Peanuts are among the most popular appetizers, yet many people don’t realize how they’re harvested or that you can grow them at home. This article explores the herb peanut (arachis hypogaea) and explains how to plant it in a home garden to harvest your own peanuts. Peanuts are actually a legume, not a true nut, and growing them offers a double delight: a thriving ornamental plant with bright yellow flowers and, later, homegrown peanuts ready to enjoy.
How is the peanut plant?
The peanuts we eat are the seeds of the peanut plant, not the fruit as some might think. The plant grows above ground while the peanuts form underground, tucked away beneath the soil where the pods develop.
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Peanuts have a long history, with cultivation dating back to ancient times. The plant reaches about 60 to 70 centimeters in height, adding a short, sturdy presence to any garden or container setup.
How to grow peanut plant at home?
Only a few ingredients are needed to grow the peanut plant at home. Select natural peanuts from a store and provide a bit of substrate. Place the seed flat in a dry, sunny spot and protect it from cold drafts by choosing a sheltered location.
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Start with a natural peanut in a sizeable pot with good drainage and a substrate rich in organic matter. Dig a small hole, place the peanut seed, cover with soil, and water lightly. Within about two weeks, the seeds begin to germinate and establish roots.
Best time of year to plant peanut plant is spring.
Does the peanut plant need care?
The peanut plant requires ample water during the early growth stages. Consistent watering is important, but care must be taken to avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot and damage the plant.
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As the plant develops, gradually expand the irrigation area and allow the soil to dry slightly before harvesting the fruit. This helps ensure healthy pods and a productive plant.
How long does it take to grow peanuts?
From sowing the seed, it takes at least four months to harvest peanuts. Typically, planting occurs in spring and harvesting happens in fall. When the pods are ready, the foliage often dries and leaves turn yellow, signaling that the peanuts are ready to be collected.
How to grow one of the most valuable plants in the home garden?
Peanuts are a versatile addition to any garden, offering both edible fruit and decorative value. Careful attention to watering, sun exposure, and soil quality will maximize yield and plant health.
How are peanuts collected?
To harvest, gently remove the entire plant from the pot and allow it to dry in the sun for about 48 hours. After this drying period, the peanuts are ready for consumption.