Comparative Effects of Different Saline Irrigation Levels and Foliar Potassium Applications on Two Wheat Cultivars Grown in the Trans‐Gangetic Plains of India

ABSTRACT The experiment was conducted in a split–split plot design (SSPD) layout on two winter wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars, namely, the salt‐tolerant KRL‐1‐4 and the salt‐intolerant HD‐2894, under various saline irrigation regimes ranging from 1.7 to 12 dSm −1 treated with and without foliar potassium application at a K + :Na + ratio of 1:10. In the SSPD experiment, the main effects of salinity, foliar application, and variety, along with their interaction effects, were examined. The results of the comprehensive statistical analysis revealed the significance of these factors. All four salt levels substantially reduced the grain yield for both wheat varieties, with the other variables held constant. These findings underscore the detrimental impact of salinity on wheat productivity. The analysis further supported the hypothesis that foliar potassium spray plays a pivotal role in influencing the grain production of both wheat cultivars. Notably, both the foliar and nonfoliar potassium treatment means were found to be statistically different. The statistical analysis conducted in this study not only provides valuable insights into the effects of salinity and potassium application on wheat cultivars but also serves as a guide for future studies with similar experimental designs. This research contributes to our understanding of the optimal conditions for wheat cultivation in saline environments.