Question

Briefly explain any three conditions necessary for groundnut growth.

Answer 1

As a warm-season crop, groundnuts need particular growing conditions in order to yield well. Among the conditions for groundnut growth are the following ones:

1. Climate: The ideal temperature range for groundnuts is between 20°C and 30°C. The crop cannot withstand temperatures below 15°C or frost. Throughout the growing season, the crop also needs 500 to 600 mm of evenly spaced rainfall.
2. Soil: Sandy loam or loamy soils with good drainage are ideal for groundnut growth. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.0, and it should be fertile. Additionally, there should be no illnesses or pests in the soil that could harm the crop.
3. Sunlight: For groundnuts to grow and develop, they need an abundance of sunlight. For the crop to yield well, it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
4. Use of Fertilizers: For groundnuts to yield well, sufficient fertilizers are needed. Fertilizers containing potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen work well with the crop. It is important for farmers to adhere to recommended fertilizer application rates in order to prevent overfertilization, which can result in lower yields and pollution of the environment.
5. Irrigation: Throughout the growing season, especially in the dry spells, groundnuts need to be regularly watered. To keep the soil moist, irrigation should be applied to the crop at regular intervals, down to a depth of approximately 30 cm.
6. Planting: In India, groundnuts are planted in June or July, when the monsoon season officially begins. Plant the crop in rows, leaving around 30 cm between plants and 60 cm between rows.