We had a good turnout at our peanut meeting last week with UGA Extension Agronomist Dr. Scott Montfort and UGA Entomologist Dr. Mark Abney. Dr. Montfort covered agronomic practices and presented a variety update. Here are some thoughts he has for upcoming year:
- Remember the importance of Soil Sampling. Do not ignore deficiencies or toxicity problems. They will cost us yield and profit. This will be more of a problem where we are renting new land and may not know much of the rotation or fertility history.
- Remember that if you are growing Georgia-12Y, it is susceptible to Rhizoctonia Limb Rot. Adjust fungicide programs accordingly.
- Germination Issues: Growers should consider saving about a pound of seed out of each lot they plant. The sample can be used later to help diagnose potential germination issues. The samples will need to be kept in a cool place until plants stands are assessed. After stands are assessed, the 1 pound samples can be used for germination tests or properly discarded.
- Do not plant in April until 4 inch soil temperatures reach 68 degrees for 3 to 4 consecutive days with no severe cool snaps expected within 5 days.
- Clean and calibrate in-furrow equipment for inoculants and insecticides before planting and keep a check on them as they progress through the planting season.
Dr. Scott Monfort presents at the Thomas County Peanut Production Update
Thomas County Ag 