Peanut flowering under irrigation technique
2025-08-21 13:22:05
Peanut flowering and pegging period is the most vigorous growth phase of the plant. During this time, the leaves are fully developed, stem and leaf growth is at its peak, and a large number of flowers form into pegs that develop into pods. Additionally, this stage is characterized by high temperatures, significant evaporation from the soil, and high transpiration from the leaves. As a result, it is the period when peanuts require the most water. Proper timing and scientific irrigation are crucial for achieving high yields.
1. Understand the water demand pattern. Throughout the entire growth cycle, the general pattern of water requirement for peanuts follows a "less in the beginning and end, more in the middle" approach. The flowering and pegging stage falls in the middle, making it the most sensitive period for water needs. Large-seeded peanuts consume 48.2% to 59.1% of the total water used during the growing season, with daily consumption around 60 cubic meters per hectare. For medium and small-seeded varieties, the water use ranges from 52.1% to 61.4%, with daily consumption between 18 to 30 cubic meters per hectare.
2. Monitor soil moisture levels. When soil moisture during the flowering stage drops below 50% of the maximum water-holding capacity, flower production decreases, fertilization becomes less effective, and the development of pegs and pods slows down. On the other hand, if soil moisture exceeds 80% of the field capacity, the soil becomes overly saturated, reducing oxygen availability for roots and slowing above-ground growth. In windy conditions, this can lead to root lodging, which may cause pegs and pods to be pulled out or buried, significantly affecting yield. Normally, irrigation should be done immediately when the moisture content in the top 5 cm of soil is below 6%, and the 20 cm layer is below 10%.
3. Apply appropriate irrigation techniques. There are three main methods: furrow irrigation, sprinkler irrigation, and drip irrigation.
Furrow irrigation involves digging ditches between peanut rows and allowing water to flow through them, gradually seeping into the root zone. This method conserves water, reduces soil erosion, and minimizes compaction. It's suitable for various row spacings. For 20 cm spacing, one ditch can be made every three rows. For 40 cm spacing, a single ditch can cover two rows. In compacted soils, raising the ditches helps loosen the soil and improve root penetration.
Sprinkler irrigation saves 30% to 50% of water compared to traditional methods and helps regulate soil temperature, moisture, and nutrients. However, manual application can be labor-intensive and may cause soil compaction. If using simple tools, walk along the ridges and spray sequentially. A typical application rate is about 200 to 240 cubic meters per hectare.
Drip irrigation uses low-pressure pipes with drippers placed along the rows, delivering water directly to the root zone. This high-tech method is common in developed areas. In rural settings, polyethylene hoses with small holes (0.4–0.6 cm diameter) spaced 20–30 cm apart can be used. The hose is laid along the peanut rows, and water slowly seeps out. This method is cost-effective, requiring an initial investment of 300–500 yuan and lasting several years. Each hose can be 50–80 meters long, and joints can be easily connected. It's important to avoid large holes and vertical alignment; each hose should have symmetrical drip points on both sides.
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