursheed et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e) confirmed that the total P availability in saline-sodic soils significantly improved with the application of DAP, SSP, and NP fertilizers. Similarly, Sánchez-Rodríguez et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR42\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e) reported a significant improvement in soil P solubility with the use of DAP and SSP fertilizers. The potassium (K) content in the soil also showed a consistent increase following the application of DAP fertilizer, outperforming NP and SSP fertilizers. Post-harvest measurements indicated that K levels rose from 169.2 to 176.4 mg kg⁻¹ for TD-1, from 171.6 to 181.9 mg kg⁻¹ for SKD-1, and from 182.4 to 187.6 mg kg⁻¹ for TJ-83 (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003ef). These findings are corroborated by Solangi et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR46\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e), who reported a positive impact of DAP fertilizer on soil K levels, with an increase from 170.16 to 176.77 mg kg⁻¹ at a 0–15 cm soil depth compared to untreated soil.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003e[Insert Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003ea-f here]\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003ch2\u003eImpact of phosphatic fertilizers on morphological traits of three wheat varieties\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe plant height of three wheat varieties—TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83—was evaluated under field conditions following the application of diammonium phosphate (DAP), nitrogen-phosphorus (NP), and single superphosphate (SSP) fertilizers. The maximum plant height increased from 58.83 cm in the control treatment to 74.10 cm with NP fertilizer for TD-1, from 61.97 cm to 75.60 cm with DAP for SKD-1, and from 64.93 cm to 93.07 cm with NP for TJ-83. These differences in plant height can be attributed to the inherent characteristics of the varieties: TJ-83 is a tall variety, SKD-1 is of medium height, and TD-1 is a dwarf variety, with a height approximately three times smaller than the other varieties. Notably, NP fertilizer demonstrated the highest potential for enhancing plant height in TJ-83, followed by TD-1 and SKD-1 (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003ea). Ali and Khalid (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e) reported that SSP fertilizer resulted in the maximum number of tillers. Similarly, Zhou et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR51\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e) observed an increase in plant height in tartary buckwheat with the application of low phosphorus fertilizer at a rate of 40 kg·ha⁻¹. In this study, the number of tillers per plant increased from 8.33 in the control to 14.00 with SSP application for TD-1, from 7.00 to 10.00 with NP for SKD-1, and from 7.00 to 9.33 with DAP for TJ-83. These results indicate that NP fertilizer was highly effective in increasing the number of tillers per plant in the TJ-83 variety (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003eb). Khan et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2010\u003c/span\u003e) also found SSP fertilizer to be highly effective in increasing tiller numbers, followed by triple superphosphate (TSP), NP, and DAP. In contrast, Ali et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2012\u003c/span\u003e) reported a greater number of tillers with DAP compared to NP fertilizer. The highest spike length increased from 6.60 cm in the control to 9.94 cm with DAP for TD-1, from 7.02 cm to 10.31 cm with DAP for SKD-1, and from 6.32 cm to 11.84 cm with DAP for TJ-83. These findings suggest that DAP fertilizer significantly improved spike length, particularly in the TJ-83 variety (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003ec). Khan et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2010\u003c/span\u003e) also reported that DAP and SSP fertilizers resulted in the highest spike length compared to the control. The number of grains per spike increased from 21.26 in the control to 42.60 with DAP for TD-1, from 24.80 to 46.67 with DAP for SKD-1, and from 27.13 to 61.60 with DAP for TJ-83. These results highlight the effectiveness of DAP fertilizer in maximizing the number of grains per spike, particularly in TJ-83 (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003ed). Reddy and Singh (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR39\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2003\u003c/span\u003e) noted that SSP fertilizer yielded the highest grain production, followed by NP and DAP. Zhou et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR51\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e) also found that medium phosphorus application (80 kg·ha⁻¹) resulted in the highest grain weight per plant in tartary buckwheat. The seed index (1000-grain weight, g) increased from 32.67 g in the control to 51.33 g with NP for TD-1, from 46.00 g to 46.33 g with SSP for SKD-1, and from 33.00 g to 48.33 g with SSP for TJ-83. NP fertilizer showed the highest potential for increasing the seed index in TD-1, followed by SKD-1 and TJ-83 (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003ee). Liang et al. (2024) reported that the application of polyphosphate (poly P) fertilizer significantly increased the 1000-grain weight of wheat under field conditions. The highest grain yield (kg·ha⁻¹) increased from 1234 in the control to 3330 with NP for TD-1, from 1391 to 3345 with NP for SKD-1, and from 1185 to 3049 with NP for TJ-83. These results underscore the effectiveness of NP fertilizer in increasing grain yield, particularly in TJ-83 (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003ef). Zhou et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR51\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e) also observed the highest yield in tartary buckwheat with medium phosphorus application (80 kg ha⁻¹) compared to the control.