Characterization of a Triticum aestivum L. experimental field to implement an agronomic biofortification workflow

Soils provide plants both with a physical home and all the essential nutrients and support they crave to thrive. Such a circumstance paves the way to a close analysis of the level of viability of different types of soils. Hence the need to assess the suitability of the experimental field in which to implement an agronomic biofortification itinerary. Thus, soil samples were collected from different sites of the wheat field. A rectangular grid was applied. Afterwards, pH and electrical conductivity were determined with a potentiometer; the mineral quantification was measured using an XRF analyzer and color analyzes were performed with Minolta CR 400 colorimeter. Moisture and organic matter contents were also carried out. No significant differences were found when considering the moisture content, pH, electrical conductivity, and the mineral values of Fe and Mn. As opposed to this, slight differences were observed in organic matter content, color parameters and in Ca, K, S, Cu, and Zn. Concerning the macroelements, the most prevalent mineral was Ca, followed by K and S. As for the microelements, Zn was the least dominant mineral, as opposed to Cu, Mn and Fe. Data showed that this experimental field has proven to be eligible to implement an agronomic biofortification workflow due to the slightly acid pH and the lower amount of organic matter content.