Field applications of sewage sludge improved soil properties and increased wheat yield in sand-textured soils of hot drylands

Abstract

In the context of the circular economy, managing sewage sludge (SS) is vital for resource valorization and sustainability. This study aims to compare the impact of different application methods (two phase mulch, single phase mulch, incorporation) and doses (10, 25, 40 and 50 t/ha) of residual sewage sludge on the quality of sandy–silty soils and the morpho-physiological characteristics of durum wheat (Triticum durum) plants, specifically the Oued El Bared G4 variety. The field experiment was conducted in a hot arid region in northeastern Algeria. Results demonstrated that SS significantly improved soil fertility and wheat performance (p < 0.001). Soil organic matter (OM) and Phosphorus peaked at 1.92% (T2D3) and 258.46 ppm (T1D4) respectively, representing a substantial enrichment compared to lower doses. Regarding crop yield, the 1000 grain weight (WTG) reached a maximum of 54.88 g with single phase mulch (T2D1), which is 33.8% higher than the two phase application method. Similarly, plant height and leaf surface area (LSA) were maximized under the T2 method (91 cm and 37.41 cm2, respectively). While soil pH remained stable, electrical conductivity (EC) increased with dosage, peaking at 1.87 µS/cm (T2D4). This finding suggest that sludge biorecycling in single phase mulch application (T2) at moderate doses optimizes both soil quality and durum wheat yield component in arid region. Future research should focus on the long term cumulative effects of repeated sludge application on soil heavy metal dynamics and groundwater quality in arid environment.

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