Planting and Growing Guide for Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea)
Description
Jump to GraphicPeanuts are best grown in the warmer climatic zones. They have a long growing season (100-130 frost-free days). They are best planted in Spring, a week or two weeks after the last expected frost date. There are early maturing varieties that can be grown in cooler areas. You can also get head start in cooler area by sowing peanuts indoors in seed trays or small pots and transplanting outside after about 5-8 weeks. When planting directly into the garden, sow the peanut seeds 3-5 cm (1-2 inches) deep and 20 cm (8 inches) apart in loose, well-drained soil. Work the soil around the seedlings when 15 cm (6 inches) high to loosen it so the loosen the soil so that the peanuts can develop. Then build up the soil around the seedlings and add a thick layer of mulch or straw all around the seedlings. Small pea-like flowers will develop on the bottom part of the stem. The flowers will fade and the flower ovaries will swell. They will then start to grow towards the ground as long pointed pegs (also called peduncles). They will push 3-8 cm (1-3 inches) into the soil beside the plant. A peanut will form on the end of each peg. Add a light covering of mulch, such as compost, straw or grass clippings to the soil surface to prevent it from crusting. Make it easy for the pegs to penetrate the soil. Peanuts are legumes and so create their own nitrogen, and so nitrogen-rich fertilizers are not needed. Excess nutrients will encourage foliage rather than flowers and peanut growth.
Harvest the peanuts before the first frosts in Winter, after the plants die down and become yellow. Dig out the entire plant with a garden fork, carefully shake off most of the soil around the peanuts. Hang the roots up indoors in a dry place for about a month. Peanuts can be enjoyed raw or roasted. Fresh peanuts can be added to many Asian recipes and to soups and stews.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Plant seeds directly into the garden about 3-5 cm (1-2 inches) deep.
Space between plants: Space plants about 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) apart, thinning out any extra seedlings. Space rows about 50 cm (20 inches) apart
Harvest Time: Harvest in about 12-18 weeks
Hints:
- Grows best in full sun in warm and humid conditions with a light covering of mulch
- Peanuts are frost tender, so plant seeds outdoors 4-5 weeks before the last frost is expected or later.
- Regular watering is required, especially in hot weather
- Water plants more frequently in summer
- Peanuts are more productive when they are grown quickly an steadily. So avoid drying them out to prevent growth checks
Grow Peanuts like these in your Own Garden - see how here
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!