Options for improving water productivity: A case study of bambara groundnut and groundnut

Publication date: Available online 11 November 2019Source: Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Parts A/B/CAuthor(s): Tendai P. Chibarabada, Albert T. Modi, Tafadzwanashe MabhaudhiAbstractThe study determined the best management practices for improved yield (Y) and water productivity (WPET) of groundnut and bambara groundnut under different environments. Three sites representing different agro-ecological zones of KwaZulu Natal were used (Umbumbulu, Ukulinga and Wartburg). Thirty-year historic climate data from the different sites was categorised into normal and dry seasons based on probability of exceedance. Thereafter, eight strategies included were assessed against a reference scenario that represented current practices by smallholder farmers. The eight strategies included (i) early planting, (ii) recommended planting date, (iii) late planting, (iv) mulching, (v) deficit irrigation, (vi) optimum irrigation, (vii) soil bunds, and (viii) tied ridges. The Y and WPET responses (%) to different management practices relative to the reference scenario were analysed. Frequency analyses of crop failure for every management practice were conducted. Early and late planting decreased Y and WPET of groundnut by 35% at Ukulinga. At Umbumbulu and Wartburg, late planting increased WPET by 60% during normal seasons. Early planting increased Y and WPET of bambara groundnut by 30–60% at all sites during normal seasons. Both crops responded positively to mulching, especially bambara groundnut...
Source: Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Parts ABC - Category: Science Source Type: research