Role of gypsum and calcium in groundnut pod filling and application time.
Why is gypsum important in groundnut and when to apply it?
JJayesh Bhalodia9mo ago · 347 views
3 Answers
🌾Farmer.in Krishi TeamExpert ✓9mo ago
Gypsum supplies calcium and sulphur, which groundnut needs directly at the pod zone for proper pod and kernel development; calcium deficiency causes pops (empty pods) and poor kernel filling. The best time to apply gypsum is at the pegging or early flowering stage, about 40 to 45 days after sowing, applied in a band along the rows so it is in the soil where pegs enter and pods form. A common dose is around 200 to 250 kg gypsum per hectare, but follow your soil test and local recommendation. Sulphur from gypsum also helps raise oil content. Confirm the exact dose and timing for your variety and soil with Junagadh Agricultural University or your KVK.
NNileshbhai Patel9mo ago
Band the gypsum near the rows and lightly mix it into the soil, do not just broadcast it on top. When I placed it where the pegs go into the soil the pod filling was clearly better than the year I scattered it everywhere. There must be moisture at application too, so I time it with an irrigation or rain.
BBhavnaben Savaliya8mo ago
Get a soil test before fixing the gypsum dose, because some fields already have enough calcium and sulphur. My Soil Health Card showed low sulphur so gypsum paid me well, but a neighbour with adequate levels saw little gain. The pegging stage timing is the part everyone should follow regardless.