Response of Zero Tillage and Crop Residue Management Combined with Nitrogen Application on Wheat Yield under Central Plain Zone of Uttar Pradesh, India

This study investigated the combined effects of zero tillage, crop residue incorporation, and nitrogen application on wheat yield. A two-year field trial (2022-23 and 2023-24) was conducted at the Agricultural Farm Unit-6, Integral University, Lucknow, using a split plot design. Four crop establishment practices (zero tillage without residue and with residues of mungbean, rice, and maize) and five nitrogen levels (0%, 50%, 75%, 100%, and 125% of the recommended dose) were evaluated for their effects on wheat yield and related parameters. Statistical analysis revealed that residue incorporation significantly enhanced yield attributes. Among the treatments, zero tillage with mungbean residue (ZT4) produced the highest effective tillers, spike length, grains per spike, grain test weight, and grain yield. Nitrogen application at 100% RDN (N4) optimized yield and straw production without diminishing returns observed with higher doses. The interaction between ZT4 and N4 produced the best results, demonstrating the synergistic benefits of residuebased tillage and optimal nitrogen application. This study concludes that integrating mungbean residue in zero-tillage systems with 100% RDN significantly enhances wheat productivity, soil health, and sustainability, offering a viable strategy for improving resource efficiency and minimizing environmental impacts.