Enhancing wheat yield and nutritional quality through organo-mineral fertilizer application

Background: Wheat is a global staple vital to nutrition and the economy. Using organo-mineral fertilizers for crops such as wheat has enhanced soil microbial activity, improved plant nutrition, and activated bioactive components. Objective: This study evaluates the effectiveness of the organo-mineral complex fertilizer "Complexon," developed by the "Hrant Petrosyan Scientific Center," in increasing winter wheat yield (variety: Vasa), improving grain quality, and enhancing flour output under irrigated meadow-grey soils. Methods: Field experiments from 2021–2024 were conducted in the Arshaluys community, while commercial-scale trials took place in the Artik region between 2022-2024.  Complexon contains macro- and microelements, amino acids, and complex-forming agents, which were all applied via seed soaking and foliar feeding. Parameters were evaluated, including grain yield, nutritional quality, flour output, and seed germination capacity. Results: Complexon increased wheat yields by 28.3–64.5% over three years compared to the control. This increase was 17.6–37.5%, compared to mineral fertilizers alone. Flour yields increased to 75–78% in commercial-scale trials, compared to 71–74% without Complexon use. Grain quality improved with a 2.0–2.2% rise in dry matter and a 151.7–157.9% reduction in cellulose content. Germination rates reached 96.9% under laboratory conditions, 93.9% in field trials, and 94.7% in vegetative trials. These results are significantly higher than the controls, as germination energy in laboratory, vegetative, and production trials were 86.1%, 83.5%, and 81.6%, respectively. Novelty: This study introduces a fertilizer tailored to Armenian soil and crop needs, demonstrating a potential intervention strategy for sustainable agriculture. Since Complexon was found to boost crop yield and enhance wheat's functional and nutritional quality, this study may align with beneficial effects for producing functional foods. Conclusion: The application of Complexon offers a sustainable approach to wheat cultivation. While Complexon improves yield, grain quality, and flour output, it also reduces seed material requirements, which provides sustainable and economic benefits for producing functional foods. Keywords: wheat, organo-mineral fertilizers, food functionality, crop yield, grain quality