Broiler Litter Ash and Flue Gas Desulfurization Gypsum Effects on Peanut Yield and Uptake of Nutrients

Abstract

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) requires calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P). Flue gas desulfurization gypsum (FGDG) and broiler litter ash (BLA) could be used as Ca and P fertilizer for peanuts. A pot study was conducted to determine the effects of BLA and FGDG on peanut yield and nutrient uptake compared to superphosphate (SP). Peanut kernel yields were 13.5 greater with BLA compared to SP. Kernel Ca concentration was 29% and P was 17% lower in in plants grown on the BLA compared to SP. Because of the high Ca content of the amended soil no significant difference was observed when FGDG was added. Micronutrients in kernel fertilized with BLA and FGDG were similar to superphosphate. The small difference in kernel Ca and P and the low levels of metals in the tissue between the BLA and SP demonstrate that BLA could be used as P source for peanuts.

Keywords:

• Ash
• by-products
• litter
• peanuts