How to Plant Peanuts in a Pot

Do you love eating peanuts and want to grow them in your own home? Growing peanuts is not limited to big farms; you can easily grow them in a pot on your balcony or porch. In this article, we will discuss how to plant peanuts in a pot.

Choosing a Pot and Soil

Choosing the right pot and soil is crucial for the growth of peanuts. Peanut plants typically grow to be around two feet tall, so you need to choose a pot that is at least 24 inches deep and 18 inches wide. The pot must also have drainage holes to allow excess water to drain away. Fill the pot with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, such as compost or aged manure.

Preparation of Peanut Seeds

Peanuts require warm soil to germinate, so it's best to start planting the seeds in the spring. Before planting, select healthy peanuts with intact shells. Soak them in water overnight or for 8-12 hours to soften the shell. Remove the shells and select the largest, most well-formed peanuts. Then, allow them to dry for an hour, then plant them immediately.

Planting the Peanut Seeds

Peanuts are a member of the legume family, and they can fix nitrogen from the air into the soil. To plant, dig a hole about one and a half inches deep in the center of the pot. Place the peanut seed with the pointed side up in the hole and cover with soil. Place three seeds about three inches apart in rows. Water the soil thoroughly but avoid spraying the seedlings. Keep the soil moist but not wet.

Caring for Peanut Plants

After a couple of weeks, you may see the peanut plants sprout. When the plants reach a height of six inches, thin them to the strongest seedling per group of three by cutting out the weakest ones. Peanut plants require sunlight to grow, so place the pot in a sunny location. Water the peanut plants regularly, aiming to keep the soil moist. Also, apply a general-purpose fertilizer every two weeks.

Harvesting Peanuts

Peanuts are ready to harvest between 100-120 days after planting. When the leaves turn yellow and drop off, it's time to harvest the peanuts. Carefully lift the peanut plant up and shake off the soil. Allow the plant to dry for a few days in a warm, dry place. Then, dig up the plant and remove the peanuts. Dry them once again, and store them in a cool, dry place.

In Conclusion

We hope that this article has been helpful in teaching you how to plant peanuts in a pot. With the right pot, soil, and care, you can grow your peanuts and enjoy a fresh and delicious harvest. Happy planting!