Maximizing Wheat Productivity: Synergizing Urine versus Urea Treated Poultry Manure Compost with Zinc and Beneficial Microbes in Semiarid Climates

doi:10.21203/rs.3.rs-3140926/v1

Despite the global importance of wheat production, semiarid regions face significant challenges in achieving high yields. In Pakistan, where wheat cultivation is crucial for food security, addressing these challenges becomes even more critical.This study focuses on improving wheat productivity in semiarid regions, specifically in Pakistan, where water scarcity and nutrient deficiencies pose challenges. The research investigates the effects of poultry manure composts (PMC) and Zn levels on wheat (cv. Khaista 2017) yield and yield components. The aim is to explore sustainable alternatives to chemical fertilizers and maximize the benefits by incorporating beneficial microbes. The field experiment conducted in Harichand Charsadda, Pakistan, employed a randomized complete block design with three replications. The results reveal that wheat crops treated with BMO,, a beneficial microbe, exhibited delayed physiological maturity, taller plants, increased leaf area, more grains per spike, and higher yields. Among the poultry manure sources, urea treated poultry manure (UTPMC) had the most significant effects, while applying 15 kg Zn ha-1 resulted in favorable outcomes. The findings highlight the potential of combining UTPMC and zinc application to enhance wheat productivity in semiarid climates, contributing to sustainable agriculture practices and food security, particularly in Pakistan.

Biological sciences/Plant sciences

Earth and environmental sciences/Environmental sciences

wheat productivity

urine-treated poultry manure compost

urea-treated poultry manure compost

zinc

beneficial microbes

sustainability

semiarid climates

Agricultural productivity and food security are of paramount importance to any nation, and Pakistan is no exception. However, compared to other countries, crop yield in Pakistan has been relatively low. One of the significant contributing factors to this issue is the unhealthy state of the soils, characterized by a lack of soil organic carbon (SOC). Soil organic carbon plays a vital role in enhancing crop yields and ensuring food security by improving soil structure, nutrient retention, and water-holding capacity (Kumar et al., 2021; Lal, 2022).Compost and treated composts play a crucial role in improving soil health and enhancing crop productivity. Compost, which is derived from organic materials such as plant residues and animal manure, is rich in organic matter and essential nutrients that contribute to soil fertility (Kumar et al., 2023). It helps increase soil organic carbon content, improve soil structure, enhance nutrient availability, and promote beneficial microbial activity (Smith et al., 2022). Treated composts, on the other hand, undergo specific processing techniques to further enhance their nutrient content, stability, and bioavailability, resulting in even greater benefits for plant growth and yield (Leifeld et al., 2023). By incorporating compost and treated composts into agricultural systems, farmers can improve soil quality, reduce the reliance on synthetic fertilizers, and promote sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.

The use of compost, especially treated and enriched compost, has gained traction as a sustainable soil amendment practice that enhances soil fertility and crop productivity. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of compost in improving soil health, nutrient availability, and crop yields (Smith et al., 2022; Kumar et al., 2023; Leifeld et al., 2023). Furthermore, incorporating beneficial microbes into the soil has demonstrated remarkable benefits in terms of disease suppression, nutrient mobilization, and overall soil health improvement (Gupta et al., 2021; Khan et al., 2022; Yousaf et al., 2022). Additionally, the importance of zinc supplementation in enhancing crop yields and nutritional value has been well-documented in various research studies (Li et al., 2021; Rahman et al., 2022; Hasanuzzaman et al., 2023).

Furthermore, the absence of beneficial microbes (BMO) in Pakistani soils further exacerbates the problem. These beneficial microorganisms are essential for maintaining soil health and promoting nutrient cycling, ultimately leading to improved crop productivity and better food security outcomes (Singh et al., 2020; Khan et al., 2021). Beneficial microbes or biofertilizers play a crucial role in sustainable agriculture by enhancing soil health and improving crop productivity. These microorganisms contribute to nutrient cycling, disease suppression, and the breakdown of organic matter, thereby promoting plant growth and nutrient uptake (Gupta et al., 2021). Biofertilizers also help improve soil structure and water-holding capacity, leading to enhanced soil fertility and reduced reliance on synthetic fertilizers (Khan et al., 2022). By harnessing the potential of beneficial microbes, farmers can improve the efficiency of nutrient utilization, reduce environmental impacts, and achieve sustainable and resilient agricultural systems.

In addition to the SOC and BMO challenges, zinc (Zn) deficiency in Pakistani soils poses a significant threat to food security. Zinc is an essential micronutrient for plant growth and development, and its deficiency can adversely affect crop yields and nutritional quality (Hafeez et al., 2019; Hassan et al., 2020). Zinc is an essential micronutrient that plays a crucial role in improving crop productivity and overall plant health. It is involved in numerous physiological and biochemical processes within plants, including enzyme activity, photosynthesis, hormone regulation, and DNA synthesis (Li et al., 2021). Zinc deficiency in soils can significantly limit crop growth and develoPMCent, resulting in stunted growth, reduced yields, and decreased nutritional quality of crops (Rahman et al., 2022).

Moreover, zinc is not only vital for plants but also for the health of all living organisms, including humans, livestock, and poultry. Zinc is an essential micronutrient for human health, as it is involved in immune function, growth, develoPMCent, and DNA synthesis (Hasanuzzaman et al., 2023). Deficiency of zinc in human diets can lead to a range of health issues, including impaired immune function, stunted growth, cognitive impairment, and increased susceptibility to diseases. In livestock and poultry, zinc is necessary for optimal growth, reproduction, and immune function. Adequate zinc supplementation in animal diets can enhance feed efficiency, growth rates, and disease resistance, thereby improving overall animal health and productivity (Khan et al., 2020). Overall, the importance of zinc in improving crop productivity and its crucial role in the health of all living organisms, including humans, livestock, and poultry, cannot be overstated. Ensuring sufficient zinc availability in agricultural systems and promoting its proper utilization is vital for sustainable agriculture and the well-being of both plant and animal life.

To address these pressing concerns and boost agricultural productivity, it is crucial to explore effective and sustainable solutions. Therefore, this research project was designed to investigate the impact of treated poultry manure composts, beneficial microbes, and zinc supplementation on wheat growth, yield, productivity, and overall food security in Pakistan. By examining the combined effects of treated poultry manure composts, beneficial microbes, and zinc on wheat cultivation, this research aims to provide valuable insights into sustainable agricultural practices that can enhance crop productivity and ensure food security in Pakistan. The findings of this study have the potential to guide policy decisions and resource allocation towards more efficient and environmentally friendly agricultural practices, ultimately benefiting both farmers and consumers.

The experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2020-21 at the Agriculture Research Station Harichand Charsadda, Pakistan, to investigate the impact of poultry three different manure composts (not treated, urine treated and urea treated), and three zinc (Zn) levels on wheat (cv. Khaista 2017) production and yield components.

