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Article

Influence of Partial Vermicompost Tea Substitution for Mineral Nitrogen Fertilizers on Yield and Nutrient Content of Wheat Cultivars

by
Hashim Abdel-Lattif
1 and
Mohamed Abbas
2,*
1
Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
2
Department of Natural Resources, Faculty of African Postgraduate Studies, Cairo University, Cairo 12613, Egypt
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Crops 2025, 5(4), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/crops5040051
Submission received: 25 June 2025 / Revised: 29 July 2025 / Accepted: 2 August 2025 / Published: 5 August 2025
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Abstract

Chemical fertilizers pose significant risks to both human health and the environment. To investigate the effect of substituting nitrogen fertilizer with vermicompost tea on wheat yield, shoot chemical constituents, and grain quality under clay-loam soil conditions, two field experiments were conducted at the Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Egypt, during the winter seasons of 2021–2022 and 2022–2023. A split-plot design in randomized complete blocks with three replications was employed. Vermicompost tea was assigned to the main plots, while wheat cultivars were assigned to the subplots. The cultivars were evaluated under four treatments involving partial substitution of mineral nitrogen (recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN%, 190 kg N ha−1): a control (90% of RDN + 25 kg vermicompost tea), 80% of RDN + 37.5 kg vermicompost tea, and 70% of RDN + 50 kg vermicompost tea. Nitrogen fertilizer (RDN%) was applied at rates of 190 (control), 170 (90%), 150 (80%), and 130 (70%) kg N ha−1. The results indicated that partially substituting mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea significantly increased grain weight/Ha, chlorophyll A, chlorophyll B, carotenoids, nitrogen, phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) content in shoots, as well as ash, crude protein, crude fiber, total sugar, and N, P, and K content in wheat grains. The grain weight/Ha of the Sakha-95, Giza-171, and Sads-14 cultivars increased by 38.6%, 33.5%, and 39.3%, respectively, when treated with 70% RDN + 50 kg vermicompost tea. The combination of the Sads-14 cultivar and 70% RDN + 50 kg vermicompost tea resulted in the highest values for grain weight/ha (9.43 tons ha−1), chlorophyll A (1.39 mg/g), chlorophyll B (1.04 mg/g), N (5.08%), P (1.63%), and P (2.43%) content in shoots. The same combination also improved ash (2.89%), crude fiber (2.84%), and K (6.05%) content in grains. In conclusion, the application of vermicompost tea in conjunction with chemical fertilizers offers a viable alternative to using chemical fertilizers alone, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and improving wheat production. It is recommended that mineral nitrogen fertilizer be partially replaced with vermicompost tea to enhance both the productivity and grain quality of wheat while minimizing environmental pollution.

1. Introduction

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) serves as a fundamental food source for approximately two billion individuals globally [1]. It is considered one of the most important cereal crops, especially in Egypt, owing to its adaptability to diverse climatic conditions and agricultural practices. It thrives in various environments, including humid, subhumid, semiarid, and arid regions [2]. Wheat contributes around 30% of the daily caloric intake for the global population. The grains of wheat are rich in vital nutrients, including proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. Additionally, wheat is a valuable source of bioactive compounds used in the medical industry, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, glycosides, steroids, tannins, and saponins [3,4,5].
In sustainable agriculture, the use of vermicompost has a beneficial impact on agricultural crop productivity through several mechanisms. These include increased yields, enhanced seed germination and plant development, improved nutrient availability, better soil structure, enhanced plant protection, and improved water retention [6]. Chemical fertilizers are commonly used to enhance crop yields; however, prolonged use can lead to increased soil pH, a reduction in soil microorganisms, heightened pollution, and disruptions to the ecological balance of soil [7,8]. This has resulted in a growing demand for organic amendments, which are recognized for their health benefits and environmental safety [9]. Organic fertilization practices have been effective in minimizing nitrogen loss through surface runoff and subsurface flow. By replacing mineral nitrogen with organic amendments, it is possible to achieve a balance between nitrogen uptake by crops and nitrogen loss from the soil, maintaining high crop yields while significantly reducing nitrogen loss compared to conventional mineral NPK fertilization [10]. Vermicomposting is an environmentally sustainable and cost-effective approach to managing organic waste [11]. This process utilizes earthworms to break down organic materials, resulting in vermicompost tea, which offers nutrients in forms readily absorbable by plants. Evidence indicates that the use of vermicompost tea enhances plant growth and positively affects the productivity of both cereals and legumes [12]. This low-cost technique transforms organic waste into biodegradable products through the cooperative action of earthworms and microorganisms [13]. Recognized for its efficiency and affordability, vermicomposting effectively decomposes various organic materials [14]. As a rich source of essential nutrients, vermicompost tea improves soil health and promotes plant growth and yield. Research shows that vermicomposting is a straightforward method for compost preparation that preserves a higher nutrient content in the final product. Thus, the decomposition of organic matter by earthworms plays a significant role in enhancing crop yields by supplying necessary nutrients [15,16,17].
Vermicompost tea is a nutrient-rich compost produced in significant quantities [18]. The application of vermicompost tea is a cost-effective approach. Nonetheless, it may require more than two years for organic farming practices to significantly improve soil health to levels comparable to those achieved with chemical fertilizers. There exists considerable potential for integrating vermicompost tea with microbial agents as a viable substitute for conventional chemical fertilization practices [19,20]. Vermicompost tea functions as an effective organic fertilizer and biocontrol agent [21,22]. It can enhance food quality while maintaining safety standards [22]. The processes involved in vermicomposting include bio-oxidation and the stabilization of organic materials, primarily facilitated by microorganisms. Earthworms play a crucial role in transforming biodegradable organic matter into high-quality manure. The microorganisms in earthworm intestines produce exoenzymes that help break down organic matter into nutrient forms accessible to plants growth [14,23]. Vermicompost tea is rich in soluble sugars, amino acids, organic acids, and essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, and various micronutrients. Its application has been shown to boost nutrient availability, increase enzyme and hormone activity, and enhance soil microbial populations, leading to improved plant growth and development. Recent observations indicate that vermicompost tea serves as an excellent organic fertilizer in cereal cultivation, positively influencing soil properties and nutrient balance [24,25,26,27]. With a fine structure akin to peat, vermicompost tea offers strong aeration, porosity, microbial activity, and excellent drainage, alongside high-water retention capability. Vermicompost tea produced through earthworm activity is enriched with specific immobilized microorganisms, growth-regulating hormones, vitamins, and essential nutrients. Additionally, it contributes to better water retention in the soil and the enhancement of nutrient solutions [26,28,29].
Vermicompost tea presents a viable alternative to chemical fertilizers, helping to mitigate their negative impacts [19]. The mineralization process within vermicompost tea is significant, as it creates favorable conditions during the wheat growing season, thereby enhancing the soil’s nutrient availability [30]. A two-year study on wheat demonstrated that the application of vermicompost tea led to the highest productivity among various organic fertilizers [31]. The using of vermicompost tea can improve both crop yield and quality [32]. When applied in appropriate ratios alongside mineral fertilizers, vermicompost tea serves as an essential source of diverse nutrients [33]. Moreover, Aechra et al. [1] indicated that both biofertilizers and the split application of vermicompost tea significantly boost wheat productivity. Consequently, the agronomic and environmental impacts of substituting mineral fertilizers with organic alternatives should be further studied [10]. Therefore, the reduction or substitution in chemical fertilizers, along with optimizing fertilization practices, has become crucial for promoting sustainable agricultural practices. However, there is a paucity of research regarding the impact of substituting nitrogen mineral fertilizers with vermicompost tea fertilizers on the nutrient content and grain quality of diverse wheat cultivars. This study was based on a field experiment conducted under clay-loam soil conditions aiming to investigate the effects of substitution of nitrogen fertilizer with vermicompost tea on wheat yield, the chemical constituents of the shoots, and the quality of the grain.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Experimental Site

