Summary
This multi-location field trial in Yunnan Province investigated optimal nitrogen fertiliser rates for three wheat cultivars across three distinct agroecological zones, finding that yield-maximising nitrogen doses varied significantly by cultivar and local climate (270–450 kg urea/ha). Quality indices including protein content, gluten properties, and sedimentation value were consistently lowest under zero nitrogen and generally highest or second-highest at 360 kg/ha, though the specific nitrogen dose required to optimise individual quality parameters differed by cultivar and location. The findings suggest that locally-adapted nitrogen management can reconcile productivity and quality objectives in Yunnan wheat production.
UK applicability
The cultivars and agroecological zones studied (south subtropical to low-latitude highland monsoon climates in southern China) differ substantially from UK temperate maritime conditions, limiting direct transferability of optimal nitrogen rates. However, the methodology and principle of location- and variety-specific nitrogen optimisation may inform UK wheat management research under changing climatic conditions.
Key measures
Urea application rates (0, 270, 360, 450 kg/ha); grain yield; protein content; flour yield; hardness index; dough development time; dough stable time; wet gluten content; sedimentation value; water absorption
Outcomes reported
The study measured wheat grain yield and quality parameters (protein content, flour yield, hardness index, dough development time, dough stability, wet gluten content, sedimentation value, water absorption) across three cultivars at four nitrogen application rates in three ecologically distinct locations in Yunnan Province.
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