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How Did I Get Here? Editor’s Note
I’ve been skipping down memory lane lately thinking of the people I need to thank for the many wonderful years in the peanut industry and as editor of The Peanut Grower.
But my journey started even before this. My FFA advisor for the formative years of my high school experience was Buddy Deas, a stickler for discipline and work ethic who always had us ready and polished for any contest. The scores of banners, trophies and successful students are a testament to this man.
Amanda Huber Editor, e Peanut Grower
Next was Dr. Ken Buhr, University of Florida professor of agronomy. What a wonderful man this was. He was soft-spoken but very intelligent and encouraging. I accomplished many things in the University of Florida agronomy department, including being the first to hold a national office in the student activities subdivision of the American Society of Agronomy and receiving the outstanding student in agronomy award my senior year, because of his support and encouragement. But most important, he complimented my writing and said that I should look into a new degree at UF called Agricultural Communications. That one act changed my course forever.
With an internship at the National Watermelon Promotion Board behind me, my first real job was my entry into peanuts, which I’ve now worked with for most of my life. The Florida Peanut Producers Board was pretty brave, I think, to hire me straight out of college. Most of those wonderful farmers have passed on now, but I certainly thank them and remember them fondly.
Next up is Sonia Tighe, formerly with Vance Publishing, and Scott Emerson, who is One Grower’s associate publisher. These were the folks at Vance Publishing who hired me to be the editor of The Peanut Grower. I don’t know who my competition was or who I beat out for this role, but I thank them so very much for selecting me for a job I still dearly love.
At the helm of this peanut production magazine, there are scores of researchers and Extension folks to thank. So many great people who are willing to take time to explain things and make sure farmers have the information they need through the means of print. But there were also industry people who have been very helpful. One of those was Dell Cotton, Peanut Growers Marketing Cooperative Association, who used to joke that I never got his title right and probably still don’t even here today. Dell would help me understand industry happenings from a broad standpoint, not just his region or the Southeast or Southwest. Although he took care of growers in the Virginia-Carolina region, he always wanted what was best for all of the peanut industry. Dell is retiring in June and will certainly be missed.
I am running out of room, but I certainly want to thank you, the growers, for continuing to read The Peanut Grower. You’re the salt of the earth, and I am glad to have been able to work with you and for you all these many years.
News Briefs
South Carolina Joins SPFF
The Southern Peanut Farmers Federation welcomes the South Carolina Peanut Board. Formed in 1998, SPFF was established to allow Southeastern peanut producers to speak with a unified voice on legislative issues and partner with other state peanut organizations for leadership development and coordinated research funding.
“The South Carolina Peanut Board is excited to join the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation to offer the South Carolina peanut industry so many opportunities,” says Richard Rentz, chairman of the South Carolina Peanut Board. “By joining SPFF, South Carolina is taking a step towards the peanut industry working together as a whole.”
SPFF was initially organized by the Alabama Peanut Producers Association, the Florida Peanut Producers Association and the Georgia Peanut Commission. The Mississippi Peanut Growers Association joined SPFF in 2008 and now the South Carolina Peanut Board is the latest organization to join SPFF. The SPFF board consists of 10 members comprised of the chief elected officer and the executive director of each organization.
“We are very pleased to have South Carolina join the federation so we can expand our partnership and collaboration on peanut industry issues and help us to be a stronger advocate for growers,” says Joe Boddiford, chairman of the Georgia Peanut Commission.
The peanut farmers in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and South Carolina produce 73% of the nation’s peanuts. In 2024, farmers in the five states produced an average of 3,560 pounds of peanuts per acre.
The Southern Peanut Farmers Federation coordinates the annual Southern Peanut Growers Conference, the Peanut Leadership Academy, congressional member and staff relations, as well as research initiatives. Additionally, SPFF publishes the Southeastern Peanut Farmer magazine, which is distributed to
peanut farmers across the Southeast.
Additional information regarding the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation is available online at www.southernpeanutfarmers.org.
MANA Contracts Reinstated
After canceling all contracts with a Fitzgerald, Georgia, nonprofit that produces a fortified peanut paste that is shipped around the globe to combat malnutrition, the Trump Administration reversed course and reinstated the contracts.
While initially, the U.S. Agency for International Development notified Mana Nutrition that its contracts were “not aligned with agency priorities,” Mana was later notified that all contracts were reinstated.
Mana Nutrition has nearly $50 million in USAID contracts for Ready-toUse Therapeutic Food composed of peanut paste, milk, and a mix of vitamins and minerals. The life-saving paste is then packaged and distributed globally to treat children diagnosed with acute malnutrition.
After the federal contracts were canceled, several congressmen and senators lobbied to restore the contracts.
“MANA is an incredible mission-driven organization, and I am thankful to the administration for reinstating their contracts,” said Congressman Austin Scott, R-Tifton. “The Trump administration is working to ensure that all U.S. foreign assistance aligns with our national security interests and global mission.
“MANA is committed to ending child malnutrition and is an organization our country should be proud of,” he said.
Investing In Research
The Georgia Peanut Commission board of directors approved $764,189 in research project funding for the 202526 budget year. The board approved 40 project proposals submitted by the University of Georgia, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, Kennesaw State University, North Carolina State
In Brief
• $50 million in USAID contracts for life-saving, nutrient-dense peanut paste from MANA reinstated.
• Georgia growers fund more than 40 research projects for 2025-2026.
• New markets needed as 85% of U.S. peanut exports currently go to mature markets.
• Summer meeting schedule announced by peanut groups.
• NPB now accepting proposals for food allergy research grants.
University and the USDA Agricultural Research Service. Research programs primarily focus on peanut breeding, conservation methods, irrigation and water management, as well as pests, weed and disease management.
The GPC board of directors approved additional projects focusing on non-food uses of peanuts, which aim to provide a new growth opportunities in the peanut industry. The projects are looking at using peanuts in poultry feed with an economic feasibility and performance evaluation of pasture-raised broiler chickens in peanut-based farming systems. Another project will look at converting peanut oil from a non-drying oil to a drying oil for timber oils and coatings.
Additionally, GPC manages funding for the Southeastern Peanut Research Initiative that includes research funding of $1.4 million for projects in Alabama, Florida and Georgia. These projects are funded through the National Peanut Board checkoff dollars from farmers.
Acreage Estimate And Concerns
USDA estimated that growers intend to plant 1.95 million acres in 2025, up
News Briefs
8%, overall, and up 12% in Georgia. A survey of growers by peanut specialists predicts peanut acreage will increase 8.5% or 150,000 acres, but state estimates were different from USDA’s prediction. According to the survey, Georgia would plant 925,000 acres, up 9.5%. Alabama is predicted to increase 7.5% to 200,000 acres, and Florida would increase acreage 10% to 173,000 acres. With good growing and harvest weather, buying points could be overrun at harvest.
