EFFECT OF PHOSPHORUS AND MULCHING ON THE GROWTH AND YIELD OF GROUNDNUT (Arachis hypogaea L.) VARIETIES IN THE NORTHERN GUINEA SAVANNA ALFISOL OF NIGERIA

The study on groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) performance under different rates of phosphorus and mulching in the Northern Guinea savannas ecological zone of Nigeria addresses challenges of low soil fertility and harsh climatic conditions. Groundnut, an important crop in Nigeria, is limited by phosphorus deficiency and soil moisture stress in the savannas. Field trials were conducted at the Irrigation Research Farms of the Institute for Agricultural Research, Samaru and Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic Saye, in the dry season of 2022 to evaluate two varieties of groundnut (SAMNUT-24 and SAMNUT-25), three -1 phosphorus rates (0, 30 and 60 kgP 0 ha ), and three mulch materials (no mulch, sawdust 2 5 and dry grass). Treatments were laid out in a randomised complete block design with three replications. Results showed SAMNUT-24 excelled in branches, canopy spread and shoots dry weight, while SAMNUT-25 produced higher pod yield and harvest index. Applying 60 -1 kgP 0 ha improved leaves, pod yield and harvest index, while sawdust enhanced leaf 2 5 number and canopy spread. Both varieties performed well under irrigation. SAMNUT-24 -1 and SAMNUT-25 with 60 kgP O ha and dry grass mulch is recommended for farmers. 2 5 Identifying optimal combinations of phosphorus and mulching can enhance groundnut yield and sustainability. Further research is needed to explore phosphorus rates with new/improved varieties.