How to Grow a Peanut Plant in a Pot

Growing peanut plants in a pot is an easy way to enjoy fresh peanuts and add some green to your home. Here are the steps you need to follow to start growing peanut plants:

Choose the Right Pot and Soil

The first step to growing peanut plants in a pot is choosing the right pot and soil. Peanut plants need a pot with a drainage hole at the bottom to ensure proper drainage. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches deep and 14 inches in diameter. Fill the pot with well-draining soil that is a mix of potting soil, sand, and perlite.

Select the Right Peanut Seeds

You can use raw or roasted peanuts to grow peanut plants. However, untreated raw peanuts work best because they are more likely to sprout. Make sure you choose peanuts that are unshelled and have not been exposed to high heat during roasting. You can find peanut seeds at garden stores or online.

Plant the Seeds

Plant the peanut seeds about 2 inches apart in the soil and cover them with soil lightly. Water the seeds well and keep the soil moist but not soaked. Place the pot in a warm, sunny spot as peanut plants require plenty of sunlight to grow. Protect the pot from extreme heat and cold as peanut plants cannot tolerate temperatures below 40°F or above 90°F.

Care for the Peanut Plants

Once the peanut plants start growing, water them two to three times a week if the soil feels dry to the touch. As the plants grow taller, you can support them with stakes. Peanut plants need strong support because their branches become heavy with peanut pods. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month to keep them healthy.

Harvest the Peanuts

Peanut plants take about four to five months to mature fully. When the leaves turn yellow and the plants start to wither, it is time to harvest the peanuts. Carefully remove the plant and gently shake off the soil to reveal the peanut pods. Dry the peanuts by spreading them on a baking sheet and leaving them to dry at room temperature for a week. Once the peanuts are dried, roast them in the oven for about 20 minutes at 350°F for a crunchy snack.

Conclusion

Growing peanut plants in a pot is a fun and easy way to enjoy fresh peanuts at home. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully grow a peanut plant in a pot and harvest your own peanuts. With the right pot, soil, and care, you can enjoy the rewards of growing peanuts in your own backyard.