Two field experiments were carried out during 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 winter seasons at the Agricultural Research Station of the Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University at Giza, Egypt (30°02′ N, 31°13′ E, altitude 30 m). Monthly mean temperature, monthly relative humidity, and rainfall were recorded (Table 1). Monthly mean temperature increased gradually from 13.01 and 17.37 °C in May to 11.32 and 16.64 °C in April in the 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 seasons, respectively. The maximum relative humidity was 66.64% and 62.10% during January and February in the first and second season, respectively. The total rainfall was 3.04 and 0.82 in the 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 seasons, respectively.
Soil mechanical analysis was conducted at the Faculty of Agriculture Research Park, Cairo University as per Klute [34], and chemical analysis was conducted as per Page et al. [35]. The experimental soil type was clay loam in both seasons. Soil chemical analysis was done conducted as per Page et al. [35]. The study site soil is classified as clay loam (Table 2). The soil pH was 7.03 and 7.19 and EC was 2.54 and 2.22 dS m−1 in the first and second seasons, respectively. Chemical analysis of irrigation water was conducted as per Cottenie et al. [36]. The water pH was 7.02 and 7.0 and electrical conductivity (EC) was 0.68 and 1.02 dSm−1 in the first and second seasons, respectively (Table 3).

2.2. Experimental Design and Treatments

Three Egyptian commercial cultivars of wheat (Sads-14, Sakha-95, and Giza-171) were obtained from the Wheat Research Department, Field Crops Research Institute, Agricultural Research Centre, Egypt. Vermicompost tea was obtained from Mohamed Eid Farm, El-Beheira, Egypt. The composition of vermicompost tea is presented in Table 4.
The experiment was designed as a split-plot arrangement within a randomized complete block design consisting of three replications. Vermicompost tea was assigned to the main plots, while various wheat cultivars were allocated to the subplots. The cultivars included in this study were subjected to four treatments involving partial substitution of mineral nitrogen (recommended dose of nitrogen, RDN%) with vermicompost tea. The treatments consisted of a control group (90% nitrogen fertilizer combined with 25 kg of vermicompost tea), 80% nitrogen fertilizer with 37.5 kg of vermicompost tea, and 70% nitrogen fertilizer with 50 kg of vermicompost tea. Nitrogen was applied at rates of 190 kg N ha−1 (control), 170 kg N ha−1 (90%), 150 kg N ha−1 (80%), and 130 kg N ha−1 (70%) using ammonium nitrate as the nitrogen source (33.5% N).
Vermicompost tea was prepared by soaking specific quantities of vermicompost (25, 37.5, and 50 kg ha−1) in water for 24 h with intermittent stirring to facilitate the release of soluble nutrients and microbial components. On the following day, 1–2 kg of blackstrap molasses was added as a carbon-rich energy source to enhance the proliferation of beneficial microorganisms. The mixture was then stirred intermittently over the next 48 h to maintain aerobic conditions and promote optimal microbial activity. After the fermentation period, the solution was filtered to remove solid residues, and the resulting vermicompost tea was applied through the irrigation system on the fourth or fifth day of preparation to ensure maximum biological activity and nutrient availability. This standardized preparation protocol ensured consistent tea quality across all experimental treatments and replicates.

2.3. Cultural Practices

The preceding crop was corn (Zea mays L.) in both seasons. Sowing dates were on 17 and 21 November in 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 seasons, respectively. Seeds were sown using a hand-pushed machine (7 rows on the raised bed), 15 cm between every row and total wheat density at harvest of about 525 tillers/m2. Each plot contained 4 raised beds (120 cm width and 15 m long, the experimental unite 72 m2). Calcium superphosphate fertilizer (15.5% P2O5) at a rate of 60 kg P2O5 ha−1 was added during field preparation as a basal application. Potassium sulfate (48% K2O) was applied at a rate of 120 kg K2O ha−1. Application of K, N, and vermicompost tea fertilizers was started at 20 days from planting through 3 equal doses at 15-day intervals (20, 35, and 50 days after sowing). Potassium and nitrogen were manually spread on the terraces followed by direct irrigation, while vermicompost tea was applied through fertigation. Weed management was carried out during the growing season by hoeing twice, and pest control, if necessary, was conducted in accordance with practices used at the experimental station. Other cultural practices were applied as recommended by the Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Giza, Egypt.

