ASSESSMENT OF GROUNDNUT (Arachis hypogeae L.) FOR NUTRIENT STATUS, BIOMASS AND POD YIELDS IN JALINGO, TARABA STATE

Two adjacent groundnut plots at the Taraba State University Guest House were marked out at 27m x 30m for nutrients and yield assessment. Soil and groundnut leaf samples were collected, while groundnut pods and biomass yields were taken after harvest. The soil and leaf samples were analysed for N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Na, S, Mo, Mn, B, Cu, Zn and Fe contents. The soil textural classes, organic C,pH, EA, CEC and BS were determined, while the groundnut pods, fresh and dry biomass weights were obtained. Results showed that the soils were sandy loam textured and adjudged suitable for groundnut cultivation, while the soil organic C, N, Ca, Mg and Fe were inadequate for groundnut production. Plant analysis showed that P and B found adequate in the soils were deficient in the groundnut plants, indicating signs of hidden hunger in the soils. Pod yields were 1.97 and 2.49 t/ha for plots A and B, while 36% and 28% of the pods respectively were empty. Thus, the actual filled pods weights were 1.26 and 1.79 t/ha respectively. With average 30% shell weight, the shelled groundnut weight obtainable were 0.88 and 1.25 t/ha respectively for plots A and B. This translates to values that were about 48.2% and 26.5% respectively lower than the national average yield of 1.7 t/ha. The high level of empty pods was attributed to the low B content in the groundnut plants. It was suggested that increasing the soil organic matter by 8-9 t/ha will improve the soil organic C and resolve the hidden hunger issues in the soils, especially as it affects P and B contents. However, since nutrient deficiency levels differ between the plots, site specific nutrient recommendations were made and recommended.