Experimental research and field studies on the wheat variety "cv. Khaista 2017" adhere to institutional, national, and international guidelines. This particular variety, "Khaista-17," was developed by the renowned wheat breeder, Dr. Gulzar Ahmad, in honor of the late wheat breeder "Khaista Gul" from the Cereal Crop Research Institute (CCRI) in Pirsabak, Nowshera. It has been officially approved by the Provincial Seed Council of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and registered by the Federal Seed Certification and Registration Department (FSCRD) in Islamabad. The detailed parentage of the variety is as follows: KAUZ//ALTAR 84/AOS/3/MILAN/KAUZ/4/HUITES/7/CAL/NH//H567.71/3/SERI/4/CAL/NH//H567.71/5/2*KAUZ/6/PASTOR.

Enriched or treated composts, in this study involve the addition of urine and urea to enhance the nutrient content and microbial activity of compost. Various studies have explored the use of different enrichment methods, such as the addition of organic amendments, biofertilizers, or mineral supplements, to optimize the nutrient balance and improve the overall quality of compost. These enriched or treated composts have shown promising results in promoting plant growth, increasing nutrient availability, and enhancing soil health. The specific composition and application rates of these enriched or treated composts may vary depending on the target crop, soil conditions, and specific research objectives (Mikkelsen & Stinner, 1994; Mohanty et al., 2012). Poultry manure compost (5 t ha^-1 each) was applied 20 days before sowing, while Zn (zinc sulfate) was applied at seedbed preparation.

The experiment of the following factors and their levels:

A: Poultry Manures:

Not treated (5 t ha^-1)

Urea treated (5 t ha^-1)

Urine treated (5 t ha^-1)

B: Zinc Levels:

Zn1 (5 kg ha^-1)

Zn2 (10 kg ha^-1)

Zn3 (15 kg ha^-1)

Control

One overall control plot (no Zn and no poultry manures applied) was included in each replication for comparisons to the treated plots.

Two independent field experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of three composts and three zinc levels, along with a control plot. In one experiment, the composts were supplemented with a beneficial microbe consortium (BMO), while in the second experiment, the composts were not treated with BMO. The application of the bio-fertilizer was done at the time of sowing. Specifically, a local bio-fertilizer known as Bioaab, consisting of beneficial microbes, was applied to the plots in the first experiment only.

BMO, Preparation and Application:

Effective microbes from the BMO, product, including phototropic bacteria, yeast, actinomycetes, and fermenting fungi, were locally prepared by the "Foundation for Research and DeveloPMCent of Organic Agriculture, Faisalabad." To activate the dormant microbes, a 20-liter solution was prepared by combining 1 liter of the EM solution with 1 liter of molasses solution and 18 liters of water. The solution was left in an airtight container in a dark place for 7–10 days, with daily venting to release fermentation gases. After this period, the extended microbial solution was ready for application. The solution was applied to the experimental field using a spray pump before irrigation.

A basal dose of NPK (120:80:50) was applied during the initial stage of both experiments. The experimental design employed in both experiments was a randomized complete block design with three replications. Each plot consisted of 6 rows, each measuring 3 meters in length and spaced 30 centimeters apart. Five irrigation were applied as per the crop's water requirements in both experiments, and thinning was carried out to maintain an optimal plant population.

Moreover, standard practices for weed, insect, and pest control were implemented. Various parameters were recorded in both experiments, including emergence (m^-2), days to anthesis, days to physiological maturity, number of leaves per tiller, mean leaf area, leaf area index (LAI), number of productive tillers, number of unproductive tillers, plant height, grains per spike, thousand grains weight, biological yield (kg ha^-1), grain yield (kg ha^-1), and harvest index (%) in both experiments.

Statistical analysis

Statistical analysis of the data was conducted by combining the results from both experiments (with and without BMO), following the principles outlined in Steel and Torrie (1980) and means were compared using LSD test (p ≤ 0.05).

Phenological development:

Table 1 presents data on the emergence of wheat (m-2). The levels of poultry manure compost (PMC) and zinc (Zn) did not have any significant effect on emergence, and their interactions were also found to be non-significant. The days to anthesis of wheat were significantly influenced by the application of BMO,, PMC, and Zn levels (Table 2). However, none of the interactions had an impact on the days to anthesis. The treated plots exhibited a longer duration to anthesis (124 days) compared to the untreated plots (123 days). Specifically, the BMO,-treated plots showed delayed anthesis (124 days) compared to the non-BMO, plots (123 days). Among the PMC levels, the urea-treated plots displayed delayed anthesis (124 days), which was statistically similar to the urine-treated plots, while the simple-treated plots showed early anthesis (123 days). In terms of Zn levels, the application of 10 and 15 kg Zn ha^− 1 resulted in delayed anthesis (124 days), whereas the plants treated with 5 kg Zn ha^− 1 exhibited fewer days to anthesis (123 days).

Table 1

Emergence (m^-2) of wheat as affected by poultry manure composts, zinc levels (Zn) with and without Benieical microbes (BMO).
		Poultry Manure Composts ( 5 t ha^− 1)
Benieical microbes	Zn Levels (kg ha^− 1)	Simple PMC	UreaTreated PMC	UrineTreated PMC	BMO x Zn
With	5	121	119	114	118
	10	119	118	116	117
	15	120	118	121	120
Without	5	119	119	118	119
	10	120	119	120	119
	15	119	117	113	116
With		120	118	117	118
Without		119	118	117	118
	5	120	119	116	118
	10	119	118	118	118
	15	119	118	117	118
Mean		119	118	117
Planned Mean
Control		119
Rest		118
LSD for BMO	NS
LSD for PM	NS
LSD for Zn	NS
PM x Zn	NS
BMO x Zn	NS
BMO x PM	NS
BMO x PM x Zn	NS

Table 2

Days to anthesis of wheat as affected by poultry manure composts, zinc levels (Zn), with and without Benieical microbes (BMO).
		Poultry Manure Composts ( 5 t ha^− 1)
Benieical microbes	Zn Levels (kg ha^− 1)	Simple PMC	UreaTreated PMC	UrineTreated PMC	BMO x Zn
With	5	123	125	124	124
	10	123	125	124	124
	15	125	125	124	125
Without	5	122	124	123	123
	10	123	124	124	124
	15	124	125	124	124
With		124	125	124	124 a
Without		123	124	123	123 b
	5	122	124	123	123 b
	10	123	124	124	124 a
	15	124	125	124	124 a
Mean		123 b	124 a	124 a
Planned Mean
Control		123 b
Rest		124 a
LSD for BMO	0.64
LSD for PM	0.56
LSD for Zn	0.56
PM x Zn	NS
BMO x Zn	NS
BMO x PM	NS
BMO x PM x Zn	NS

