Potential soil moisture deficit: A useful approach to save water with enhanced growth and productivity of wheat crop

Abstract

Wheat is the main crop in the world ranks after rice and the largest grain source of Pakistan. Among several reasons for diminishing wheat yield in Pakistan, water stress throughout the growing season decreases crop production because of the short life span. Two years (2015–16 and 2016–17) of field experiments were conducted to assess the impact of various water regimes (full irrigation, irrigation at 45, 60, and 75 mm potential soil moisture deficit (PSMD)) on the growth and yield of wheat. Maximum crop growth rate was recorded by application of irrigation at 45 mm PSMD. Application of irrigation at 45 mm PSMD ensured maximum radiation use efficiency regarding total dry matter production and grain yield. The maximum number of productive tillers, spike length, and grain yield were recorded under 45 mm PSDM treatment. The present results show that the effect of water is more pronounced regarding the growth and productivity of wheat. Application of irrigation at 45 mm PSMD ensures higher economical yield. HIGHLIGHTS Physiological availability of water to plants is a key factor in crop production in the world.; Potential soil moisture deficit (PSMD) is a useful approach to save water.; Application of irrigation at 45 mm PSMD ensures higher economical yield.;

Keywords

• dry matter
• water deficit
• wheat
• yield