Groundnut Cultural Practices And Importance

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Hi, welcome to this hall on the groundnut cultural practices and Importance.

Table Of Contents

  1. Meaning of groundnut.
  2. Groundnut cultural practices in agriculture.
  3. Uses of groundnut.
  4. Importance of groundnut.
  5. Pests and diseases of groundnut.
  6. Revision Questions.

Introduction

Meaning: Groundnut Also known as peanut, is a legume that grows underground. It’s a good source of protein, healthy fats, and various nutrients. Deceived called Nut contains about 40 to 55% oil, 30% protein and 18% carbohydrates. In this article we will be looking at groundnut cultural Practices.

Groundnut is a dual purpose crop, it can be cultivated as an oil crop as well as a protein or a pulse or leguminous crop. Although it is a leguminous crop, it is mainly grown for its oil.

Groundnut Cultural Practices In Groundnut Cultivation Process

VARIETIES: 1. Groundnut oil. 2. Groundnut Cake. 3. Groundnut butter.

Land Preparation: In Groundnut Cultural Practices, Land preparation involves various activities to make the soil suitable for planting crops. This includes plowing, harrowing, and leveling the land to create a favorable seedbed.

Groundnut Cultural Practices, and importance
Groundnut Cultural Practices

Climatic Requirements for Groundnut Cultivation:

  1. Temperature:Groundnuts thrive in warm temperatures. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). Extreme cold temperatures can adversely affect germination and growth.
  2. Rainfall: Groundnuts require a well-distributed rainfall during the growing season. The crop is sensitive to waterlogging, so well-drained soils are preferred.
  3. Sunlight: Groundnuts are sun-loving plants. They require full sunlight for optimal growth and development.

Soil Requirements for Groundnut Cultivation:

  1. Soil Type: Groundnuts prefer well-drained sandy loam or loamy soils. Avoid heavy clay soils prone to waterlogging.
  2. pH Level: Groundnuts typically grow well in slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
  3. Soil Fertility: Fertile soils with good organic matter content support healthy groundnut growth.
  4. Water Holding Capacity: While well-drained soils are important, the soil should also have sufficient water-holding capacity to ensure consistent moisture availability.
  5. Avoid Salinity: Groundnuts are sensitive to high salinity levels in the soil. Saline soils can negatively impact germination and overall plant growth.
  6. Crop Rotation: Practicing crop rotation helps prevent soil-borne diseases and pests that can affect groundnuts.
  7. Land Slope: Flat or gently sloping lands are preferable to prevent water runoff and erosion.
  8. Sandy soils facilitate easier pod penetration during pegging.
  9. Adequate phosphorus is crucial for pod development.

Cultural Practices Of Groundnut Cultivation

Seed Selection: Choose high-quality, disease-free seeds from reliable sources. Use certified seeds for better yields.

Crop Rotation: Practice crop rotation to reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases and pests. Avoid planting groundnuts in the same area consecutively.

Planting Time: Time planting to coincide with the beginning of the rainy season. Adequate moisture during germination is crucial. Date: March – April in the south, May/June in the North

Planting Depth and Spacing: Plant groundnut seeds at the recommended depth, usually 2 to 5 cm. Follow appropriate row and plant spacing for the selected variety.

Weeding: Control weeds during the early growth stages to minimize competition for nutrients, water, and sunlight.

Fertilization: Apply fertilizers based on soil nutrient levels. Pay attention to phosphorus, which is essential for pod development.

Irrigation: Provide supplemental irrigation during dry spells, especially during flowering and pod development stages.

Hilling or Earthing Up: Depending on the variety and soil type, consider hilling or earthing up to improve aeration, stability, and facilitate peg penetration.

Pest and Disease Management: Monitor for pests like aphids and diseases such as rust and early leaf spot. Implement timely measures, including the use of resistant varieties, if available.

Harvesting: Harvest groundnuts when the plants have matured, and the leaves turn yellow. Loosen the soil before lifting to avoid breaking pegs.

Drying and Curing: Allow harvested groundnuts to dry in the field or on racks. Curing is essential to reduce moisture content and enhance storage quality.

Storage: Store groundnuts in well-ventilated and dry conditions. Protect them from pests and molds.

