Peanut Grower January 2024 by One Grower Publishing

The

PEANUTGROWER ONE GROWER PUBLISHING, LLC

JANUARY 2024

THE PEANUT PRODUCER'S MARKETING & PRODUCTION MAGAZINE www.peanutgrower.com

Insects On The Move

Don’t Make A Costly Mistake With Leaf Spot Look-a-likes

2024

Pest Management Guide

S:7"

S:10"

The best way to succeed this season is to be ready for the ones that follow. And with the proven data and results of PhytoGen® cottonseed, you can be confident your operation is ready to flourish for seasons to come. Learn more about PhytoGen and the Enlist® weed control system at ProvenPhytoGen.com.

™®

The

JANUARY 2024

PEANUTGROWER ONE GROWER PUBLISHING, LLC

JANUARY 2024

THE PEANUT PRODUCER'S MARKETING & PRODUCTION MAGAZINE www.peanutgrower.com

Insects On The Move

Volume 36 • Number 1

Don’t Make A Costly Mistake With Leaf Spot Look-a-likes

2024

Pest Management Guide

Departments 4

Editor’s Note Each field is unique

News Briefs Congress passes Farm Bill extension

Market Watch Peanut butter continues to be our rock star

10 Features

10 Pests On The Move

Something old, something new – insect problems may not be what first comes to mind.

12 Leaf Spot Look-a-likes

Abiotic leaf conditions abound, and misidentification can be costly.

Supplement

13 New Product From BASF

Planting And Early Season Management

ONE GROWER PUBLISHING, LLC

Southern Production & Marketing Strategies

January 2024

BASF introduces Vault Liquid Inoculant and Velondis Plus Biofungicide.

14 Insect Management

Research-based ratings are offered for peanut insecticides.

A Supplement to Cotton Farming and The Peanut Grower Magazines

Look for the Corn South supplement following page 12 in the Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi versions of The Peanut Grower.

16 Weed Management

Herbicide efficacy ratings will help with product selection.

20 Good News For Popular Pesticide

The EU’s decision allows importers to continue the use of glyphosate for now.

22 2023 V-C Region Report www.peanutgrower.com PeanutGrower @PeanutGrower @ThePeanutGrower TWITTER: @PEANUTGROWER

A ‘better-than-expected’ year given drought, lack of heat units is a tribute to farmers’ flexibility and commitment. Cover photo by Amanda Huber JANUARY 2024 • THE PEANUT GROWER / 3

EDITORIAL/PRODUCTION Editor Amanda Huber ahuber@onegrower.com Copy Editor Cassidy Nemec cnemec@onegrower.com Art Director Ashley Kumpe Digital Content Manager Katie Guthrie

ADMINISTRATION Publisher/Vice President Lia Guthrie (901) 497-3689 lguthrie@onegrower.com Associate Publisher/Editor-In-Chief Carroll Smith (901) 326-4443 Associate Publisher/Sales Scott Emerson (386) 462-1532 semerson@onegrower.com Audience Services Kate Thomas (847) 559-7514 Production Manager David Boyd dboyd@onegrower.com For subscription changes or change of address, call (847) 559-7578 or email peanutgrower@omeda.com

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Scott Monfort Extension Agronomist University of Georgia Dell Cotton Peanut Growers Cooperative Marketing Assn., Franklin, VA Kris Balkcom Agri-Program Associate Auburn University Dan Anco Extension Peanut Specialist Clemson University

Emi Kimura Extension Agronomist Texas A&M University David Jordan Extension Agronomist North Carolina State University Glen Harris Extension Agronomist University of Georgia Jason Ferrell Extension Weed Specialist University of Florida

ONE GROWER PUBLISHING, LLC Mike Lamensdorf PRESIDENT/TREASURER Lia Guthrie PUBLISHER/VICE PRESIDENT The Peanut Grower (ISSN 1042-9379) is an agribusiness magazine for U.S. peanut producers. Published in eight monthly issues, January through July and November. Annual subscriptions are $40.00. Single Copy price is $5.00. Annual overseas subscriptions are $70.00, including Canada/Mexico. Periodicals postage paid at at Memphis, Tennessee, and at additional mailing offices. Copyright © 2024 One Grower Publishing, LLC, all rights reserved except where otherwise noted. The Peanut Grower ® is a registered trademark, which reserves all rights granted by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in association with the registration. POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO OMEDA COMMUNICATIONS, CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT, P.O. BOX 1388, NORTHBROOK, IL 60065-1388. All statements, including product claims, are those of the person or organization making the statement or claim. The publisher does not adopt any such statement or claim as its own, and any such statement or claim does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Printed in the USA.

Editor’sNote Editor’s Note Each Field Is Unique

t may be the beginning of the year, but planning for the coming planting season is likely already underway. Taking soil samples is one of those tasks to be completed at this time of year so there is time to make adjustments prior to planting. Each year, it seems Extension agents note that soil pH problems often take growers by surprise. A soil pH below 6.0, which is the target pH for peanuts, can cause zinc toxicity and will kill peanut plants. For corn and cotton, the target pH is even higher at 6.5. Liming is the practice needed to adjust soil acidity levels. University of Florida assistant professor Amanda Huber and cropping system specialist Hardeep Editor, The Peanut Grower Singh has some helpful information about liming in his article, “Considerations When Liming Your Fields.” Singh says, “The frequency and quantity of liming depends on the soil’s traits and how it’s managed. Factors like nitrogen fertilization and organic material decomposition decrease soil pH. Regular soil testing becomes crucial to monitor pH levels and fertility status accurately. These routine tests offer insights into soil pH and suggest appropriate lime application rates. “The timing of lime application is crucial for its effectiveness. While lime can be applied throughout the year, incorporating it during periods when there’s less rainfall allows for better absorption and distribution within the soil. Fall and early spring are often preferred times for liming, enabling the lime to gradually neutralize acidity before planting season begins.” Since calcium is needed for peanut production, a calcite lime is the preferred soil amendment over the magnesium-rich dolomitic lime. There are areas, such as North Carolina, where zinc levels will be so high that an increased soil pH is not enough to tie up the element, making it safe to grow peanuts. On a yearly basis, according to recent data, 7% to 10% of soil samples in the Tar Heel State may have a zinc index of 250 or above, which is not advisable for peanut planting. It all comes down to testing to make sure you know what’s going on in the soil. As Singh says, “Remember, each field is unique, and consulting with your local agricultural Extension agent or crop agronomists can provide invaluable guidance tailored to specific needs and conditions.”

One Grower Publishing, LLC, also publishes Cotton Farming, Rice Farming, Soybean South and Corn South.

