ARVIND KUMAR*, GIRISH CHANDER PANDEY, POOJA RANI AND RAJESH YOGI
Department of Biosciences, Banasthali Vidyapith, Jaipur-304 022 (Rajasthan), India *(e-mail: arvind.duhan27@gmail.com; Mobile: 98139 97860)
(Received: March 24, 2025; Accepted: May 30, 2025)
ABSTRACT
To explore the differences in traits like canopy architecture, culm diameter and stem strength in relation to anatomical and biochemical parameters under varying nitrogen application practices, a field study was conducted at D. B. G. Govt. College in Panipat, Haryana. This research focused on anatomical traits, including cell wall composition, lignin deposition in vascular tissues and the size of vascular bundles, as well as biochemical traits such as Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), cellulose and Acid Detergent Lignin (ADL). The study also aimed at establishing a standardized methodology for assessing lodging under different nitrogen application practices. Findings revealed that moderate nitrogen application produced superior results compared to both double and zero applications. The standard application of nitrogen improved plant strength and enhanced morphological and physiological traits, making the plants less prone to lodging than those subjected to double or zero applications. The results indicated that moderate nitrogen fertilizer doses were most effective in promoting lignin production and the activity of lignin-synthesizing enzymes, thereby increasing lodging resistance. Correlation analysis confirmed the positive impact of regular nitrogen applications.
Key words: Wheat, nitrogen application, lodging, acid detergent lignin, cellulose, vascular bundles