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Abstract

In the calcareous soils micronutrients deficiency is a major constraint. It can limit wheat growth and grains nutritional value. Therefore, in this study we investigated the effects of zinc, boron, and Trichoderma inoculation in different combinations on wheat growth, yield, soil enzymatic activities, and micronutrient concentration under field conditions. Treatments consisted of full (6 kg Zn ha⁻¹ and 2 kg B ha⁻¹) and half (3 kg Zn ha⁻¹ and 1 kg B ha⁻¹) recommended doses applied with or without Trichoderma. Growth attributes, yield components, soil biochemical properties, antioxidant responses, nutrient uptake, and root colonization were evaluated. The integrated application of Zn, B, and Trichoderma significantly improved wheat performance compared with the untreated control. Full Zn combined with Trichoderma inoculation increased plant height, tillers m⁻², grains spike⁻¹, 1000-grain weight, biological yield, and grain yield by 12.07%, 19.98%, 17.84%, 12.12%, 5.58%, and 9.25%, respectively. Soil biological activity was markedly enhanced, with increases of 17.77%, 17.65%, 13.30%, and 21.94% in urease, phosphatase, FDA hydrolysis, and dehydrogenase activities, respectively. Total soluble protein and free amino acid contents increased by 19.48% and 13.78%, respectively. Integrated micronutrient and microbial application also alleviated oxidative stress, reducing H₂O₂, malondialdehyde, proline, SOD, POD, CAT, and APX by 19.96%, 26.64%, 28.89%, 19.07%, 14.37%, 17.77%, and 26.30%, respectively. Furthermore, Zn concentrations increased by 47.22%, 59.27%, and 55.69% in leaves, grains, and straw, while root colonization increased by 56.05%. In conclusion, Trichoderma with Zn and B fertilization is an effective strategy for improving wheat productivity, soil biological health, micronutrient biofortification, and nutrient-use efficiency in micronutrient-deficient soils.

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