One Grower Publishing, LLC 875 W. Poplar Ave., Suite 23, Box 305 Collierville, TN 38017

4 / THE PEANUT GROWER • JANUARY 2024

PEANUTGROWER.COM

NewsBriefs News Briefs Congress Passes Farm Bill Extension

The U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate voted to approve a short-term funding bill, avoiding a Nov. 17 government shutdown. The legislation, which was proposed by Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), funds the government by setting up two deadlines. The first deadline, Jan. 19, covers agencies under four appropriations bills: Agriculture-FDA, Energy and Water, Military Construction-VA and Transportation-HUD. The other eight appropriations bills are extended to a Feb. 2 deadline. In addition to extending funding and setting up deadlines for appropriations, the legislation includes a one-year extension of Farm Bill programs at the same levels authorized in the 2018 Farm Bill. It also includes funding a number of small programs that were to expire at the end of 2023. Although the Farm Bill is extended through Sept. 30, 2024, lawmakers are hopeful that it will be passed ahead of that deadline. U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Ranking Member John Boozman (R-AR) released the following statement alongside U.S. House Agriculture Committee Chairman G.T. Thompson (R-PA) and Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA): “As negotiations on funding the government progress, we were able to come together to avoid a lapse in funding for critical agricultural programs and provide certainty to producers. This extension is in no way a substitute for passing a five-year Farm Bill, and we remain committed to working together to get it done next year.” The funding bill passed 336-95 in the House of Representatives and 87-11 in the Senate.

Record-High PB Consumption

Per capita consumption of peanut butter reached an unprecedented 4.4 pounds in 2023, according to recent data from TWITTER: @PEANUTGROWER

the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Census Bureau. Total peanut per capita consumption remains stable at 7.7 pounds. “Increasing demand and consumption of US-grown peanuts is a priority for the National Peanut Board,” says former NPB president and CEO Bob Parker. “The entire industry has played a role in achieving these remarkable levels and should be proud.” “NPB’s marketing and promotion work has focused on instilling a love of peanuts and peanut products in younger generations, making headway against barriers like peanut allergy and investing in production research for growers to produce more peanuts with fewer inputs,” says Ryan Lepicier, who is now NPB president and CEO as of Jan. 1, 2024. In-shell peanuts also experienced significant growth, up 13% since 2022. “This is one of the first crop years that nearly all ballpark, Virginia-type peanuts grown are high oleic, resulting in a longer shelf-life and a more positive experience for the consumer,” says Parker. This strong showing for peanuts and peanut butter reaffirms the enduring love for peanut products in American diets. But peanuts and peanut butter are not just snacks; they are versatile ingredients that are making waves in foodservice across the nation. As the demographics of the United States continue to evolve, with an increasingly diverse and multicultural population, peanuts have become an essential component in serving on-trend dishes that cater to the evolving tastes and preferences of consumers.

New Options For Crop Insurance Investment

The 2023 commodity year represents the first time more than $1.2 billion worth of domestic individual peanut liability has been insured through the federal crop insurance program. Supplemental insurance coverages, including Supplemental Coverage Option, Enhanced Coverage

In Brief • Farm Bill is extended through Sept. 30, 2024. • Delegation visits Japan on heels of record exports, favorable trade agreement. • PB reaches new per capita record consumption. • Georgia Peanut Farm Show planned for Jan. 18. • V-C splits social media to better represent each state. • NPB develops strategic goals through 2025.

Option and Hurricane Insurance Protection - Wind Index added over $163 million to this total. Supplemental coverage liability has more than doubled since 2020. More than $58 million in producer-paid premiums accompany the combined individual and supplemental insurance liability. This equates to approximately 1.54 million acres insured under individual base policies, and 715,000 acres were insured with additional supplemental coverages. Over 46% of insured peanut acres were covered by a supplemental insurance program with 76% comprised of HIP-WI coverage in 2023. Although harvest is ongoing, over $78 million of indemnities have been paid so far on peanut crop insurance programs for 2023. Approximately 78% of those losses were paid as a result of Hurricane Idalia damage with the balance being primarily heat/hot wind. Since 2019, the value per insured acre of peanuts has increased over 50% from $528 to $797 per acre. This is partially due to an approximate 28% increase in the peanut price election from 2019 to 2023, most of which occurred after 2021. The rest of the increase is due to net changes in the cumulative approved yield JANUARY 2024 • THE PEANUT GROWER / 5

NewsBriefs News Briefs Trade Delegation Visits Japan

The American Peanut Council led an official trade delegation to Japan in November to meet with top U.S. agriculture and trade officials, importers, manufacturers and other key stakeholders. The 2020 removal of a 10% duty on U.S. peanut imports under the Japan-U.S. Trade Agreement is allowing American peanut producers a more competitive edge in the Japanese market. Japan is the fifth-largest market for U.S. peanut exports and is consistently growing. In 2022, the peanut industry exported a record-high 20,171 metric tons of peanuts and peanut products to Japan, with a value of $35.6 million. During the trade mission, U.S. peanut delegates met with representatives from USDA’s Office of Agricultural Affairs and Agricultural Trade in Tokyo, as well as leaders of the Japan Peanut Import Association and Japan Peanut Association. The group also visited a peanut farm in Chiba Prefecture, as well as leading Japanese retailers. “The official visit to Japan was important for the U.S. peanut industry for continued trade development in what is a consistently growing and promising market,” says APC President and CEO Richard Owen. “Aside from meeting with agriculture and trade policy officials to discuss the current trade environment, the visit helped to further develop key amounts across all insured producers. In the context of current Farm Bill discussions, peanuts represent one of the commodities for which the reference price has been effective in providing counter-cyclical Price Loss Coverage payments, and also increases for Agriculture Risk Coverage benchmark pricing, due to relatively stagnant year-to-year prices. The 2018 Farm Bill included provisions for the effective reference prices of commodities to increase up to 15% over the statutory reference price based on a moving average of annual prices. Given that annualized peanut prices have not yet triggered an increase in the effective reference price, it is not likely that peanuts will receive as much attention as other commodities in discussions on the next Farm Bill with respect to relative increases in the support price.

47th Annual Georgia Peanut Farm Show Planned

Make plans to attend the 47th annual Georgia Peanut Farm Show and 6 / THE PEANUT GROWER • JANUARY 2024

relationships between U.S. peanut exporters and Japanese customers.” He says timing for the visit was vital as Japanese consumers’ hunger grows for peanuts and peanut products. Japan’s retail market for nuts, seeds and trail mixes was estimated at $408 million in 2023, while the market for nut and seed-based spreads was estimated at $50.1 million in 2022, according to Euromonitor International. Overall, more than 47% of Japanese consumers reported peanut consumption in 2022.

Conference, Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., University of Georgia Tifton Campus Conference Center, Tifton, Georgia. The one-day show is free and open to all farmers and industry representatives to attend. Attendees will have the opportunity to visit nearly 100 agribusinesses and organizations in the peanut and agricultural industry. Farmers will be able to earn private and commercial pesticide applicator certification, as well as learn about cutting-edge research and developments during the University of Georgia Peanut Production Seminar and industry-wide sponsored Peanut Seed Seminar. “I encourage farmers to attend this one-day show in Tifton,” says Rodney Dawson, show chairman. “The knowledge they will gain from industry representatives and seminars is an investment in the future of their farm.” OneBlood will host a blood drive from 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. At the show close, there will be nearly $10,000 in door prizes presented to farmers, as well as a grand door prize, vendor products, certificates

and equipment. For more information, contact the Georgia Peanut Commission at 229386-3470 or visit www.gapeanuts.com.

