Phosphogypsum improves soil and benefits crop growth: An effective measure for utilizing solid waste resources

The utilization rate of phosphogypsum (PG) is currently low, and prolonged storage poses environmental pollution. Therefore, there is an urgent need to promote resource-efficient utilization. This study investigated the alterations in the characteristics of modified PG artificial soil (MPG-soil) and their influence on buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) growth using hierarchical land reclamation technique (HLRT) and integrated land reclamation technique (ILRT). The results demonstrated that MPG-soil reduced bulk density (3.8-6.9%), enhanced moisture content (up to 22%), and improved enzymatic activity. HLRT achieved superior phosphorus mineralization (7.53 U/g S-NP activity) and increased buckwheat yield by 130.6% over controls. Despite elevated soil salinity, MPG amendments restricted heavy metal accumulation in grains (BCF < 0.3), though Pb levels exceeded national standards due to background contamination. Nutrient dynamics revealed increased phosphorus availability but reduced organic matter, necessitating supplemental fertilization. The Nemerow index confirmed all treatments as "Safe and Clean", while principal component analysis highlighted HLRT's efficacy in balancing soil structure and fertility. Proline accumulation in high-PG treatments indicated adaptive stress responses. MPG-soil effectively contained heavy metal migration, ensuring agricultural product safety. This study assessed the potential of PG for land reclamation, and provided guidelines for its safe utilization in agriculture.