Many gardeners want to grow unusual vegetables or fruits in their beds. The keen gardener’s desire to harvest exotic fruits is understandable, the main thing is the spiritual satisfaction the process brings. Peanuts are still a reasonably common crop for many parts of the United States and growing them is not difficult. So, why not give it a try? In this article, you will know how to grow peanuts.

TRIVIA ABOUT PEANUTS

Peanuts are a heat-loving crop, which is why they are common in subtropical latitudes. They are native to South America. From there, it was introduced to the West Indies and later spread throughout Europe.

The largest peanut plantations can be found in South America. Nature has created the most favorable conditions for its comfortable growth there. Recently, however, gardeners are increasingly growing this crop in temperate regions.

The groundnut belongs to the legume family, but its fruit is formed and grown underground, unlike other crops. The annual plant forms a small shrub with a branched stem. Its leaves are lobed, and the flowers are small and yellow.

CHARACTERISTICS OF PLANTING PEANUTS

Peanuts, like other legumes, are not difficult to grow. The plant grows well at temperatures above 68 °F (20 °C). However, if the air temperature drops below 59 °F (15 °C), plant growth stops. Therefore, it is best to cover peanuts with plastic sheeting in cool weather.

Once the ground temperature exceeds 59 °F (15 °C), planting can proceed. To increase the crop yield, plant the seeds in cups in April to a depth of 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm). (Soak them in water before planting and transplant them into the open soil).

Peanuts have one characteristic: they flower for only one day. They bloom in the early morning and then wilt in the late afternoon.

During the growing season, the grower will not encounter problems with plant diseases. When the leaves and stems of peanuts begin to turn yellow and dry out, the nuts can be dug up and harvested.

At harvest time, peanuts are usually harvested in the second half of September. Dig it up, carefully shake off the soil, and put it in a dry place. The plant is then dried with the shrubs. After 10 days, you can separate the fruit into the peanut.

THE VALUE OF PEANUTS

Peanuts are one of the nutrients with high value. They contain sugar, carbohydrates, high amounts of protein, high-quality fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Recent studies conducted in the United States have shown that peanuts contain high amounts of antioxidants that prevent heart and blood vessel diseases. Consumption of peanuts can prevent the development of atherosclerosis, malignant tumors and slow down the process of premature aging. And its fruit also contains vitamins E, B, and linolenic acid, which have anti-sclerotic effects.

Peanuts are best planted in sunny, fertile soil. The southern crop enriches the soil and brings health to the grower. Try growing peanuts in your garden and be sure to share your experience with us in the comments of the article or on our forum.