Effect of Gypsum Application on Mineral Composition in Peanut Pod Walls and Seeds

Abstract

ABSTRACTAlleviation of soil‐Ca deficiency through gypsum amendment increases the yield potential and ensures high seed quality in peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). The effects of gypsum treatment, plant life cycle, and the fruit development stages on the accrual of several essential minerals (Ca, S, Mg, P, K, Cu, Ni, Mn, Zn, and Fe) and Na were studied in the pod walls and seeds of two runner cultivars, C‐99R and Georgia Green. Calcium concentration was nearly twofold higher in pod walls than in seeds, irrespective of gypsum treatment and cultivar differences. Significant increases in Ca and S, a decrease in P concentration in pod walls and seeds, and a marginal decline in seed‐Mg concentration were discernible following gypsum treatment. Sodium concentration decreased in the pod walls and Zn concentration increased in the seeds due to gypsum treatment. Progression in the plant life cycle stage was positively correlated with Ca accrual in both pod walls and seeds. The small‐seeded cultivar Georgia Green showed tissue‐specific increases in the acquisition of Ca, Mg, and Zn in pod walls and seeds, and a decrease in P concentration in the seeds compared with the large‐seeded cv. C‐99R. Compared with the respective seed maturation stages, the pod walls had lower S, Mg, P, K, and Zn, and higher Ca, Cu, Ni, Mn, Fe, and Na concentrations. While Ca, S, Mg, P, K, Zn, Fe, and Na concentrations declined, Mn concentration increased in both pod walls and seeds during fruit development.