Impact of Organic and Chemical Fertilizers on Wheat Yield, Nutrient Uptake, and Soil Biological Properties in the Punjab Agro-Climatic Zone: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

The Punjab agro-climatic zone is among the most prolific wheat-producing areas in South Asia and is crucial for maintaining national food security. However, decades of intensive cultivation under the rice–wheat cropping system, coupled with heavy reliance on chemical fertilizers, have contributed to declining soil fertility, nutrient imbalances, reduced soil organic carbon, and deterioration of biological soil health. Sustainable nutrient management has therefore emerged as a critical challenge for maintaining wheat productivity while preserving ecosystem functions. This review critically examines the effects of organic fertilizers, chemical fertilizers, and integrated nutrient management (INM) practices on wheat yield, nutrient uptake, and soil biological properties in the Punjab agro-climatic zone. Evidence from long-term experiments and field studies indicates that the exclusive use of inorganic fertilizers often enhances short- term productivity but may adversely affect soil microbial activity, organic matter content, and nutrient-use efficiency over time. Conversely, organic nutrient sources such as farmyard manure, vermicompost, green manure, poultry manure, and crop residues improve soil structure, microbial biomass, enzymatic activity, nutrient cycling, and soil carbon sequestration, although their nutrient release rates may not always meet crop demand during critical growth stages. The integration of organic and inorganic nutrient sources has been identified as the most effective strategy for sustaining wheat productivity and improving soil health. Integrated nutrient management enhances grain and straw yield, increases nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrient uptake, and promotes favorable biological indicators including microbial biomass carbon, dehydrogenase activity, phosphatase activity, and soil respiration. Furthermore, INM contributes to improved nutrient-use efficiency, reduced environmental degradation, and enhanced resilience of the rice–wheat production system. The review highlights current knowledge gaps and future research priorities aimed at developing site-specific nutrient management strategies that balance productivity, profitability, and environmental sustainability. Adoption of integrated nutrient management practices is essential for ensuring long-term soil fertility and sustainable wheat production in Punjab under changing climatic and agricultural conditions.