Systematic review on the effects of wastewater chemical composition on crop yield under fertigation practices

The escalating global demand for freshwater resources poses significant challenges to sustainable agricultural practices. This systematic review examines the influence of inorganic ions' concentration in wastewater on crop yields under fertigation, with a particular focus on compliance with the recommendations of FAO water quality standards. The review reveals that key nutrients, such as nitrates (NO₃−) and phosphates (PO₄3−), largely meet established thresholds, while sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) frequently exceed permissible levels, threatening crop productivity, especially in salinity-sensitive species. Additionally, the study explores the effects of nutrient variability on crop performance across different soil types and cultivation environments. Statistical analyses were performed to assess chemical composition and their correlation with agricultural yields. The findings emphasize the critical need to adapt fertigation practices to the specific characteristics of soil and environmental conditions to optimize the benefits of wastewater reuse.