2.4. Data Collection

2.4.1. Agronomic Traits

At harvest, a 1 m2 area was randomly sampled from each plot to determine the grain yield per plant. In parallel, the total grain yield (kg) was measured from the entire area of each subplot and converted to tons per hectare. Both yield per plant and yield per hectare (GW/H) were adjusted to a standard grain moisture content of 15.5%. Yield components were also assessed at harvest by selecting 10 random plants per plot, including measurements of spike weight per plant (g) (SW/P), spike length (cm) (SL), number of grains per spike (G/S), grain weight per spike (g) (GW/S), 1000-grain weight (grain index, g) (GI), and plant height (cm) (PH) measured from the soil surface to the tip of the spike on the main stem.

2.4.2. Chemical Composition of Shoots

At the grain filling stage, three randomly samples were taken from each plot for chemical analysis of shoots to assess their chemical composition. Total sugars, total free amino acids (FAA), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) were analyzed on dry material, with samples digested according to the methods recommended by Piper [37]. Chlorophyll a, b, and carotenoids were extracted from fresh leaves using dimethyl formamide and quantified following the protocol outlined by Mornai [38]. The total sugar content was determined using the phosphomolybdic acid method specified by the A.O.A.C [39]. Total free amino acids (FAAs) were measured using ninhydrin reagent [40]. Nitrogen content was analyzed via the micro-Kjeldahl method as described by Jones et al. [41]. Phosphorus was quantified spectrophotometrically using the stannous chloride method as per the A.O.A.C [39]. Potassium was measured with a flame photometer (BWBI). All analyses were conducted at the Faculty of Agriculture Research Park, Cairo University.

2.5. Grain Quality Characteristics

2.5.1. Preparation of Samples

Grains were manually removed and dried at 65 °C to a constant weight, ground, and stored in polyethylene bags in the dark at 4 °C for chemical analysis.

2.5.2. Chemical Composition of Grain

At harvest, three random samples were taken from each plot to determine the Protein (total nitrogen content as estimated by the Kjeldahl method × 5.75), ash and fiber percentages were determined as per the A.O.A.C. [39]. Total carbohydrate content of grains was determined according to Smith et al. [42]. Total sugar content (mg/100 g) was determined according to the Lane and Eynon volumetric procedure outlined by the A.O.A.C. [39]. Total free amino acid (FAA, mg/100 g) content was determined using ninhydrin reagent. This method relies on the reaction between ninhydrin and amino acids, resulting in a colored product that can be measured spectrophotometrically. Blueness was measured against a blank sample at 570 nm [40]. Nitrogen (N) was determined using the micro-Kjeldahl method as described by Jones et al. [41]. Phosphorus (P) was determined spectrophotometrically using the stannous chloride method as per the A.O.A.C. [39]. Potassium (K) was determined with a flame photometer (BWBI). All analyses were conducted at the Faculty of Agriculture Research Park, Cairo University.

2.6. Statistical Analysis

Normality distribution was assessed by the Shapiro–Wilk test [43] using SPSS v. 17.0 [44] software. Also, data were tested for violation of assumptions underlying the combined analysis of variance by separately analyzing each season, and then combined analysis across the two seasons was performed if homogeneity (Bartlett’s test) was insignificant. Estimates of LSD were calculated to test the significance of differences among means as per Snedecor and Cochran [45]. Correlation analyses between traits were generated using R software [46].

3. Results and Discussion

3.1. Agronomic Traits

Analysis indicated that there were no significant differences between the two years of the study, which permitted the combination of data from both years for further evaluation. Significant differences were observed among the partial substitution of mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea treatments for various agronomic traits (Table 5).
The partial substitution of mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea resulted in a substantial improvement in agronomic performance across wheat cultivars compared to the mineral nitrogen control. Additionally, the partial substitution of mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea significantly increased the yield and yield components of all the evaluated wheat cultivars. Foliar application of vermicompost tea, however, significantly improved most agronomic traits in the different cultivars. This included improvements in the grain weight/ha, spike weight per plant, spike length per plant, number of grains per spike, grain weight per spike, plant height, and grain index. The results also indicated a positive effect of combining mineral nitrogen and vermicompost tea. The treatment of 70% nitrogen fertilizer + 50 kg vermicompost tea achieved the highest values for all agronomic traits except spike length per plant in the three wheat cultivars.
The results showed that the partial substitution of mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea led to a significant increase in the grain weight/ha of the tested wheat cultivars compared to the control (Table 5). The grain weight/ha of the Sakha-95 cultivar was increased by 15.8%, 27.7%, and 38.6% when treated with control, 90% nitrogen fertilizer + 25 kg vermicompost tea, 80% nitrogen fertilizer + 37.5 kg vermicompost tea, and 70% nitrogen fertilizer + 50 kg vermicompost tea, respectively. Similarly, the grain weight/ha of the Giza-171 cultivar was enhanced by 10.1%, 23.9%, and 33.5% with the same treatments. The grain weight/Ha of the Sads-14 cultivar also showed significant increases of 13.9%, 26.1%, and 39.3% under the same treatments (Table 5). For the Sads-14 cultivar, 70% nitrogen fertilizer + 50 kg vermicompost tea combination of achieved the highest values for grain weight/ha (9.43-ton ha−1), spike weight per plant (4.35 g), number of grains per spike (65.34), grain weight per spike (2.89 g), and plant height (112.17 cm). The Sads-14 cultivar treated with 100% mineral nitrogen (control) also achieved the highest value of spike length per plant (19.23 cm). The same cultivar gave the highest grain index value (44.35 g) when treated with 80% nitrogen fertilizer + 37.5 kg vermicompost tea.
In the present investigation, replacement of mineral nitrogen fertilizer with vermicompost tea increased grain weight/ha of the studied cultivars. Chemical analyses of the vermicompost tea employed in this study indicated high macronutrient content, specifically nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), as well as organic matter (Table 4). These findings align with existing literature that supports the beneficial effects of vermicompost tea on wheat growth, as it facilitates the release of N, P, and K through foliar application. This may be attributed to the positive effect of compost as an organic amendment on vermicompost tea as a rich source of essential nutrients that enhance soil health and promote plant growth and yield. Its application has been shown to boost nutrient availability, increase enzyme and hormone activity, and enhance soil microbial populations, leading to improved plant growth and development [24,25,26,27]. Improved wheat productivity due to the integration between organic and mineral fertilizers has been reported by numerous authors. Devi et al. [47] found that the integration of organic and inorganic fertilizers increased grain and biological yields while improving the harvest index. Balanced nutrient application by applying chemical fertilizer and organic manures enhanced the grain weight/ha by 27% and grains per spike by 26% in wheat [48]. Additionally, the combined use of chemical fertilizers and organic manure positively affects plant height by increasing cell size, which in turn enhances leaf area and photosynthesis rates [49]. Applications of vermicompost tea in combination with nitrogen mineral fertilizer have proved effective in enhancing the growth and yield of various wheat cultivars. These combinations significantly increased the grain weight/ha of wheat cultivars. In agreement with our findings, Karmakar and Kashyap [50] concluded that the utilization of vermicompost tea as a partial substitution for chemical fertilizers not only increased the weight, grains per ear, and ear length, etc. and thereby higher crop yield of wheat but also imparted a positive impact on straw yield. Moreover, Aechra et al. [1] found that both biofertilizers and the split application of vermicompost tea significantly boosted wheat productivity. Parameters such as number of effective tillers per plant, ear length, number of grains per ear, weight, grain weight/ha, and straw yield of a wheat crop were significantly higher when 50% of recommended doses when chemical fertilizers and 50% nitrogen through vermicompost tea were applied [50]. Integrated use of chemical fertilizers in combination with vermicompost tea has also been found to be better in respect to growth, yield-contributing characteristics, and yields of wheat crop [51].

