Published online by Cambridge University Press: 27 March 2009
The N, P and K contents of leaves, straw and grain of the durum wheat Kyperounda, the aestivum wheat Pitic 62 and Athenais barley under semi-arid conditions (150–400 mm) as influenced by N and P fertilizers are reported (N rates: 0–105 kg/ha; P rates: 0–26 kg/ha).
Fertilizer N increased linearly the N content of the leaves, straw and grain as well as the K content of leaves and straw, but slightly reduced P content of the grain. Straw K content was increased relatively more in Athenais barley. Such increases of N and K content occurred beyond the N rates giving maximum grain and sheaf yields. Increased K content of the straw resulting from fertilizer N is wasteful where the straw is removed, and accelerates depletion of soil K. Durum wheat grain containing more than 2–8% N showed less than 6% yellow berry (mealy grains) but at lower N contents yellow berry could be high or low depending on location.
Fertilizer P did not significantly influence the P content of any of the components analysed even though it increased grain and straw yields, particularly in the drier years.