NPB Ready For New Strategic Plan

National Peanut Board leadership has developed a new strategic plan through 2025. NPB’s mission remains the same: to improve the economic condition of U.S. peanut farmers and their families through compelling promotion and groundbreaking research. Key highlights of the plan include: Strategy I: Grow consumption by increasing the passion for peanuts among Gen Z and millennials. Strategy II: Drive toward the eradication of peanut allergy. Strategy III: Protect progress to date and continue to remove barriers to consumption. Strategy IV: Maximize impact of production research. Strategy V: Channel the value growers see in NPB into greater engagement. Strategy VI: Position the organization PEANUTGROWER.COM

NewsBriefs News Briefs for a sustainable future The last strategy was added to ensure NPB is fully prepared to successfully evolve through the transition to a new CEO.

The V-C Represents Each State On Social Media

What was once “Virginia Carolinas Peanuts” now has three separate social media accounts to better cater to the peanut communities in Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina. Social media is used to communicate with consumers looking for recipes, education materials, events, industry updates and more. Here’s how to follow along: for Virginia- search “Virginia Peanuts” or @vapeanutgrowers on Facebook and Instagram; North Carolina- search “NC Peanuts” or @ncpeanuts on Facebook, Instagram and X; South Carolina- search “South Carolina Peanut Board” or @sc_ peanuts on Facebook and Instagram.

Seed Certification Annual Meeting

The Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies is a non-profit organization founded in 1919 (formally known as the International Crop Improvement Association) in an effort to establish credible standards for the production of high-quality seed. Today, AOSCA has member agencies across the United States TWITTER: @PEANUTGROWER

as well as seven member countries including Canada, Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. AOSCA member agencies certify around 3.2 million acres of seed and vegetatively propagated crops annually. In 2024, the AOSCA annual meeting will be held June 16-19, 2024, at

Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, Miramar Beach, Florida. This meeting is hosted by the Alabama Crop Improvement Association and the Southern Seed Certification Association. For information or sponsorship opportunities, email Teresa Snyder, executive assistant, at tsnyder@aosca.org.

Perfect Peanut Partner Cotton Varieties Made for Peanut Country

Russell Nuti, Ph.D.

or farmers planting cotton near peanuts, one simple change makes management a whole lot easier. Throughout the South, cotton and peanuts are a common rotation with fields planted near one another — sometimes across the turnrow. Producers growing cotton and peanuts have long dealt with the challenge of 2,4-Db applications drifting from peanuts into cotton. With dicamba-tolerant cotton, the problem doubled: Growers had to avoid both 2,4-Db drift from peanuts into dicamba-tolerant cotton and dicamba from cotton into peanuts. Scan for Now there's a better fit for cotton planted near peanuts — what some are calling the “perfect peanut video and partner.” PhytoGen® W3FE varieties have the Enlist® more! cotton trait for labeled applications of Enlist One® and Enlist Duo® herbicides with 2,4-D choline. Because growers commonly use 2,4-Db to control weeds in peanuts, there are distinct synergies between crops. “You can plant peanuts adjacent to PhytoGen W3FE varieties and spray Enlist herbicides in your cotton even if peanuts are downwind, because peanuts are considered a compatible crop in the product use guide for Enlist herbicides,” said Russell Nuti, Ph.D., PhytoGen cotton development specialist. “Another advantage is that growers can spray Enlist One herbicide or Enlist Duo herbicide on their PhytoGen W3FE varieties, triple rinse the tank, and then spray 2,4-Db in their peanuts. Because they never have to put dicamba in the tank, growers have the option to increase efficiency by using one sprayer for both crops.” Nuti also pointed out that PhytoGen W3FE varieties come with other advantages. Many PhytoGen W3FE varieties offer built-in resistance to RKN and reniform nematodes, protecting roots and allowing plants to make better use of available water and fertilizer. Plus, PhytoGen cottonseed is well-known for early season vigor, helping plants get off to a great start. “Add in high yield potential, and you get a great package for growing cotton in peanut country,” Nuti said. “PhytoGen W3FE varieties truly are the perfect peanut partner.”

™® Enlist, Enlist Duo, Enlist One, PhytoGen and the PhytoGen Logo are trademarks of Corteva Agriscience and its affiliated companies. Enlist Duo® and Enlist One® herbicides are not registered for sale or use in all states or counties. Contact your state pesticide regulatory agency to determine if a product is registered for sale or use in your area. Enlist Duo and Enlist One herbicides are the only 2,4-D products authorized for use with Enlist® crops. Consult Enlist herbicide labels for weed species controlled. Always read and follow label directions. © 2023 Corteva.

JANUARY 2024 • THE PEANUT GROWER / 7

MarketWatch Market Watch Peanut Butter Continues To Be Our Rock Star

t a recent farm show, farmers were asking, “What are we going to do now?” Cotton and corn prices are lower than the cost of production. Soybean prices look better, but a farmer knows they are not good in a peanut rotation. The question they kept asking me — “What do you think peanuts will do in 2024?” I don’t have the answer; it lies in negotiations between the farmer, the sheller and the financier. Most farmers are hoping that 2024 will be better than 2023. The 2023 crop was hammered with problems from start to finish but fortunately ended with a respectful number of total tons. Overall, yields and grades were down all across the peanut belt. Tough Growing Conditions In Georgia, peanut yields were down 1,500 pounds per acre in irrigated fields. Dryland fields were unusually mixed, some good and some bad. Grades were down with an average of 72.6. Almost 40% were below that average grade and only 19% were graded 76 or better. Season-long drought affected some areas this year, with West Georgia, Alabama and West Florida being the hardest hit, resulting in reduced yields and lower grades. Harvest conditions created more Seg 2s and Seg 3s. The eastern parts of Georgia and Florida fared better with higher yields and grades. The U.S. peanut market is similar to last year and hard to describe. Shellers were cautious in the early season knowing that the crop was already in drought trouble and could be a disaster. Most of the shellers were only offering $525 per ton, but as harvest started, most added a $25 bonus per ton recognizing that production costs had increased. Shellers waited on a more definite account of the 8 / THE PEANUT GROWER • JANUARY 2024

J. Tyron Spearman Contributing Editor, The Peanut Grower

Leading Marketing Indicators (Dec. 8, 2023) 2023 Est. Acreage (+17%) ............................................... 1,640,000 acres 2023 Est. Production (3,740 lbs./A) ................................... 2,991,500 tons 2022-23 Market Loan ......................................................... 2,294,257 tons 2022-23 In Loan (12-8-23) ......................................................... 2,033 tons 2023 Domestic Usage (3 Mo.) ..................................................... +1.73 % 2023 Exports (Jan-July) ................................................................. + 6.81% NATIONAL POSTED PRICE (per ton) Runners - $425.29; Spanish - $413.12; Valencia and Virginias - $431.71

number of tons to be delivered and the shell-out quality as well. Heat, Drought Affect Quality Buying points reported that farmers thought the crop was short, and with costs increasing, uncontracted farmerstock prices should have increased. Some buying points did offer $600+ per ton for farmer stock, mainly to match competing offers by other buying points. Some farmers optioned to place the peanuts in the market loan convinced that the prices would increase. Shellers are reluctant to lock in large volumes without buyers. There are smaller-sized kernels and prices for larger grades that will maintain a strong premium throughout the season. One factor different from the year prior is overall quality is mixed and shellers will ask premiums for tight specs. The Federal-State Inspection Service reports the total tonnage as of mid-December is 2.81 million tons, 94.2% of the November estimate of 2.99 million tons. The U.S. Department of Agriculture predicted the 2023 peanut yield at 3,740 pounds per acre, down from 2022’s 3,905 pounds per acre.