3.2. Shoot Chemical Content

Significant differences in the chemical composition of the shoots were observed among the various treatments and between the different cultivars (Table 6). Partially replacing mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea resulted in a notable enhancement in the chemical constituents in the shoots of the tested wheat cultivars compared to the control group. Specifically, the application of 70% of the recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) alongside 50 kg/ha of vermicompost tea significantly boosted the levels of chlorophyll A, chlorophyll B, carotenoids, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. In contrast, the combination of 80% RDN nitrogen fertilizer and 37.5 kg/ha vermicompost tea led to significant increases in total sugars and total free amino acids.
Among the cultivars, Sads-14 exhibited the highest concentrations of chlorophyll A (1.39 mg/g), chlorophyll B (1.04 mg/g), nitrogen (5.08%), phosphorus (1.63%), and potassium (2.43%) when treated with 70% RDN mineral nitrogen fertilizer plus 50 kg/ha vermicompost tea. Both Giza-171 and Sads-14 demonstrated elevated carotenoid levels (0.98 and 0.93 mg/g, respectively) under the same treatment, with no significant differences between them. Furthermore, Giza-171 and Sads-14 recorded the highest total sugar and total free amino acid content (21.11 and 20.87 mg/100 g for sugars and 5.33 and 4.63 mg/100 g for amino acids, respectively) when subjected to the 70% RDN mineral nitrogen fertilizer with 50 kg/ha vermicompost tea and the 80% RDN nitrogen fertilizer with 37.5 kg/ha vermicompost tea, respectively (Table 6).
The authors suggest that the enhanced growth of wheat observed with vermicompost tea treatments may be attributed to the partial replacement of mineral nitrogen with vermicompost. This substitution led to a significant increase in various pigments, particularly chlorophyll a and b. The elevated levels of chlorophyll positively impacted the photosynthetic process, allowing for improved nutrient accumulation within the plant. As a result, these physiological enhancements contributed to an overall increase in grain productivity. However, the integration of vermicompost tea not only substitutes for mineral nitrogen but also stimulates physiological processes that are vital for plant growth and productivity. The increase in chlorophyll content enhances the plant’s ability to capture light energy and convert it into chemical energy, thereby facilitating better nutrient uptake and ultimately leading to higher yields. The organic amendment potentially contains plant growth-regulating substances, such as soluble humic compounds and microbial-derived enzymes, which can positively influence plant growth and development [52,53]. Furthermore, due to its rich content of vitamins and plant growth hormones like auxins, gibberellins, and cytokinins, vermicompost tea can stimulate plant development and biomass accumulation [54]. The observed increase in seedling growth—specifically in root and shoot length—can be linked to the enhanced production of auxin-like substances during the decomposition of vermicompost tea [55]. Additionally, Ahmad et al. [23] demonstrated that vermicompost tea enhances nutrient uptake and improves photosynthetic efficiency. Barlas et al. [56] found that the nutritional concentration in the aerial parts of plants was significantly affected by vermicompost tea application. Moreover, vermicompost tea contributes to notable improvements in nutrient uptake and photosynthetic activity [57]. Fernández-Luqueño et al. [58] investigated how organic fertilizers enhance chlorophyll synthesis and increase photosynthesis rates. Finally, vermicompost tea has been shown to positively impact the concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus in plants, which are essential mineral nutrients during their growth phase [59].
Significant differences in grain ash, crude protein, crude fiber, carbohydrate, and moisture content were observed among the various mineral nitrogen fertilizer + vermicompost tea doses and between the different cultivars (Table 7). The findings indicated that partially replacing mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea resulted in a notable enhancement in ash, crude protein, and crude fiber content of the tested wheat cultivars compared to the control treatment (nitrogen mineral). In contrast, carbohydrate and moisture content improved under the recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN).
The Sakha-95 and Giza-171 cultivars achieved the highest values for moisture and carbohydrate content (9.82% and 80.70%, respectively) under the treatment of nitrogen mineral fertilizer (control). The Giza-171 cultivar attained higher crude protein content (7.63%) when treated with the combination of 80% RDN nitrogen fertilizer and 37.5 kg/ha vermicompost tea. Under the treatment of 70% RDN, the Sads-14 cultivar achieved the highest values for ash and crude fiber content (2.89% and 2.84%, respectively) with a high dose of vermicompost tea (50 kg/ha).
Significant differences in total sugars, total amino acids, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) were observed among the various mineral nitrogen fertilizer + vermicompost tea doses and between the different cultivars (Table 8). Total sugar, total free amino acids, N, P, and K levels as pivotal indicators of the nutritional quality of wheat. In comparison to exclusive chemical fertilization, the partial substitution of chemical fertilizers with vermicompost tea significantly augmented the levels of total sugars, N, P, and K, while nitrogen mineral fertilizer (control) significantly increased total free amino acids.
The Giza-171 cultivar achieved the highest nitrogen and phosphorus content (24.11% and 4.76%, respectively) under the treatment of 70% RDN mineral nitrogen fertilizer with 50 kg/ha vermicompost tea. The Sad-14 cultivar attained the highest total free amino acid and potassium content (2.85 mg/100 g and 6.05%, respectively) when treated with nitrogen mineral fertilizer (control) and the combination of 70% RDN nitrogen fertilizer and 50 kg/ha vermicompost tea, respectively. Under the treatment of 70% RDN, the Sakha-95 cultivar achieved higher total sugar content (38.72 mg/100 g) with the highest dose of vermicompost tea (50 kg/ha).
Partially substituting mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea significantly improved ash, crude protein, crude fiber, total sugar, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels in the evaluated wheat cultivars compared to the control treatment using mineral nitrogen. The beneficial effects on grain quality observed in our research may stem from the unique properties of vermicompost tea. Unlike chemical fertilizers, which provide immediate nutrient availability, vermicompost tea offers a sustained release of nutrients over time. Additionally, the positive impact of vermicompost tea on crop growth can be attributed to its retention of organic matter and mineral nutrients, as well as its content of amino acids, indoleacetic acid, digestive enzymes, diverse microorganisms, disease-resistant strains, and other advantageous substances [60]. The presence of essential nutrients, including micronutrients like magnesium and iron, in vermicompost tea plays a crucial role in chlorophyll production. Furthermore, vermicompost tea contains various plant growth-promoting compounds such as auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins, and humic acids [6,61]. Due to its rich nutrient profile, vermicompost tea serves as an effective supplement to chemical fertilizers, potentially allowing for reduced application rates while also acting as an excellent source for biofortification [11].
The application of vermicompost tea has been shown to enhance the levels of total sugars, total free amino acids, N, P, and K in wheat. This increase in total sugars can be attributed to the improved photosynthetic efficiency and metabolic activity stimulated by the presence of vermicompost tea, which provides essential nutrients and promotes beneficial microbial activity in the rhizosphere. Simultaneously, the elevated levels of total free amino acids may result from enhanced nitrogen availability and assimilation, facilitated by the organic nitrogen content of the vermicompost. Amino acids are vital for various physiological processes, including protein synthesis, stress response, and overall plant metabolism.
The combined increase in total sugars and free amino acids not only reflects improved nutritional status and metabolic health of the wheat plants but may also contribute to enhanced crop quality and resilience under varying environmental conditions. In this respect, the utilization of vermicompost tea has been demonstrated to enhance the quality of wheat [32]. Applications of vermicompost tea have resulted in increased grain protein content [62]. Moreover, higher levels of vermicompost tea application have been associated with elevated potassium and phosphorus concentrations in wheat varieties when compared to control treatments [62]. Essa et al. [63] found that the combination of biochar and vermicompost tea fertilizers yielded significantly higher percentages of phosphorus, potassium, crude protein, and total carbohydrates compared to control treatments. Additionally, vermicompost tea applications have been shown to enhance the crude protein ratio [6]. Dawar et al. [64] reported that the carbohydrate percentages in wheat grains increased with the application of both vermicompost tea and biochar fertilizers. Furthermore, the use of vermicompost tea has led to significant improvements in wheat yield, nutrient uptake, and photosynthetic activity [57]. Employing a moderate rate of vermicompost tea in conjunction with nitrogen fertilizer could be an effective strategy for enhancing various quality parameters of wheat [65]. Furthermore, replacing nitrogen fertilization with compost significantly increased carbohydrate, N, and K content in the grains of wheat cultivars [66].

