Exploring the Optimal NPSB Fertilizer Application Strategies and Use Efficiency for Mung Bean ( Vigna radiata L.) Production at Mataya, Central Ethiopia

This study in Mataya, Central Ethiopia, identified optimal nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, and boron (NPSB) fertilizer strategies for enhancing mung bean production and soil health. A 2‐year field experiment evaluated three varieties (N‐26, NVL‐1, and Arkebe) under five NPSB rates (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 kg ha −1 ). Results demonstrated that NPSB application significantly improved key soil properties postharvest, including pH, organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen (TN), and available phosphorus (AP), sulfur, and boron. Agronomic performance was strongly influenced by fertilizer rate and variety. The N‐26 variety achieved the highest grain yield (1.95 t ha −1 ) at 100 kg NPSB ha −1 . However, nutrient use efficiency (UE) indices were generally optimized at moderate application rates of 50–75 kg ha −1 . Strong positive correlations were found between grain yield and efficiency parameters like physiological efficiency (PE; r = 0.94), underscoring the importance of efficient nutrient utilization. The study concludes that applying 75 kg NPSB ha −1 to the N‐26 variety provides the most effective strategy for boosting mung bean productivity, improving nutrient UE, and enhancing soil fertility in the study region, offering a sustainable pathway for smallholder farmers.