Table 3 provides information on the days to physiological maturity of wheat. BMO, PMC, and Zn levels all had a significant impact on the days to physiological maturity. The interactions between BMO x PMC and PMC x Zn were found to be significant, while the interactions between BMO x PMC and BMO x Zn were non-significant. The rest plots showed a longer duration to maturity (160 days) compared to the control plots (159 days). The BMO,-treated plots recorded the highest number of days to maturity (161 days) compared to the non-BMO,-treated plots (160 days). Among the PMC levels, the urea-treated plots (UTPMC) displayed delayed physiological maturity (161 days) compared to the simple-treated plots (SPMC) and urine-treated plots (URTPMC) (160 days). Regarding Zn levels, the application of 15 kg Zn ha^− 1 resulted in late physiological maturity (161 days), while the plants fed with 5 and 10 kg Zn ha-1 exhibited earlier physiological maturity (160 days). The interaction between PMC x Zn indicated that the urea-treated poultry manure (UTPMC) along with the application of 15 kg Zn ha^− 1 resulted in enhanced maturity, while the simple-treated poultry manure (SPMC) along with 5 kg Zn ha^− 1 showed earlier maturity. The interaction between BMO x PMC indicated that the BMO,-treated plots, along with urea-treated poultry manure (UTPMC), enhanced physiological maturity.

Table 3

Days to physiological maturity of wheat as affected by poultry manure composts, zinc levels (Zn) with and without Benieical microbes (BMO).
		Poultry Manure Composts ( 5 t ha^− 1)
Benieical microbes	Zn Levels (kg ha^− 1)	Simple PMC	UreaTreated PMC	UrineTreated PMC	BMO x Zn
With	5	160	161	160	160
	10	159	162	161	160
	15	160	161	162	161
Without	5	160	160	160	160
	10	159	160	160	160
	15	161	160	160	160
With		160	161	161	161 a
Without		160	160	160	160 b
	5	160	160	160	160 b
	10	159	161	160	160 b
	15	161	160	161	161 a
Mean		160 b	161 a	160 b
Planned Mean
Control		159 b
Rest		160 a
LSD for BMO	0.59
LSD for PM	0.54
LSD for Zn	0.54
PM x Zn	*
BMO x Zn	NS
BMO x PM	*
BMO x PM x Zn	NS

Growth:

Table 4 presents the data on the number of leaves per wheat tiller. Data analysis indicated a significant influence of BMO, PMC, and Zn levels on the number of leaves per tiller. Among the interactions examined, only the control versus rest interaction was found to be significant. The plots treated with BMO, demonstrated a significantly higher number of leaves per tiller (6.5) compared to those without BMO, (5.6). Among the PMC treatments, the urea-treated plots (UTP) exhibited the highest number of leaves per tiller (6.3), followed by the urine-treated plots (URTP) (6.0) and the simple-treated plots (5.9). Regarding Zn levels, the application of 10 and 15 kg zinc ha-1 resulted in the highest number of leaves per tiller (6 and 6.2), while the minimum (5.9) was observed in plants fertilized with 5 kg zinc ha-1. The significant control × rest interaction indicated that rest plots produced a greater number of leaves per tiller (6.1) compared to the control (4.9).

Table 4

Number of leaves tiller^-1 of wheat as affected by poultry manure composts, zinc levels (Zn) with and without Benieical microbes (BMO.
		Poultry Manure Composts ( 5 t ha^− 1)
Benieical microbes	Zn Levels (kg ha^− 1)	Simple PMC	UreaTreated PMC	UrineTreated PMC	BMO x Zn
with	5	6.5	6.5	6.1	6.4
	10	5.9	6.8	6.4	6.4
	15	6.5	7.1	6.5	6.7
Without	5	5.4	5.5	5.5	5.5
	10	5.5	5.7	5.7	5.6
	15	5.5	6.2	5.6	5.8
With		6.3	6.8	6.3	6.5 a
Without		5.5	5.8	5.6	5.6 b
	5	6.0	6.0	5.8	5.9 b
	10	5.7	6.3	6.0	6.0 a
	15	6.0	6.7	6.0	6.2 a
Mean		5.9 b	6.3 a	6.0 b
Planned Mean
Control		4.9 b
Rest		6.1 a
LSD for BMO	0.30
LSD for PM	0.22
LSD for Zn	0.22
PM x Zn	NS
BMO x Zn	NS
BMO x PM	NS
BMO x PM x Zn	NS

Table 5 provides information on the effects of BMO, PMC, and Zn levels on wheat mean leaf area. Data analysis revealed a significant impact of BMO, PMC, and Zn levels on the mean leaf area, while the cooperation factor had no significant effect. The rest plots exhibited the highest mean leaf area (24.3 cm²) compared to the control plots (21.2 cm²). The BMO,-treated plots showed a significantly greater mean leaf area (24.7 cm²) than the non-BMO, plots (23.8 cm²). Among the PMC treatments, the urea-treated plots (UTP) had the highest mean leaf area (24.8 cm²), followed by the urine-treated plots (URTP) (24.2 cm²), and the simple plots (23.7 cm²). Among the different Zn levels, the fertilization with 15 kg zinc ha^− 1 resulted in the maximum mean leaf area (25.3 cm²), while the lowest mean leaf area (23.7 cm²) was observed in plots treated with 5 kg zinc ha^− 1. The interaction between PMC and Zn indicated that the largest mean leaf area was observed in plots treated with poultry manure as a source of PMC, urea treatment, and a zinc level of 15 kg ha-1 compared to other PMC and zinc levels.

Table 5

Mean leaf area (cm^-2) of wheat as affected by poultry manure composts, Zinc levels (Zn), with and without Benieical microbes (BMO.
		Poultry Manure Composts ( 5 t ha^− 1)
Benieical microbes	Zn Levels (kg ha^− 1)	Simple PMC	UreaTreated PMC	UrineTreated PMC	BMO x Zn
With	5	23.8	24.1	23.9	23.9
	10	24.1	24.7	24.4	24.4
	15	24.7	26.7	25.8	25.7
Without	5	22.9	23.4	22.9	23.1
	10	23.3	24.2	23.5	23.7
	15	23.7	25.8	24.9	24.8
With		24.2	25.2	24.7	24.7
Without		23.3	24.5	23.8	23.9
	5	23.4	23.8	23.4	23.5 c
	10	23.7	24.5	23.9	24.0 b
	15	24.2	26.3	25.4	25.3 a
Mean		23.7 b	24.8 a	24.2 b
Planned Mean
Control		21.2 b
Rest		24.3 a
LSD for BMO	0.65
LSD for PM	0.44
LSD for Zn	0.44
PM x Zn	*
BMO x Zn	NS
BMO x PM	NS
BMO x PM x Zn	NS

The effects of BMO, poultry manure (PMC), and zinc on the leaf area index (LAI) of wheat are presented in Table 6. The data revealed significant influences of BMO,, poultry manures, and zinc on the LAI. However, none of the collaborations were found to be significant. Fertilized plots exhibited a higher leaf area index (3.7) compared to unfertilized plots (3.5). The BMO,-treated plots had a significantly higher LAI (4.2) compared to the plots without BMO, (3.4). Among the PMC treatments, the urea-treated plots (UTP) had the highest LAI (4.2), followed by the urine-treated plots (URTP) (3.8), and the simple plots (3.5). Among the different rates of zinc fertilization, the application of zinc at 15 kg ha-1 resulted in a higher LAI (4.2), whereas the minimum LAI (3.6) was observed in plants that received 5 kg zinc ha-1.

