Drip fertigation and irrigation interval effects on growth, productivity, nutrient and water economy in summer peanut

Abstract

No significant effect of application of irrigation water at 4-days interval through drip (10-days interval in check basin method of irrigation) was observed on pod and haulm yields, economics and quality parameters of peanut compared to 6-days interval through drip (15-days interval with check basin method). However, significantly higher kernel and oil yields were obtained at 4-days interval through drip (10-days interval in check basin method) and also recorded higher partial factor productivity. Drip irrigation saved 33.2% water over check basin method. The application of 75% NK through drip significantly improved pod, haulm, kernel and oil yields by 14.3, 11.5, 13.9 and 12.3%, respectively, and net returns by Rs 13,499 ha-1 and benefit cost ratio by 0.35 over 50% NK through drip and was at par with other treatments. Fertigation @ 50-100% NK saved 36.4-37.0% water over 100% NPK with check basin method of irrigation. Maximum partial factor productivity was recorded with 50% NK through drip.