| In order to explore the technical parameters of the optimal fertilization position in the root zone of spring wheat, a field experiment was conducted in Balikun County, Hami City, Xinjiang. Four different fertilization treatments were set up: center row fertilization(fertilizer 7.5 cm away from the seed, 10 cm deep, 15 cm apart between holes, designated as L7.5H10D15), off-center row fertilization (fertilizer 5 cm away from the seed, 10 cm deep, 15 cm apart between holes, designated as L5H10D15), deep fertilization(fertilizer 7.5 cm away from the seed, 15 cm deep, 15 cm apart between holes, designated as L7.5H15D15), and reduced hole spacing(fertilizer 7.5 cm away from the seed, 10 cm deep, 12 cm apart between holes, designated as L7.5H10D12). Center row fertilization(without nitrogen fertilizer) was used as the control(CK). The effects of different fertilization positions and hole spacings on spring wheat yield, nutrient utilization, and soil nutrient balance were analyzed. The results showed that different fertilization positions significantly affected wheat grain yield and its components. The L5H10D15 treatment increased yield by 3.7%-24.7%, compared to other treatments; the increase in the number of grains was the main reason for its high yield. In terms of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium accumulation during maturity, the L5H10D15 treatment increased grain and plant nitrogen accumulation, as well as grain potassium accumulation. The L7.5H10D12 treatment increased phosphorus accumulation, as well as stem and leaf and plant potassium accumulation. The nitrogen nutrient utilization rate of the L5H10D15 treatment was the highest, with nitrogen fertilizer utilization rate, agronomic efficiency, and partial factor productivity being 38.8%, 8.7 g·kg-1, and 44.2 g·kg-1, respectively. Compared to L7.5H10D15, L7.5H15D15, and L7.5H10D12, the increase rate was 19.2-28.8 percentage points, 20.8%-148.6%, and 3.8%-13.6%, respectively. In the soil nutrient balance, the nitrogen apparent balance and surplus rate of the L5H10D15 treatment were the lowest, but the phosphorus and potassium apparent balance and surplus rate were higher, ensuring soil nutrient retention while achieving high and stable yields. In conclusion, under similar conditions, the position of one-time hole fertilization in the root zone had a significant impact on wheat yield and soil nutrient balance. Fertilizing the seed 5 cm away, 10 cm deep, and 15 cm apart between holes is most beneficial for increasing wheat grain yield, promoting nutrient accumulation and improving nitrogen fertilizer utilization while ensuring soil nutrient retention for high and stable yields. |