The decision to grow peanuts at home begins with sourcing the correct planting material. Peanuts, botanically a legume and not a true nut, require a long, warm season, needing 100 to 160 frost-free days to reach maturity. The “seed” used for planting is simply the raw, unadulterated peanut kernel, which must retain its ability to sprout. Finding viable seeds is a primary concern for home gardeners, and the source of the planting stock can significantly impact the success of the crop.
Primary Sources for Planting-Grade Peanuts
The most reliable option for obtaining peanut seeds is through specialty seed companies or online retailers. These suppliers focus on agricultural quality and provide certified seed that has been tested for germination rate. Purchasing certified seeds ensures the planting material is free from common pathogens and offers lot traceability, guaranteeing varietal purity. While this is the highest quality source, the price per seed tends to be higher due to the testing and certification process.
A localized alternative is visiting regional nurseries or agricultural supply stores. These locations frequently stock varieties best suited for the local climate and soil conditions, and their staff can offer specific regional advice. This option balances reliability with accessibility, providing good quality seeds at a moderate cost. For gardeners seeking common or regionally popular varieties, this is a practical and convenient choice.
Sourcing raw peanuts from grocery stores or farmers markets is a riskier option. This is only viable if the peanuts are strictly raw, in the shell, and completely untreated. The major drawback is the lack of a guaranteed germination rate, as the peanuts may have been dried or stored under conditions that compromise viability. Using these peanuts may necessitate planting a significantly higher quantity of kernels to achieve an acceptable plant stand.
Choosing the Best Peanut Variety for Your Area
Selecting the correct peanut type depends almost entirely on the length of your local growing season, as different varieties require varying amounts of time to mature underground. The four primary market types grown in the United States each have distinct traits and growing windows. Virginia peanuts, known for their large kernels often used for snacking, require the longest period, needing between 130 and 150 frost-free days to fully develop.
Runner peanuts, which account for the majority of commercial production and are primarily used for peanut butter, have a medium growing season, maturing in about 130 to 155 days. The Spanish type is characterized by smaller, rounder kernels and possesses the shortest growing window, finishing in about 110 to 120 days. This shorter maturity time makes Spanish peanuts the most suitable choice for gardeners in northern regions with limited summer heat.
Valencia peanuts are valued for their sweetness and are often used for boiling or in all-natural peanut butter. These tend to have three to five seeds per pod and mature in a medium-length window. Choosing a variety that aligns with your region’s average warm-season length is important to ensure the underground pods have enough time to fill out before the first frost arrives.
Important Quality Checks Before Planting
Regardless of the source, planting material must be raw and untreated. Exposure to high heat or chemical treatments like salt will destroy the embryo and prevent germination. Inspect the shells closely, looking for any signs of mold, discoloration, or cracks, as these indicate potential damage that reduces viability.
Gardeners often purchase peanuts either shelled or in the shell. Peanuts purchased in the shell maintain their freshness and viability for a longer period. Shelled peanuts are convenient but are more susceptible to drying out or sustaining damage to the seed coat, which lowers the successful germination rate.
If the planting stock comes from a non-certified source, performing a germination test is recommended. This involves placing a small sample of kernels on a moist paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag and waiting several days for signs of sprouting. Only seeds that exhibit successful sprouting should be planted in the garden, confirming the purchase was viable for growing.