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The present study was aimed to optimize phosphorous and zinc doses to maximize wheat productivity under arid climate. Varying levels of phosphorus (P(1) = 60, P(2) = 90 and P(3) = 120 kg ha(-1)) and zinc (Zn(1) = 10, Zn(2) = 15 and Zn(3) = 20 (kg ha(-1)) were applied in a silty loam to which wheat was grown till maturity. From the results of the present study, it was found that application of P had a positive influence on growth and grain yield of wheat. However, maximum growth and yield of wheat was recorded at 120 kg ha(-1) P(2)O(5) application. In contrast, Zn application did not change in growth or yield of wheat. However, combined application of P and Zn caused an increase in growth of wheat particularly in terms of Leaf Area Index (LAI). The highest grain-P content was recorded with application of 120 kg ha(-1) P(2)O(5) and 15 kg ha(-1) Zn while highest straw-P was accumulated with comparatively lower rates of both (90 kg ha(-1) P(2)O(5) and 15 kg ha(-1) Zn). The highest grain and straw-Zn contents were recorded for 15 kg Zn ha(-1) with 60 and 90 kg ha(-1) P(2)O(5), respectively. Combined application of 120 kg P(2)O(5) and 20 kg ha(-1) Zn depicted the highest NFB and BCR during both cropping seasons.