Effect of irrigation on reproductive efficiency of bunch and spreading types of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

Abstract

Groundnuts are mostly grown during the rainy season (kharif) in India. Most of the cultivation is without irrigation. Consequently the crop experiences water deficits of different intensities and durations, depending upon the rainfall distribution. Yields are poor under such conditions. In other leguminous species irrigation at flowering usually improves yield, if the pod development period coincides with a break in rainfall or water deficit (Khanna-Chopra, Koundal & Sinha, 1980). Thus, an understanding of reproductive behaviour and reproductive efficiency could be helpful in adjusting planting to coincide with favourable agroclimatic conditions. Alternatively, this understanding could help in scheduling irrigation.