Optimising fertigation efficiency for sustainable crop production

Challenge

Modern agriculture faces a growing dilemma in maintaining high crop yields and quality while reducing fertiliser overuse. The excessive application of fertilisers has resulted in nutrients leaching into rivers and oceans. With rising fertiliser costs and environmental concerns, there is an urgent need to improve fertiliser-use efficiency in crops without compromising productivity.

Recognising this, Sonali Koundal’s PhD research addresses one of the core challenges of sustainable horticultural production: enhancing fertigation efficiency, the combined application of fertilisers and irrigation, under both controlled and open-field conditions.

Solution

Sonali’s project investigates how varying levels of electrical conductivity and potassium in fertigation influence crop yield, quality and physiological performance. Through controlled trials, she aims to determine the optimal nutrient balance that sustains healthy plant growth while minimising resource inputs.

Working in collaboration with Future Food Systems (FFS) and Qatar University, the project brings together academic research and industry needs. The findings are intended to guide growers toward more efficient fertiliser practices that maintain productivity and reduce waste.

Impact

The research is helping to identify fertigation strategies that support strong yields and high-quality produce with lower fertiliser use. By demonstrating that crops can perform well with fewer inputs, the study offers economic benefits for growers and environmental gains through reduced nutrient runoff.

Sonali’s engagement with farmers, researchers and industry partners ensures that results are communicated and applied in practical ways, bridging the gap between scientific discovery and on-ground agricultural improvement.

Prospects

Looking ahead, Sonali plans to continue her work in plant sciences through postdoctoral research or roles in industry and academia. She is passionate about translating research outcomes into real-world applications that promote more sustainable and resource-efficient food production systems.