One-Time Nitrogen Fertilizer Application Using Controlled-Release Urea Ensured the Yield, Nitrogen Use Efficiencies, and Profits of Winter Wheat

One-time fertilization with controlled-released fertilizer (CRF) is a promising way for reducing labor cost, increasing nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and alleviating environmental pollution in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivation. However, CRF release characteristics are related to various factors such as soil properties, temperature and precipitation, and further study is needed in developing suitable fertilizer formulas adapting to local conditions. In this study, five types of CRF were used for a one-time application in a two-year field experiment conducted at two sites with two wheat cultivars. Their effects on soil inorganic nitrogen (SIN) content, nitrogen uptake, wheat growth and grain yield were investigated. The results indicated that nitrogen supply in the CRF-60/80 treatments not only ensured the tiller differentiation at the early growth stage, but also provided adequate SIN after the jointing stage, thereby facilitating the dry matter accumulation and improving post-anthesis photosynthates accumulating in grains. When compared with conventional split fertilization, the CRF-60 and 80 treatments improved the NUE by 9.7-12.1%, and boosted farmers' economic efficiency by 282.4-327.2 CNY ha(-1). According to our research, a one-time application of CRF-60 and CRF-80 could meet the needs of the two-peak nitrogen demand of wheat in Jiangyan and Yanghzou respectively, therefore increasing NUE and having low labor costs for wheat fertilizer application.

Automated summary

One-time application of controlled-released fertilizer (CRF) can reduce labor cost, increase nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), and alleviate environmental pollution. Further research is needed to develop suitable fertilizer formulas for local conditions. The study found that one-time application of CRF-60 and CRF-80 improved NUE, economic efficiency, and reduced labor costs.