Table 6

Leaf area index (LAI), of wheat as affected by poultry manure composts, Zinc levels (Zn), with and without Benieical microbes (BMO.
		Poultry Manure Composts ( 5 t ha^− 1)
Benieical microbes	Zn Levels (kg ha^− 1)	Simple PMC	UreaTreated PMC	UrineTreated PMC	BMO x Zn
with	5	3.7	4.2	3.9	3.7
	10	3.6	4.5	4.1	4.1
	15	4.2	5.5	4.4	4.7
without	5	3.0	3.1	3.6	3.3
	10	3.2	3.6	3.4	3.4
	15	3.4	4.1	3.4	3.6
with		3.8	4.7	4.2	4.2 a
without		3.2	3.6	3.4	3.4 b
	5	3.4	3.7	3.8	3.6 b
	10	3.4	4.0	3.8	3.7 b
	15	3.8	4.8	3.9	4.2 a
Mean		3.5 c	4.2 a	3.8 b
Planned Mean
Control		3.5 b
Rest		3.7 a
LSD for BMO	0.30
LSD for PM	0.25
LSD for Zn	0.25
PM x Zn	*
BMO x Zn	NS
BMO x PM	NS
BMO x PM x Zn	NS

The analysis of the data revealed that the height of wheat plants was significantly influenced by BMO, PMC, and zinc level (Zn) (Table 7). However, none of the interactions had a substantial influence on wheat plant height. The rest plots exhibited the highest plant height (98.2 cm) compared to the control plots (96.9 cm). The BMO,-treated plots produced significantly taller plants (99.3 cm) than the plots without BMO, (97.2 cm). Among the PMC treatments, the urea-treated plots (UTPMC) and urine-treated plots (URTPMC) resulted in taller plant height (99.8 cm and 98.4 cm), while the plots treated with simple poultry manure (PMC) had the shortest plant height (96.5 cm). Among the different zinc levels, the application of 15 kg Zn ha-1 and 10 kg Zn ha-1 resulted in taller plants (98.9 cm and 98.7 cm), whereas plants treated with 5 kg Zn ha-1 had a shorter stature (97.2 cm).

Table 7

Plant height (cm) of wheat as affected by poultry manure composts, Zinc levels (Zn), with and without Benieical microbes (BMO.
		Poultry Manure Composts ( 5 t ha^− 1)
Benieical microbes	Zn Levels (kg ha^− 1)	Simple PMC	UreaTreated PMC	UrineTreated PMC	BMO x Zn
With	5	97.1	99.7	98.1	98.3
	10	96.8	101.1	100.8	99.6
	15	97.5	101.8	100.4	99.9
Without	5	94.7	97.0	96.3	96.0
	10	96.3	100.2	98.1	98.2
	15	96.7	99.0	96.7	97.5
With		97.1	100.9	99.8	99.3 a
Without		95.9	98.8	97.0	97.2 b
	5	95.9	98.4	97.2	97.2 b
	10	96.5	100.7	99.5	98.9 a
	15	97.1	100.4	98.6	98.7 a
Mean		96.5 b	99.8 a	98.4b
Planned Mean
Control		96.9 b
Rest		98.2 a
LSD for BMO	1.51
LSD for PM	1.41
LSD for Zn	1.41
PM x Zn	NS
BMO x Zn	NS
BMO x PM	NS
BMO x PM x Zn	NS

Analysis of the data indicated that BMO, PMC, and zinc (Zn) levels had a non-substantial impact on the number of non-productive tillers in wheat, as shown in Table 8. Furthermore, all collaborations were found to be non-significant. However, the control x rest interaction was found to be significant. This indicated that the control plots recorded a significantly higher number of non-productive tillers per square meter (15) compared to the treated plants (13).

Table 8

Number of unproductive tillers m^-2 of wheat as affected by poultry manure composts, Zinc levels (Zn), with and without Benieical microbes (BMO.
		Poultry Manure Composts ( 5 t ha^− 1)
Benieical microbes	Zn Levels (kg ha^− 1)	Simple PMC	UreaTreated PMC	UrineTreated PMC	BMO x Zn
With	5	13	14	14	14
	10	14	14	14	14
	15	13	14	13	13
Without	5	15	13	12	14
	10	13	13	13	13
	15	14	12	13	13
With		13	14	14	14
Without		14	13	13	13
	5	14	13	14	14
	10	13	13	13	13
	15	14	13	13	13
Mean		14	13	13
Planned Mean
Control		15 a
Rest		13 b
LSD for BMO	NS
LSD for PM	NS
LSD for Zn	NS
PM x Zn	NS
BMO x Zn	NS
BMO x PM	NS
BMO x PM x Zn	NS

Yield components:

Table 9 demonstrates the significant impact of BMO, PMC, and zinc levels (Zn) on the number of productive tillers per square meter in wheat. The other interactions did not influence the number of productive tillers, except for the control x rest and PMC x Zn interactions, which had a substantial effect on the number of fertile tillers per square meter. The plots treated with BMO, exhibited a considerably larger number of productive tillers per square meter (254) compared to those not treated with BMO, (246). Among the PMC treatments, the urea-treated plots (UTP) had the greatest number of productive tillers per square meter (260), followed by the urine-treated plots (URTP) (250), and the plain plots (239). When considering different rates of zinc fertilization, the application of 15 kg zinc ha-1 resulted in the highest number of productive tillers per square meter (258), followed by 10 kg zinc ha-1 (249), while 5 kg zinc ha-1 had a lower number of productive tillers per square meter (242). The interaction between control x rest indicated that treated plots produced a maximum number of productive tillers per square meter (250) compared to untreated plots (231). The interaction between PMC x Zn revealed that the maximum number of fertile tillers per square meter was observed with PMC, urea-treated poultry manure (UTPMC), and a zinc level of 15 kg Zn ha-1, while the lowest number of productive tillers per square meter was observed with PMC, plain PMC, and a zinc level of 5 kg ha-1.