Kris Balkcom, Alabama’s peanut specialist, noted some of the concerns expressed by farmers this season including the potential for tomato spotted wilt virus, gypsum availability and the cost of seed. Other concerns center on shortened rotations, high input costs, drought and the potential spider mites, burrower bug and white mold pressure reducing yields and profitability.
Export Strategy And Facts
Peter Viazakis, vice president of International Programs for the American Peanut Council, reported at the American Peanut Shellers spring meeting that export strategy goals the next four years are to maintain 25% exports in Mexico while holding onto an 84% import share. Another goal is to hold import share in Canada, European Union, Japan and China. Long-range goals are to add 20,000 farmer-stock tons to new markets by 2028 and +100,000 tons in 10 years.
Viazakis offered the following market facts:
• 85% of U.S. peanut exports currently go to mature markets. The need is for new categories or new geographic areas.
• Growth in total peanut kernel imports by Mexico has slowed, but peanut butter consumption is just beginning to grow. Peanut butter appears to be driving Europe/UK peanut consumption.
• The U.S. is not seen as a consistent supplier to Europe, which is conditioned for Argentina flavor/texture. Future import share to Europe is limited.
• Competitiveness outweighs most marketing factors in the majority of the export destinations.
• An increasingly complex global regulatory environment means the U.S. peanut industry needs to be fully engaged in dealing with trade and technical threats, including Europe, aflatoxin, CODEX and other issues.
Food Allergy Research Grants
The National Peanut Board is now accepting inquiries for its second annual request for proposals for food allergy research grants. The call for applications is open through May 9, 2025. This year, NPB has increased the total availability of grant funding up to $550,000, which will be awarded to qualified projects designed to advance food allergy solutions.
NPB prioritizes supporting groundbreaking research that drives significant impact in four key areas of food allergy: prevention, diagnosis, treatment and management. Health equity is a primary lens through which projects will be evaluated, and early career researchers are encouraged to apply.
Since 2001, the National Peanut Board has invested more than $38 million in food allergy outreach and research. NPB’s investment has contributed to landmark discoveries in peanut allergy prevention; the first FDA approvals of peanut allergy treatments; and best practices for allergy management in schools, foodservice and manufacturing.
For more of the history of NPB’s support of food allergy solutions, check out “Finding a Solution to Peanut Allergies: A 20-Year Journey of Courage, Innovation and Luck” at nationalpeanutboard.org
PB2 Foods Announces Promotions
PB2 Foods, the original powdered peanut butter pioneer, recently announced
key leadership promotions as the company continues to expand its market share and drive strategic growth.
John Monczynski has been named chief customer officer, Steven Ramage has been elevated to chief financial officer and Owen White has been promoted to vice president of marketing.
The leadership moves come as PB2 solidifies its position as the category leader in powdered peanut butter, with a 51% share of the retail market, according to Nielsen data. These promotions reinforce PB2’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence and delivering exceptional value to customers.
PB2 remains committed to strategic investments in talent and growth. The company continues to prioritize jobs in Georgia’s agricultural hub — a federally designated Historically Underutilized Business Zone — and currently employs more than 100 associates in Tifton.
For more information about PB2 Foods and its products, visit pb2foods.com.
Peanut Congress Heads To Music City, Tennessee
Get ready to hit the right notes at the 29th Annual USA Peanut Congress, co-hosted by American Peanut Shellers Association and American Peanut Council. This year, we’re bringing the industry together in the heart of Music City - Nashville, Tennessee!
We’re rolling out the red carpet at The Omni Nashville, a premier venue just steps away from the sights and sounds that make this city legendary. A special block of rooms is available at an exclusive group rate, so be sure to book your stay early before they sell out. ASK for the USA Peanut Congress room block.
Early bird registration rates are available to members until May 5th.
For information, such as a tentative schedule of events, or to register online,
News Briefs
Researchers To Meet In Richmond
The 57th Annual Meeting of the American Peanut Research and Education Society will be July 15-17, 2025, at the Omni Richmond Hotel in the heart of historic Richmond, Virginia. This event brings together leading peanut researchers, industry professionals and educators for three days of collaboration, innovation and discovery. The APRES annual meeting offers a unique opportunity to share groundbreaking research, discuss industry challenges, and network with experts from around the world.
This year’s dynamic program includes scientific presentations, breakout sessions, panel discussions, and ample networking events designed to inspire new ideas and foster meaningful connections.
Richmond isn’t just the perfect host city — it’s an experience. Explore a vibrant downtown scene filled with historic landmarks, world-class museums, farm-to-table dining and craft brewing, and nearby outdoor adventure. Whether strolling along the James
go to peanut-shellers.org/events/ usa-peanut-congress/.
Growers Conference Returns To Panama City Beach
The 26th Annual Southern Peanut Growers Conference will be held July 23-25, 2025, at the Edgewater Beach Resort Conference Center, Panama City Beach, Florida. The three-day event provides farmers with information about peanut production, legislative issues,
River or sampling Southern cuisine, your time in RVA will be both productive and unforgettable.
Building on the success of last year’s event in Oklahoma City when more than 15 tons of peanut butter were donated to their regional food bank, this year APRES is proud to partner with Feed More, Central Virginia’s
marketing and promotions.
Visit the conference blog to see speaker and sponsor interviews as well as photos from past conferences. The event focuses on the family by offering a ladies program and other special plans.
For information, go to www.southern peanutfarmers.org.
Buying Points Leadership
Greg Sikes of Candler Peanut Company buying point in Metter, Georgia, will serve a second year as president of the National Peanut Buying Points Association. Cole McNair of Birdsong-Damascus is past president. David Rushing of Birdsong Peanuts will continue as vice president and Rhonda Dixon of Dixon Farm Supply will serve as treasurer.
Tyron Spearman, of the Spearman
leading hunger-relief organization. Feed More collects, prepares and distributes food to neighbors in need throughout Richmond and the surrounding region.
Register early for the lowest registration rate available. Early Bird pricing ends May 31. Go to www.apresinc. com for more information.
Agency, will serve as executive secretary and Angela Elder remains as assistant executive director. Come join this active association that is exclusively peanuts at www.peanutbuyingpoints.org. NPBPA is a member of the U.S. Peanut Federation, and one director serves on the Georgia Peanut Commission.
Spearman’s Peanut Farm Market News newsletter is free with a buying point membership. Others may subscribe at spearmanagency@friendlycity.net
Market Watch
Will Being In Survival Mode Affect Production Practices?
The unknowns in agriculture have cast a cloud of doubt over plans a farmer makes for the next season. As planting time arrives, the unknowns turn into surprises. Costs have increased as he or she orders fertilizer, chemicals and gypsum. Repairs on old equipment will be required as new purchases will have to wait. Market prices for most commodities are at or below the cost of production.
