Peanuts
By: Samantha McCool
How its grown
The peanut plant is grown under the ground and flowers above the soil. It is planted in early spring, it grows best in calcium rich sandy soil. The growth cycle to harvesting takes about 4-5 months. USA peanuts are planted after the last frost in April through May, when soil temperatures reach 65°—70°F. For a good crop, 120 to 140 frost free days are required. Peanut seedlings will raise up out of the soil about 10 days after planting. The plant will eventually grow to be around 18 inches tall. About 40 days after planting yellow flowers will surround the base of the plant. Peanut plants need 1 1/2 -2 inches of water per week.
Harvesting
Harvest is 120-160 days. Peanuts are combined and the moisture in them is reduced to 10% for storing.
Georgia is the top state producer of peanuts
Pests
Caterpillars, armyworm and cut worm
Uses
Peanut butter, candy bars, laundry soap
Fun Facts
The average peanut farm is 100 acres.
About 1.3 percent of America's population is allergic to peanuts.