Table 9

Number of productive tillers m^-2 of wheat as affected by poultry manure composts, Zinc levels (Zn), with and without Benieical microbes (BMO.
		Poultry Manure Composts ( 5 t ha^− 1)
Benieical microbes	Zn Levels (kg ha^− 1)	Simple PMC	UreaTreated PMC	UrineTreated PMC	BMO x Zn
with	5	228	257	256	247
	10	246	256	255	252
	15	251	278	256	262
without	5	233	238	241	237
	10	239	258	241	246
	15	238	273	250	254
with		242	264	256	254 a
without		237	256	244	246 b
	5	231	247	249	242 c
	10	242	257	248	249 b
	15	245	275	253	258 a
Mean		239 c	260 a	250 b
Planned Mean
Control		231 b
Rest		250 a
LSD for BMO	7.33
LSD for PM	5.88
LSD for Zn	5.88
PM x Zn	*
BMO x Zn	NS
BMO x PM	NS
BMO x PM x Zn	NS

Table 10 presents the effects of BMO,, poultry manure sources, and zinc levels on the number of grains per spike. BMO, PMC, and Zn levels were found to have a substantial impact on the quantity of wheat grains per spike. None of the other interactions affected the grain per spike count. The BMO,-treated plots exhibited a considerably higher number of maximum grains per spike (50) compared to the non-treated plots (48). The plots treated with 15 kg of zinc per hectare (ha) reported the highest number of grains per spike (51), followed by the plots treated with 10 kg of zinc per ha with 49 grains per spike, and the plots treated with 5 kg of zinc per ha with 46 grains per spike. The interaction between control and rest indicated that the treated plots had a higher number of grains per spike (49) compared to the untreated plots (42). The interaction between PMC and Zn indicated the highest number of grains per spike with PMC, urea-treated poultry manure (UTPMC), and a Zn level of 15 kg ha-1. The interaction between BMO and PMC showed that the plots treated with BMO, and urea-treated plots resulted in a higher number of grains per spike compared to the untreated plots and other poultry manure sources.

Table 10

Number of grains spike^-1 of wheat as affected by poultry manure composts, Zinc levels (Zn), with and without Benieical microbes (BMO.
		Poultry Manure Composts ( 5 t ha^− 1)
Benieical microbes	Zn Levels (kg ha^− 1)	Simple PMC	UreaTreated PMC	UrineTreated PMC	BMO x Zn
With	5	44	47	50	47
	10	46	50	53	50
	15	47	57	55	53
Without	5	42	48	47	46
	10	43	52	48	48
	15	46	54	50	50
With		45	52	53	50 a
Without		44	51	48	48 b
	5	43	48	49	46 c
	10	44	51	51	49 b
	15	46	56	52	51 a
Mean		44 b	51 a	50 a
Planned Mean
Control		42 b
Rest		49 a
LSD for BMO	1.28
LSD for PM	1.14
LSD for Zn	1.14
PM x Zn	*
BMO x Zn	NS
BMO x PM	**
BMO x PM x Zn	NS

The data analysis revealed that the thousand grains weight (TGW) of wheat was significantly influenced by BMO, poultry manure (PMC), and zinc (Zn). The interaction between control and rest was found to be significant, while all other interactions were non-significant (Table 11). The BMO,-treated plots had a significantly higher thousand grain weight (41.1 g) compared to the plots without BMO, (39.3 g). Among the PMC treatments, the urea-treated plots (UTPMC) resulted in a heavier thousand grain weight (42.9 g), followed by the urine-treated plots (URTPMC) with a weight of (39.9 g), while the plots treated with simple poultry manure (SPMC) had the minimum weight (37.8 g). Among the zinc (Zn) levels, the application of zinc at 15 kg Zn ha-1 resulted in the maximum thousand grain weight (41.8 g), followed by 10 kg ha-1 with a weight of (40.3 g), while the application of zinc at 5 kg ha-1 produced the lowest thousand grain weight (38.5 g).

Table 11

Thousand grain weight (g) of wheat as affected by poultry manure composts, Zinc levels (Zn), with and without Benieical microbes (BMO.
		Poultry Manure Composts ( 5 t ha^− 1)
Benieical microbes	Zn Levels (kg ha^− 1)	Simple PMC	UreaTreated PMC	UrineTreated PMC	BMO x Zn
With	5	36.7	41.0	39.3	39.0
	10	39.7	44.3	42.0	42.0
	15	39.7	47.0	40.3	42.3
Without	5	34.5	39.7	39.7	38.0
	10	35.7	42.3	37.6	38.5
	15	40.4	43.0	40.4	41.3
With		38.7	44.1	40.6	41.1 a
Without		36.9	41.7	39.3	39.3 b
	5	35.6	40.3	39.5	38.5 c
	10	37.7	43.3	39.8	40.3 b
	15	40.1	45.0	40.4	41.8 a
Mean		37.8 c	42.9 a	39.9 b
Planned Mean
Control		34.0 b
Rest		40.2 a
LSD for BMO	1.28
LSD for PM	1.70
LSD for Zn	1.70
PM x Zn	NS
BMO x Zn	NS
BMO x PM	NS
BMO x PM x Zn	NS

Yield and harvest index:

Data regarding the biological yield (BY) of wheat crop are presented in Table 12. The results indicated that BMO, PMC, and Zn levels had a significant influence on the biological yield. All interactions, including control × rest, PMC× Zn, BMO × Zn, BMO × PMC, and BMO × PMC× Zn, had a substantial impact on wheat biological yield. The BMO,-treated plots had a higher BY (9565 kg/ha) compared to the plots without BMO, (9234 kg/ha). Among the PMC treatments, the urea-treated plots (UTPMC) produced the highest biological yield (9678 kg/ha), followed by the urine-treated plots (URTPMC) (9545 kg/ha) compared to the simple poultry manure source (SPMC) (8976 kg/ha). Regarding Zn levels, the application of zinc at 15 and 10 kg/ha resulted in the highest BY (9796 and 9408 kg/ha), while the lowest BY (8993 kg/ha) was observed in plants treated with 5 kg zinc/ha. The interaction between control × rest showed that the treated plots had a higher biological yield (9399 kg/ha) than the untreated plots (7966 kg/ha). The interaction between PMC × Zn indicated that the highest BY was recorded with PMC, UTPMC, along with Zn at a rate of 15 kg/ha, whereas the lowest BY was noted with the SPMC source and 5 kg Zn/ha. The interaction between BMO × Zn showed that the highest BY was recorded in BMO,-treated plots along with Zn levels at a rate of 15 kg/ha. The interaction between BMO × PMC × Zn indicated that BMO,-treated plots with PMC source, UTPMC, and the application of zinc at 15 and 10 kg/ha produced the highest biological yield compared to other treatments.

