Groundnut is grown on large scale in almost all the tropical and sub-tropical countries of the world. India occupies the first position in the acreage as well as production. It is grown over an area of 75.48 lakh hectares with total production of 63.87 lakh tons. Its cultivation is mostly confined to the southern Indian states.

  Climatic Requirements

Groundnut is essentially tropical plant. It requires a long and warm growing season. The favourable climate for groundnut is a well distributed rainfall of at least 50 centimeters during the growing season, abundance of sunshine and relatively warm temperature.

  Season

Groundnut grows well in warm and well distributed rainy areas.

  Soil

Groundnut thrives best in well-drained sandy loam soils, as light soil helps in easy penetration of pegs and their development and their harvesting. Groundnuts give good yields in soils with pH between 6.0-6.5.

  Variety

There are three types of varieties in groundnut, bunch types with erect plant habit, spreading and semi-spreading types. The bunch types have light green foliage, comparatively broad leaflets and mature early. Selection of varieties depends mainly on the following factors:

• Method Of Sowing
• Crop Rotation
• Pest and Disease
• Irrigration Facilities
• Climatic Conditions