High fertilization levels boost winter wheat growth and water usage efficiency
The researchers used high-resolution thermal and visible images to study the effects of different fertilization levels on winter wheat growth. They found that higher fertilization led to more vigorous crop growth, with increased canopy cover and transpiration rate. The peak values of transpiration rate and canopy cover were highest with the highest fertilization level. The study showed that transpiration rate and canopy cover were positively correlated, and as the crop grew, the differences between fertilization levels decreased. This research provides valuable insights for better fertilization practices to support food security in China.