Assess Effect of Different Level of Soil Salinity and Nutrition Elements to Improve Wheat Crop Production

BACKGROUND: The unfavorable effects of soil salinity on crop physiology including nutrient uptake significantly affect crop production in the arid and semi-arid areas. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of soil salinity and nutrient status on Wheat (cv. Chamran) leaf nutrient uptake and yield, identify key soil factors influencing nutrient absorption, and propose optimal management strategies under field saline conditions in Khuzestan Province, Iran. METHODS: Field experiments were conducted at two saline sites (Veis and Arab Asad). Soil electrical conductivity (EC), pH, and concentrations of Na, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, and B were measured at multiple growth stages. Wheat leaf nutrient concentrations were determined for the same elements. Linear regression models (PROC REG, SAS) were applied to evaluate relationships between soil properties at different levels and wheat nutrient uptake and yield. RESULT: Soil EC ranged from 0.8 to 9.2 dS m-1, and pH varied between 7.0 and 8.1. Wheat leaf nutrients across sites were: Na (2.3–5.0 mg g-1), K (18.7–34.6 mg g-1), Mg (8.0–12.4 mg g-1), B (13.1–16.9 mg g-1), Fe (42.3–75.5 mg g-1), Zn (10.1–19.1 mg g-1), Mn (13.6–27.4 mg g-1), and Cu (2.4–5.0 mg g-1). Regression models were significant (R² = 0.51–0.87). Higher EC and Na increased leaf Na and Mn, whereas K, Zn, and Cu uptake decreased at EC >4 dS m-1. Differences in nutrient uptake corresponded with predicted reductions in wheat yield. Soil salinity and nutrient status are reliable predictors of wheat nutrient uptake and yield. CONCLUSION: Based on observed effects, integrated K and micronutrient fertilization combined with soil leaching is recommended as the most effective strategy to mitigate salinity stress and sustain wheat productivity in Khuzestan and similar arid and semi-arid regions.