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003e[Insert Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003ea-f here]\u003c/h2\u003e\u003ch2\u003eImpact of phosphatic fertilizers on N, P and K content in wheat straw and grains\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe nitrogen (N) content in wheat straw significantly increased from the control treatment values of 0.007–0.016% for TD-1, 0.007–0.017% for SKD-1, and 0.007–0.018% for the TJ-83 variety following the application of diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertilizer. These results indicate that DAP fertilizer was highly effective in enhancing N content in wheat straw, particularly for the TJ-83 variety (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003ea). Ma et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR31\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) reported that nitrogen uptake in maize shoots increased by 11–31% with the application of banded phosphorus combined with ammonium (MAP, DAP, or ASP), followed by banded phosphorus combined with urea (UP). Similarly, the phosphorus (P) content in wheat straw increased from control treatment values of 0.0193–0.0956% for TD-1, 0.0288–0.0541% for SKD-1, and 0.0256–0.0648% for TJ-83 with the addition of NP fertilizer. These findings suggest that NP fertilizer has significant potential for increasing P content in wheat straw, particularly for the TD-1 variety (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003eb). Solangi et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR46\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e) observed that the maximum P concentration in wheat straw was achieved with the application of DAP fertilizer. Chen et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e) found that P uptake in maize shoot biomass was higher with the application of DAP and single superphosphate (SSP) fertilizers compared to control soil. Khursheed et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e) also reported increased P uptake in wheat plant tissue with the application of DAP, NP, and SSP fertilizers compared to control soil. The potassium (K) content in wheat straw increased from control treatment values of 2.60–3.44% with NP fertilizer for TD-1, 2.64–3.27% with SSP fertilizer for SKD-1, and 2.67–3.60% with NP fertilizer for TJ-83. These results highlight that NP fertilizer was highly effective in enhancing K content in wheat straw, particularly for the TJ-83 variety (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003ec). Khursheed et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e) also noted that K accumulation in wheat plant biomass was enhanced with the addition of DAP, NP, and SSP fertilizers compared to control soil. The nitrogen (N) content in wheat grain increased from control treatment values of 1.12–1.79% with DAP fertilizer for TD-1, 1.13–1.80% for SKD-1, and 1.14–1.83% for TJ-83. The highest N accumulation was observed in the TJ-83 variety with DAP fertilizer, likely due to the 18% N2O content in DAP. These results suggest that the TJ-83 variety has a greater potential for N accumulation in seeds compared to TD-1 and SKD-1 (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003ed). Khursheed and Mahammad (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e) reported that total N content in wheat grain increased from 2.90–3.97% with the application of DAP fertilizer. The phosphorus (P) content in wheat grain increased from control treatment values of 0.246–0.406% with SSP fertilizer for TD-1, 0.228–0.259% for SKD-1, and 0.279–0.246% with DAP fertilizer for TJ-83. The highest P accumulation was observed in the TD-1 variety with SSP fertilizer, likely due to the 46% gypsum (CaSO\u003csub\u003e4\u003c/sub\u003e · 2H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO) content in SSP, which may neutralize or reduce soil pH, thereby increasing P solubility in the soil and its uptake by wheat grains (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003ee). Solangi et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR46\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e) also reported that the highest P accumulation in wheat grains occurred with the application of DAP and SSP fertilizers compared to control soil. The potassium (K) content in wheat grain increased from control treatment values of 1.200–1.569% with DAP fertilizer for TD-1, 1.300–1.340% with SSP fertilizer for SKD-1, and 1.200–1.334% with SSP fertilizer for TJ-83. These results indicate that DAP fertilizer has significant potential for increasing K content in wheat grains, particularly for the TD-1 variety, followed by SKD-1 and TJ-83 (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003ef). Solangi et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR46\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e) found that the maximum K content in wheat grains was achieved with the application of DAP fertilizer compared to the control treatment.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003e[Insert Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003ea-f here]\u003c/h2\u003e\u003ch2\u003eRedundancy analysis of studied traits\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eRedundancy analysis (RDA) was performed to evaluate the relationships among soil electrical conductivity (EC), pH, organic matter (OM), N, P, K, plant height, number of tillers per plant, spike length, number of grains per spike, seed index, grain yield, and N, P, K content in wheat straw and grains for the TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83 varieties following the application of DAP, NP, and SSP fertilizers (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig6\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e). The RDA results explained 98.81% of the total variance in soil parameters. Soil pH was negatively correlated and distantly related to EC, N, P, K in soil, plant height, number of tillers per plant, spike length, number of grains per spike, seed index, grain yield, and N, P, K in wheat straw and grains for all varieties. Soil EC was significantly correlated and closely associated with P in wheat straw, K in soil, P in wheat grains, seed index, K in wheat grains, number of tillers per plant, K in wheat straw, and N in wheat grains. Soil organic matter (OM) was significantly correlated with N in soil, number of grains per spike, spike length, N in wheat straw, plant height, P in soil, and grain yield following the application of phosphatic fertilizers.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003e[Insert\u003c/b\u003e Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig6\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e \u003cb\u003ehere]\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Conlusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eIn conclusion, the application of phosphatic fertilizers (DAP, NP, and SSP) significantly increased soil electrical conductivity (EC) and decreased soil pH compared to the control. DAP fertilizer increased soil organic matter (OM), whereas SSP fertilizer had a negative impact on OM. The concentrations of N, P, and K in soil were enhanced with the application of phosphatic fertilizers. DAP fertilizer was particularly effective in increasing N and P in soil, while SSP fertilizer showed greater potential for enhancing K in soil compared to the control. Phosphatic fertilizers also significantly improved plant height, number of tillers per plant, spike length, number of grains per spike, seed index (1000-grain weight), and grain yield for the TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83 varieties compared to the control treatment. Additionally, phosphatic fertilizers increased N, P, and K content in wheat straw and grains. The highest N content in wheat straw was observed in the TJ-83 variety with DAP fertilizer, while the highest P content in wheat straw was noted in the TJ-83 variety with SSP fertilizer. The highest K content in wheat straw was observed in the TJ-83 variety with NP fertilizer. In wheat grains, the highest N accumulation was found in the TJ-83 variety with DAP fertilizer, the highest P accumulation in the TD-1 variety with SSP fertilizer, and the highest K accumulation in the TD-1 variety with DAP fertilizer. For future research, long-term field experiments are recommended to evaluate the consistent effects of these fertilizers on wheat growth and yield. Further studies should also investigate the impact of phosphatic fertilizers co-amended with pristine biochar, modified biochar, nanotechnology, press mud compost, and minerals on wheat growth, yield, and soil health.