3.3. Correlation Analysis

The correlation analysis performed on various traits in wheat, depicted in Figure 1A–C and Tables S1–S3, identified both positive and negative relationships among the evaluated parameters. This analysis shed light on the strength and nature of the associations between the different traits. Notably, a positive correlation was found between grain weight/ha and several factors, including the number of spikes per plant, spike weight per plant, the number of grains per spike, and grain index. In contrast, no significant correlation was observed between grain yield and plant height. Similar patterns emerged concerning grain weight/Ha in relation to ash, crude protein, crude fiber, carbohydrate, moisture, phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and nitrogen (N) content in grains. Interestingly, an increase in grain weight/Ha was associated with a decrease in total sugars and total free amino acids (FAAs). The negative correlation between grain weight/Ha and total sugars may be partly attributed to the higher utilization of glucose in the synthesis of proteins and carbohydrates [67]. Nitrogen plays a vital role in the growth, yield, and quality of wheat: typically, higher nitrogen application is linked to increased grain weight/Ha and protein content [68,69]. Additionally, a strong positive correlation between grain weight and chlorophyll A, chlorophyll B, carotenoids, total sugars, total FAAs, and both nitrogen and phosphorus in shoots suggests that only a limited number of genes may be responsible for regulating grain weight across varying fertilizer levels.
The analysis revealed that all yield component traits examined, including spike weight per plant (SW/P), spike length (SL), number of grains per spike (G/S), grain weight per spike (GW/S), and grain index (GI), exhibited strong and highly significant positive correlations at the 0.01 significance level. In contrast, the trait of plant height (PH) showed a weak negative correlation. Similarly, all grain quality traits studied, such as protein content, carbohydrates, and the grain content of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), also demonstrated strong and highly significant positive correlations at the 0.01 significance level. However, fiber content and ash displayed only weak positive correlations. Notably, total sugars and total free amino acids exhibited highly significant negative correlations at the same significance level, while moisture content reflected a weak negative correlation. Furthermore, branch quality traits, including chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, carotene, phosphorus, and potassium, showed strong and highly significant positive correlations at the 0.01 significance level. Although total sugars and total free amino acids also exhibited a significant positive correlation, this was observed at the 0.05 significance level. Conversely, nitrogen (N) demonstrated a weak positive correlation.
Numerous studies have investigated the relationships between wheat grain weight/ha (GW/H) and various agronomic traits, as well as the chemical compositions of shoots and grains. For example, El Sebai et al. [70] found significant correlations between total pigments, free amino acids (FAAs), and yield attributes. Additionally, Dawar et al. [64] identified significant positive correlations between soil nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels and plant height, thousand-grain weight, and biological and grain yields. A strong positive relationship was also observed between morphological traits—such as plant height, number of leaves per tiller, and fresh and dry weights of tillers—and yield parameters [70]. Furthermore, Abbas et al. [71] reported a positive association between yield and yield-contributing factors, including moisture content, crude fiber, ash content, and the concentrations of phosphorus and potassium, in maize.