Crop Residue Management: Incorporate crop residues into the soil or use them as mulch to improve organic matter content. Monitoring and Record Keeping:

Regularly monitor the crop for any signs of stress, pests, or diseases. Maintain records of inputs, observations, and yields for future planning.

PESTS OF GROUNDNUT

1. Rodents: this include rats which dig up and eat sown seeds.

  • CONTROL: fencing and trapping should be done.

    2. Groundnut beetle: this attacks the nut during storage.

    • CONTROL: fumigation with photosyn tablet should be done.

    Other pest include aphids, caterpillar and grasshoppers, bruchid or weevils or floor beetles.

    DISEASES OF GROUNDNUT

    1. Groundnut rosette disease: it is caused by a virus which is transmitted by aphid and other piercing and sucking insects.

    SYMPTOMS: symptoms include green leaves which become yellow with mosaic form of Mottling. the plant becomes stunted and finally withers and dies.

    CONTROL: 1, plant healthy seeds. 2, uproot and burn infected plants. 3. Spray to kill the vector with insecticide.

    2. Tikka disease: it is called by a fungus which can be spread by air or wind.

    SYMPTOMS: symptoms include yellowing of leaves with dark brown spot on the under surface. Falling of the leaves soon will set in.

    CONTROL: 1. Early planting. 2. Practice Crop rotation. 3. Use resistance varieties. 4. Maintain farm sanitation.

    3. Aspergillosis: It is caused by a fungus which makes the seed become mouldy. Spores are transmitted through the soil. Pods become toxic because of the presence of aflatoxins which are poisonous. The hypostyl of the seeds will die.

    CONTROL: 1. Plant mould free seeds. 2. Treat seeds with fungicides.

    USES OF GROUNDNUT

    1. Food consumption
    2. Cooking oil
    3. Peanut butter
    4. Snack
    5. Animal feed
    6. Groundnut shell utilization
    7. Medicinal uses
    8. Groundnut flour
    9. Industrial applications

    Food Consumption: Groundnuts are a popular food item consumed in various forms, including roasted peanuts, peanut butter, and peanut oil.

    Cooking Oil: Peanut oil, derived from groundnuts, is commonly used for cooking due to its high smoke point and mild flavor.

    Peanut Butter: Groundnuts are a primary ingredient in the production of peanut butter, a widely consumed spread.

    Snack: Roasted peanuts serve as a nutritious and tasty snack, often enjoyed on their own or added to dishes.

    Animal Feed: Groundnut meal, a byproduct of oil extraction, is used as a protein-rich component in animal feed.

    Groundnut Shell Utilization: The shells are utilized as fuel, in composting, or even as an ingredient in some industrial applications.

    Medicinal Uses: Some traditional medicines incorporate groundnuts for their potential health benefits, as they contain essential nutrients and antioxidants.

    Groundnut Flour: Groundnuts can be ground into flour and used in baking or as a gluten-free alternative in various recipes.

    Industrial Applications: Groundnut oil is used in industries for purposes such as soap making, lubricants, and as a base for some cosmetic products.

    Importance of Groundnut

    1. Nutritional value
    2. Energy source
    3. Economic impact
    4. Oil production
    5. Food security
    6. Livestock feed
    7. Crop rotation
    8. Export and trade

    Nutritional Value: Groundnuts are rich in protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet.

    Energy Source: Groundnuts provide a high-energy source, making them beneficial for individuals needing quick and sustained energy.

    Economic Impact: Groundnut cultivation is a significant part of the agricultural economy, providing income and employment opportunities.

    Oil Production: Groundnut oil is widely used for cooking and industrial purposes, contributing to the global vegetable oil market.

    Food Security: Groundnuts serve as a staple food in many regions, enhancing food security by providing a reliable source of nutrition.

    Livestock Feed: Groundnut meal is utilized in animal feed, supporting the livestock industry and ensuring the production of meat and dairy products.

    For Crop Rotation: Groundnuts are often included in crop rotation systems, promoting soil health and preventing pest and disease buildup.

    Export and Trade: Many countries export groundnuts, contributing to international trade and economic interdependence.

    Revision Questions

    1. What is groundnut?
    2. Outline and discuss the groundnut cultural practices mentioned above.
    3. Briefly Explain six uses of groundnut.
    4. State five importance of groundnut.
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