Meanwhile, foreign and domestic markets are showing a significant decline in volume. Although President Trump promises to protect “his farmers,” the impact of tariffs on all commodities is another unknown. As comedian Jerry Clower used to say, “Just shoot up in here, we got to have some relief.”
No Competition For Peanuts
The U.S. Department of Agriculture report was not a huge surprise; however, seeing nearly 1 million acres expected to be planted in Georgia and nearly 2 million peanut acres across the United States is a bit staggering. Unfortunately for growers, there just isn’t enough competition for peanuts that can be planted profitably.
Cotton continues to trade in the high 60 cents per pound for December 2025 delivery. The fact that cotton acres are projected down 12% is in line with industry expectations. With corn under $5 a bushel, it’s easy to see why peanuts are the pick of the litter. Unfortunately for all involved, it’s not a very attractive scenario.
New crop kernel prices are being indicated in the mid-50 cents per pound for Southeast runners, and 70 to 71 cents per pound for Southeast blanched jumbo runners. Buyers have taken on some coverage for 2026, and knowing that we
are about to plant a big crop, they are very content to sit back and wait to see what happens at planting and during the growing season before layering in additional tons.
No Guarantee For Two Tons
Growing conditions and weather will be the market maker once again this year. Overall, average U.S. yields have decreased each year since 2021, and it’s probably no longer realistic to assume two ton per-acre yields will be realized. Rotations have been shortened, and many growers are simply in survival mode. How this impacts growers’ ability to apply proper inputs to the crop remains to be seen. If the weather does cooperate, there will be gracious plenty of peanuts to go around come harvest.
A group of dedicated rural Congressional leaders have pleaded that farmers were in trouble and passed the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program, which will use up to $10 billion to issue one-time economic assis-
J. Tyron Spearman Contributing Editor, e Peanut Grower
tance payments to eligible producers for the 2024 crop year. These payments are intended to help farmers cope with losses from natural disasters and a difficult farm economy and will help preserve family farms and ranches across the country while also continuing to ensure food and agricultural security for our nation. For peanuts, the program paid $75.51 per acre on planted 2024 acres.
Ending Stocks To Cover Next Year
There’s lots of speculation about how many acres will be planted in peanuts for the 2025 growing season and to what effect that will have on both the current- and new-crop markets. In short, we have adequate supply but not a burdensome carry-out come August. Growers intend to plant 1.95 million acres in 2025, up 8% from 2024. Compared with last year, planted acreage is expected to increase 9% or more in Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and South Carolina. In Georgia, the largest peanut-producing state, planted area is expected to be up
Market Watch
12% from last year to 950,000 acres.
A 1,950,000-acre crop averaging 3,881 pounds per acre, the five-year average, would be 3,784,000 tons in total production. The market’s domestic demand is 1,550,000 tons with export demand at 600,000 tons, that’s 2,150,000 leaving an ending stock of 1,634,000 tons, enough to fill the domestic market next year.
Domestic Decline
Raw peanuts in primary products are down 2.1% in August to February compared to the same seven months of 2023. Peanut butter usage dropped 6.3%, pushing the seven-month volume down 2.5%. Peanut candy usage is down 9.4% for the seven months after a 20% decline in February versus last year. Peanuts in snacks are up 0.2% for the past year and now up 4.0% for the seven months. Contracts for runner-type peanuts opened for $500 per ton in the Southeast. The contract is limited to
half of the farmer’s production in 2024. Shellers are reportedly matching the offer if the farmer is ready to sign. Most farmers need contracts to secure financing for the new season. Buying points reported good response. In the Virginia-Carolina region, irrigated Virginias were $605 per ton with non-irrigated at $580 per ton. High-oleic runners were as high as $550 per ton.
Foreign Competition And Export Markets
In addition to this expected increase in U.S. acres, Argentina and Brazil increased acres and have begun to harvest their crop. Argentina should have a good crop for the second consecutive year; however, an early season frost will delay maturity and cause some quality issues that could open the door for U.S. sales.
The President has announced a range of tariffs on all countries and all goods. Those countries targeted with tariffs higher than 10%, for example 20%
New EU and China Tariffs
In the ever-changing status of tariffs, the American Peanut Council reports that the European Union on April 10, announced a 90-day pause on the application of retaliatory tariffs that would have included certain U.S. peanut products. EU President Von der Layen stated that the pause is to allow for negotiations with the United States.
As recently as April 9, the EU’s member states voted to impose additional 25% tariffs on a range of U.S. goods, including peanut butter and peanut oil, in response to President Trump’s tariffs on imports of EU steel and aluminum. The 25% tariffs on peanut butter were originally scheduled to take effect on April 15 and would be on top of the most favored nation tariff of 12.8%. The 25% tariffs on U.S. peanut oil was scheduled to be applied on May 16. However, once President Trump announced a 90-day pause on the U.S. “reciprocal” tariffs higher than 10%, EU President Von der Layen announced a 90-day pause on the retaliatory tariffs related to U.S. aluminum and steel tariffs.
Over the past week, the United States and China have escalated tariffs being imposed on each other in quick order. As of this writing, China’s retaliatory tariffs on U.S. inshell, shelled and blanched peanuts are 84%, in addition to China’s regular import duty of 15%. For peanut butter and processed
‘‘ In increasing promotion funds for the peanut industry, USDA hopes to expand export demand.
for the European Union and 24% for Japan, are being delayed until July 9, to allow negotiations to occur between the United States and individual countries. Predicting export volumes is impossible with all the unknowns, but USDA expects a decline of 18%. In increasing promotion funds for the peanut industry, USDA hopes to expand export demand. With all the unknowns, the suggestion is to negotiate your best price with your local buying point. Plant about the same as last year, stay with your rotation plan, look for chemical and fertilizer deals, pray for a Farm Bill this year and pray for rain.
peanuts, the retaliatory duty is 94% in addition to the regular import duty of 5%. Peanut oil duties are 84% in addition to the regular duty of 10%, and peanut oilcake duties are 84%. In response to China’s retaliatory action, on April 9, President Trump announced tariffs of 125% on Chinese goods. It is not clear whether China will be announcing further retaliatory tariffs on all U.S. goods in response to the latest increase.
USDA News And Priorities
Keeping pace with the Trump administration, newly confirmed U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins hit the ground running with a flurry of announcements, cancelations and visits to farm country. One visit was to the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences for a listening session with agricultural leaders and producers.
Rollins was also joined by CAES leadership at the college’s Iron Horse Farm to hear about key industry challenges, including disaster relief, trade markets and the future of American farming.
Throughout the discussion, producers highlighted the critical role of CAES faculty and UGA Cooperative Extension in supporting Georgia’s agricultural economy. Producers credited CAES researchers with helping improve efficiency, increase yields and ensure food safety, making Georgia-grown products more competitive in global markets.
