A Comparison of a Large‐Seeded (NC2) and a Small‐Seeded (Starr) Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Cultivar as Affected by Levels of Calcium Added to the Fruit Zone

Abstract

Abstract Several greenhouse experiments were conducted to compare various Ca treatments on selected vegetative and reproductive characteristics of Starr and NC2 peanuts. Calcium and K uptake and distribution characteristics in Starr and NC2 peanut plant parts were studied also. Starr and NC2 peanuts were grown in sand cultures with separated rooting and fruiting containers for direct comparisons. Starr and NC2 peanuts were dependent upon a Ca supply in the fruit zone for proper development of fruit. Starr peanuts produced a larger weight of kernels at low Ca levels than NC2 peanuts. Starr peanuts apparently make more efficient use of Ca for kernel development than the larger seeded NC2 peanuts.