Numerical Variables Analysis and Improving Phosphorus Use Efficiency in Groundnut with Microbial Cultures in Coastal Zone of Puducherry

Abstract

Background: The precise application of phosphorus fertilizer is pivotal in determining Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) productivity. The high demand of phosphorus for energy transfer molecules involved in nitrogen fixation makes it essential for leguminous crop. A field experiment was conducted at Perunthalaivar Kamaraj Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Puducherry during 2021 to 2023 to explore the performance of groundnut by employing an optimal combination of microbial culture alongside varying levels of phosphorus. Methods: The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 10 treatments and replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of different doses of phosphorus (@ 20, 40 and 60 kg/ha) with and without seed treatment with DGRC culture. Result: The experiment results of the three years study revealed that a variable response of groundnut to P fertilizer rates and rhizobium inoculant on sandy loam soil in puducherry. P fertilizer rates combined with DGRC inoculant had a significant influence on growth, root nodule, nodule dry weight, pod and kernel yield. From this study, it may concluded that combined application of P fertilizer @ 60 kg/ha and seed treatment of DGRC culture inoculants @ 20 g/kg seed have the potential to increase the productivity and profitability of groundnut. Correlation and Regression analysis also indicated that the yield attributes had a positive impact on groundnut yield.