How to Grow Peanuts

A warm-season root for the home garden across the warmer US.

Peanuts are a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Peanuts in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the peanuts page for exact timing.

Varieties

• Valencia, Sweet, 3-4 seeds per pod, good for boiling (local seed peanuts)
• Virginia / Jumbo, Large pods for roasting (local seed peanuts)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 15 cm (6 in) between plants.
• Sowing: sow about 4 cm deep.
• Water: roughly 6 L per plant every 5 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Caterpillars and Thrips. In humid regions, Leaf spot and Root-knot nematode can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Peanuts are usually ready to harvest in about 4 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant peanuts where you garden.

See also: Peanuts in the plant library →

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