How to Grow Peanuts in Soil from Store Bought Nuts

Welcome Tips How to Grow Peanuts in Soil from Nuts…

Growing peanuts from store-bought nuts can be a rewarding gardening project. Here’s how to do it:

1. Choose the peanuts

• Opt for fresh, raw, uncooked peanuts in their shell.
• Avoid roasted or salted peanuts as they will not germinate.

2. Preparation and planting

• Peanuts require a long growing season (100 to 130 frost-free days).
• Start indoors 5 to 8 weeks before the last frost date for an early start, especially in northern climates.
• Plant in loose, well-drained soil, adding sand and aged compost if necessary.
• Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches deep and 24 to 36 inches apart in rows at least 72 inches apart.

3. Location and ground

• Choose a sunny location, as peanuts need full sun.
• Use covers to protect young plants from spring frosts.
• The soil should be light, loamy and slightly acidic (pH 5.5-7.0).

4. Watering and maintenance

• Water at least 1 inch per week, maintaining even moisture but not waterlogging the soil.
• Add mulch once seedlings are half a foot tall to retain moisture and control weeds.

5. Fertilization

• Peanuts fix nitrogen and therefore require less nitrogen.
• Focus on calcium, as it is crucial for pod development.
• Use a low nitrogen or balanced fertilizer before planting.

6. Size and Spread

• Pruning is generally not necessary but may be done for maintenance purposes.
• Propagate peanuts using seeds, selecting healthy, mature ones to save and plant the following spring.

7 Harvesting and storage

• The harvest period is approximately 100 to 150 days after planting.
• Remove the entire plant from the ground for harvesting.
• Store raw peanuts in a mesh bag in a dry place or roast them to eat.

Growing peanuts can be a fun and rewarding activity, especially if you have a sunny spot and a little patience. With the right care, you can enjoy homegrown peanuts right in your garden!