The goal of this study is to identify the optimum NPK fertilization to maximize yield and productivity under local environmental constraints. To address this concern, a field experiment was conducted at Agronomy Research Farm, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, during the rabi seasons of 2019–2020 and 2020–2021 in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Treatments consisted of five Chinese wheat hybrids (18A-1, JM-1215, JM-1683, JM-1216, H-1) and one Australian hybrid (WS-1) with two local checks (Wadan-17 and Pirsabak-15) and two NPK levels, i.e., basal dose (120-90-60 NPK kg ha⁻¹) and 25% higher than basal dose (150-112-75 NPK kg ha⁻¹). The results of the two years’ experimentation exhibited that wheat hybrid WS-1 produced higher tillers (444 and 423 m⁻²), leaf area (32.7 and 30.7 cm²), leaf area index (5.0 and 5.4), plant height (105.3 and 103.1 cm), spike length (21.9 and 21.5 cm), spikes (329 and 322 m⁻²), grains spike⁻¹ (59 and 58), thousand grain weight (62.2 and 62.2 g) and biological yield (9769 and 9906 kg ha⁻¹) as compared to local check varieties. Wheat hybrids WS-1, JM-1683, H-1 and 18A1 produced 31%, 27%, 26% and 26% higher grain yield than local check Pirsabak-15, respectively, while a higher harvest index (61 and 59%) was noted for JM-1683 in both years. Application of NPK at the rate of 150-112-75 kg ha⁻¹ increased emergence (87 m⁻²), tillers (421 and 407 m⁻²), leaf area (23 and 20.5 cm²), leaf area index (3.3), plant height (98.2 and 96.9 cm), spike length (15.9 and 16.3 cm), spikes (317 and 314 m⁻²), grains spike⁻¹ (43), thousand grain weight (56.5 and 56.3 g), biological yield (9057 and 9163 kg ha⁻¹) and grain yield (3702 and 3778 kg ha⁻¹) compared to the lower level of NPK (120-90-60 kg ha⁻¹). It is concluded that Chinese wheat hybrid JM-1683 and Australian hybrid WS-1 responded better to the higher level of NPK (150-112-75 kg ha⁻¹) in terms of grain yield and its components and are therefore recommended for the agro-climatic condition of the Peshawar valley.

In the face of increasing climate change and declining soil health, innovative agricultural strategies are urgently needed. This review highlights the promising synergy between cover crops and reduced tillage practices as a climate-smart approach to enhance soil carbon sequestration and improve soil quality. By delving into the fundamental mechanisms of soil organic matter dynamics, including microbial mediation and carbon stabilization processes, this paper sets the stage for understanding how these practices work together to sequester carbon in soils. Drawing on robust empirical evidence from long-term field experiments and advanced modeling studies, we illustrated how cover crops, through increased residue inputs and enhanced root biomass, and reduced tillage, by preserving soil structure and moisture, together create conditions that favor significant soil organic carbon accumulation and improved nutrient cycling. Moreover, advanced methodologies such as soil sampling protocols, isotopic labeling, and remote sensing integrated with process-based models are reviewed to quantify these benefits accurately. We also explore the economic and environmental dimensions of adopting these practices through life cycle assessments and cost–benefit analyses, which underscore their potential to deliver substantial non-market benefits. Policy implications, including existing incentive structures and barriers to adoption, are critically discussed, along with strategies to overcome these challenges through targeted extension services and stakeholder engagement. This review highlights the future of sustainable farming, emphasizing precision agriculture, genetic advancements, and interdisciplinary research to refine cover cropping and reduced tillage practices. By adopting these strategies, farmers can improve soil health, store more carbon, and build resilient agricultural systems that support both the environment and long-term food security.

Soil physical and hydraulic properties are fundamental indicators of soil functionality, influencing water movement, nutrient availability, and root growth. Accurate determination of these parameters requires precise sampling and standardized analytical procedures. This study was conducted to develop technical competency in soil sampling and to assess key soil physical and hydraulic properties across different soil types. Both disturbed and undisturbed soil samples were collected from the 0–15 cm depth following standard methods. Disturbed samples, obtained with augers, were used for the determination of soil texture, pH, electrical conductivity, and organic matter, whereas undisturbed core samples (5 cm × 5 cm) were used for the measurement of bulk density, porosity, soil moisture, and hydraulic conductivity. Soil texture was determined by the hydrometer method, and bulk density and particle density were used to calculate total porosity. Soil moisture content was estimated gravimetrically by oven-drying at 105 °C for 24 hours. Saturated hydraulic conductivity was measured using a laboratory permeameter and computed based on Darcy’s Law under constant head conditions. Results revealed textural classes ranging from loam to silt loam, with bulk density values between 1.33 and 1.62 g cm⁻³ and porosity between 39% and 50%. Saturated hydraulic conductivity varied from 0.036 to 0.297 cm hr⁻¹ among soil samples, indicating moderate to high permeability. These findings demonstrate the interrelation between soil structure and hydraulic behavior, providing valuable insights for soil management and sustainable agricultural practices.

| To manage nitrogen sources i.e. farmyard manure (FYM), poultry manure (PM) and urea with and without beneficial microbes (BM) for improving phenology and crop stand of wheat , research was conducted at the Agronomy Research Farm, The University of Agriculture Peshawar, during 2019-20. The experiment comprised of nitrogen application from integrated sources (50% FYM + 50% urea + BM, 50% FYM + 50% PM + BM, 50% PM + 50% urea + BM, 50% FYM + 50% urea – BM, 50% FYM + 50% PM – BM and 50% PM + 50% urea – BM) and N sources application timing (1, 15 and 30 days before sowing). Experiment also consists of two controls: one was 100% N from urea and other was without fertilizer. Organic sources (FYM and PM) added in the field above mentioned days before sowing, while urea applied in split form after sowing. These ratios compensated total of 120 kg N ha -1 . Nitrogen application at the rate of 120 kg ha -1 compensated as 50% from FYM and 50% from urea without beneficial microbes resulted in delayed emergence (15.4 days) as compared to rest of treatments, while delayed heading (114.8 days), anthesis (124.7 days) and physiological maturity (158.9 days) were recorded with application of 120 kg N ha -1 applied as 50% from FYM and 50% from PM with beneficial microbes as compared to remaining treatments. Among the nitrogen sources application timing, delayed emergence (15.5 days) was recorded when nitrogen organic sources applied one day before sowing, while delayed heading (115.1 days), anthesis (125.3 days) and physiological maturity (159 days) were recorded when these sources applied one month before sowing. Maximum leaf area tiller -1 (118.9 cm 2 ) and plant height (92.4 cm) were noted with addition of 120 kg N ha -1 applied as 50% from FYM and 50% from PM with beneficial microbes. Likewise, nitrogen sources application one month before sowing has increased leaf area tiller -1 (121.6 cm 2 ) and plant height (91.3 cm). Therefore, it is recommended that 120 kg N ha -1 compensated as 50% each from FYM and PM with the combination of beneficial microbes and its application in the field one month before sowing can enhance phenology and crop stand.