Top Issues For Producers
Producers and industry leaders questioned Rollins about federal support amid ongoing challenges, including the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
Casey Cox Kerr, a peanut farmer and owner of Longleaf Ridge Farms in Camilla, Georgia, urged Rollins to push for expanded market opportunities, as domestic peanut markets are oversaturated. She also called for increased funding for agricultural research, citing the work of UGA Extension nutrition specialists in Family and Consumer Sciences, whose outreach has helped early peanut introduction.
A cotton grower described the financial strain caused by soaring production costs and stagnant cotton prices, noting that outdated reference prices in the 2018 Farm Bill add to the challenge.
Solutions For The Future Of Farming
The discussion ended with a broader concern: the aging agricultural workforce and the declining interest in farm
USDA Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins joined Georgia agricultural leaders and producers at UGA’s Iron Horse Farm for a listening session on key industry challenges. Pictured from left are J. Phil Campbell Sr. Research and Education Center Superintendent Eric Elsner, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper, USDA Secretary Rollins, CAES Dean Nick Place and JPC-Iron Horse Farm Manager Gabriel Barnhart.
careers. With the average farmer’s age increasing, one beef producer warned of an impending crisis, as young people often lack awareness of agricultural career opportunities. Additionally, those without family ties to farming face significant financial barriers to land and equipment ownership. Without intervention, he cautioned, the next generation of farmers may never materialize.
Rollins, a Texas A&M graduate and former 4-H and FFA member, assured attendees she took their concerns seriously. She pledged to bring their input to Congress as lawmakers work toward a new Farm Bill in September.
FSA Announces ECAP Program
In an effort to provide relief to producers, USDA recently issued
a notice announcing the funding for the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program, which will provide economic assistance payments to eligible producers of allowable commodities for the 2024 crop year. ECAP is a new FSA program authorized by the American Relief Act 2025. The notice announces the eligibility for commodities, acres, producers and losses, plus payment calculations, limitations and how to apply, including a pre-filled application and any required adjustments for ECAP. The program will be available until Aug. 15.
ECAP will use up to $10 billion to issue one-time economic assistance payments, which are intended to help farmers cope with losses from natural disasters and a difficult farm economy, and will help preserve family farms and
ranches across the country while also continuing to ensure food and agricultural security for our nation.
For growers who follow all the reporting rules at FSA and meet guidelines, payment per acre on peanuts is $75.71. Some other commodity payments per acre include cotton - $84.74, corn - $42.91, wheat - $30.69, and soybeans - $29.76.
ECAP payments will be issued as applications are approved. Initial ECAP payments will be factored by 85% to ensure that total program payments do not exceed available funding. If additional funds remain, FSA may issue a second payment.
ECAP assistance will be calculated using a flat payment rate for the eligible commodity multiplied by the eligible reported acres. Payments are based on acreage and not production. For acres reported as prevented planting, ECAP assistance will be calculated at 50%.
For more information or payment estimates, visit fsa.usda.gov/ecap.
Export Market Funding Opportunities
With the tariff situation changing nearly daily, export promotion programs
become even more important. Recently, USDA launched agricultural trade promotion programs for fiscal year 2026 and is accepting applications for four export market development programs. USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service has opened funding opportunities for the Market Access Program, Foreign Market Development Program, Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops Program and Emerging Markets Program that will help U.S. agricultural producers promote and sell their goods internationally.
This action follows Rollins’ announcement detailing six international trade trips in the next six months to promote U.S. agricultural exports. The Secretary will visit Vietnam, Japan, India, Peru, Brazil and the United Kingdom.
“Our job at USDA is to open new markets for our farmers, ranchers and producers. The previous administration left agriculture with a $50 billion trade deficit. President Trump and I are actively working to open new markets and remove existing barriers,” says Rollins. “These programs are a crucial step in sustaining long lasting economic growth in rural America.”
Climate Slush Fund Cancelled
Rollins also announced the cancellation of the Partnerships for ClimateSmart Commodities. Following a review of each Biden-era partnership, it became clear that the majority of these projects had sky-high administration fees and provided less than half of the federal funding directly to farmers. Select projects may continue if it is demonstrated that a significant amount of the federal funds awarded will go to farmers.
With this action, USDA is cutting bureaucratic red tape, streamlining reporting and lowering the paperwork burden on producers. Additionally, grant agreements based on three Farmer First policy priorities:
• A minimum of 65% of federal funds must go to producers;
• Grant recipients must have enrolled at least one producer as of 12/31/2024; and
• Grant recipients must have made a payment to at least one producer as of 12/31/2024.
This reform effort will utilize existing funding, with no new funding made available for these partnerships. PG
UNCERTAIN ABOUT WHICH NOZZLES WORK BEST FOR PULSE WIDTH MODULATION CONTROL SYSTEMS?
Plan For Season-long Protection
Disease pressure
will
recommendations.
Ucome to every field. Be ready with these
niversity of Georgia plant pathologist Bob Kemerait reminds growers that once the furrow is closed, all of the management decisions to protect the crop from tomato spotted wilt disease and root-knot nematodes have been made.
“The same is true for seedling disease and the use of in-furrow fungicides,” he says. “Once the furrow is closed, growers watch struggles with tomato spotted wilt, nematodes and seedling diseases from the sidelines.”
Since diseases will be a threat to every peanut grower’s crop in 2025, at planting is the time to take care of some of these issues.
“Tomato spotted wilt continues to cause significant damage; however, it was less severe in 2024 than in 2022 or 2023, with a 7% and 5% yield loss, respectively. Region-wide, losses were estimated at 3% but were much greater in some fields,” he says.
Kemerait urges growers to consult the 2025 version of Peanut Rx for tactics to reduce risk to tomato spotted wilt disease. Key considerations are planting date, variety selection and choice of at-plant insecticide.
“New varieties have been added to the 2025 Peanut Rx tool. Once the furrow is closed, the die is cast for management of tomato spotted wilt,” he says.
Before And At Planting
Nematodes are often overlooked until they become a significant problem. Kemerait says Georgia farmers could have both the peanut root-knot nematode and/or lesion nematodes in a number of fields with losses occurring across the state in 2024.
“Growers should recognize that important management options for the root-knot nematode include crop rotation, resistant varieties, such as TifNV-HiOL, Georgia-14N, TifNV-HG and Georgia-22MPR, and the use of nematicides
For This Season:
• Remember those diseases that can only be managed before the furrow is closed.
• Get good coverage with an e ective seed treatment on high-quality seed.
• Is an adjustment needed in fungicides for late leaf spot control?
• Protect peanuts against white mold beyond the four-block spray if conditions favor development and an extended season.
as a pre-plant fumigant, as with Telone II, or at planting with Velum, Vydate-CLV or AgLogic 15G.”