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Abbreviations","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionList\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTD-1\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTriple dwarf\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSKD-1\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSakrand\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTJ-83\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTandojam\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eDAP\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDiammonium phosphate\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eNP\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNitrophos\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSSP\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSingle super phosphate\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eEC\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eElectrical conductivity\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOM\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOrganic matter\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eN\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNitrogen\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eP\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePhosphorus\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eK\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePotassium\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003eAll authors declare that this work is authentic and in accordance with research ethic.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcknowledgements\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors thank to soil salinity and reclamation research institute Tandojam for help in testing plant samples.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthors\u0026rsquo; contributions\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConceptualization: K.H.K and M.M, Writing\u0026ndash; original draft: A.H.L and ED, Methodology: K.H.K and AH.L, Data Curation: K.H.K, E.D, A.H.L and M.M, Visualization: H.B, Validation: S.S., Software: A.H.L and A.A., Investigation: Z.A, \u0026nbsp;Data curation: K.H.K, M.M and A,H.L., Resources: K.H.K and M.M., Supervision: M.M., Funding acquisition M.M., Project administration: M.M, Format analysis: H.B, S.S, M.A.P, Writing-Review and Editing, A.H.L and E.D. All authors have read and approved the manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis work was not financially supported by any organization.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData availability\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe data will made available on request.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthics approval and consent to participate\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll authors consent to participate.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConsent for publication\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll authors consent for publication.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompeting interests\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll the authors declare that they have no competing interests.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAdnan M, Hussain M, Anjum MZ, Rehman F, Bilal HB, Toor MD, Ahmad R (2020) Role of phosphorous in wheat production: A review. 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Agronomy 13(7):1886\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":true,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"Department of Environmental Sciences, Sindh Madressatul Islam University, Karachi 74000, Pakistan","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Phospahtic fertilizers, nutrients uptake, plant growth, yield, wheat varieties","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6910660/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-6910660/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eThis study addressed the challenge of phosphorus deficiency in calcareous soils, which limits crop productivity. A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of phosphatic fertilizers, including DAP, NP, and SSP, applied at dose of 84 kg P\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e5\u003c/sub\u003e ha⁻\u0026sup1;, on soil nutrient dynamics and the morphological traits of three wheat varieties: TD-1, SKD-1, and TJ-83. For the experiment was utilized a randomized complete block design with treatments applied to soil and crops under controlled field conditions. Soil properties such N, P, K, EC, pH, and OM, along with wheat morphological traits, were assessed. The results indicate that DAP fertilizer significantly increased soil N and P levels, while SSP was more effective in enhancing soil K. SSP also increased soil EC, whereas pH decreased with all phosphatic fertilizers compared to the control. Among the wheat varieties, TJ-83 exhibited the highest grain yield (3049 kg ha⁻\u0026sup1;) with NP fertilizer. Notably, DAP improved the seed index and grain nutrient content compared to other treatments, with by 51.33g for TD-1 variety. These findings align with other studies report by the scientist, highlighting the efficacy of phosphatic fertilizers in improving soil fertility and crop traits under challenging soil conditions. This finding contributes to optimizing phosphorus fertilizer use for sustainable wheat production and emphasizes the need for long-term experiments integrating innovative amendments like biochar and nanotechnology to enhance soil health and crop productivity.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Evaluating the Impact of Phosphatic Fertilizers on Soil Nutrients and Morphological\nTraits of Wheat Varieties Under Field Conditions","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-06-18 16:48:48","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6910660/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"22cb322b-8924-48d6-9eb8-e7305f428325","owner":[],"postedDate":"June 18th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[{"id":50180378,"name":"Agronomy"}],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-06-18T16:48:48+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-06-18 16:48:48","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-6910660","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-6910660","identity":"rs-6910660","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}