Optimizing sowing date for peanut genotypes in arid and semi-arid subtropical regions.

Peanut (Arachis hypogea L.) is an important nut crop extensively grown in rainfed regions of Pakistan. The crop requires low inputs; thus, could grow successfully under diverse environmental conditions. Due to pegging ability, peanut grows aggressively in sandy and sandy-loam soils. However, it has not introduced to Thal region of southern Punjab, Pakistan. A two-year field experiment was conducted to optimize sowing dates for two peanut genotypes ('BARI-2016' and 'NO-334') in Thal region (Layyah). Similarly, a yield trial was conducted at Chakwal where both genotypes are extensively grown. Five sowing dates (10^th April, 1^st May, 20^th May, 10^th June and 30^th June) were included in the study. The highest seed yield was obtained with early sown crop (10^th April) during both years. Pod formation reduced with increasing atmospheric temperature and no pods were formed on the plants sown on 30^th June. Decreased pod formation seemed a major reason for low yield in late-sown crop. The highest yield was observed for the crop sown on 10^th April, which was decreased by 40% for the crop sown on 1^st May. Genotype 'BARI-2016' performed better for seed yield at both locations compared with 'NO-334'. The results suggested that genotype 'BARI-2016' is more adaptive to arid and semi-arid condition under rainfed or irrigated conditions. Sowing peanut at optimum time would increase seed yield in arid and semi-arid regions. Nonetheless, 'BARI-2016' can be grown under rainfed and irrigated conditions successfully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]