Peanut Response to Row Pattern and Seed Density when Irrigated with Subsurface Drip Irrigation

Abstract

A two year study (2001 and 2002) was conducted at Sasser and Shellman, GA to determine the effects of planting pattern and plant population on the pod yield, market grade, and market value of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) when irrigated with subsurface drip irrigation (SDI). Soils were a Tifton loamy sand (fine-loamy, kaolinitic, thermic Plinthic Kandiudults) and Greenville sandy loam (fine, kaolinitic, thermic Rhodic Kandiudults) with 1% slope. Seeds were planted at recommended (20 seeds/m; 1.0R) and half the recommended rate (10 seeds/m; 0.5R) in a single and twin-row pattern. Plots were irrigated daily to replace estimated daily evapotranspiration (ETa). This study showed that twin-row plant pattern had 490 kg/ha higher pod yield compared with single-row pattern when irrigated using subsurface drip irrigation. The twin-row pattern also had a one percentage point increase in grade value (TSMK) compared with the single-row pattern. There was no difference in kernel size distribution with planting pattern. Twin-row planting had a $213/ha higher market value compared with single-row. There was no difference in yield on market value for seeding rate. This implies that it may be possible for a grower to plant in a twin-row pattern at half the recommended seeding rate without sacrificing net market value but may increase the risk of yield due to TSWV damage.