Impacts of K-humate on Wheat Production and Soil Salinity: A Review

Abstract

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L) is the most significant staple food in terms of cultivation and consumption by humans around the globe. Most people worldwide regularly consume wheat or wheat products in their daily diet. Recently, wheat production has been negatively affected by climate change, especially drought. On the other hand, the population of wheat-consuming countries is also increasing rapidly. Thus, the production of wheat cannot meet the rising demand of the world's growing population. Furthermore, excessive application of mineral fertilizer in soil to increase wheat production has degraded most of the soils. Soil salinity and drought stress, particularly in arid regions, negatively impact wheat production. Thus, it is urgent to improve wheat production sustainably using bio-stimulants. The impacts of K-humate on wheat production and soil salinity together have not been investigated in previous studies. The review provides an overview, summary, and synthesis of recent research related to the topic. The objective of the review was to summarize the previous understanding of the impacts of K-humate on wheat production and soil salinity. Application of K-humate has not only increased wheat production sustainably but also improved soil properties and wheat tolerance to soil salinity and drought stress. The provided information may be helpful to researchers, policymakers, and wheat farmers in preparing their wheat-production plans using eco-friendly organic fertilizers, such as K-humate, to improve wheat production and reduce environmental constraints.