Effects of foliar feeding under different soil fertilization conditions on the yield structure and quality of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Abstract

The aim of the study was to analyse foliar feeding of winter wheat cv. ‘Kobra’ in combination with different soil fertilization treatments with calcium and magnesium compounds. The foliar fertilizers INSOL PK + 5% urea solution and EKOSOL U were applied 3 times during the during the growing season in four soil fertilization treatments: control without fertilization, NPK, NPK + MgSO₄ × 7H₂O, and NPK + CaO + MgO. The investigations involved a 3-year field experiment established on medium soil with a pH of 4.2 in 1 mole KCl × dm^-3 and with the granulometric composition of clayey silt. The soil was characterised by a low content of available phosphorus and potassium as well as a very low content of sulphur and magnesium. The foliar fertilizers applied and the soil fertilization treatments had a varied effect on the yield parameters, the macronutrient content in grain and straw, and the content and quality of gluten. Among the soil fertilization treatments, the best production results and quality parameters of winter wheat were obtained after the application of the dose with magnesium lime. The foliar fertilizers had a greater impact on yield and gluten content than on the mineral composition of winter wheat grain and straw.