Kemerait says a later application of Propulse to reduce damage to the pods and pegs does not replace management decisions made before the furrow is closed.
“Lesion nematodes are an emerging problem on peanuts in some areas, especially when high numbers are present in a field and damage occurs to the pegs,” he says. “Research is continuing; however, the use of Propulse or perhaps VydateCLV at pegging time is likely to be an important management tool.”
Seedling Disease
Once peanuts have germinated and cracked the ground, an important seedling disease to watch for is Aspergillus crown
Decisions on Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus are all made before and at planting.
Review your fungicide program for late leaf spot control.
rot, especially when conditions are hot and dry at planting or when seed quality is a concern, Kemerait says.
“Because of harvest conditions in 2024, seed may be at higher risk to seedling disease, especially to Aspergillus crown rot,” he says. “Farmer-saved seed is often at greatest risk.”
To manage Aspergillus crown rot, Kemerait recommends producers ensure they are planting quality seed and use an effective fungicide seed treatment, such as Rancona VPD, Rancona VPL, Peanut Prep 2.5 or Trebuset, with excellent seed coverage.
He also says to use an in-furrow product such as Velum or Proline and that azoxystrobin products are less effective against Aspergillus crown rot now than in the past.
Finally, avoid planting into hot and dry soils and irrigate to cool hot soils. Also, manage insects such as lesser cornstalk borers that could come early if conditions are right.
Leaf Spot Recommendations
Leaf spot diseases remain a critical threat to profitability, Kemerait says.
“Peanut leaf spot diseases, especially late leaf spot, were problematic in 2024 but were not as severe as in 2021.”
Factors that increase the threat of leaf spot diseases include environmental conditions, such as rain followed by more rain, which make it favorable for development and spread of disease. “Weather that affects a grower’s ability to make timely fungicide applications,” he says.
Finally, short crop rotations are a risk factor.
“Combinations of these factors put tremendous pressure on some fungicide programs. To prevent losses to leaf spot, especially late leaf spot, it is imperative to stay on a timely, proven program, select fungicides or mixtures of fungicides based upon threat of disease in the field and continue appropriate management programs through the end of the season.”
Kemerait says because of the increased threat from late leaf spot in recent years, some fungicide programs may have changed.
“Late-leaf spot was so severe in some fields in southwestern Georgia, growers there are encouraged to consult with UGA Extension and with your ag-chemical representatives to best understand modifications to fungicide programs during the 2025 season,” he says.
Overall, the critical components of a leaf spot fungicide program include variety selection, crop rotation, timeliness of fungicide applications, selection of fungicides and rate of the fungicides applied.
“In UGA small-plot research trials from 2024, fungicide programs that were assessed for management of leaf spot generally performed as they have in previous years of study. However, growers are advised to carefully consider extended sprays if fields are at high-risk as from short rotations and/ or a more susceptible variety,” he says. “In large plot, on-farm fungicide studies conducted by county agents, leaf spot was generally well-controlled by all programs.”
Extend White Mold Control
Although white mold was generally less severe in 2024 than in 2023, Kemerait says that with peanut maturity and harvest being stretched out to nearly 160 days, producers should protect the crop beyond the traditional four-block, 60-to-104 days after planting window ends.
Management of white mold can be improved by early season banded applications of Proline and by protecting the crop during the critical time 60-105 days after planting.
“Consider initiating a program prior to 60 days after planting and extending it beyond 105 days when conditions favor development of white mold or where disease is active in the field later in the season,” Kemerait says.
Be sure to use products known to be more effective against white mold, be timely with irrigation between eight and 24 hours after a fungicide application and consider applying fungicides for white mold control at night or pre-dawn when the peanut plant allows for the fungicide to reach the crown of the plant more effectively. PG
If the crop extends to 150-160 days, additional protection against white mold may be needed.
PHOTO BY NICK DUFAULT, UF/IFAS
Planting Intentions
As expected, more acres will be planted to peanuts with acreage of rotational partners declining or staying nearly the same as 2024.
On March 31, 2025, the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service released their annual Prospective Plantings report.
The acreage estimates in this report are based primarily on surveys conducted during the first two weeks of March with a sample size of approximately 73,700 farm operators selected from a list of producers. Data is collected by mail, internet or telephone to obtain information on crop acreage intentions for the 2025 crop year.
Peanuts
Growers intend to plant 1.95 million acres in 2025, up 8% from 2024. Compared with last year, planted acreage is expected to increase 9% or more in Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and South Carolina.
In Georgia, the largest peanut-producing state, planted area is expected to be up 12% from last year to 950,000 acres. Virginia and Arkansas are expected to maintain the same acres as 2024. South Carolina’s producers indicate they will plant 110% of this past year, increasing from 82,000 acres to 90,000 acres after a multi-year decline. Texas, hopeful for a break in the drought, intends to plant 250,000 acres, up 104% from 2024.
Cotton
In many areas, cotton is expected to be the least acreage on record. Area planted to all cotton in Georgia and Texas, the largest cotton-producing states, is expected to decline by 9% and 8%, respectively, compared with last year. If realized, all cotton planted area in Louisiana and New Mexico will be the lowest on record. Decreases compared to the past year are expected in all cotton-estimating states except Arizona and Kansas.
Overall, growers intend to plant an estimated 9.87 million acres of all cotton, down 12% from last year. Upland cotton planted area is estimated at 9.71 million acres, down 12% from 2024. American Pima planted area is estimated at 157,000 acres, down 24% from 2024.
Corn
Overall, growers intend to plant 95.3 million acres of corn for all purposes in 2025, an increase of 5% from 2024. Compared with last year, planted acreage is expected to be up or unchanged in 40 of the 48 estimating states. Acreage increases of 400,000 acres or more from last year are expected in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska and South Dakota.
Record-high acreage is expected in Idaho, Nevada, North
Dakota, Oregon and South Dakota. Record low acreage is expected in Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and West Virginia. Most Southern states are predicted to plant slightly more corn acres than this past year, with Florida dipping to 94%.
Soybeans
Growers intend to plant 83.5 million acres in 2025, down 4% from last year. Compared with last year, planting intentions are down or unchanged in 23 of the 29 estimating states. Decreases of 300,000 acres or more are anticipated in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota. If realized, the planted acres in New York and Ohio will be the largest on record.
Wheat
Peanuts: Area Planted by State and U. S. (Estimated – March 31, 2025 NASS)
U.S.
(NA) means Not Available X = Not applicable. Plantings for 2025 as indicated by reports from farmers.
acres, down 2% from 2024. If realized, this represents the second-lowest wheat planted area since records began in 1919. The 2025 winter wheat planted area, at 33.3 million acres, is down 2% from the previous estimate and down less than 1% from last year. Of this total, about 23.6 million acres are hard red winter, 6.09 million acres are soft red winter and 3.66 million acres are white winter.
