Assessing Boron Needs for Improving Peanut Yield and Quality

Abstract

AbstractThree experiments were conducted to determine requirements of boron (B) for Spanish peanuts (Arachis hypogaea); (i) three rates of B were applied in solution to soil surfaces at 17 field locations, (ii) two rates of B were applied to soil at various stages of growth, and (iii) four B carriers were compared. Soil samples were collected at planting time. Leaf and petiole samples were collected 30 and 60 days after planting. The relationship of the occurrence of internal damage to initial soil B levels and concentration of B in plant tissue were evaluated. The effects of time, rate, and B carrier were also compared.Boron deficiency was found in more than 50% of the field locations. Boron application did not increase yields of peanuts or improve seed quality as measured by yield of sound mature kernels. The occurrence of internal damage from B deficiency (IDB) was shown to be related to hot‐water‐soluble soil B and to B content in young leaves and petioles. No IDB was found at locations with a hot‐water‐soluble soil B level > 0.15 ppm. Peanuts from plants with B concentration in young leaf tissue between 26 to 30 ppm at 30 and 60 days after planting were free of IDB. Boron applied as late as 60 days after planting was effective in eliminating IDB. No difference in the effectiveness of the four B carriers was found.