Study of the Effect of Nitrogen Fertiliser on the Protein Content and Yield of Wheat in Plateau State

Wheat production on the Jos Plateau occupies a niche ecological position in Nigeria's food system, and optimising nitrogen fertiliser management to simultaneously maximise grain yield and protein content requires site-specific experimental evidence for Plateau State growing conditions. This study examined the effect of four nitrogen fertiliser rates (0, 40, 80, and 120 kg N ha-1) on grain yield and grain protein content of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) at the National Cereals Research Institute Substation, Vom, Plateau State, North Central Nigeria. A randomised complete block design experiment with three replications was conducted during the 2022-2023 dry season. NESSER wheat variety was grown under supplemental irrigation. Growth parameters including plant height, leaf greenness (SPAD readings), and above-ground dry matter accumulation were recorded. Grain yield, test weight, and grain protein content were determined at harvest. Results showed that 80 kg N ha-1 produced the highest grain yield (3.82 tonnes per hectare) and grain protein content (13.2 percent), significantly higher than the control (2.41 t ha-1 and 10.8 percent protein). Applying 120 kg N ha-1 did not significantly increase yield over 80 kg ha-1 but slightly elevated protein content (13.7 percent). The study recommends 80 kg N ha-1 as the optimal nitrogen rate for wheat production on the Jos Plateau, balancing yield response, protein quality, and production cost efficiency.

Keywords: wheat, nitrogen fertiliser, grain yield, grain protein, Plateau State