A Fresh Look at Predicting the Optimum Digging Date for Peanuts

Authors: Faircloth, Wilson; ROWLAND, DIANE - Texas A&M Agrilife; BEASLEY, JOHN - University Of Georgia

Submitted to: American Peanut Research and Education Society Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/15/2009
Publication Date: 7/17/2009
Citation: Faircloth, W.H., Rowland, D., Beasley, J. 2009. A Fresh Look at Predicting the Optimum Digging Date for Peanuts. American Peanut Research and Education Society Abstracts.

Interpretive Summary: Not required.

Technical Abstract: Many factors influence the digging of peanuts including weather, soil, and vine conditions, and these conditions often supersede the actual maturity level reached by the crop. Current methods for determining optimum peanut maturity rely on the relationship between yield and grade, and assume that yield reaches a maximum while grade continues to increase with time. A need exists for new assessment techniques to better predict the maturity of peanut. An analysis of eight peanut cultivars grown under optimum production conditions over a two-year period clearly illustrated that cultivars increased in value (yield x grade) linearly with time and did not decrease until well beyond what is considered a “normal” digging date. Weekly harvests of the cultivars began at approx 112 d after planting and continued until first frost (5 harvests-2005; 7 harvests-2006). Harvests included: yield, grade, maturity rating (pod mesocarp boards), TSWV ratings, leafspot ratings, leaf nutrient analysis, several physiological measurements, and remotely sensed images of both plants and pods. Data to be presented includes an analysis of yield and grade and their relationship with predictors such as growing degree days, maturity indices, and development of more comprehensive prediction techniques.