Abstract Background Nitrogen (N) and boron (B) are essential for optimal wheat growth and development; however, their imbalanced application may compromise yield and soil fertility. Despite their importance, limited studies have addressed their interactive effects. This study aimed to evaluate the combined influence of N and B fertilization on wheat yield and residual soil chemical properties to inform sustainable nutrient management strategies. Methods The experiment was conducted during the 2020–2021 cropping seasons in Dhading, Nepal, with a split-plot design using the variety BL3063. The main plots received N application levels (0, 80, 100, and 120 kg ha⁻¹), while the subplots were treated with B levels (0, 1, and 2 kg ha⁻¹), replicated three times. Soil physico-chemical properties and crop phenological parameters were measured to assess the effects of N and B applications on wheat performance and soil health. Results N application significantly enhanced grain yield, biological yield, and straw yield, with the highest grain yield observed at 120 kg N ha⁻¹ (8143.89 kg ha⁻¹), a 49.3% increase compared to the control (5455.87 kg ha⁻¹). In both 2020 and 2021, N application also significantly increased tissue N concentration at all phenological stages, with the greatest accumulation recorded during tillering under 120 kg N ha⁻¹, confirming a clear dose-specific and phenological response. B application notably reduced spikelet sterility and improved grain yield. The lowest sterility rate (33.2%) was observed under the application of 120 kg N ha⁻¹ and 2 kg B ha⁻¹, representing a 35.9% reduction compared to the control treatment (51.8% sterility at 0 kg B ha⁻¹ and 0 kg N ha⁻¹). Indicating a synergistic interaction that improved reproductive success. Soil analysis revealed that N application reduced soil pH especially in 2021 while total N content increased with higher N rates. B availability was significantly influenced by B treatments, with year-to-year variation. Conclusion Strategic N and B management can enhance wheat productivity while maintaining soil fertility. Applying both nutrients in a balanced manner can optimize yield. Long-term research is needed to develop sustainable fertilization strategies and assess the effects on soil properties. Integrating micronutrient management into nutrient recommendations is essential for improving wheat profitability.
Ghimire et al. (Mon,) studied this question.