Climate and Temperature: Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) is a major kharif crop that protects the soil from erosion caused by wind and rain. It thrives best in regions with an annual rainfall of about 100 cm. The ideal climate for peanut cultivation includes moderate temperatures and adequate rainfall.

Water Demand

Peanuts require a sufficient water supply, particularly during critical growth stages such as pegging and pod development. If rainfall is insufficient, irrigation should be implemented, ensuring that two irrigations are provided during the pegging and pod formation stages.

Soil: Peanuts grow well in well-drained sandy loam to loamy soils. The soil should be rich in organic matter to maintain fertility and support growth.

Major Varieties:

The following varieties are recommended for cultivation in Uttar Pradesh:

Sowing of Crops: Farmers often use a lower quantity of seeds, leading to reduced plant population and yield. Therefore, it is important to use the recommended seed quantity for different varieties. Sowing should be done in the first fortnight of July to avoid diseases like wilting.

Suitable Time of Sowing: The recommended sowing times, seed rates, and planting distances are as follows.

Field Preparation: Proper field preparation is essential for good crop establishment. Ensure the field is well plowed to prepare good soil for sowing.

Crop Cycle: The crop cycle for peanuts generally lasts about 4-5 months, depending on the variety and climatic conditions.

Water Management: Ensure proper water management throughout all growth stages to avoid water stress, especially during pegging and pod formation.

Weed Management: Weed management is crucial for maintaining crop health. The pre-emergence application of herbicides like Pendimethalin can effectively control weed growth. Manual weeding may also be necessary.

Harvesting: Harvest peanuts when the outer shell shows clear veins and the interior turns brown. This ensures the development and quality of the seeds. After harvesting, allow the pods to dry completely before storage to prevent mold and spoilage.

Diseases and Disease Prevention:

Peanut crops are susceptible to several diseases, including:

• White Grub: These grubs feed on the roots. Use insecticides like Carbaryl at the onset of the monsoon.
• Termites: These pests cut through roots and pods, causing plants to wilt. Implement seed treatments to manage their population.
• Hairy Caterpillars: They feed on leaves and can be controlled with insecticides like Dichlorvos.
• Crown Rot of Peanuts: This appears as black fungal growth on the plants. Seed treatment is necessary.
• Damping Off or Charcoal Rot: This occurs under excessive moisture and high temperatures. Maintain soil moisture and apply seed treatment.
• Bud Necrosis: This appears as drying of terminal buds. Control aphids, which are carriers of the disease.
• Peanut Leaf Spot: This shows up as brown spots on leaves. Treat it with fungicides like Mancozeb or Zineb.
• Nematodes: Use green manure or deep plowing to manage nematode populations.

By implementing these management practices, farmers can enhance the yield and quality of peanuts while minimizing damage from pests and diseases.