Harvested acres were unchanged from earlier estimates at 1.6 million acres, up 16% from the previous year. With a lower peanut production forecast, total peanut use is reduced by 150 million pounds with peanut crush down 50 million pounds and exports down 100 million pounds. Ending stocks are reduced by 114 million pounds to 1 million tons, similar to 2022. Domestic Use The good news from USDA is their report showing domestic food usage is up 3.7%. Exports are also up 4.5%. Ending stocks of 1.01 million tons will remain the same as last year. Raw peanuts in primary products are up 1.73% compared to August-October 2023. Peanut butter continues to set new records with volumes of raw shelled, up 4.8%, an increase for the three-month period compared to the same three months last year. Peanut use in candy and snacks is about the same as last year. Export Markets U.S. peanut exports for the year through July increased 6.8% by volume. Total exports reached 316,283 metric PEANUTGROWER.COM

MarketWatch Market Watch tons, valued at $489 million. Mexico remains the top international market for U.S. peanuts, with shipments increasing 0.4% by volume to 88,134 metric tons. China surpassed Canada as the second-largest importer of U.S. peanuts. Drought in Argentina and Brazil will reduce their exports, leading to more inquiries of U.S. shellers to possibly supply product. Reasons For Optimism One factor to watch in peanut markets is the Price Loss Coverage payment from the peanut program. USDA says that the effective reference price for peanuts is $.2675 per pound or $535 per ton. The market price average of $540 per ton is deducted from the reference price of $535 per ton, but that’s a negative number, meaning the PLC payment for 2022-2023 is $0. The U.S. Peanut Federation has been pleading with Congress to increase the reference price; however, the response has been, “No new funds are available.” The peanut industry is in a pretty good position with prices high enough to hopefully offset increased costs. Scientists report that new varieties are being introduced with some levels of resistance to leaf spot, nematodes, white mold and tomato spotted wilt virus, some that may even yield 7,000 pounds per acre. That’s a reason to feel optimistic about the future.

Georgia Grower To Chair APC Board The American Peanut Council elected a new chair at the organization’s annual Insights Summit conference in Washington, D.C. Georgia grower Donald Chase, owner of Chase Farms, will lead the APC board of directors for the 2024 term. Chase, together with his wife, Michelle, and parents grow peanuts, corn and sweet corn on 600 acres of irrigated land. Chase Farms also produces poultry. Donald “We are thrilled to have Donald at the Chase helm of APC’s board of directors,” says APC President and CEO Richard Owen. “He is highly respected in the industry and is always looking to the future and how we can better the peanut industry to lower cost of production and improve sustainability.” Chase is on the Georgia Peanut Commission, other peanut organizations and the Flint Energies board. He is the immediate past chairman of APC’s sustainability committee and vice chair of APC’s Board of Directors. He received his undergraduate degree from Southern Adventist University and an MBA from Vanderbilt University.

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JANUARY 2024 • THE PEANUT GROWER / 9

Pests On The Move Something old, something new – insect problems may not be what first comes to mind. By Amanda Huber

wo species of the rootworm complex can be found in peanuts in Georgia. For many years, it was the Southern corn rootworm or larval stage of the 12-spotted cucumber beetle that could be found in more moist soils. University of Georgia Extension entomologist Mark Abney says if the soils are not wet, this native species won’t survive. However, it’s the non-native banded cucumber beetle that producers are seeing in their fields more often, and soil moisture does not appear to be as much of a factor. “Banded cucumber beetle seems to be able to survive in drier soils,” Abney says. “We have seen a difference in Southern corn rootworm in irrigated and non-irrigated fields, but we didn’t see that difference for banded cucumber beetle between irrigated and non-irrigated fields.” Rootworm Spread Just as the banded cucumber beetle is adapted to drier soils, it is also spreading and becoming more abundant in sandier, more well-drained soils. “Southern corn rootworm was almost always found in heavy-textured soils with good moisture,” he says. “But now, we are seeing banded cucumber beetle in fields where, historically, you did not have rootworm infestations.” Unfortunately, granular chlorpyrifos, an insecticide no longer available since the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency revoked all tolerances to it, was the best option for managing rootworm. Abney says they are working on potential alternative control measures but would also like to hear from farmers if they find

10 / THE PEANUT GROWER • JANUARY 2024

At the 2023 Cotton/Peanut Field Day, University of Georgia peanut entomologist Mark Abney shows a collection of Southern corn rootworm-damaged peanut pods (left) compared with undamaged ones.

the pest in fields for the first time. Because the immature stage of the beetle lives entirely below ground, Abney says to dig plants to examine pods for

damage and check the soil for larvae. Often, the pest is not found until peanuts are dug and tiny, pinhole damage is found on the pods. PEANUTGROWER.COM

Another insect pest formerly controlled with chlorpyrifos is burrower bug. Without this control method, producers are left using more conventional methods in an attempt to stave off this subterranean pest. Burrower bugs were found this past season on the Virginia Tech Tidewater Agricultural Research and Education Center farm and identified by the Virginia Tech Insect Identification Laboratory. Virginia Tech entomology graduate student Elijah Hoar says damage has been minimal in the Suffolk, Virginia, area, but it is something to keep in mind. “Some producers have gone back to using a moldboard plow and completely turning over the soil,” he says, “And some producers have been planting earlier hoping for a thicker hull development earlier in the season. Burrower bugs can cause a wide range of damage to peanut kernels, which is not visible until after the peanuts are harvested and shelled. “Damage caused by the peanut burrower bugs looks similar to stink bug damage,” he says. “This is only seen when peanuts are

Scouting Your Fields Is Essential The cool, wet start to 2023 wouldn’t seem to be the type of weather that would lead to lesser cornstalk borers, but by the first week of June, they were reaching threshold in fields across Georgia. “Then it started to rain,” Abney says. “There are a lot of folks with the mistaken

shelled and the skin is removed at buying points by graders. The insect does not leave an indicator of damage on the shell of the peanut.” Hoar says, “Peanut burrower bug is more of an issue in hot, dry years, and they are just as sporadic as Southern corn rootworm.”

idea that rain kills lesser cornstalk borer, but it does not. Rain does make it harder to find the insect in the field because it washes away silk tubes and reduces the chances that infested plants will show wilt symptoms.” Cool weather means it will take longer for lesser cornstalk borer eggs to hatch

and for larvae to become adults, and this generally gives beneficial insects more time to do their work. At some point in Georgia, it will be hot and dry enough for an outbreak. The only way to know if a lesser cornstalk borer infestation is building and reaching threshold is to scout fields. PG

