Peanut Pointers

JOHN BEASLEY
University of Georgia
Extension Peanut Agronomist
Many of the new cultivars, such as Georgia-06G, Florida-07, Tifguard, AP-4 and Georgia-07W, have a seed size much larger than Georgia Green. Calcium is very critical to obtaining maximum yield and grade potential. Growers should take a “pegging zone” soil sample randomly across the field adjacent to the row just after emergence to determine the calcium level in the top three inches of soil. You need to determine the calcium level in the zone where the pods will be developing, so the sample depth should be no deeper than three inches. The current recommendation is that if the calcium level is less than 500 pounds per acre, you need to apply gypsum. There also needs to be a 3:1 ratio of calcium to potassium. With these larger-seeded cultivars, we are recommending at least 700 pounds per acre of calcium in the pegging-zone sample.
 

TODD BAUGHMAN
Texas A&M University
Extension Agronomist

One key issue is weed resistance, and one of the most successful ways to combat weed resistance in the Southwest is through the continued use of the yellow/DNA herbicides. This has been an integral part of our weed control programs for many years, and we should keep at these practices. Proper incorporation is important to ensure favorable results. The yellows are highly water insoluble. Therefore, producers should apply at least 0.75 to 1.0 inch of irrigation when chemigating or watering-in these herbicides. Make sure you are applying this amount for the entire length of the pivot. Often, the end sections apply less, and less irrigation leads to less-than-desirable results. Continued, proper use of the yellow herbicides will safeguard against resistance with our other herbicide tools in both peanut and cotton production systems.

DAVID JORDAN
North Carolina State University
Extension Agronomist

The planting window in the V-C region is narrow, and peanuts need to be planted by May 25, to minimize risks. Seedbed preparation is important, and how beds are handled after fumigation for CBR is critical. Peanut seed needs to be placed about 10 inches above the injection point. Take great care to minimize soil movement. The effectiveness of the fumigation treatment can be reduced considerably when soil mixing occurs. In some instances, beds are partially lost due to rainfall, etc., and the challenge is determining how much tillage can be done to get beds back in shape. Reach a balance between getting a good seedbed without eliminating the benefits of fumigation.

Additionally, minimizing damage from tobacco thrips and preventing early season weed interference goes a long way toward achieving optimum peanut development and maturity, which gives greater flexibility at digging.
 

KRIS BALKCOM
Auburn University
Agri-Program Associate

Planting season has finally arrived. Keep in mind, before placing the seed in the ground, to avoid cool, wet conditions. Wait until we have some nice, warm days that raise soil temperatures to a suitable level for seed germination and rapid emergence.

Even though virus pressure has been less the past couple of years and we have new, improved varieties with more resistance, I still encourage you to follow the Tomato Spotted Wilt Risk Index, which is part of Peanut Rx.

Finally, I recommend using a pre-emergence herbicide. Being timely is a key to success. Stay on the leading edge and don’t fall behind because you will go from one problem to another and never catch up.

PG