Built on Hard Work: Justin Garrett’s Story in Peanut Farming

As part of National Peanut Month, the Alabama Peanut Producers Association is highlighting the farmers who dedicate their lives to growing one of the Southeast’s most important crops. For Justin Garrett of Banks, AL, peanut farming is more than a career; it’s a lifelong passion shaped by family influence, hard work, and a deep sense of pride in the land.

Now entering his eighth season of row crop farming, Garrett has been involved in agriculture for much longer. His experience began years earlier working with cattle and other farm operations, but his connection to farming traces back to his childhood.

“My dad farmed back in the ’70s and ’80s,” Garrett said. “That’s kind of where my interest in farming comes from. I grew up around it.”

Today, Garrett grows a variety of crops, including peanuts, cotton, and corn, along with grazing crops like oats and pearl millet. While each crop plays an important role in his operation, peanuts remain a standout.

“I enjoy cotton and corn, but peanuts are just kind of a different animal,” he said.

A Year in Peanut Farming

For Garrett, farming is a year-round commitment that requires preparation, patience, and persistence. As winter transitions into spring, his focus shifts to getting fields and equipment ready for planting season.

“This time of year, we’re getting land ready and planting corn,” he explained. “Then we’ll start planting peanuts in late April.”

Once the crop is in the ground, the work doesn’t slow down. Managing a peanut crop means staying on top of spraying schedules, monitoring field conditions, and relying on timely rainfall to support growth.

“After planting, it’s just praying for rain and keeping them sprayed until harvest comes,” Garrett said.

When harvest season arrives, it brings one of the most rewarding moments of the year.

“You work all year, and then hopefully you have a good crop to bring in,” he said. “Seeing that payoff is what makes it worth it.”

Challenges in Today’s Industry

Like many farmers, Garrett faces a number of challenges that can impact both yield and profitability. One of the biggest concerns today is the economic side of farming.

“We’re looking at around $400 a ton for peanuts,” he said. “You can have a really good yield and still struggle to come out ahead.”

Weather also plays a critical role in his operation, especially since much of his land relies on natural rainfall.

“I don’t have much irrigated land, I’m mostly dryland,” he explained. “So every year, it comes down to whether we get the rain when we need it.”

In addition to weather challenges, rising input costs such as fuel and fertilizer continue to put pressure on farmers across the state.

Producing a Quality Crop

For Garrett, success in peanut farming starts with doing things right from the very beginning.

“I’ve always believed if you start in a mess, you’ll finish in a mess,” he said.

Maintaining soil health, managing disease, and ensuring crops have the proper nutrients are all key factors in producing a high-quality yield.

“It’s a year-round battle, keeping your soil right and your plants healthy,” he added.

Family and Farming

Although much of the day-to-day work falls on Garrett, family remains an important part of his operation. His children are still young, but they are already showing an interest in farming.

“My youngest loves it. He will spend all day in the tractor with me,” he said.

His wife of 12 years also plays a supportive role, helping wherever needed, especially during busy seasons.

The Importance of Agriculture

Peanuts have long been a staple crop in the Southeast, particularly in Alabama and neighboring Georgia, where they continue to play a vital role in the agricultural economy.

“It’s still a big crop for this area,” Garrett said.

Beyond the economic impact, Garrett says farming brings a strong sense of purpose.

“It brings pride,” he said. “You’re providing food and fiber not just locally, but even globally.”

Looking Toward the Future

As the agricultural industry evolves, Garrett believes it’s essential to encourage the next generation to get involved.

“The average age of farmers keeps going up,” he said. “It’s going to be important to get younger people involved.”

He hopes his own children will one day take an interest in continuing the family’s connection to agriculture.

“If they’re interested, I’ll do what I can to help them continue,” he said.

Celebrating National Peanut Month

When asked what message he would share during National Peanut Month, Garrett kept it simple:

“Eat more peanuts.”

He also encourages consumers to learn more about peanuts and their benefits, noting that education plays an important role in understanding agriculture.

For Garrett, farming is about more than just growing a crop, it’s about doing quality work, supporting a community, and taking pride in the results.

“I just like my work to look good,” he said. “When someone rides by and says you’ve got a good-looking crop, that means something.”

Link to Original Article: https://alpeanuts.com/built-on-hard-work-justin-garretts-story-in-peanut-farming/