Comparative Analysis of Growth Parameters of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) under Organic and Conventional Farming Systems

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) are essential crops for food and nutritional security in India. This study evaluated growth, yield, nutritional quality and economic factors among organic, conventional and integrated agricultural methods.

The research conducted from 2022 to 2024 at the Organic Farming Research and Training Center, VNMKV, Parbhani, employed a randomized block design with three replications to evaluate conventional, organic and integrated nutrient management (75:25, 50:50, 25:75) and control treatments in wheat and groundnut cultivation. Soil and plant samples were examined for soil characteristics, growth, yield and quality, in addition to the calculation of economic indicators. The data were subjected to statistical analysis via one-way ANOVA (p<0.05).

The findings showed improved soil fertility, with organic carbon rising from 0.41-0.42% to 0.71-0.72% and increased nitrogen and phosphorus, while potassium declined due to crop uptake. Wheat growth was highest under integrated treatments T4 (50% organic + 50% conventional) and T5 (25% organic + 75% conventional). In groundnut, T2 maximized leaf area and biomass, while T5 had the tallest plants and largest nodules. Profitability peaked in T4 36,300 ha^-1, B:C 1.72). Overall, integrated management enhanced wheat growth and groundnut nodulation, whereas organic inputs improved groundnut biomass, leaf area and soil health.