Growth, yield and economics of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) as influenced by intercrops and sulphur application

A study was undertaken by introducing castor (Ricinus communis L.) and sesame (Sesamum indicum L) as intercrops in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) fertilized with 0, 20, 40 and 60 kg S/ha at SKN College of Agriculture, Jobner (Jaipur), during the rainy (kharif) season of 1999 and 2000, to study the growth and yield behaviour of groundnut. Inclusion of oilseeds as intercrops (castor and sesame) reduced the dry-matter accumulation, dry weight of root nodules, chlorophyll content and branches/plant of groundnut compared to sole crops. The yield attributes, viz. pods/plant, kernels/pod and test weight were also decreased by intercropping of oilseeds. Similarly, the pod yield, kernel yield and biological yield were also decreased by inclusion of intercrops. The intercropping of groundnut with castor in 4: 1 row ratio gave the highest groundnut pod-equivalent yield, net return and benefit: cost ratio. Groundnut responded to sulphur application up to 40 kg S/ha, whereas higher groundnut pod-equivalent yield, net return and benefit: cost ratio were obtained with 60 kg S/ha.