Area expected to be planted to other spring wheat for 2025 is estimated at 10 million acres, down 6% from 2024 estimate. Of this total, about 9.40 million acres are hard red spring wheat. Durum planted area for 2025 is expected to total 2.02 million acres, down 2% from the previous year.
Winter Weather Summary
On the strength of a very warm December and a dry January, the Lower 48 States experienced an overall mild, dry winter. However, spatial details revealed a much more complex scenario, highlighted by persistently warm, dry weather in the Southwest; episodic cold outbreaks in the central and eastern United States, as well as the Northwest; and a lack of winter snowfall in many areas from the northern Plains to the northern Atlantic Coast, including the western Corn Belt. Northern “snow drought” stood in stark contrast to several Southern snowstorms, including epic accumulations along the Gulf Coast.
Following a protracted wait, La Niña finally developed — albeit weakly — in time to influence winter weather patterns across North America. Southwestern warmth and dryness, as well as occasionally sharp cold waves in the central and eastern United States, were consistent with a La Niña-driven regime. By the end of winter, there were two main areas of drought across the western and central United States: one focused from southern California to western and southern Texas and the other covering portions of the northern Plains and upper Midwest.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, drought coverage stood at 43.59% on March 11, 2025, virtually unchanged from December. Coverage had briefly dipped below 37% for two weeks in January. However, coverage of extreme-to-exceptional drought increased from 4.65% to 7.47% between December 3 and March 11, reflecting worsening conditions in parts of the Southwest. PG
A Diverse Approach
Try these strategies and best practices for effective weed management in your fields.
University of Georgia’s Extension weed specialist Eric Prostko offers insights on what it takes to control weeds in peanut fields. By adhering to these guidelines, farmers can optimize their weed management practices, ensuring healthier and more productive crops.
The first goal of producers should be to start clean using a combination of tillage, cover crops and/or herbicides. Beginning the planting season with a clean field is crucial. Employing a mix of tillage techniques, cover crops and herbicides can significantly reduce the initial weed population, setting the stage for a successful growing season.
The next tip is to plant in a twin-row pattern, which Prostko says improves weed control by approximately 5% to 10%. This method creates a denser canopy that suppresses weed growth by limiting sunlight penetration.
Three Inches Shouldn’t Be The Average Height
The next steps employ the use of herbicides at various stages of the crop.
“Use multiple residual herbicides in the system,” Prostko says. “Cracking or early postemergence applications of paraquat may not always be needed in peanut fields that start off weed-free and where at-planting residual herbicides, such as Dual Magnum, Prowl, Outlook, Sonalan, Strongarm, Valor or Warrant, were moisture activated with timely rainfall or irrigation.
“Make timely postemergence applications with weeds that are less than 3 inches tall,” he says, reiterating that this doesn’t mean the average height of the weeds present.
For any escapes and to prevent seed production, Prostko recommends removal by hand.
What Do High-Yielding Growers Do?
Prostko surveys producers to find out what production practices they use to achieve top yields. In 2023, 16 growers in the Georgia Peanut Achievement Club produced an average peanut yield of 5,734 pounds per acre, which significantly surpassed the state average peanut yield of 4,080 pounds per acre for the same year.
One of the practices instrumental in managing weeds is irrigation, which was used by 100% of the growers.
“This practice ensures that crops receive adequate water, which is crucial for their growth and can also aid in weed control,” he says.
“Another common practice was the use of bottom plows, reported by 56% of the growers. Bottom plowing can help bury weed seeds deep into the soil, reducing their ability to
germinate and compete with the peanut crops.”
As mentioned earlier, planting in twin rows was a common practice adopted by 75% of the high-yield growers.
“This planting technique allows for better canopy closure, which can suppress weed growth by limiting their access to sunlight,” Prostko says.
A Multi-Pronged Approach Is Key
Finally, herbicides are a key component of the weed management strategy of these top producers.
“The high-yielding growers reported using a variety of herbicides to control weeds effectively. Valor was the most commonly used herbicide, with 93% of the growers incorporating it into their regimen,” he says.
Following this was Cadre at 73% and Dual at 53%. Other herbicides included 2,4-DB (47%), Sonalan (40%), Prowl (33%), Strongarm (33%), Storm (20%), Paraquat (13%) and Zidua (13%).
“By employing these integrated weed management practices, the high-yielding Georgia peanut growers are able to maintain healthier crops and achieve higher yields,” Prostko says. “Their approach highlights the importance of combining different strategies, such as tillage, precise planting techniques and targeted herbicide use, to manage weeds effectively and ensure sustainable farming practices.” PG
Palmer amaranth sprayed at 6-inch height shows injury but also regrowth. After a height of 3 inches, Palmer pigweed grows quickly, up to an inch a day.
Variety Watch
Along with Arnie, FloRun™ ‘725’ offers a high level of Tomato Spotted Wilt resistance.
Anew high-yielding, disease-resistant peanut variety was released by the University of Florida’s, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, North Florida Research and Education Center in Marianna, Florida. The new variety, named FloRun™ ‘725,’ combines a high level of resistance to Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus and very good tolerance to leaf spot and white mold, says UF peanut breeder Barry Tillman. Additionally, it has demonstrated excellent pod yield and grades.
“This variety also carries the high-oleic trait, which improves oil quality and product shelf life, and therefore consumer experience, says Tillman.
Unique among current peanut varieties is its very high level of resistance to TSWV that comes from a source of resistant germplasm that has been under development at the NFREC for about 25 years.
Good Tolerance To Leaf Spot, White Mold
Developed strictly by conventional breeding methods, Tillman says FloRun™ ‘725’ and the variety Arnie are the only
two commercially available peanut varieties with TSWV resistance from this unique germplasm source.
“Over several years of testing, both FloRun™ ‘725’ and Arnie have demonstrated higher levels of TSWV resistance than other commercially available peanut varieties in the Southeastern United States,” he says. “Additionally, FloRun™ ‘725’ has shown very good tolerance to two other major peanut diseases, late leaf spot and white mold.
“In Florida tests, it was similar to Georgia-12Y in reaction to these two diseases,” Tillman says.
Georgia-12Y has the best combination of resistance to late leaf spot and white mold currently on the market.
FloRun™ ‘725’ has a medium to small runner seed size, a medium-sized plant and is in the medium-maturity category.
According to Tillman, in 2024, about 30 acres of breeder seed was produced and with that seed, the foundation seed of FloRun™ ‘725’ will be produced in 2025. Early seed availability for growers will happen in 2026. PG
Article provided by UF IFAS Extension.
The TSWV-resistant germplasm appears as “green islands” among many susceptible genotypes at NFREC Marianna in 2024. FloRun ‘725’ descended from this TSWV-resistant germplasm line.
