Enhancing Sustainable Agriculture through Innovative Soil Science Technologies

Abstract

Modern agriculture demands sustainable solutions to increase productivity while preserving environmental health. This study investigates the effectiveness of water-soluble combined fertilizers (WCF) in improving the growth, yield, and quality of winter wheat (Bezostaya 100) and potato (Marfona) under low-fertility soil conditions in Armenia. The WCF contains macro- and micronutrients, amino acids, and chelating agents, tailored to meet the nutritional needs of crops from germination to maturity. The experimental design included seed soaking and foliar application at key growth stages. Results revealed that WCF significantly increased field germination rates, enhanced root and shoot biomass, and improved crop yields compared to both control and conventional fertilizer treatments. A significant enhancement in wheat grain yield was observed, reaching up to 42.9% more than the control treatment. In the case of potatoes, production increased by 44.5%, accompanied by improved levels of dry matter and starch, and a noticeable decrease in nitrate concentration. These findings demonstrate that WCF can serve as a valuable component in sustainable nutrient management, enhancing crop performance and economic efficiency. The combination of seed priming and foliar feeding ensures nutrient availability throughout critical growth stages. This study supports the broader application of WCF in environmentally responsible agriculture and encourages further research into its benefits across diverse crops and soil types.