Table 12

Biological yield (kg ha^-1) of wheat of wheat as affected by poultry manure composts, Zinc levels (Zn), with and without Benieical microbes (BMO.
		Poultry Manure Composts ( 5 t ha^− 1)
Benieical microbes	Zn Levels (kg ha^− 1)	Simple PMC	UreaTreated PMC	UrineTreated PMC	BMO x Zn
With	5	8822	9470	9755	9349
	10	8963	10108	9607	9559
	15	9340	10125	9892	9786
Without	5	8296	8807	8811	8638
	10	9059	9425	9288	9258
	15	9377	10129	9914	9807
With		9042	9901	9751	9565 a
Without		8911	9454	9338	9234 b
	5	8559	9138	9283	8993 c
	10	9011	9767	9448	9408 b
	15	9359	10127	9903	9796 a
Mean		8976 c	9678 a	9545 b
Planned Mean
Control		7966 b
Rest		9399 a
LSD for BMO	98
LSD for PM	103
LSD for Zn	103
PM x Zn	*
BMO x Zn	*
BMO x PM	*
BMO x PM x Zn	*

Table 13 presents information on grain yield (GY). BMO,, chicken manure sources, and Zn levels had a substantial impact on wheat grain yield, according to the data analysis. The interactions between control, rest, PMC Zn, and BMO × PMC had a significant influence on GY, while all other interactions had no effect. The BMO,-treated plots produced a higher GY (4051 kg/ha) compared to the plots without BMO, (3831 kg/ha). Among the PMC sources, higher GY (4139 kg/ha) was recorded from urea-treated poultry manure plots (UTPMC), followed by urine-treated plots (4038 kg/ha), compared to simple poultry manure (3646 kg/ha). Among the zinc levels, the application of zinc at 15 and 10 kg/ha resulted in the highest GY (4170 and 3982 kg/ha), while the lowest GY (3671 kg/ha) was recorded from the application of 5 kg zinc/ha. The interaction between PMC × Zn showed that the maximum GY was noted with PMC, UTPMC, and Zn levels at a rate of 15 kg/ha. The interaction between BMO × PMC showed that BMO,-treated plots along with UTPMC produced the highest grain yield compared to the untreated plots and other poultry manure sources.

Table 13

Grain yield (kg ha^-1) of wheat of wheat as affected by poultry manure composts, Zinc levels (Zn), with and without Benieical microbes (BMO.
		Poultry Manure Composts ( 5 t ha^− 1)
Benieical microbes	Zn Levels (kg ha^− 1)	Simple PMC	UreaTreated PMC	UrineTreated PMC	BMO x Zn
With	5	3255	4151	4051	3819
	10	3763	4255	4188	4069
	15	4100	4427	4270	4266
Without	5	3163	3714	3692	3523
	10	3618	4055	4011	3895
	15	3977	4229	4018	4075
With		3706	4278	4170	4051 a
Without		3586	4000	3907	3831 b
	5	3209	3933	3872	3671 c
	10	3690	4155	4100	3982 b
	15	4038	4328	4144	4170 a
Mean		3646 c	4139 a	4038 b
Planned Mean
Control		2753 b
Rest		3941 a
LSD for BMO	60
LSD for PM	55
LSD for Zn	55
PM x Zn	*
BMO x Zn	NS
BMO x PM	*
BMO x PM x Zn	NS

The harvest index (HI) of wheat was strongly influenced by BMO,, poultry manure sources, and zinc levels, according to the data analysis presented in Table 14. The interactions between control × rest, PMC × Zn, BMO × Zn, and BMO × PMC × Zn had a significant effect on HI, while all other interactions had no significant impact. Treated plots showed the highest harvest index (41.9%) compared to untreated plots (34.6%). The BMO,-treated plots had a significantly higher HI (42.8%) than the plots without BMO, (41.5%). Among the PMC sources, urea-treated plots (UTPMC) and urine-treated plots (URTPMC) obtained the highest HI (42.8% and 42.3%) compared to simple plots (40.6%). The highest HI (42.6% and 42.3%) was obtained using zinc levels of 15 and 10 kg/ha, respectively, while the lowest HI (40.8%) was produced using 5 kg zinc/ha. The interaction between PMC × Zn indicated that PMC, UTPMC, and Zn levels at a rate of 15 kg/ha resulted in the maximum HI compared to other PMC sources and Zn levels. The interaction between BMO × Zn showed that BMO,-treated plots with the highest Zn level of 15 kg/ha had a higher HI compared to untreated plots and other Zn values. The interaction of BMO × PMC× Zn revealed that BMO,-treated plots with the PMC source UTPMC and 15 and 10 kg zinc/ha resulted in the highest wheat harvest index compared to other treatments.

Table 14

Harvest index (%) of wheat of wheat as affected by poultry manure composts, Zinc levels (Zn), with and without Benieical microbes (BMO.
		Poultry Manure Composts ( 5 t ha^− 1)
Benieical microbes	Zn Levels (kg ha^− 1)	Simple PMC	UreaTreated PMC	UrineTreated PMC	BMO x Zn
With	5	36.9	43.9	41.5	40.8
	10	42.0	42.1	43.6	42.6
	15	43.9	43.8	43.2	43.6
Without	5	38.2	42.2	41.9	40.8
	10	39.9	43.0	43.2	42.0
	15	42.4	41.8	40.5	41.6
With		40.9	43.2	42.8	42.3 a
Without		40.2	42.3	41.9	41.5 b
	5	37.5	43.0	41.7	40.8 b
	10	41.0	42.6	43.4	42.3 a
	15	43.2	42.8	41.9	42.6 a
Mean		40.6 b	42.8 a	42.3 a
Planned Mean
Control		34.6 b
Rest		41.9 a
LSD for BMO	0.78
LSD for PM	0.77
LSD for Zn	0.77
PM x Zn	*
BMO x Zn	*
BMO x PM	NS
BMO x PM x Zn	*

The study investigated the effects of different treatments on wheat phenology, specifically emergence, days to anthesis, and days to physiological maturity. The data revealed that poultry manure compost (PMC), zinc (Zn), and bio-organic fertilizer (BMO) had varying effects on wheat growth stages. The study found that PMC and Zn levels did not significantly affect wheat emergence. This is in line with previous research by Nguyen et al. (2020), who reported that the application of poultry manure did not have a significant impact on wheat emergence.The application of BMO, PMC, and Zn levels significantly influenced the days to anthesis. These findings corroborate the study by Li et al. (2021), which reported that the application of organic fertilizers can delay anthesis in wheat. BMO, PMC, and Zn levels significantly influenced the days to physiological maturity of wheat. Similar results were reported by Ali et al. (2022), who found that the application of zinc and organic fertilizers delayed wheat maturity.

The study examined various wheat growth parameters, including the number of leaves per tiller, mean leaf area, leaf area index (LAI), plant height, and the number of non-productive tillers. The application of BMO, PMC, and Zn levels significantly affected the number of leaves per tiller. These results align with the findings of Sharma et al. (2021), who reported that organic fertilizer application increased the number of leaves per tiller in wheat. BMO, PMC, and Zn levels had a significant impact on the mean leaf area of wheat. This is consistent with the research conducted by Yadav et al. (2022), who reported that organic fertilizers enhanced the leaf area in wheat.The application of BMO, PMC, and Zn levels significantly influenced the leaf area index of wheat. Similar results were reported by Singh et al. (2020), who found that organic fertilizers increased the LAI in wheat crops. BMO, PMC, and Zn levels had a significant impact on wheat plant height. These findings are consistent with the study by Kumar et al. (2021), who reported that organic fertilizers increased the height of wheat plants. BMO, PMC, and Zn levels did not significantly affect the number of non-productive tillers in wheat. These results are in agreement with the research by Patel et al. (2022), who reported that organic fertilizers had no significant impact on non-productive tillers in wheat.

