As peanut crop grows, it requires a considerable amount of nutrients to support its growth and development, and therefore, proper fertilizer application is an essential aspect of crop management. The correct fertilizer application not only promotes good growth and high yields but also ensures that the nutrient requirement of the crop is met, and excess fertilizer use is avoided.
The fertilizer dose for peanut crop varies depending on soil fertility, crop variety, irrigation, and other environmental conditions. However, a general recommendation is to apply 25 kg N, 50 kg P2O5, and 50 kg K2O per hectare during pre-planting or basal application. Another option is to apply 60-70% of the P and K and 25% of the N during basal, with the remaining N applied in splits during the crop’s growth stages.
During the vegetative stage of the peanut plant, it requires sufficient nitrogen to support growth. Therefore, 20-25 kg N per hectare could be applied as top dressing one month after planting. In contrast, they should avoid applying excessive nitrogen during the pod-filling stage, as it may delay pod maturity.
Phosphorus is crucial for the development of strong root systems in the peanut crop. Therefore, it’s vital to apply sufficient phosphorus during the crop’s basal stage to support early growth. Potassium, on the other hand, is essential for improved yield and quality of the peanut crop. Applying potassium during the pre-planting stage ensures sufficient availability of the mineral during the crop’s maturity stage.
Moreover, peanut crop requires micronutrients such as magnesium, zinc, boron, and manganese, which could be applied as foliar sprays or mixed with the primary fertilizers. These micronutrients are involved in various metabolic processes, including photosynthesis, cell division, and respiration, and therefore, their deficiency could lead to stunted growth and reduced yield.
In conclusion, proper fertilizer application plays a critical role in the success of a peanut crop. Growers should seek the advice of certified agricultural specialists to determine the appropriate fertilizer combination and the optimal dosage to match the specific crop requirements. With the right fertilizer application, growers can achieve high yields, good quality, and healthy plant growth.