4. Conclusions

Partially substituting mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea significantly increased grain weight/Ha, chlorophyll A, chlorophyll B, carotenoid, nitrogen, phosphorus (P), and potassium (P) content in shoots, as well as ash, crude protein, crude fiber, total sugar, N, P, and K content in wheat grains. The combination of the Sads-14 cultivar and 70% RDN + 50 kg vermicompost tea resulted in the highest values for grain weight/Ha (9.43 tons ha−1). Therefore, the partial substitution of 30% mineral N (70% RDN) with 50 kg/ha vermicompost tea, particularly with the Sads-14 cultivar, is recommended for suitable wheat production.
This study demonstrates that vermicompost tea, when used alongside chemical fertilizers, can serve as a viable alternative to sole chemical fertilizer applications in sustainable agriculture and wheat production. The findings suggest that substituting mineral nitrogen fertilizers with vermicompost tea may enhance wheat productivity and grain quality while simultaneously mitigating environmental pollution.
Research on the beneficial effects of vermicompost tea remains limited, particularly concerning its influence on crop production and quality traits. There is a need to identify optimal cultivars, environmental conditions, and management practices that enhance sustainability and profitability for producers while ensuring product quality for consumers. Agronomic trials are necessary to determine effective application doses and timing of vermicompost tea across various species, especially in addressing abiotic stresses. Additionally, it is important to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of vermicompost tea and to optimize application methods, timing, rates, and phenological stages to improve plant performance and resilience to environmental stressors.

Supplementary Materials

The following supporting information can be downloaded at: https://www.mdpi.com/article/10.3390/crops5040051/s1, Table S1: A Pearson correlation analysis depicting the strength of the relationships among the parameters of wheat investigated in this study; Table S2: A Pearson correlation analysis depicting the strength of the relationships among the parameters of wheat investigated in this study; Table S3: A Pearson correlation analysis depicting the strength of the relationships among the parameters of wheat investigated in this study.

Author Contributions

Methodology, H.A.-L.; conceptualization, data acquisition, writing and editing, M.A. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This research received no external funding.

