Effects of humic and fulvic acids on forage production and grain quality of triticale under various soil salinity levels

Abstract The problem of soil salinity poses a significant challenge to global agriculture, adversely affecting crop development and yield. Triticale, a hybrid cereal crop, shows promise due to its resilience and adaptability. However, high soil salinity can hinder its full potential. Humic substances, derived from organic matter decomposition, have been found to enhance plants' ability to withstand environmental stress. This research aims to investigate the impact of humic compounds, particularly humic and fulvic acids, on triticale development, yield components, and biochemical composition. The study was conducted in three locations with varying salinity levels in northern Egypt over two consecutive winter seasons. The results showed that humic substances had a positive effect on various growth parameters, including plant height and root length. Additionally, they led to significant increases in fresh fodder production, relative water content, and 1000-grain weight, mitigating the detrimental effects of soil salinity. The presence of humic substances also positively influenced several physiological aspects of plants, such as increased chlorophyll content, reduced proline accumulation, and enhanced protein and carbohydrate levels, particularly under saline conditions. Correlation analysis revealed significant positive associations between plant characteristics influenced by humic substances, indicating their potential to improve growth, photosynthesis, and yield. These findings underscore the potential benefits of supplementing triticale crops with humic materials to enhance productivity and quality in saline soils. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and optimize their application in practical agricultural settings.