Peanuts are a Southern crop, but Northern gardeners have been growing them successfully for years.
Jumbo Virginia is one of the most productive varieties and can withstand light spring and fall frostes!
Planting Peanuts
Peanuts need full sun. If you have heavy soil that’s dry and compacted, work more organic matter into it before planting to help provide good drainage for optimal growth of the peanut plants – but don’t worry if they’re planted without any additional amendments because once harvested these nuts will be covered in their own protective sheath which prevents them from drying out!
Peanut plant seeds can be started one month before the last frost in a large peat pot. The soil should receive plenty of sun and water weekly until it reaches between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit, at which time you may transplant your seedlings into an outdoor garden about 10 inches apart with care not to damage or bury its crown.
Growing Peanut Plants
When the peanut plant is about 1 foot tall, hill around its base. Long pointed pegs will grow from faded flowers and push an inch or so down into loamy soil beside it; a peanut will form on each peg depending upon how much light strikes them–some varieties are more shade tolerant than others!
One inch of water a week is all that’s needed for your peanut plant. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers to keep it healthy; well prepared soil provides all nutrients for this beautiful plant!
Peanut Plant Problems
Peanut plants are the most problem-resistant plants. There are no diseases or issues associated with peanut plants, so if you want to grow them, you are about to celebrate as they are one of the best worry-free plants out there!
Harvesting A Crop Of Peanuts
Be sure to check for telltale signs that the peanuts are ready. These include leaves turning yellow and gold-veined pegs within them, as well as brittle pods which may break off in your hands if bent down for too long; these make harvesting difficult, so be sure to avoid this and harvest as soon as you see leaves turning yellow!
When the soil is moist enough, pull your peanuts. Remove the excess soil around them and let them dry completely before you remove the pods. You can keep them stored in an airtight container for up to 1 year.