Peanuts are a healthy and nutritious snack, which is why many gardeners and farming enthusiasts prefer growing them in home gardens and farms. If you want to learn when and how to plant peanuts and the ideal location for growing them, continue reading this article.
When to Plant Peanuts
Peanuts should be planted a few weeks after the last frost date in spring. They are usually planted from mid to late spring until mid-summer, as peanuts require a long growing season ranging from 100 to 130 frost-free days.
Peanuts can also be started indoors 5 to 8 weeks before outdoor planting to encourage early growth at the beginning of the season.
Best Location for Growing Peanuts
Below are the environmental conditions peanuts need to grow successfully:
- Soil: Peanuts grow best in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Loose sandy loam soil is ideal, while compact clay soil with poor drainage is unsuitable.
- Light: Peanuts require full sun exposure, with at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Temperature and Humidity: The optimal temperature range for peanut growth is 30–34°C (86–93°F). Excessively high temperatures may damage flowers. Moderate moisture is needed during growth, followed by a dry period before harvest.
Note: Avoid planting peanuts in areas previously used for other legumes such as beans or peas.
How to Plant Peanut Seeds
Follow these steps to plant peanuts successfully:
- Purchase peanut seeds from specialized gardening stores.
- Remove the seeds from their shells before planting, being careful not to damage the thin seed coat, as damaged seeds will not germinate.
- Plant seeds at a depth of 2.5–5 cm (1–2 inches), spacing them 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) apart.
- Leave 90 cm (35 inches) between rows.
- Keep the soil moist to ensure germination; seeds typically sprout within 10–15 days.
- Thin seedlings when they reach about 5 cm (2 inches) in height, leaving 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) between plants.
- Once plants reach approximately 30 cm (12 inches) tall, mound soil around the base of the stems and add mulch to control weeds.
