Specialists Speaking
Scott Monfort
GEORGIA
As growers across the Southeast begin locking in their plans for the upcoming peanut season, a few important decisions will shape both productivity and profitability. Taking time now to evaluate acreage, rotation, field prep, soil fertility, and moisture conditions can lessen problems once planting begins.
-
Determining Acreage and Rotation
First off, how many acres of peanuts will be planted? For many growers, this decision is tied directly to rotation, but for others, it is more varied. Fields planted to peanuts on a short rotation deserve special attention. If those acres experienced significant disease pressure, insects, or weeds last season, it’s important to be proactive in their management in 2026. Short rotations often increase the risk of nematodes, leaf spot, white mold, and many weed species, so these fields may require more intensive management.
-
Considering Tillage and Field Preparation
In problem fields, tillage can sometimes help reduce disease inoculum, disrupt weed seedbanks, and reduce the risk of insects like burrower bugs. While intensive tillage is not always the most economical or sustainable choice, it may be necessary in certain short‑rotation situations. The key is to weigh the cost of additional passes against the potential reduction in pest pressure.
-
Soil Sampling and Nutrient Planning
Before any fertility decisions are made, soil samples should be collected and analyzed. Adjusting pH and nutrient levels early prevents costly yield losses later. Lime, gypsum, and fertilizer prices remain significant inputs, so growers should evaluate the required nutrient additions against the costs. Balance is key to determining beginning-of-season fertility — both too much and too little can impact profit.
Seed, inoculant, herbicides, fungicides, and fertility programs all add up quickly. Because input costs are extremely high and commodity prices are low across all crops, growers should carefully consider whether each input is essential. Seek out cost-effective and reliable, proven alternatives. The decisions you make now and during the growing season impact your bottom line.
-
Adapting to Drought and Moisture Limitations
Continued drought across the Southeast adds another layer of concern. Moisture availability will influence not only planting dates, but also the field planting order, giving priority to irrigated fields. Unfortunately, this results in potentially 40%-45% of dryland acres being forced into late planting, waiting for sufficient rain. Planting into adequate moisture is critical for uniform emergence, and growers need to be flexible as conditions change. Please do not plant in subpar conditions (moisture and/or temperature), as it will cost you more time and money in the long run.
-
Like always, call your local county Extension agent for help. ∆