The study analyzed various yield components of wheat, including the number of productive tillers per square meter, the number of grains per spike, and the thousand grains weight (TGW). BMO, PMC, and Zn levels had a significant impact on the number of productive tillers per square meter. These results are supported by the findings of Sharma and Singh (2023), who reported that the application of organic fertilizers increased the number of productive tillers in wheat.The application of BMO, PMC, and Zn levels significantly influenced the number of grains per spike in wheat. Similar results were reported by Sahoo et al. (2023), who found that organic fertilizers and zinc application increased the number of grains per spike in wheat. BMO, PMC, and Zn levels had a significant impact on the thousand grains weight of wheat. These findings align with the research conducted by Mishra et al. (2022), who reported that organic fertilizers and zinc application increased the TGW in wheat.

The results presented in Table 12 demonstrate the significant influence of compost (BMO), poultry manure sources (PMC), and zinc levels on the biological yield (BY) of wheat. The application of BMO positively impacted the BY, resulting in a higher yield compared to plots without BMO. Among the poultry manure treatments, urea-treated plots (UTPMC) showed the highest biological yield, followed by urine-treated plots (URTPMC), emphasizing the importance of organic fertilizers. Additionally, the application of zinc at higher levels (15 and 10 kg/ha) resulted in increased BY, underlining the role of Zn supplementation. The interactions between control × rest, PMC × Zn, BMO × Zn, BMO × PMC, and BMO × PMC × Zn further highlight the combined effects of these factors on wheat biological yield.

Moving to grain yield (GY), as presented in Table 13, BMO, poultry manure sources, and zinc levels significantly influenced the GY of wheat. The use of BMO led to higher grain yield compared to plots without BMO, indicating its positive impact on productivity. Among the poultry manure treatments, urea-treated plots (UTPMC) demonstrated the highest GY, followed by urine-treated plots (URTPMC), suggesting the importance of incorporating organic matter into soil management practices. Similarly, higher zinc levels (15 and 10 kg/ha) positively affected GY, emphasizing the significance of Zn supplementation for optimizing yield. The interactions between PMC × Zn and BMO × PMC further confirm the importance of these factors in maximizing wheat grain yield.

Furthermore, the harvest index (HI) of wheat, as shown in Table 14, was strongly influenced by BMO, poultry manure sources, and zinc levels. Treated plots, including those with BMO, exhibited higher HI compared to untreated plots, indicating the beneficial impact of these interventions on crop productivity and resource allocation. Among the poultry manure treatments, urea-treated plots (UTPMC) and urine-treated plots (URTPMC) achieved higher HI values, highlighting the importance of organic fertilizers in enhancing yield efficiency. Similarly, higher zinc levels (15 and 10 kg/ha) were associated with increased HI, indicating their role in promoting better grain-to-biomass allocation. The interactions between PMC × Zn and BMO × PMC × Zn further underscore the combined effects of these factors on optimizing wheat

In conclusion, the findings emphasize the significance of PMC, BMO, and zinc levels in improving grain yield, biological yield, and harvest index in wheat crops. Incorporating PMC as organic amendment to the soil can contribute to enhanced productivity and resource utilization, thereby supporting food security efforts. Because compost plays a crucial role in improving wheat yield and productivity due to its numerous beneficial effects on soil health and plant growth. Here are some key reasons why compost is important for enhancing wheat production:

Nutrient Supply

Compost is a rich source of organic matter and essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients. When added to the soil, compost releases these nutrients gradually, providing a steady and balanced supply to the wheat plants throughout their growth stages. This ensures that the crop has access to the nutrients it needs, leading to healthier plants and improved yield (Khalid et al., 2018; D'Amico & Frantz, 2019).

Enhanced Soil Structure

Compost improves soil structure by promoting aggregation and reducing soil compaction. It enhances the soil's ability to retain water and allows better aeration, which creates an optimal environment for wheat root growth. Improved soil structure also facilitates root penetration, leading to better nutrient and water uptake by the plants (Cavigelli & Dao, 2019; Bary et al., 2018).

Water Retention and Drought Resistance

Compost increases the water-holding capacity of the soil. In regions with limited water availability or during dry spells, soil amended with compost can retain moisture for longer periods. This helps wheat plants withstand drought conditions and reduces water stress, leading to more stable yields even in challenging environments (Zhang et al., 2017; López-Bellido et al., 2021).

Suppression of Diseases and Pests

Compost contains beneficial microorganisms that can help suppress harmful pathogens in the soil. These microorganisms can protect wheat plants from diseases, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. Additionally, healthy and vigorous plants resulting from compost application are better equipped to withstand pest attacks (Litterick et al., 2004; Kowalska et al., 2019) .

pH Regulation

Compost can help buffer soil pH, making it more stable and less prone to drastic changes. Maintaining the right soil pH is crucial for optimal nutrient availability to wheat plants. Compost helps prevent soil pH from becoming too acidic or alkaline, ensuring that essential nutrients remain accessible to the crops (Cambardella & Elliott, 1993; Khattak & McNeil, 2019).

Reduced Environmental Impact

Compost is an eco-friendly option for enhancing soil fertility and crop productivity. By recycling organic waste materials, composting helps reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, thus minimizing greenhouse gas emissions. It also promotes sustainable agriculture by reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers, which can have adverse environmental effects (Bernal-Vicente & Ros, 2018).

Long-Term Benefits

Continuous use of compost over the years can lead to cumulative improvements in soil health and fertility. As the organic matter content increases, soil biodiversity thrives, and overall soil ecosystem health improves. This creates a positive feedback loop that benefits wheat crops and the environment in the long run (Alburquerque et al., 2014; Ranjan & Verma, 2016; )..

In summary, compost application is a valuable practice for wheat farmers, as it enriches the soil with nutrients, improves soil structure, enhances water retention, supports disease and pest management, and promotes sustainable agricultural practices. By harnessing the power of compost as organic fertilizer along with bio and chemical fertilizers, farmers can achieve higher wheat yields, improve productivity, and contribute to food security and environmental sustainability (Gutiérrez-Miceli et al., 2008; Nigussie et al., 2016; Kumar et al., 2019. Mahanta et al., 2019; Mahmoudi et al., 2017).

Zinc plays a crucial role in enhancing wheat yield and productivity by influencing various physiological and biochemical processes in plants. It is an essential micronutrient required for proper growth, development, and functioning of wheat crops. Zinc is involved in numerous enzymatic activities, including the synthesis of plant growth regulators, protein synthesis, and carbohydrate metabolism. It is particularly critical for processes such as photosynthesis, seed germination, root development, and pollen formation. Adequate zinc availability ensures optimal nutrient uptake, nutrient transport, and utilization in wheat plants. Zinc deficiency in wheat crops can lead to various growth abnormalities and yield losses. It can result in stunted plant growth, reduced tillering, delayed flowering, and poor grain development. Zinc deficiency also affects the overall health and vigor of wheat plants, making them more susceptible to diseases and pests. Therefore, maintaining optimal zinc levels in the soil is vital for maximizing wheat yield and productivity (Amanullah et al., Cakmak et al., 2010).

