Effects of Phosphorous Fertilizer on Growth and Yield of Groundnut

The level of phosphorus (P) and the time of application are considered as two of the most important factors affecting crop growth and yield of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). A field experiment was carried out at the greenhouse of the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Bangi, Malaysia, in 2014. The objective of the study was to find the best level and the timing of P application, with the aim of getting better growth and higher yield. A complete randomized design with three rates of P (27.5, 55 and 82.5 kg ha(-1)) were used. The dosage that gave the highest yield and growth was 82.5 kg ha(-1) when P application was given at 7, 21, 42 and 60 days after sowing (DAS). The results show that the highest level of P (82.5 kg ha(-1)) at 7 DAS significantly increased plant height, number of nodules/plant, number of pods per plant, pod yield (kg ha(-1)), seed weight, oil content and shelling percentage. It can be concluded from the experiment that P fertilizer application at 82.5 kg ha(-1) at 7 DAS was necessary for profitable groundnut production in the study area.