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Burrower Bugs Found In Virginia Peanuts

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JANUARY 2024 • THE PEANUT GROWER / 11

Leaf Spot Look-a-likes Abiotic leaf conditions abound, and misidentification can be costly. By Daniel J. Leonard, Calhoun County Extension Director, Agriculture, Horticulture & Natural Resources Agent, UF/IFAS

ith maturity still 30 to 40 days away in most area peanut fields this past season, detection of early leaf spot in multiple counties set Florida Panhandle growers on their toes, and with good reason. Finding early leaf spot before the more normal late leaf spot infections is yet another thing for them to worry about. Fueling these concerns were weather conditions favorable for disease development – extremely hot and humid with intermittent rainfall. The final puzzle piece that made growers’ lives difficult was the presence of abiotic or non-disease leaf spots that can be prevalent and muddy the waters when weighing an extra fungicide spray if not accurately identified.

Significant Savings In the same field, there were other spots that appeared more like late leaf spot at first glance – more regular in shape and dark brown. Again, after a closer look, they didn’t fit the profile of a fungal leaf spot. These spots, while more regular in shape, only appeared in the upper canopy, did not possess the underleaf sporulating fungal structures and had a light brown to gray center. The presence of leaf spotting in the upper canopy 12 / THE PEANUT GROWER • JANUARY 2024

Chemical burn on peanut leaves. Note the light-colored centers and lack of sporulating structures.

PHOTOS BY DANIEL LEONARD, UF/IFAS

A Field Visit Because of the heightened awareness and favorable weather, I was called out to scout a Calhoun County field of TifNV-High O/L peanuts because of the grower’s concerns regarding leaf spot. The field in question was planted around 100 days prior and had plenty of time left for a pathogen to cause serious damage and yield loss. Closer inspection revealed near-black spots in the lower canopy, but many were very irregular, unlike the typically circular early leaf spot, and didn’t possess sporulating structures you would associate with a fungal infection. Though an exact diagnosis is difficult with the many abiotic leaf conditions, these widespread, large, irregular spots appeared to be irregular leaf spot, also called funky leaf spot. First found back in the late 1990s, irregular leaf spot looks similar to early leaf spot but generally appears earlier and is much more irregular in shape. Most importantly, it is not a pathogen, doesn’t cause the devastating lower-canopy defoliation of true leaf spot diseases and does not affect yield. There is no need for an additional spray for these abiotic leaf conditions if fungicides effective against leaf spot are already present in the spray program.

This picture shows non-sporulating leaf spots in the interior peanut canopy typical of an abiotic issue.

with lighter, buckskin-colored leaf centers is a tell-tale sign of chemical burn. In this case, the spots were likely from a Provost Silver application a couple of weeks prior. Far from a bad thing, these abiotic lesions tell the grower that the fungicide is there and doing its job! While it can be a race to protect peanuts from leaf spot pathogens, it’s important to remember that not every leaf blemish is cause for concern. Timely and accurate identification of field issues like leaf spot, which local UF/IFAS Extension agents are willing and able to help with, is critical and can either save your crop by heading off an outbreak or, in this grower’s case, prevent an unnecessary spray and expense, plus undue worry. PG PEANUTGROWER.COM

New Vault Liquid Inoculant With Biofungicide

or the 2024 season, BASF Agricultural Solutions announces the introduction of Vault Peanut Liquid Inoculant and Velondis Plus Biofungicide for enhanced peanut performance. Paul Klemme, BASF product manager for inoculants and biologicals says, Vault Peanut Liquid and Velondis Plus Biofungicide provides growers maximum yield potential by improving nodulation with a highly effective Bradyrhizobium sp. that’s produced fresh for each season. “This three-way biological combines two Environmental Protection Agency registered biofungicides with an inoculant to enhance root vigor, boost nutrient uptake and suppress Rhizoctonia and Fusarium root rot. “Biofungicides live and grow on the roots to extend protection beyond the initial fungicide treatment, giving growers the peace of mind knowing they did everything they could to give their plants the best start. Not only do they offer

that additional layer of protection, but by supporting roots in maximizing their water and nutrient uptake, biologicals aid in establishing a vigorous, healthy root system.” Klemme says the biofungicides produce a beneficial biofilm and antimicrobial components promoting induced systemic resistance within the plant, which acts like a glue to form soil aggregates that retain more water in their pores. “This is how they get that additional yield potential in stressful or drought conditions, making more water available and increasing the time for the plant to metabolically adjust to the drought stress,” he says. When combined, the modes of action of the three biologicals can contribute to complementary activity with certain chemical seed treatments, resulting in increased and more uniform field performance. Both biofungicide active components grow along the developing root system and can extend the window of

disease protection longer into the growing season. The plants produce a more mature peg development, often resulting in more uniform stands, improved plant growth and greater yield potential. To learn more about this product, visit agriculture.basf.us or talk to your local BASF Agronomic Solutions Advisor. PG

NEW!

One Inoculant Plus Two EPA-Registered Biofungicides Augmented water and nutrient uptake

Beneficial biofilm and antimicrobial components

Enhanced root vigor

Excellent yield performance

Improved nodulation

Extended protection

It All Adds Up to Maximum Yield Potential For more information on this and other BASF peanut products, visit us at agproducts.basf.us. Always read and follow label directions. Velondis is a trademark and Vault is a registered trademark of BASF. ©2024 BASF Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

TWITTER: @PEANUTGROWER

JANUARY 2024 • THE PEANUT GROWER / 13

PEANUT INSECTICIDE GUIDE Mustang Max

Asana

Baythroid

Brigade

Bt 1

Danitol

Diamond EC

Portal

Comite/Omite

Warrior

Beet armyworm

P(LS)

P/F

Burrower bug

Corn earworm

G/E

Fall armyworm

P(LS)

P/F(LS)

P/F

Granulate cutworm

P/F

Leafhoppers

Lesser cornstalk borer

P(LS)

F/G

P(LS)

P/F

Rednecked peanutworm

Southern corn rootworm / banded cucumber beetle

Spider mites

P/F

P-F

P(LS)

Threecornered alfalfa hopper

Thrips

F/G

G (with Orthene)

Velvetbean caterpillar

G/E

Whitefringed beetle (larvae)

Wireworm

Tobacco budworm

Loopers

Corn earworm moth

Burrower Bug

Fall Armyworm

Burrower bugs can be hard to identify in the field, and an infestation is often not detected until harvest. Burrower bugs have a black or brown body and small, red eyes on a small-sized head. The upper wings of burrower bugs are shiny and semi-hardened with the membranous tip overlapping. Its legs are spiny and needle-like. Piercingsucking mouth parts are visible with a hand lens. Burrower bugs are closely related to stink bugs.