BARRY TILLMAN, UF/IFAS
Supplying Needed Calcium
What are the current recommendations on lime, gypsum or gypsum replacement products?
Peanuts, a legume, provide their own nitrogen through a symbiotic relationship with bacteria, and the deep tap root is good at scavenging residual soil phosphorus and potassium. That often leaves calcium as the next limiting element. A lack of adequate calcium can reduce yields because of a lack of kernels. It can also increase pod rots and in seed peanuts, a lack of calcium can affect germination rates.
The University of Georgia Extension recommends taking a pegging zone soil sample at 4 inches deep soon after peanut emergence. If the results indicate either 1) less than 500 pounds of calcium per acre or 2) a calcium-to-potassium ratio of less than 3:1, then it is recommended to apply 1,000 pounds per acre of gypsum at early bloom — approximately 30 to 45 days after planting. Peanuts to be saved for seed should automatically receive 1,000 pounds per acre of gypsum at early bloom even if these levels are met.
A fall soil sample, while it is likely better than nothing, is likely taken deeper than the pegging zone. Also, calcium can leach out of the pegging zone between a fall sample and early bloom with enough rainfall. Finally, if you take a fall soil sample and then deep turn before planting peanuts, you can very possibly turn up soil into the pegging zone that is low in calcium.
Rates And Replacements
University of Georgia Extension peanut specialist Scott Monfort says early indications this spring about possible gypsum shortages have producers talking about rates and possible alternative gypsum products. The following are some of his recommendations on both.
“For fields below 750 to 800 pounds per acre of calcium, based on calcium pegging test, gypsum is worth the investment even at $50 per acre for 1,000 pounds,” he says. “You could reduce the amount applied to 750 to 800 pounds per acre to save some money.”
For fields above 800 pounds per acre, cased on calcium pegging tests, Monfort says there are alternative products to gypsum that will help reduce the risk of calcium deficiencies for peanut but will not help in building calcium in the soil for the next crop.
Those products include Top Flow at 10 to 15 gallons per acre applied at planting or early bloom and watered in immediately after. “With this product, you will likely increase pH by half a point,” he says.
Another product is calcium chloride at 10 gallons per acre injected through the pivot at 50 to 60 days after planting. Another option is calcium thiosulfate at 20 gallons per acre through the pivot also at 50 to 60 days after planting.
Calcium Reminders
As a reminder, calcium products applied through the pivot are considered soil applied because the amount of water used moves the calcium to the soil line. Foliar products do not provide the calcium needed because calcium does not translocate through the plant from the leaves to the pods. Calcium has to be absorbed with water directly through the walls of the developing pods in the pegging zone, the top 4 inches or so of soil, not through the roots or any other part of the peanut plant.
“Gypsum is still the best option on seed peanuts. All other products will not supply enough calcium,” Monfort says. “Lime is another way to get calcium to the crop if a pH adjustment is needed and the lime is applied prior to planting.”
Virginia Variety Recommendations
David Jordan, North Carolina State University Extension peanut specialist says producers of Viriginia-type peanuts should apply gypsum prior to pegging but not too early in June.
“Use recommended rates,” he says. “If you apply higher rates of gypsum in fields with lower pH, you could see a yield loss.
“My recommendation is late June at the earliest for gypsum in peanuts. Peanut vines need some size to keep the gypsum on the soil surface if you get heavy rains. Late kernels need adequate gypsum well into the season. I think early to mid-bloom is a good timing,” he says.
How late is too late to put out gypsum? With the recommendations of early bloom at approximately 30 to 45 days after planting, once peanuts get past that into the range of 100 days after planting, the majority of pods will have absorbed the proper amount of calcium or not and the outcome will be decided. Hopefully, this means pods filled with peanut kernels, no pod rots or “pops” and good germination the following year. PG
Weather Outlook
Drought is expected to continue in the Southwest and expand into parts of the Southeast and Virginia-Carolina region in the early season.
In late March and early April, forecasters from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center offered their outlook for temperature, precipitation, drought and flooding for the coming months. Overall, they predict above-average temperatures for the East and Gulf Coast regions, while drought conditions continue in the Southwest.
“The Spring Outlook provides critical information for our partners — including those in agriculture, shipping and recreation — allowing them to prepare for what’s ahead this spring and maximize their economic potential,” says Ken Graham, director of NOAA’s National Weather Service.
Graham says according to the report, drought conditions are likely to persist in the Southwest, and above-average temperatures are likely across much of the country, including locations that experienced colder-than-average temperatures and unusual snowfall during the winter.
Moderate-to-exceptional drought conditions currently exist across more than 40% of the continental United States.
“For April through June, above-average temperatures are favored along the southern tier of the country and for the Eastern seaboard with the highest chances for central and south Florida, and an area stretching from the Texas and Louisiana coasts to southern Utah and eastern Nevada,” he says.
Drought Expands Into Parts Of The Southeast, V-C
Pam Knox, University of Georgia Weather Network director and senior public service associate, says the southeastern region was mostly warmer than normal across the northern parts and cooler than normal across the southern part of the region.
“If you look at the daily max and min temperatures separately, you will see that the daily high temperatures were warmer everywhere in the region but especially in the northern half,” Knox says. “By comparison, the daily minimum tem-
peratures were cooler than average over the southern half of the region, particularly in Southeast Georgia and Alabama and in the Florida Peninsula.
For precipitation, Knox says it was very dry almost everywhere except a streak along the Coastal Plain running from the Florida Panhandle up the East Coast. “As a result, drought expanded in Virginia, the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia.”
The East Coast and much of the western U.S. have had below-average precipitation during the winter months, resulting in a low threat of significant spring flooding. However, heavy rainfall at any time can lead to flooding.
“We do not anticipate widespread moderate or major flooding this year,” says Ed Clark, director of NOAA’s National Water Center.
Stay current with flood risk in your area with the latest official watches and warnings at weather.gov. PG
Peanut Pointers
Checklist For Successful Planting
Southwest peanut growers are busy planting peanuts in May. Please make sure you check the following suggestions to ensure the successful planting and stand establishment:
■ Maintain planter (all tubes and units) and tractor.
■ Check the soil temperature from each field and make sure that the average temperature is at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit for three consecutive days without a cold front in forecast. Depending on the amount of soil residues in each field, soil temperature can vary widely.
■ Keep a small portion of seeds from each lot in a cool environment. Make sure to identify the seeds sample with the field name. If stand establishment is not successful, germination and vigor testing can be conducted on the saved seeds. Please
contact your county agent for more information about the germination and vigor testing.
■ If the field is dry, irrigate one-third to one-half inch first, then plant the seeds. Planting in dry conditions followed by irrigation can reduce uniform stand emergence.
