Management strategies for sustainable wheat production in Pakistan – a review

Abstract

Sustainable wheat production in Pakistan relies on integrated best management practices that encompass land preparation, sowing methods, planting timing, weed control, balanced fertilization, irrigation scheduling, and disease management. Optimized land preparation techniques, including tillage sequencing, laser land leveling, and precise field surveying, enhance seedbed conditions, improve water use efficiency, and significantly increase yields. Modern sowing techniques such as ridge, raised-bed, and drill planting outperform traditional broadcasting methods, resulting in yield increases of 9–22% and water savings. Timely planting, especially early sowing with suitable varieties, is vital for avoiding thermal stress and maximizing grain development. Effective weed control using appropriate herbicides can prevent annual yield losses of 17–25%, while balanced fertilization guided by soil testing can boost production by up to 70%. Efficient irrigation scheduling based on crop water requirements and groundwater contributions helps prevent nutrient loss, waterlogging, and soil health decline. Additionally, proactive disease management particularly against rusts, root rot, smut, and black point through resistant varieties, timely fungicide applications, and optimized sowing times is essential for protecting yields. Collectively, these practices form a comprehensive framework for enhancing wheat productivity, water efficiency, and sustainability across Sindh and other wheat-growing regions of Pakistan. This review provides an extensive overview of best management practices that can guide farmers, researchers, and policymakers toward more efficient and sustainable wheat cultivation.