Data Availability Statement

The raw data supporting the conclusions of this article will be made available by the authors on request.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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Crops 05 00051 g001
Figure 1. (A–C). Pearson correlation analysis depicting the strength of the relationships among the parameters of wheat investigated in this study. Grain weight/Ha (GW/H), spike weight per plant (SW/P), spike length (SL), number of grains per spike (G/S), grain weight per spike (GW/S), grain index (GI), plant height (PH), carbohydrates (Carb), grain content of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), total sugars (T. sugars), total free amino acids (T. FAA), chlorophyll a (ch a), chlorophyll b (ch b).
Figure 1. (A–C). Pearson correlation analysis depicting the strength of the relationships among the parameters of wheat investigated in this study. Grain weight/Ha (GW/H), spike weight per plant (SW/P), spike length (SL), number of grains per spike (G/S), grain weight per spike (GW/S), grain index (GI), plant height (PH), carbohydrates (Carb), grain content of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), total sugars (T. sugars), total free amino acids (T. FAA), chlorophyll a (ch a), chlorophyll b (ch b).
Crops 05 00051 g001
Table 1. Mean monthly climatic data at experimental location in 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 seasons *.
Table 1. Mean monthly climatic data at experimental location in 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 seasons *.
Month2021–20222022–2023
Average Temperature (°C)Relative Humidity (%)Rainfall (mm)Average Temperature (°C)Relative Humidity (%)Rainfall (mm)
November13.0155.670.1911.3261.610.35
December11.1864.550.2612.5858.170.03
January12.4166.460.1613.1361.490.23
February13.2764.521.9713.6562.100.10
March15.2358.790.4115.6443.790.07
April15.4748.800.0516.6437.410.03
May17.3740.200.0016.1835.910.01
* Data obtained by the Central Laboratory for Agricultural Climate, Agricultural Research Center, Egypt.
Table 2. Soil properties at the experimental site during 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 seasons.
Table 2. Soil properties at the experimental site during 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 seasons.
Soil Analysis2021–20222022–2023
Physical Properties
Sand (%)32.831.7
Silt (%)33.132.3
Clay (%)34.136.0
Texture classClay loamClay loam
Chemical Properties
pH(1:1)7.037.19
Ec(1:1) (dS m−1)2.542.22
Organic matter (%)4.516.62
Total CaCO3 (%)1.741.91
Available N (mg kg−1)7.146.19
Available P (mg kg−1)1.652.04
Available K (mg kg−1)168187
Irrigation systemDrip irrigationDrip irrigation
Table 3. Chemical properties of irrigation water at the experimental site during 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 seasons.
Table 3. Chemical properties of irrigation water at the experimental site during 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 seasons.
Ions Concentration (meq L−1)
SeasonpHEC
(ds m−1)		HCO3−CL−SO4−Ca++Mg++Na+K+
2021–20227.20.981.812.53.21.12.37.10.54
2022–20237.01.122.214.14.11.32.68.50.75
Table 4. Chemical analyses of vermicompost tea (per liter).
Table 4. Chemical analyses of vermicompost tea (per liter).
Components2021–20222022–2023
Bulk Density (kg/m3)195212
Moisture Content (%)45.7149.35
pH(1:10)7.558.11
EC(1:10) (ds/m)2.372.54
Total Nitrogen (%)0.810.69
Ammoniacal Nitrogen—NH4+ (%)7.126.18
Nitrate Nitrogen—NO3− (%)18.2921.43
Organic Matter (%)14.8911.22
Organic Carbon (%)6.474.58
Ash (%)0.050.11
C:N Ratio34.226. 7
Total Phosphorus (P2O5) (%)1.671.25
Total Potassium (%)2.983.45
Table 5. Effect of partial substitution of mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea on agronomic characteristics of wheat cultivars.
Table 5. Effect of partial substitution of mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea on agronomic characteristics of wheat cultivars.
Nitrogen Fertilizer
(% RDN)		Vermicompost Tea
(kg ha−1)		CultivarsGrain Weight/HaSpike Weight/Plant (g)Spike Length/Plant
(cm)		No. of Grains/SpikesGrain Weight/
Spike (g)		Plant Height
(cm)		Grain Index
(g)
Control (100)0.0Sakha-956.14 f ± 0.323.56 efg ± 0.3116.97 bc ± 0.7756.16 cd ± 3.972.26 de ± 0.1985.50 g ± 4.0440.23 bc ± 2.89
Giza-1716.83 e ± 0.473.41 g ± 0.3117.61 abc ± 0.3756.50 cd ± 4.152.14 e ± 0.2185.33 g ± 3.8237.77 c ± 2.07
Sads-146.77 e ± 0.403.47 fg ± 0.1819.23 a ± 0.6859.00 b ± 2.272.27 de ± 0.1891.17 fg ± 6.8338.40 c ± 1.95
9025Sakha-957.11 de ± 0.353.75 de ± 0.2517.46 abc ± 1.4457.67 bcd ± 1.242.45 cd ± 0.1893.17 f ± 5.8542.50 ab ± 2.92
Giza-1717.52 cd ± 0.363.58 defg ± 0.2518.77 ab ± 1.1657.33 bcd ± 1.752.31 de ± 0.2696.17 ef ± 5.0140.17 bc ± 3.85
Sads-147.71 c ± 0.453.59 defg ± 0.2618.39 ab ± 1.6857.34 bcd ± 2.212.39 cd ± 0.2595.00 f ± 3.6641.68 ab ± 3.34
8037.5Sakha-957.84 c ± 0.383.65 def ± 0.1018.31 ab ± 2.0055.78 d ± 2.272.35 d ± 0.07105.67 cd ± 6.4842.10 ab ± 2.01
Giza-1718.46 b ± 0.623.68 def ± 0.2718.73 ± 1.7655.94 d ± 2.522.40 cd ± 0.10102.00 de ± 5.3942.96 ab ± 1.58
Sads-148.54 b ± 0.553.80 cd ± 0.3717.46 abc ± 2.5258.39 bc ± 3.692.59 bc ± 0.16106.33 bcd ± 7.0844.35 a ± 1.36
7050Sakha-958.51 b ± 0.424.02 bc ± 0.1718.61 ab ± 2.8463.13 a ± 1.842.74 ab ± 0.20110.67 abc ± 6.0743.41 a ± 2.58
Giza-1719.12 a ± 0.364.07 b ± 0.4318.22 ab ± 2.9864.81 a ± 3.522.87 a ± 0.21113.67 a ± 6.2244.33 a ± 1.49
Sads-149.43 a ± 0.504.35 a ± 0.2316.17 c ± 1.2365.34 a ± 2.832.89 a ± 0.25112.17 ab ± 4.3644.27 a ± 3.16
LSD0.050.470.231.872.390.205.993.09
RDN: recommended dose of nitrogen (190 kg N ha−1). Values followed by the same letters within a column are not significantly different (p = 0.05) based on Fisher’s LSD test.
Table 6. Effect of partial substitution of mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea on shoot chemical content of wheat cultivars.
Table 6. Effect of partial substitution of mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea on shoot chemical content of wheat cultivars.
Nitrogen Fertilizer
(% RDN)		Vermicompost Tea
(kg ha−1)		CultivarsCh-a
(mg/g)		Ch-b
(mg/g)		Carotenes
(mg/g)		Total Sugars
(mg/100 g)		Total FAA