Fall armyworm is one of several foliage feeders that may attack peanuts. In some years, they can be the predominant foliage feeder. Caterpillars are gray, light brown or mottled green in color, reach approximately 1½ inches in length when fully grown and have a prominant inverted “Y” on their heads. When abundant, fall armyworms can strip plants of foliage and march to other host plants. Female moths lay egg masses of about 150 and cover them with scales from their body.

Tobacco budworm moth

Leafhoppers Leafhoppers are small, wedge-shaped, green, brown or black insects about 1/8 to ¼ inch in length. Leafhoppers insert their beaks into the midrib on the lower side of peanut leaves and suck plant juices. Leaves turn yellow from the point where the feeding has occured to the tip of the leaf and may die in severe cases. This damage is often referred to as “hopper burn.”

Corn Earworm/Tobacco Budworm In peanuts, these two closely related insects are usually referred to as corn earworms, but tobacco budworms are often a significant percentage of the total population. Larvae of both species feed on peanut foliage and are very similar in appearance. The corn earworm moth (above left) and the tobacco budworm moth (above right) are often seen in peanut fields and may indicate that larvae will soon follow.

14 / THE PEANUT GROWER • JANUARY 2024

PEANUTGROWER.COM

E = Excellent Control; G = Good Control; F = Fair Control; P = Poor Control; NL = Not Labeled; 1 Dipel and others; * Insufficient data LS = Labeled for suppression only

Warrior II

Lannate

AgLogic (aldicarb)

Orthene

Radiant SC

Sevin

Steward

Thimet 20G

Blackhawk

Dimilin

Intrepid

Vantacor

P/F

G/E

P/F

F/G

G/E

/Omite

P/F

E/G

G/E

P(LS)

F/G

P/F

F/G

E/G

F/G

P(LS)

G/E

E/G

Edited by Dr. Mark Abney, University of Georgia Extension Entomologist

Lesser Cornstalk Borer Lesser cornstalk borer is an important pest in the Southeastern and Southwestern growing areas. It is usually a problem during hot, dry weather and is more often a problem on coarse, sandy soils than on heavier soils. Lesser cornstalk borer larvae will feed on underground pegs and pods in addition to any part of the plant above ground that contacts the soil surface.

Rootworm damage

Banded Cucumber Beetle

Southern Corn Rootworm/Banded Cucumber Beetle

Threecornered Alfalfa Hopper Threecornered alfalfa hoppers are light green and wedge shaped. They stand about ¼ inch high and are about ¼ inch long. Both adults and nymphs have piercing mouth parts and feed by penetrating the stem and sucking plant juices. They tend to feed in a circular fashion around a stem, making feeding punctures as they go. The damaged area typically swells, and aboveground root growth may occur. On peanuts, feeding may occur on limbs, leaf petioles or pegs.

TWITTER: @PEANUTGROWER

There are two species of rootworm in Georgia peanut fields, the southern corn rootworm and the banded cucumber beetle. The immature or larval stage of both species feeds on developing peanut pods and require moist soil conditions for survival. The immature stage of the beetle lives entirely below ground and is a subterranean feeder. It may feed on the roots of peanut plants to some extent, but its most important damage is due to peg and pod feeding. Dig adjacent to peanut rows or remove plants to examine pods for damage and check the soil for larvae. Soil moisture is critical to the development of both pests, and they are almost always found in heavy-textured soils with good moisture. Rootworm infestations are typically found in fields with center-pivot irrigation and heavier soil texture. Irrigated fields are at increased risk of rootworm, but non-irrigated fields can be infested in seasons with ample rainfall. Low spots in fields with high water-holding capacity are at increased risk from this pest.

JANUARY 2024 • THE PEANUT GROWER / 15

Weed Management

E=Excellent, G=Good, F=Fair, P=Poor, PPI=Preplant Incorporated, PRE=Preemergence, AC=At Cracking (usually 6-14 days after planting), EP=Early postemergence to peanut (first true leaf through beginning of pod development). 1 Ratings for this product are similar for use both PPI and PRE. 2 Ratings for tropical spiderwort are similar. If no letter is given, response is unknown. Generic formulations are available for many products.

Compiled by Dr. Michael W. Marshall, Extension Weed Scientist, Edisto Research and Education Center, Clemson University.

WEED RESPONSE TO RESIDUAL HERBICIDES USED IN PEANUTS PPI Yellow herbicides (Sonalan, Prowl H20 or similar)

PERENNIALS

GRASSES (ANNUAL)

Strongarm1

PRE Dual Magnum

Pursuit1

Strongarm1

Dual Magnum

Valor

Brake

Dual Magnum

Zidua

bermudagrass

johnsongrass (rhizome)

nutsedge, purple

nutsedge, yellow

F-G

barnyardgrass

broadleaf signalgrass

G-E

F-G

crabgrass

crowfootgrass

G-E

fall panicum

G-E

foxtail

G-E

goosegrass

johnsongrass (seedling)

F-G

sandbur

F-G

Texas panicum

F-G

bristly starbur

F-G

burgherkin

F-G

citron melon

cocklebur

G-E

P-F

coffee senna

F-G

P-F

copperleaf

G-E

P P

cowpea

P-F

crotalaria

P-F

croton, tropic or woolly

dayflower2

G-E

F-G

G-E

F-G

eclipta

G-E

Florida beggarweed

F-G

G-E

Florida pusley

G-E

hairy indigo

jimsonweed

G-E

F-G

G-E

F-G

BROADLEAVES lambsquarters

G-E

morningglory spp.

F-G

P-F

morningglory, cypressvine

F-G

morningglory, pitted

F-G

G-E

F-G

P-F

morningglory, smallflower

pigweed

G-E

prickly sida

F-G

G-E

F-G

G-E

ragweed

redweed

sicklepod

smartweed

tropical spiderwort

G-E

F-G

spurred anoda

F-G

velvetleaf

G-E

F-G

G-E

wild poinsettia

G-E

wild radish

16 / THE PEANUT GROWER • JANUARY 2024

F-G

PEANUTGROWER.COM

EP Zidua P P P P G F-G E E G

Tropical Spiderwort

Sicklepod

Smallflower Morningglory

Tropical spiderwort is an annual species similar to common dayflower. It is distinguished from dayflower by the presence of subterranean (underground) flowers in addition to blue, above-ground flowers. Leaves are spoon shaped with parallel venation. Stems are succulent, and the plant reroots quickly after cultivation. It spreads by seeds. Spiderwort germinates throughout the season, hampering control efforts.

Sicklepod is native to the southern United States. It is a large-seeded legume with upright growth habit that reaches 2 to 6 feet tall. The leaves are smooth or waxy with no hairs on the leaf or stem. The oval pinnately compound leaflets, usually six, are arranged opposite. It has a deep-branched taproot that is tough to pull once established. Flowers are yellow, and seed pods are slender and 4 to 8 inches long.

Smallflower morningglory is probably the most common morningglory species in the Southeast. The cotyledon stage resembles a wild radish seedling with heart-shaped cotyledons. As it grows, small flower morningglory will stand nearly erect until 12 to 18 inches tall, then it will begin to run. It has heart- or spear-shaped leaves and produces small blue flowers in a cluster.

