Effect of struvite fertilization on the nutritional value of winter wheat cultivars grown in south-western Poland in field research

The effects of struvite on the nutritional value and composition of winter wheat remain insufficiently explored. In a one-year field experiment, three phosphorus fertilization treatments (control, superphosphate, struvite) were compared using two wheat cultivars. Grain yield did not differ significantly between cultivars, but notable cultivar-specific variations occurred in grain P and Cu and in straw K. Phosphorus fertilization influenced grain N, K, Mg, Na, and several micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn). Struvite significantly increased Mg and Fe concentrations. True protein was higher in Chevignon compared to Activus, as higher values of Total AA and Total EAA were found in Chevignon), whereas crude fiber was higher in Activus. Under P fertilization, significant differences were found in CP, ADF, and CEL; CP under struvite was ∼13 % lower than under superphosphate and ∼4 % lower than in the control. Phosphorus fertilization also enhanced sulfur-containing amino acids, especially cystine and methionine content and their relative to lysine (as LYS = 100 %). Chevignon showed higher total and essential amino acid content. Overall, struvite maintained yield and improved grain quality—particularly Mg, Fe, and some amino acids—indicating potential as a sustainable fertilizer, despite results being limited to a single season on acidic soil.