Peanut plant seeds (Arachis hypogaea) - 3 Seeds
Peanuts are best known as a popular snack, but did you know you can grow your own? These Arachis hypogaea seeds produce an unusual and rewarding crop, allowing you to discover one of nature's most fascinating growing habits. After flowering, the pods develop beneath the soil rather than above ground.
Sow the peanut plant seeds indoors in spring in a warm, bright location. For successful germination, temperatures of around 20-25°C are ideal. Once the seedlings are well established and all risk of frost has passed, they can be planted outdoors. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot with light, well-drained soil. Peanut plants also perform well in a greenhouse, where the extra warmth can help produce a better crop.
During the growing season, the peanut plants produce small yellow flowers. After flowering, the stems bend down towards the soil and push into the ground, where the pods develop underground. Keep the soil lightly moist throughout the growing season, but avoid waterlogging. By late summer or early autumn, the plants can be lifted and the peanuts harvested.
Benefits
- Unusual and fascinating crop to grow.
- Produces edible peanuts at home.
- Suitable for greenhouses and sunny garden positions.
- An enjoyable project for children and keen gardeners.
- Compact plants that require relatively little space.
Points to Consider
- Requires a warm, sunny position.
- Sensitive to frost.
- A greenhouse is recommended in cooler climates.
- Harvests are generally smaller than those achieved in commercial production.
Growing your own peanuts is a rewarding experience and a great way to try something a little different in the garden.
