It’s that time of year again when winter production meetings are in full swing. Hopefully you will attend one of these short courses to learn the latest research and recommendations from our Extension specialists. At the Georgia Peanut Farm Show, researchers emphasized the critical importance of a good stand.
A uniform, vigorously growing stand of peanuts with no gaps is the goal. Skippy stands lead to more tomato spotted wilt virus. Seed should also have a fungicide treatment to combat seedling disease. Two seed treatments are now available.
Some other planting points from the farm show are:
▪ Planting early and into cool soils is trying to push seed beyond its limits. Wait for soil temperatures at or above 68 degrees Fahrenheit at a 4-inch soil depth for three consecutive days with no cool front expected after planting.
▪ Buying points adhere to the “first in, first out” rule. If you are picking up seed over time, you should follow that rule as well.
▪ Know the germination of your seed, so you can adjust the seeding rate to achieve the desired stand.
▪ Don’t store seed in hot, humid areas. If seed absorb moisture, the germination rate will decrease.
▪ Do not plant too deep, especially on dryland peanuts. Low-vigor seed planted 3 to 3 ½ inches deep may not come up. Plant seed 2 to 2 ½ inches deep and maintain moisture as much as possible.
Many other points can be made with regard to seed and planting. Again, take the time to attend one of the production meetings to learn more. You can also read over The Peanut Grower’s 2020 Variety Guide in this issue.
Study the descriptions and data to make informed decisions about variety selection.