Aluminum alters soil dynamics and wheat micronutrient uptake under limed and unlimed acidic soil conditions

Aluminium toxicity poses significant challenges to agricultural productivity worldwide. This study investigated the effects of Al on soil properties and tissue micronutrient contents in two wheat varieties, Balcha (Al-tolerant) and Dursa (Al-sensitive), under limed and unlimed soil conditions. The experiment was conducted in a lath-house using acidic soil, with five Al rates (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mg kg⁻1) in a completely randomized design with three replications. Al rates had no significant effect on soil micronutrient contents in unlimed soils but caused substantial increase in the limed ones. Liming raised soil pH to 5.8, alleviated Al toxicity, and reduced Fe and Mn levels by 98% and 213%, respectively. In plant tissues, Al rates under unlimed conditions reduced leaf Fe, Mn, and Zn contents. Under limed conditions, however, Al rates enhanced Fe, Mn and Zn uptake by lowering soil pH. Overall, regardless of Al rate, Fe and Mn were higher in unlimed soils, whereas Zn and Cu were higher in limed soils. Balcha consistently exhibited superior Fe and Zn uptake across all Al rates and liming scenarios, while Dursa accumulated higher Mn levels in both scenarios. Liming enhances soil conditions, improves nutrient availability, and mitigates Al toxicity, when integrated with Al-tolerant varieties like Balcha, to boost nutrient uptake in acidic soils.