Planting Peanuts Indoors: A Guide to Growing Store-Bought Nuts in Your Garden
Growing peanuts from store-bought nuts can be a fun and rewarding gardening project. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grow peanuts in your garden:
- Choose the right peanuts
Type of peanut : Choose raw, unroasted, and unsalted peanuts. They are more likely to sprout than roasted or salted varieties.
Buy organic peanuts : If possible, buy organic peanuts as they are less likely to have been treated with growth inhibitors. - Prepare the soil
Soil Requirements : Peanuts require fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 5.9 and 7.0. You can test your soil’s pH and adjust accordingly.
Soil preparation : Loosen the soil to a depth of about 30 cm and mix with compost or old manure to improve fertility. - Plant peanuts
When to Plant : The best time to plant peanuts is in late spring, when the soil has warmed to at least 65°F (18°C).
Planting Depth : Plant peanuts 1 to 2 inches deep and 6 to 8 inches apart. Make sure the peanuts are lightly covered with soil. - Take care of the peanut
Watering : Peanuts require about 1 to 2 inches of water per week, especially during flowering and staking (when the plant begins to produce peanuts).
Weeding : Keep the area around the peanuts free of weeds. Weeds can compete for nutrients and water. - Harvest
Harvest Time : Peanuts are ready to harvest when the leaves turn yellow and the veins emerge from the shell, usually 4 to 5 months after planting.
Digging up peanuts : Gently lift the plant out of the soil with a fork, being careful not to damage the peanut. - Drying and curing
Drying : After harvesting, remove excess soil and hang the plants in a warm, dry place. Let the peanuts dry for a few weeks until the shells are completely dry.
Salting : Salting peanuts further improves their flavor and shelf life. Store them in a well-ventilated place for about two weeks.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to successfully grow peanuts from store-bought nuts. This is not only a delicious snack, but it also adds a unique touch to your garden.