Spurred Anoda

Texas Panicum

Wild Poinsettia

(Anoda cristata)

(Panicum texanum)

Spurred anoda is a troublesome broadleaf member of the mallow or cotton family. Its alternate-toothed leaves are 2 to 4 inches long and sometimes have purplish veins. It produces small, pale blue flowers and a unique fruit that looks like a fancy ribbed pie surrounded by a star.

Texas panicum is an aggressive, relatively large-seeded annual grass that is common in much of the peanut acreage in the United States. It has wide, almost-frizzy leaf blades and forms numerous tillers. Its vigorous fibrous root system makes clean harvest of peanuts nearly impossible.

Wild poinsetta is an exotic weed pest spreading in many parts of the Southeast. As a member of the spurge family, it has hollow stems and milky, latex-like sap. In the cotyledon stage, it resembles a weak, pale green cocklebur seedling. Mature plants can have numerous leaf shapes even on a single specimen.

(Commelina benghalensis)

(Senna obtusifolia)

(Jaquemontia tamnifolia)

E E E G F-G P P P P P P P P P F-G G G-E G

(Euphorbia heterophylla)

G G F F F F G G-E P P

Tall Morningglory (Ipomoea purpurea)

Tropic Croton

Red Morningglory

F-G -

Similar to other morningglory species, tall morningglory has a vining, prostrate appearance that envelopes the peanut canopy. It has heart-shaped leaves with overlapping lobes at the base and slightly hairy stems.

Tropic croton is an upright, branching annual broadleaf with serrated leaves. Tropic croton has a rough hairy stem, but it is not as hairy as the related species, wooly croton. Its gray-brown seed are desired food for doves.

Red morningglory is a relatively common annual morningglory species but often doesn’t appear until later in the season. The key identifying features are the distinctive points on the leaf margin and relatively small red flowers.

F F-G G

TWITTER: @PEANUTGROWER

(Croton glandulosus)

(Ipomoea coccinea)

JANUARY 2024 • THE PEANUT GROWER / 17

Weed Management Compiled by Dr. Michael W. Marshall, Extension Weed Scientist, Edisto Research and Education Center, Clemson University.

WEED RESPONSE TO HERBICIDES USED IN PEANUTS POSTEMERGENCE

PERENNIALS

GRASSES (ANNUAL)

BROADLEAVES

Paraquat

Paraquat+ Basagran

Paraquat+ Basagran+ Dual Magnum

Paraquat+ Storm

Anthem Flex

2,4-DB

Pursuit

Basagran

Ultra Blazer

Storm

bermudagrass

johnsongrass (rhizome)

nutsedge, purple

nutsedge, yellow

F-G

barnyardgrass

F-G

broadleaf signalgrass

F-G

crabgrass

F-G

crowfootgrass

F-G

fall panicum

F-G

foxtail

goosegrass

F-G

johnsongrass (seedling)

F-G

G-E

sandbur

F-G

Texas panicum

F-G

bristly starbur

F-G

burgherkin

citron melon

cocklebur

G-E

coffee senna

F-G

copperleaf

cowpea

G-E

crotalaria

F-G

G-E

croton, tropic or woolly

G-E

dayflower/tropical spiderwort

F-G

F G

eclipta

F-G

Florida beggarweed

G-E

Florida pusley

hairy indigo

jimsonweed

F-G

lambsquarters

F-G

morningglory spp.

F-G

morningglory, cypressvine

F-G

morningglory, pitted

F-G

morningglory, smallflower

G-E

F-G

G-E

pigweed

G-E

F-G

G-E

prickly sida

ragweed

F-G

redweed

sicklepod

F-G

smartweed

G-E

spurred anoda

F-G

velvetleaf

F-G

wild poinsettia

G-E

wild radish

18 / THE PEANUT GROWER • JANUARY 2024

G-E

F-G

G-E

PEANUTGROWER.COM

E=Excellent, G=Good, F=Fair, P=Poor. If no letter is given, response is unknown. Generic formulations are available for many products. *Rating is for two-leaf stage or less.

Ultra Blazer

Storm

Classic

Cadre

Select

Cobra

Hophornbeam Copperleaf

F-G

(Acalypha ostryifolia)

Palmer Amaranth

P P

G-E

Hophornbeam copperleaf is a freely branching, annual broadleaf weed with finely serrated leaf edges. Copperleaf has bright green leaves throughout most of the growing season, but these turn a characteristic copper color as the plant reaches maturity in the fall. There is a related species referred to as Virginia copperleaf.

Palmer amaranth, an annual pigweed, has become an increasing problem because of herbicide resistance in some areas. It can reach heights well over 6 feet and can be very difficult to control once established. Unlike other pigweed species, Palmer amaranth has a long, slender seed head and a more robust appearance.

F-G

G-E

Bristly Starbur

Wild Radish

Bristly starbur is an annual broadleaf weed common in much of the Southeast. In addition to the accepted common name, it is also called “goatspur” or “Texas sandspur.” It has rough-textured, fuzzy leaves and an upright but profusely branching growth habit. Its seed form with two sharp, pointed prongs that make the mature plant extremely bristly.

Wild radish is thought to be a problem in winter crops, such as small grains and canola. However, it has become an increasing problem in peanuts. This plant forms a rosette of leaves that looks similar to mustard greens. The leaves have deeply indented lobes and are covered with numerous stiff hairs. As the plant matures, pale yellow flowers are produced on a seed stalk that arises from the rosette.

Florida Pusley

Lambsquarter

Florida pusley is a low-growing, annual weed species that appears almost prostrate. It can be effectively controlled only with preplant incorporated herbicides. Florida pusley has bright green leaves with a distinctive recessed mid-vein. The stems are very hairy and may have a purplish appearance. The flowers are white with six petals in a star-shaped whorl.

Common lambsquarter is a small-seeded annual broadleaf species particularly troublesome in the Virginia-Carolina region. It is an upright plant, which can exceed 7 feet at maturity. Its arrowhead-shaped leaves grow alternately and often have a whitish, dusty appearance on their undersides even in the seedling stage.

