Agro-Ecological Evaluation of Wheat Varieties for Yield and Agronomic Efficiency in DI Khan Division

Abstract

Wheat is a staple crop in Pakistan, and the evaluation of newly released varieties under diverse agro-ecological conditions is critical to ensure food security and sustainable production. This study assessed the yield potential and agronomic performance of ten modern wheat varieties—AZRC-Dera, Shahid, Zarghoon-2021, Asrar Shaheed, PS-2021, Daman, Naurang-2023, Khyber-2023, Thanda-2023, and PS-2023—across two consecutive Rabi seasons (2022–23 and 2023–24) in DI Khan Division, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Field trials were conducted in a randomized complete block design with three replications, and data were collected on key traits, including phenology, plant height, spike length, grains per spike, 1000-grain weight, grain yield, biological yield, and harvest index. Significant variations (p < 0.05) were observed among varieties for all traits, indicating considerable genetic diversity. Early maturing varieties such as Thanda-2023 and Naurang-2023 recorded the shortest growth durations, while Khyber-2023 and PS-2023 produced longer spikes. Yield analysis revealed that Naurang-2023, PS-2023, and Khyber-2023 consistently outperformed others, with grain yields exceeding 6500 kg ha⁻¹, coupled with favorable harvest indices above 35%. In contrast, varieties like AZRC-Dera and Shahid showed moderate yield stability but lower harvest indices. The results suggest that newly released varieties, particularly Naurang-2023 and PS-2023, have strong potential for adoption under the agro-ecological conditions of DI Khan. These findings provide critical insights for wheat improvement programs, variety recommendation, and farmer adoption strategies to enhance productivity in the region.