Effect of integrated nitrogen management and foliar spray of iron on groundnut yield, quality and economics in arid region

Abstract

Aim: This experiment was conducted to find out appropriate technical intervention for integrated management of nitrogen and iron chlorosis in irrigated groundnut in arid regions. Methodology: Two levels of farmyard manure, five levels of nitrogen and three levels of iron spray were applied in irrigated groundnut. Chlorophyll content, active iron content, periodic dry matter accumulation, oil content and yield, protein content and nutrient uptake by groundnut were studied. Most effective level of farmyard manure, nitrogen application and iron spray were identified for optimum management of the resources.? Results: The results showed that application of farmyard manure @ 15 t ha-1, nitrogen @ 60 kg ha-1 in two or three splits and foliar spray of FeSO4 @ 1.0 % in combination with citric acid @ 0.1% was found supportive in correcting iron chlorosis by increasing chlorophyll and active iron content, improving oil content and yield, protein content and nutrient uptake and ultimately enhancing net return by groundnut under irrigated conditions. Interpretation: Farmyard manure, higher dose of nitrogen in split application and foliar spray of iron is helpful in correcting iron chlorosis, improving growth, quality and nutrient uptake and increasing income of groundnut growers under irrigated condition in arid regions.