(mg/100 g)		N
(%)		P (%)K (%)
Control (100)0.0Sakha-950.93 g ± 0.130.66 g ± 0.100.58 h ± 0.1512.17 e ± 1.112.82 ± 0.243.19 ef ± 0.851.17 g ± 0.112.05 g ± 0.27
Giza-1711.02 efg ± 0.130.66 g ± 0.090.62 gh ± 0.0818.27 bc ± 1.943.80 c ± 0.164.87 abc ± 0.411.23 fg ± 0.102.10 g ± 0.46
Sads-140.93 g ± 0.090.91 bc ± 0.070.76 de ± 0.0418.13 bc ± 0.903.32 de ± 0.234.15 cd ± 0.931.27 efg ± 0.202.18 ef ± 0.37
9025Sakha-950.99 fg ± 0.130.71 g ± 0.060.68 fg ± 0.0920.44 a ± 1.304.98 ab ± 0.314.94 ab ± 1.091.39 cd ± 0.182.28 bcd ± 0.23
Giza-1711.07 def ± 0.180.72 fg ± 0.150.82 c ± 0.0813.21 e ± 1.982.87 ef ± 0.353.31 ef ± 0.681.26 efg ± 0.122.05 g ± 0.12
Sads-141.01 efg ± 0.110.89 bcd ± 0.110.75 de ± 0.0716.45 d ± 0.613.59 cd ± 0.403.81 de ± 0.971.31 def ± 0.192.11 fg ± 0.26
8037.5Sakha-951.03 efg ± 0.140.79 ef ± 0.080.72 ef ± 0.0617.35 cd ± 1.143.99 c ± 0.044.25 bcd ± 1.031.34 de ± 0.292.21 de ± 0.31
Giza-1711.10 de ± 0.140.82 de ± 0.050.80 cd ± 0.0821.11 a ± 1.995.33 a ± 0.094.82 abc ± 1.091.50 bc ± 0.432.25 cd ± 0.24
Sads-141.28 ab ± 0.240.96 b ± 0.110.83 c ± 0.0512.52 e ± 1.932.51 ± 0.242.85 f ± 1.111.17 g ± 0.082.30 bc ± 0.23
7050Sakha-951.15 cd ± 0.230.89 bcd ± 0.100.90 b ± 0.0516.61 d ± 1.053.82 c ± 0.313.02 f ± 0.871.25 efg ± 0.262.28 bcd ± 0.13
Giza-1711.26 bc ± 0.110.86 cd ± 0.050.98 a ± 0.0218.86 b ± 1.043.59 cd ± 0.283.54 def ± 0.841.52 ab ± 0.102.35 b ± 0.24
Sads-141.39 a ± 0.191.04 a ± 0.120.93 ab ± 0.0320.87 a ± 0.984.63 b ± 0.275.08 a ± 1.071.63 a ± 0.262.43 a ± 0.24
LSD0.050.110.070.061.350.45 0.760.18ns
RDN: recommended dose of nitrogen (190 kg N ha−1). Values followed by the same letters within a column are not significantly different (p = 0.05) based on Fisher’s LSD test.
Table 7. Effect of partial substitution of mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea on ash, crude protein, crude fiber, carbohydrate and moisture content of wheat cultivars.
Table 7. Effect of partial substitution of mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea on ash, crude protein, crude fiber, carbohydrate and moisture content of wheat cultivars.
Nitrogen Fertilizer
(% RDN)		Vermicompost Tea
(kg ha−1)		CultivarsAsh (%)Crude Protein (%)Crude
Fiber (%)		Carbohydrate (%)Moisture (%)
Control (100)0.0Sakha-952.69 b ± 0.205.34 k ± 0.342.74 b ± 0.1179.26 e ± 0.969.82 a ± 0.11
Giza-1712.18 j ± 0.145.62 j ± 0.532.11 f ± 0.1980.70 a ± 1.229.01 e ± 0.21
Sads-142.27 h ± 0.166.02 g ± 0.272.30 e ± 0.0980.23 b ± 1.418.91 f ± 0.27
9025Sakha-952.16 k ± 0.156.94 d ± 0.412.11 f ± 0.1779.15 f ± 0.778.49 h ± 0.21
Giza-1712.40 e ± 0.135.10 l ± 0.322.37 d ± 0.1580.69 a ± 1.138.88 f ± 0.18
Sads-142.50 d ± 0.115.68 i ± 0.622.46 c ± 0.1279.84 c ± 1.178.87 f ± 0.25
8037.5Sakha-952.34 f ± 0.167.01 c ± 0.392.26 e ± 0.0978.25 g ± 1.109.02 e ± 0.15
Giza-1712.30 g ± 0.187.63 a ± 0.432.22 e ± 0.1177.93 h ± 0.438.79 g ± 0.21
Sads-142.25 i ± 0.095.90 h ± 0.622.14 f ± 0.1879.50 d ± 0.559.20 d ± 0.31
7050Sakha-952.53 c ± 0.136.40 f ± 0.542.45 c ± 0.1778.23 g ± 0.619.62 b ± 0.10
Giza-1711.96 l ± 0.116.65 e ± 0.871.84 g ± 0.1179.13 f ± 0.789.56 b ± 0.18
Sads-142.89 a ± 0.137.32 b ± 0.492.84 a ± 0.1576.60 i ± 0.979.40 c ± 0.22
LSD0.050.210.520.742.130.64
RDN: recommended dose of nitrogen (190 kg N ha−1). Values followed by the same letters within a column are not significantly different (p = 0.05) based on Fisher’s LSD test.
Table 8. Effect of partial substitution of mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea on total sugar, total amino acid, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content of wheat cultivars.
Table 8. Effect of partial substitution of mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea on total sugar, total amino acid, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content of wheat cultivars.
Nitrogen Fertilizer
(% RDN)		Vermicompost Tea
(kg ha−1)		CultivarsTotal Sugars (mg/100 g)Total FAA (mg/100 g)N
(%)		P
(%)		K
(%)
Control (100)0.0Sakha-9523.67 f ± 0.352.25 de ± 0.1115.17 e ± 0.272.25 f ± 0.054.16 ef ± 0.11
Giza-17126.52 e ± 1.232.66 ab ± 0.2316.21 e ± 0.192.30 ef ± 0.094.28 ef ± 0.14
Sads-1426.44 e ± 1.372.85 a ± 0.1915.52 e ± 0.251.94 f ± 0.043.82 f ± 0.17
9025Sakha-9532.87 bc ± 1.391.92 fg ± 0.1021.27 bc ± 0.663.23 c ± 0.095.84 abc ± 0.09
Giza-17126.48 e ± 1.232.33 cd ± 0.1819.45 d ± 0.713.02 cd ± 0.054.78 de ± 0.08
Sads-1432.55 c ± 0.912.55 bc ± 0.2319.61 d ± 0.583.25 c ± 0.083.99 f ± 0.05
8037.5Sakha-9529.74 d ± 0.831.99 efg ± 0.2121.13 bc ± 0.372.75 de ± 0.065.12 cd ± 0.12
Giza-17131.73 cd ± 0.521.95 fg ± 0.3020.35 cd ± 0.433.42 c ± 0.055.22 bcd ± 0.09
Sads-1432.87 bc ± 0.312.07 def ± 0.2821.86 b ± 0.243.02 cd ± 0.054.51 def ± 0.13
7050Sakha-9538.72 a ± 0.661.78 g ± 0.1823.44 a ± 0.234.41 ab ± 0.045.91 ab ± 0.07
Giza-17135.22 b ± 1.381.76 g ± 0.5124.11 a ± 0.374.76 a ± 0.085.79 abc ± 0.14
Sads-1433.80 bc ± 1.151.83 fg ± 0.4323.87 a ± 0.434.06 b ± 0.116.05 a ± 0.06
LSD0.052.510.281.350.450.74
RDN: recommended dose of nitrogen (190 kg N ha−1). Values followed by the same letters within a column are not significantly different (p = 0.05) based on Fisher’s LSD test.
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Abdel-Lattif, H.; Abbas, M. Influence of Partial Vermicompost Tea Substitution for Mineral Nitrogen Fertilizers on Yield and Nutrient Content of Wheat Cultivars. Crops 2025, 5, 51. https://doi.org/10.3390/crops5040051

AMA Style

Abdel-Lattif H, Abbas M. Influence of Partial Vermicompost Tea Substitution for Mineral Nitrogen Fertilizers on Yield and Nutrient Content of Wheat Cultivars. Crops. 2025; 5(4):51. https://doi.org/10.3390/crops5040051

Chicago/Turabian Style

Abdel-Lattif, Hashim, and Mohamed Abbas. 2025. "Influence of Partial Vermicompost Tea Substitution for Mineral Nitrogen Fertilizers on Yield and Nutrient Content of Wheat Cultivars" Crops 5, no. 4: 51. https://doi.org/10.3390/crops5040051

APA Style

Abdel-Lattif, H., & Abbas, M. (2025). Influence of Partial Vermicompost Tea Substitution for Mineral Nitrogen Fertilizers on Yield and Nutrient Content of Wheat Cultivars. Crops, 5(4), 51. https://doi.org/10.3390/crops5040051

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