Nitrogen application improved peanut yield and nitrogen use efficiency by optimizing root morphology and distribution under drought stress

Drought stress and nutrient deficiency are two main factors that restrict the growth yield of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in arid semi-arid regions. However, effects N fertilizer on root pod under different water conditions unclear. The growth, morphology, were studied combinations. Two soil treatments tested: Well-watered (WW, 80%-85% field capacity) drought (DS, 55%-60% capacity). Three no application (NN), moderate (MN, 90 kg ha-1), high (HN, 180 ha-1). Results showed was limited by deficiency. Compared with NN, shoot DM improved MN DS, an average increase range 16.2% 2 yr. annual length density (RLD) deeper layer (40-100 cm) 5.5% higher DS-MN than DS-NN treatment. use efficiency (NUE) 12.3% WW DS treatment, NUE significantly HN treatments. Root lengths 40-60 60-80 cm layers also positively correlated (r = 0.66** 0.47**, respectively) 0.60* 0.85**, respectively). In this study, thus increasing conditions.