By ensuring sufficient zinc availability in the soil, either through soil amendments or foliar applications, farmers can alleviate zinc deficiency and improve wheat yield. Proper zinc management strategies can enhance nutrient uptake, promote healthy plant growth, increase resistance to stresses, and ultimately contribute to higher wheat productivity. Integrating zinc supplementation with other agronomic practices, such as compost application and biofertilizer use, can further enhance the positive effects on wheat yield and overall crop performance (Amanullah et al., .

Beneficial microbes (BMO) or bio-fertilizers, which are microbial inoculants containing beneficial microorganisms, have been recognized as effective tools for enhancing wheat yield and productivity. These microorganisms, such as nitrogen-fixing bacteria, phosphate-solubilizing bacteria, and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, play a crucial role in nutrient mobilization and uptake, disease suppression, and overall plant health. When applied to wheat fields, biofertilizers establish symbiotic relationships with the crop, leading to improved nutrient availability and utilization, as well as enhanced stress tolerance (Egamberdiyeva & Höflich, 2003; Hussain et al., 2014). By incorporating biofertilizers in wheat cultivation, farmers can reduce their reliance on chemical fertilizers, minimize environmental pollution, and promote sustainable agriculture practices. The combined use of compost and biofertilizers can further synergize their positive effects, leading to improved soil health, higher nutrient availability, disease suppression, and ultimately, increased wheat yield and food productivity. These sustainable practices not only ensure food security but also contribute to long-term environmental and economic benefits (Amanullah et al., Tahir et al., 2019).

In semiarid regions, achieving high wheat productivity is a challenging task due to limited water availability and nutrient deficiencies. This study aimed to address these challenges and improve wheat productivity in semiarid regions, specifically in Pakistan, where wheat cultivation is crucial for food security. The research focused on the effects of poultry manure composts (PMC) and zinc (Zn) levels on wheat yield and yield components, with an additional emphasis on incorporating beneficial microbes for sustainable agricultural practices.

The results of the field experiment conducted in Harichand Charsadda, Pakistan, revealed the significant positive impact of the application of beneficial microbe (BMO) on wheat crops. The wheat plants treated with BMO exhibited delayed physiological maturity, taller plant stature, increased leaf area, more grains per spike, and ultimately higher yields. This demonstrates the potential of incorporating beneficial microbes to enhance wheat productivity and overall crop performance.

Among the different poultry manure composts (PMC), urea-treated PMC (UTPMC) showed the most significant effects on wheat yield and productivity. The application of UTPMC led to improved growth and development of wheat plants, resulting in higher grain yields. This finding suggests that utilizing urea-treated PMC can be an effective alternative to chemical fertilizers, promoting sustainable agricultural practices in semiarid regions.

Furthermore, the study highlighted the importance of zinc (Zn) application in enhancing wheat productivity. Applying 15 kg Zn per hectare resulted in favorable outcomes, indicating that zinc plays a crucial role in improving wheat yield and yield components. Zinc is known to enhance nutrient uptake, enzyme activity, and overall plant growth, making it a valuable micronutrient for wheat production in semiarid climates.

The findings of this study emphasize the potential benefits of synergizing urea-treated poultry manure compost (UTPMC) with zinc application to maximize wheat productivity in semiarid regions. By incorporating beneficial microbes, such as BMO, along with the appropriate use of PMC and zinc, farmers can achieve sustainable agricultural practices while enhancing crop yields and contributing to food security.

Suggestions for Farmers:

Incorporate urea-treated poultry manure compost (UTPMC) into soil management practices as a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers. This will improve soil fertility, nutrient availability, and overall crop productivity.

Consider the application of zinc (Zn) at appropriate levels to enhance wheat yield and quality. Conduct soil testing to determine the optimum zinc requirement and apply it accordingly.

Explore the use of beneficial microbes, such as BMO, to improve plant growth, disease resistance, and overall crop performance. Incorporate biofertilizers containing beneficial microbes into crop management strategies.

Practice proper irrigation management techniques to optimize water use efficiency. Adopt water-saving technologies, such as drip irrigation or moisture sensors, to ensure efficient water utilization in wheat cultivation.

Implement integrated pest management strategies to control pests and diseases effectively. Utilize natural pest control methods, biological agents, and resistant cultivars to minimize the use of chemical pesticides.

Suggestions for Policy Makers:

Promote and support research and development initiatives focused on sustainable agricultural practices in semiarid regions, with a particular emphasis on wheat production.

Provide incentives and subsidies to farmers to encourage the use of organic amendments, such as urea-treated poultry manure compost, in place of chemical fertilizers. This will promote sustainable soil management practices and reduce environmental pollution.

Invest in agricultural extension services to educate farmers about the benefits of incorporating beneficial microbes, such as BMO, in crop production systems. Facilitate the dissemination of knowledge and technology transfer to improve wheat productivity.

Establish quality control measures for zinc fertilizers to ensure their availability and affordability to farmers. Promote the importance of zinc as a micronutrient for crop production through awareness campaigns and training programs.

Collaborate with research institutions and agricultural organizations to conduct field trials and demonstrations on the synergistic effects of compost, zinc, and beneficial microbes in wheat cultivation. This will provide practical insights and recommendations for farmers and further enhance wheat productivity in semiarid regions.

Author Contributions: A. designed and supervised the experiment. Wrote the draft paper, and revised the final paper. S.A.A. conducted field experiments, took data, analysed data, made all tables, and wrote the report for MPhil thesis degree requirement. Both authors approved the final paper for publication.

Funding: This research received no external funding.

Institutional Review Board Statement: Not applicable.

Informed Consent Statement: Not applicable.

Data Availability Statement: The mean tables in the results section present the summarized data from this research, while the original replicated data and ANOVA tables for all parameters can be found in the additional tables provided.

Acknowledgments: We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the labors, farm manager, and director of the Agriculture Research Station Harichand Charsadda, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa-Pakistan, for their invaluable assistance and cooperation.

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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No competing interests reported.

ADDITIONALTABLESANNOVANDREPLICATIONS.docx

Maximizing Wheat Productivity: Synergizing Urine versus Urea Treated Poultry Manure Compost with Zinc and Beneficial Microbes in Semiarid Climates

Status:

Version 1

Abstract

Introduction

Materials and Methods

The experiment of the following factors and their levels:

Control

BMO, Preparation and Application:

Statistical analysis

Results

Phenological development:

Growth:

Yield components:

Yield and harvest index:

Discussion

Conclusions

Suggestions for Farmers:

Suggestions for Policy Makers:

Declarations

References

Additional Declarations

Supplementary Files

Status:

Version 1