G-E

F-G

G-E

F-G

G-E

F-G

G-E

F-G

G-E

F-G

G-E

F-G

G-E

TWITTER: @PEANUTGROWER

(Acanthospermum hispidum)

(Richardia scabra)

(Amaranthus palmeri)

(Raphanus raphanistrum)

(Chenopodium album)

JANUARY 2024 • THE PEANUT GROWER / 19

Good News For Popular Pesticide The European Union’s decision will allow importers to continue to use glyphosate with some possible restrictions. By Amanda Huber

he war on pesticides is ongoing, but a significant decision made in the European Union will likely help keep glyphosate in use. The decision comes after EU members failed to reach a majority for or against the renewal of the approval in two separate votes. Glyphosate is the active ingredient in Roundup and generic herbicide formulations. Approval of glyphosate in the EU was set to expire Dec. 15. Now, the product will likely be renewed for another 10 years with the restriction that it not be used as a desiccant to dry crops before harvest and some possible measures to protect non-target species. Individual member states within the 27-country EU can make their own restrictions. Decisions Have Unknown ‘Ripple’ Effects Although glyphosate is not a product used directly in peanuts, the decision does affect use in rotation crops and in pesticide use overall. University of Georgia Extension weed scientist Eric Prostko says the EU’s position is good news for those in the United States who work in the pesticide arena and who use and rely on this pesticide. “If glyphosate had been banned in the EU, there is always a ripple effect in the United States, but you never know what the effect might be across the world for a particular compound that is good and is used so often.” An example of this “ripple effect” happened in 2016 when peanut growers were notified by their buying points not to use fungicides containing propiconazole, the active ingredient in 87 products, including Tilt, Artisan and Stratego. For this chemical, the EU decided not to recognize the maximum residue level for propiconazole in various crops. Fixing the label to accommodate the EU would have cost millions of dollars, which manufacturers chose not to do. “You don’t want to lose a market, so you have to do what your buyer wants,” Prostko says. “If you look at the numbers, in 2022, 12% of in-shell exports went to the EU; 17% of rawshelled exports went to the EU. In total value, that’s about $72 million, so that’s not a small percentage of exports,” he says. The Label Is Your Best Protection Although the EU’s no decision “decision” may seem like a cop-out of sorts, Prostko says it was based on years of work. “A massive amount of data was looked at by the European Food Safety Authority and the European Chemicals Agency,

20 / THE PEANUT GROWER • JANUARY 2024

some 16,000 published studies, and collectively they came up with the decision that basically says, ‘The classification labeling confirms that glyphosate is not to be classified as a carcinogen, nor mutagen, nor toxic for reproduction.’ “It will bear watching regarding the potential restrictions, but the moral of the story is that if we read and follow label restrictions, that is our best protection from having problems with residues,” Prostko says. “It is important for all of us in the industry who work with pesticides to not take those for granted. “There’s a reason why we have pre-harvest intervals on labels. Sometimes it’s to protect the crop from injury and other times it is to prevent contamination or unacceptable pesticide residues,” he says. “Follow the label. It took 11 years and $300 million to get there, so don’t take it lightly.” Researchers Look For Alternatives University of Georgia Extension peanut specialist Scott Monfort says part of what researchers do is look at alternatives to products that have the potential to be banned or that may experience shortages. “Some of these products we have an idea that restrictions are coming, and we begin looking at alternatives.” Prostko says because there are more fungicides in the pipeline, it is possible to find those alternatives. “For herbicides, there are not as many in the pipeline,” he says. Although this round was in favor of glyphosate, the war continues. In the United States, despite large settlements from courts with no mandate to follow science, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency concluded in 2020 that glyphosate posed no risks to human health. In response to a court order, the EPA is redoing that assessment, and a decision is expected in 2026. PG PEANUTGROWER.COM

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* Thimet® Insecticide reduces the risk of, and helps manage, leaf spot and TSWV in peanuts according to the 2023 Peanut Disease Risk Index. © 2023 AMVAC Chemical Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Vanguard Corporation. All rights reserved. AMVAC, Thimet and respective logos are trademarks owned by AMVAC Chemical Corporation.

Thimet is a restricted use pesticide. Important: Always read and follow label instructions. See label for listed weeds and pests. Some products may not be registered for sale or use in all states or counties. Please check with your state agency responsible for pesticide registration to ensure registration status. All products are EPA registered.

2023 V-C Region Report A ‘better-than-expected’ year given drought, lack of heat units is a tribute to farmers’ flexibility and commitment. By David Jordan, North Carolina State University Extension Peanut Specialist

he 2023 peanut crop in the Virginia-Carolina region was unique. The season began with unusually low temperatures in May and went into early June. This weather pattern minimized heat unit accumulation across the region, limiting early season growth. Slow growth early in the season placed pressure on systemic insecticides applied in the seed furrow at planting designed to control thrips. Most growers made postemergence insecticide applications to extend control into mid-to-late June. In most instances, growers were able to establish adequate and uniform plant stands in spite of lower temperatures. However, in some fields, the pathogen Rhizopus was more pronounced under cooler temperatures causing poor stands. Eventually, growers were able to establish adequate stands in most of these fields. Rainfall across much of the region was adequate for activation of herbicides applied after planting but prior to weed emergence. Weeds tended to grow more slowly due to cooler soil temperatures. In some fields, there appeared to be a shift from Palmer amaranth to common ragweed. Common ragweed often emerges under cooler soil temperatures than Palmer amaranth. Drought, Lack Of Heat Units Slowed Crop Development Considerable variation in weather patterns and peanut growth were observed throughout much of the growing season. The degree and timing of drought for many farmers is what determined yield at the end of the season. Peanuts tended to be behind for much of the season in terms of development and pod maturity. While variations were observed, optimum pod maturity occurred approximately one week later in 2023 compared with 2022. Heat unit accumulation occurred at a slower pace, and this translated into the need to dig peanuts later in the fall. Heat unit accumulation in 2022 and 2023 from May 1 – Sept. 10 at five locations in North Carolina and one location in Virginia. Location

Heat units (DD56) May 1 – Sept. 10, 2022

Heat Units (DD56) May 1 – Sept. 10, 2023

Suffolk

2604

2448

Lewiston-Woodville

2744

2573

Rocky Mount

2826

2606

Kinston

2895

2682

Clinton

2902

2628

Whiteville

2971

2708

22 / THE PEANUT GROWER • JANUARY 2024

A peanut crop at mid-season in Rocky Mount, North Carolina.

The peanut crop needed more warm days and moderate temperatures at night in September and October to reach its full potential. Unfortunately, cool nights in late September slowed the pace of pod and kernel maturation dramatically. Cool temperatures occurred once again during the Oct. 7 weekend, persisting for much of the month. Freezing temperatures were observed across the central and northern area of the region Nov. 2 and 3, causing a great deal of injury to vines and, in some cases, freeze damage of kernels already dug. A majority of the crop was harvested prior to Nov. 15, and only a fraction of peanuts remained in the field as of Nov. 30. A Hard-Fought Effort For Good Yields Yield was lower in 2023 than in 2022, due in part to a record-yielding crop in 2022, less-than-ideal growing conditions in 2023 relative to temperatures and drought and an immature crop at harvest in areas of the region. However, early on, there was great concern yields would be much lower than observed. This once again underscores the resiliency of peanuts and the flexibility and commitment by peanut growers in the region to manage the crop under less-than-ideal conditions. Peanuts with modest but adequate rainfall throughout the season yielded and graded well. Peanuts experiencing stress from dry conditions had reduced yields and poor market grades. In many instances, peanuts under stress early in the season received rainfall later, resulting in higher yields. Considering the entire growing season in the V-C Region, yields were average with market grades mixed. Yield is estimated to be 4,100 pounds per acre. PG PEANUTGROWER.COM

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Managing food food Managing allergies in in allergies schools schools requires a a requires compassionate, compassionate, evidence-based evidence-based approach. approach.

PeanutsinSchools.org is a research-based site that provides information to help schools manage peanut allergies, including videos, handouts, research and a new toolkit.