JOHN BEASLEY
University of Georgia
Extension Peanut Agronomist
One of the more common problems in growers’ fields in 2008 was nutrient
or soil fertility, especially micronutrient deficiency or toxicity problems.
Some, if not most, of the micronutrient problems were a result of soil
pH being too high or too low. In the winter months, growers should take
soil samples in every field that will be planted to peanut in 2009. Just
because the soil fertility and pH was right in 2008 doesn’t mean
the nutrient levels and pH will be sufficient in 2009. The previous crop
and weathering will cause either, or both, to change. Be sure and pull
soil samples as deep as the soil will be turned if in a conventional-tillage
system that includes deep turning. We have seen soil fertility related
problems when soil samples are pulled 8 to 10 inches deep, and then the
soil is turned 12 inches or deeper.
Todd Baughman
Texas A&M University
Extension Agronomist
As we wrap up this growing season, it is time to start thinking about
and planning for next year. The key to profitability in peanut is maintaining
high yields. One of the most important things we can do to ensure high
yields is to follow a proper rotation program. A minimum of two years
out of peanut is needed, with three or four years being even better. Peanut
should never be planted every year or even every other year.
This is the first step in planning for a successful 2009 growing season.The
second step is making sure that you have the irrigation capacity to maintain
high yields. This may best be accomplished by splitting a pivot in half
or even a third. Planting a small grain crop on the other portion may
be the best way to maximize our irrigation during the growing season for
the summer peanut crop.
David Jordan
North Carolina State University
Extension Agronomist
The most important aspects of farming are genetics, environment,
management and business. With peanuts, diversify genetics by planting
different varieties in different fields. The potential for all varieties
is good if grown in the correct environment, which means knowing field
history with respect to disease and the variety’s capacity to perform
under weather extremes. Part of implementing production and pest management
strategies is knowing how quickly a control tactic can be implemented
across the acreage in question. Finally, the business end of the equation
is critical for long-term sustainability. With decent prices for corn,
cotton, soybean and wheat, it is important to pencil out the potential
return for all crops and a return on investment appropriate for the cost
of production for each crop. For Virginia market types, how will 2009
prices compare with other crops? If other options compare well, how do
rotation changes affect the flexibility of moving back into peanuts in
a year or two?
Kris Balkcom
Auburn University
Agri-Program Associate
Everyone is breathing a sigh of relief now from finishing up the 2008
peanut crop. Acres were not the only thing up in Alabama this year. Yields
were up from the previous year all across the state. However, grades were
still lower than expected because of the late dry weather and newer, larger-seeded
varieties with a thicker hull. The summer rains played a pivotal role
in the increased yield for the state average, but rain was not the only
factor. Everyone has lengthened their rotations, which also helped contribute
to the higher yields for this past year. We need to keep our rotation
first and foremost in mind for the future. A good rotation, three to four
years, helps a producer maintain a higher average yield by reducing disease
pressure. Keep this in mind as we get close to planting the 2009 peanut
crop.
PG
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