■ Make sure to incorporate herbicides with the necessary amount of irrigation (or rain) based on the herbicide label.
■ Maintain appropriate planting speed for uniform stand establishment. Take a stand count at seven days and 14 days after planting from random locations. A stand count of three to four plants per foot should be sufficient.
Key Considerations In The First 30 Days
Moisture Management and Stand Establishment: Adequate moisture is crucial for establishing a strong peanut stand. Avoid planting peanuts in dry soil. It is always better to have good moisture ahead of planting, especially if soil temperatures are hot and dry.
In non-irrigated fields, if moisture is rapidly depleting, deciding whether to plant deeper, or greater than 3 inches, to chase the moisture can be detrimental to achieving an adequate stand. In these situations, it might be better to wait for rainfall. Also, be mindful that lower seed vigor and planting deeper can increase potential emergence issues.
In irrigated fields, do not plant in hot, dry soil and then irrigate immediately as this can shock the seeds, leading to stand loss or uneven emergence. Instead, irrigate the fields before planting and again after planting to activate herbicides. Make sure to assess stands as early as five to seven days after planting to determine if a replant is needed. Replant decisions need to be made within 21 days after planting.
Weed Management: Start with weed-free fields to avoid battling weeds throughout the season. Apply pre-emergence herbicides as soon as possible after planting. Timely irrigation or rainfall is necessary to activate herbicides, preventing the initial flush of weeds and minimizing crop injury from herbicides like Valor. Remember, the minor injury from Valor is preferable to the weed issues that can arise without it.
Scouting peanut fields early and often is a great strategy to find weed escapes and make herbicide applications when needed before weeds get too large to kill.
SCOTT MONFORT University of Georgia Extension Agronomist
EMI KIMURA Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
Peanut Pointers
Disease Management: In most situations, diseases like southern stem rot and leaf spots are not a problem early in the season. However, this is the time growers need to assess their risk due to varieties, planting date, crop rotation, etc., and put together a solid fungicide program that will protect their peanuts and maximize their yield potential.
Factors Affecting Thrips Protection
May is one of our busiest months on the farm, especially when it comes to peanuts. The primary pests we are dealing with, other than the fact that we have fungicide-treated seed to protect us from soil-borne pathogens, is protection from thrips (and subsequently tomato spotted wilt) and weeds. In much of the Virginia-Carolina region, thrips control can involve a twostep process. The vast majority of farmers apply a systemic insecticide in the seed furrow at planting followed by a foliar application of acephate. Regardless of what we use in the seed furrow at planting (e.g., AgLogic, Admire Pro or generic imidacloprid, Thimet or Phorate or Vydate,) a foliar application of insecticide is needed.
The duration of time needed for protection from thrips is often predicated on planting date, emergence date and environmental conditions that promote or delay rapid growth of peanut. Each spring is different, but we often need two applications to adequately protect peanuts.
Controlling weeds is also critical in May. Yield can be reduced by interference from weeds during the first month of the cropping cycle. Interference is the combination of competition for light and other resources by weeds and allelopathy from weeds that can affect peanut growth.
For folks using reduced or conservation tillage (no till or strip till) an effective burndown is essential. We need to start clean, and in reduced-tillage systems herbicides are the key. It takes at least two sprays to get winter weeds and emerged summer weeds under control. Residual herbicides applied with non-selective foliar-absorbed herbicides is essential in many fields.
In North Carolina and Virginia, some growers run into dogfennel both before and after the crop is planted. Making sure dogfennel is suppressed in the fall and is killed as well as possible before the peanut crop emerges is extremely important. There are no herbicide options that are completely effective once peanuts emerge.
For conventional tillage, making sure weeds are dead with tillage, especially in wet springs when weeds can get covered
up with soil or re-root, is important. In those springs, applying herbicide before primary tillage begins can make a big difference. The last thing we want to do is start the cropping cycle with a significant number of 12-inch weeds present across the field.
Of course, we rely heavily on herbicides to suppress weeds and protect yields. Overlapping residuals early in the cropping cycle protects peanuts from weed interference and takes the pressure off postemergence herbicides.
If I had it my way, which I do not in most cases, pendimethalin would be incorporated uniformly across all peanut acres that are conventionally tilled. Then, a solid preemergence herbicide program would be applied just after peanuts are planted. This program would include flumioxazin (Valor SX and other formulations) mixed with a Group 15 herbicide. In some situations, Valor SX and a Group 15 herbicide can be mixed with Brake. I would consider paraquat (Gramoxone and other formulations) applied within three weeks after peanuts emerge along with Basagran and a Group 15 or other herbicide with residual activity against key weeds. In the Southeast, folks would likely use Storm rather than Basagran. Then, based on what slips through and what you have experienced historically, a contact herbicide like Storm, Ultra Blazer or Cobra, and in some cases Cadre/Impose, would be in order. Based on your history with weeds, it might be good to include more residual.
DAVID JORDAN
North Carolina State University Extension Agronomist
Peanut Pointers
So, I’ve spent a lot of your money at this point. My experience is that herbicides pay for themselves in the vast majority of fields. Being intensive with herbicides early in the season and overlapping residual herbicides brings the most to the table. We need to control weeds all season, but the early season control sets us up for greater success.
Reducing TSWV Risk
As planting season gets underway, here are a few reminders about Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus. Disease pressure was pretty light in 2024, but that doesn’t mean it will be this year. It all depends on the weather and growing conditions.
KRIS BALKCOM
As more TSWV-resistant varieties become available, planting one of these varieties will give you the best possible opportunity to combat this disease. Two varieties that have been out for a while now and have high levels of TSWV resistance are
Auburn University Extension Specialist
Georgia-12Y or TifNV-HighO/L.
Our highest yields are from earlier planting dates such as the end of April or first week of May. This is true if we dodge TSWV and do our due diligence to battle against diseases. We know that planting mid-May seems to be the least risk of TSWV; however, we also must have moisture to germinate seeds. Therefore, we must manage as best we can and try to reduce risk.
Now we know the earlier we plant, the lower the leaf spot pressure, but white mold risk increases. Georgia-12Y helps because this variety has the lowest white mold rating. I would still encourage you to use an at-plant insecticide regardless of variety when planting early.
Also, plant nematode-susceptible fields first. TifNVHighO/L has significant TSWV resistance, which would allow you to plant early. The sooner you plant those fields, the better so that harvest can happen before nematodes build up and peak in the fall.
Remember the other factors listed in Peanut Rx that can also help reduce TSWV risk. Those include planting date, plant stand, at-plant insecticide, twin rows and reduced tillage. Also, Thimet 20G at planting is another way of reducing TSWV pressure. Once planting is over, it will be next year before you can try to prevent TSWV again.
With powerful defense against leaf spot and suppression of white mold, your peanuts can focus on one thing—living up to their most profitable potential.
