Peanuts, a unique legume related to peas and beans, are fascinating plants for gardeners. They feature yellow flowers that bloom above ground while the fruit develops underground. With varieties like Valencia and Spanish, peanuts require a long growing season and specific conditions, making them moderately challenging to cultivate. However, their soil-enriching properties and nutritional benefits make the effort worthwhile.
- Common Names: Goober, Groundnut, Monkey Nut
- Scientific Name: Arachis hypogaea
- Plant Type: Annual, Edible, Vegetable
- Plant Height: 1-2 ft. tall
- Growing Difficulty: Medium
- Growing Time: 90-150 days
- Bloom Time: Summer
- Temperature: 86-93°F
- Hardiness Zone: 2-11 (Find your hardiness zone here)
- Sunlight: Full Sun
- Soil pH: 6.0-6.5
- Watering Frequency: Moist soil with good drainage
- Plant Spacing: 2 inches deep, 4-6 inches apart
Different Methods to Grow Peanuts
Planting Directly in the Garden
Peanuts are planted a few weeks after the last frost date when the soil is warm and moist. Seeds are placed two inches deep, with rows spaced at least 20 inches apart.
- Pros: Simpler process with less handling of plants.
- Cons: Risk of frost damage if planted too early.
Starting Seeds Indoors and Transplanting
Peanuts can be started indoors 5 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Seeds are planted in a large, four-inch-deep plastic bowl filled with moist potting soil. Once the seedlings sprout, they are transplanted outside after the threat of frost has passed.
- Pros: Provides a head start to the growing season.
- Cons: Requires additional steps and care for transplanting.
Growing Peanuts in Pots
Peanuts can be grown in pots that are 18 to 20 inches wide and 18 inches deep. The pot should have drainage holes and be deep enough for pegs to grow beneath the soil. Place the pot in a spot with full sun and water consistently to keep the soil moist but not saturated.
- Pros: Suitable for small spaces and urban gardening.
- Cons: Limited space may restrict the number of plants.
Ideal Soil and Location Requirements
Peanuts thrive in loose, sandy loam soil with a slightly acidic pH of 6.0-6.5. They require full sun and warm climates, ideally with long summers. Proper drainage is crucial to prevent root rot, and compost can enhance soil fertility.
When to Plant Peanuts
Peanuts are best planted in the spring, a few weeks after the last frost date, typically in April or May. They require 100 to 150 frost-free days to mature. Planting should occur when soil temperatures reach 65° to 70°F, ensuring the soil is warm and moist for optimal growth.
Growing Peanuts Outdoors
Growing peanuts directly in the garden is the best method due to its simplicity and effectiveness. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you grow peanuts at home:
- Prepare the soil. Till the soil to a depth of 8 to 12 inches and mix in compost or organic matter to ensure it is loose and light.
- Check soil temperature. Ensure the soil temperature is between 65° to 70°F before planting.
- Plant the seeds. Place peanut seeds two inches deep, five shells per foot, with rows spaced at least 20 inches apart.
- Water consistently. Keep the soil moist after planting and water at soil level, ensuring not to wet the leaves.
- Ensure full sun exposure. Choose a site that receives at least eight hours of full sun per day.
- Use a bacterial inoculant. Inoculate peanut seeds with a bacterial inoculant at planting to enhance growth.
- Care for the plants. Cultivate around the plants when they are six inches high, hill them, and mulch with two inches of straw or grass clippings.
- Monitor for maturity. Check for maturity about 15 days before the predicted harvest date, usually in September or October.
- Harvest the peanuts. Use a spading fork to loosen the soil and gently lift the plants out. Let the pods dry in the sun for about a week.
- Dry and store. Remove the pods and spread them in a cool, dry area for a few more weeks. Store peanuts in loosely woven containers or hang them in a cold, dry area away from rodents.
Growing Peanuts Indoors
Growing peanuts indoors is feasible, especially to get a head start on the growing season. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you grow peanuts indoors:
- Choose the right container. Use a large, four-inch-deep plastic bowl or fiber pots to prevent root damage during transplanting.
- Prepare the soil. Fill the container 2/3 full with moist potting soil. Ensure the soil is loose and well-drained.
- Plant the seeds. Shell four peanuts and place them on top of the soil. Cover with one inch of soil.
- Water the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at soil level to avoid wetting the leaves.
- Provide adequate light. Place the container in a spot that receives full sun, ideally 8 hours per day. Use grow lights if natural light is insufficient.
- Maintain temperature. Ensure the growing area maintains a temperature between 65° to 70°F.
- Transplant seedlings. After the threat of frost has passed, transplant the seedlings outdoors. Handle the roots carefully to avoid damage.
Did you know that a single peanut plant can produce between 30-40 nuts? Each pod typically contains two peanuts, making it a surprisingly productive plant for its size.
Caring for Peanuts
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during critical periods like after planting and when the pegs enter the soil. Avoid wetting the leaves to prevent diseases.
- Pest Management: Protect your plants from common pests like squirrels, mice, and caterpillars. Use secured mesh row covers and consult local extension offices for specific pest treatments.
- Fertilization: Peanuts generally do not need much fertilization. However, adding calcium to the upper soil layers and using a bacterial inoculant can enhance growth. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent burn.
- Harvesting: Harvest peanuts when the foliage turns yellow, typically in late summer or early fall. Dig up the plants, shake off excess soil, and let them dry in a warm, airy location for about a week before removing the pods.
- Storage: After drying, store peanuts in loosely woven containers or hang them in a cool, dry area away from rodents. This ensures they remain fresh and free from rot.
Common Challenges With Peanuts
Peanuts are relatively easy to grow, especially if you have the right conditions. They thrive in warm climates with full sun and well-drained, sandy loam soil. In my experience, once you get the soil right and ensure consistent watering, peanuts can be quite resilient. They are also nitrogen-fixers, which means they enrich the soil, making them a great addition to any garden. However, they do require a long growing season, so patience is key.
Despite their resilience, growing peanuts comes with its own set of challenges. One of the most common issues is managing pests like squirrels and caterpillars, which can wreak havoc on your plants. Additionally, peanuts are susceptible to diseases such as leaf spots and southern stem rot. Ensuring proper watering and using crop rotation can help mitigate these problems. Another challenge is their allelopathic nature, which means they can suppress the growth of other plants nearby. So, it's essential to plan your garden layout carefully.
Safety of Peanuts for Pets
Peanuts are generally safe for pets in moderation. However, they can be toxic if consumed in large quantities. If you suspect your pet has ingested a harmful amount, contact the ASPCA 24-hour hotline immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when peanuts are ready to harvest?
Peanuts are ready to harvest when the foliage turns yellow, typically in late summer or early fall. Dig up the plants, shake off excess soil, and let them dry in a warm, airy location for about a week before removing the pods.
Can I grow peanuts in containers?
Yes, peanuts can be grown in containers. Use pots that are 18 to 20 inches wide and 18 inches deep. Ensure the pot has drainage holes and place it in a spot with full sun. Water consistently to keep the soil moist but not saturated.
What are the common pests that affect peanut plants?
Common pests include squirrels, mice, and caterpillars. Leaf-feeding insects like armyworms can also be problematic. Use secured mesh row covers to protect your plants and consult local extension offices for specific pest treatments.
Do peanuts need a lot of water?
Peanuts require consistent moisture, especially during critical periods like after planting and when the pegs enter the soil. However, avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot. Stop watering 10 days to two weeks before harvest.
