Key Drivers of Improved Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Intensive Wheat Systems in Egypt

Abstract

Excessive use of fertilizers and water, common in intensive farming systems, has led to diminishing returns, environmental degradation, increasing soil salinity, and increased production costs. In Egypt’s intensively cultivated irrigated drylands, average nitrogen use efficiency under farmers’ management is below 30%, indicating substantial losses of applied nitrogen. It is therefore crucial to develop and promote context-specific management practices that improve nutrient use efficiency, sustain agricultural production, and reduce environmental impacts, while identifying the main drivers of improved efficiency. This study shows that planting method (raised beds with furrow irrigation), phosphorus application rate, use of quality seed, organic matter inputs, variety choice, sowing time, number of tillage passes, and water management are key drivers for enhancing nitrogen use efficiency in intensified wheat systems