Fertilizer Trials In Pakistan

Eleven field trials across Pakistan helped farmers tackle inefficient fertilizer use by testing practical solutions to improve wheat yields, reduce input losses, strengthen soil health, and support more sustainable farming.

More than 1,200 farmers, researchers, extension agents, and private-sector representatives joined a series of Farmer Field Days across Pakistan this spring to explore practical approaches to improving fertilizer use in wheat systems.

Held between 26 March and 12 April 2026 under the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)-funded Fertilize Right (FR) Pakistan project, the eleven field events took place across Sindh and Punjab, connecting farmers directly with tested solutions for more efficient and sustainable nutrient management.

Organized by ICARDA and national research partners, the field demonstrations focused on practical interventions farmers can apply under real field conditions, including split nitrogen application, coated urea, Biozote biofertilizer, compost use, green manuring, and legume-wheat rotations. Across wheat-based systems in Larkana, Gujranwala, Khanewal, and Chakwal, participants observed how these approaches can improve fertilizer efficiency, strengthen soil health, and support more productive cropping systems.

“Through the Fertilize Right project, we are helping farmers adopt practical nutrient management strategies that improve fertilizer efficiency, reduce unnecessary losses, and support more resilient wheat production systems. Applying the right fertilizer source, at the right rate, at the right time, and in the right place is essential for improving productivity while protecting natural resources,” said Dr. Muhammad Imtiaz, ICARDA Country Coordinator in Pakistan.

Throughout the field days, ICARDA scientists and partner researchers engaged directly with farmers to explain how improved fertilizer practices can reduce costs, improve crop performance, and lower environmental risks. Implemented in collaboration with Quaid-e-Awam Agriculture Research Institute (QAARI), Soil Fertility Research Institute (SFRI), Soil and Water Conservation Research Institute (SAWCR), and Land Resources Research Institute (LRRI), the events strengthened the link between research and practice, helping bring field-tested solutions closer to the farmers who need them most.