Micronutrient status of the St Vincent groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

Abstract

The concentrations (per cent oven dry material) and total plant content (g/ha) of micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn) for a runner type groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) growing under good condition were measured at two week intervals from three weeks after planting to harvest (15 weeks). At harvest the concentration and content of these elements in the fruits (both nut and shells) are also reported. Changes in concentration with age and the course of uptake for each clement are discussed. From the data it was calcu-lated that the amounts of these micronutrient needed in cases of severe soil deficiency would be supplied by 3 kg iron (in chelate or sulphate form) 2 kg zinc sulphate, 1 kg manganese sulphate and 1 kg copper sulphate per hectare.