Peanut grower july 2018 by One Grower Publishing

The

PEANUTGROWER ONE GROWER PUBLISHING, LLC

JULY 2018

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

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Late-Season Decisions

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Crop Response To Early Rains

Prepare To

DIG

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The

JULY 2018

PEANUTGROWER ONE GROWER PUBLISHING, LLC

JULY 2018

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

■

Late-Season Decisions

■

Crop Response To Early Rains

Prepare To

DIG

Volume 30 Number 7

Departments 4

Editor’s Note Showers of blessings

News Briefs Farm Bill hits bump in the House

Market Watch Growing carryover suppresses market

10 Features

20 New Products New leaf spot fungicide from Syngenta

10 Preparing To Dig

21 Peanut Pointers Late planting and leaf spot management

12 Rain Stunts Crop

Stay Connected

Properly inverted plants will form a uniform, fluff y, well-aerated windrow.

Plants are not developing properly in waterlogged soils.

14 Monitoring Moisture

New sensor technology is better at determining drying uniformity, saves on energy costs.

16 Navigating The Late Season

What are the factors affecting final sprays and digging decisions?

18 Boron On The Move

With heavy rains, a deficiency of this leachable nutrient is possible.

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Cover photo by Amanda Huber JULY 2018 • THE PE ANUT GROWER /

EDITORIAL/PRODUCTION Editor Amanda Huber ahuber@onegrower.com Copy Editor Carroll Smith csmith@onegrower.com Art Director Ashley Kumpe

ADMINISTRATION Publisher/Vice President Lia Guthrie (901) 497-3689 lguthrie@onegrower.com Associate Publisher Carroll Smith (901) 326-4443 Sales Manager Scott Emerson (386) 462-1532 semerson@onegrower.com Circulation Manager Charlie Beek (847) 559-7324 Production Manager Kathy Killingsworth (901) 767-4020 kkillingsworth@onegrower.com

For circulation changes or change of address, call (847) 559-7578

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD John Beasley Extension Agronomist Auburn University Dell Cotton Peanut Growers Cooperative Marketing Assn., Franklin, VA Kris Balkcom Agri-Program Associate Auburn University Craig Kvien Coastal Plain Experiment Station,Tifton, GA

Jason Woodward Extension Plant Pathologist 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 Memphis, TN. Copyright © 2018 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 600651388. 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.

Showers Of Blessings

eanut planting was late in areas this year because of the rains, and those fields that were planted have tended to languish during the three weeks of constant rains. You can read more about the effects of the rain on the crop in several articles in this issue of Peanut Grower. Although management adjustments may be needed because of the excess rains, it is hard to look too unfavorably on the surplus of moisture. Too often it is the lack of rain that is holding back crop progress, and we all know the tap could turn off at any time. Amanda Huber Another tap that continues to flow, Editor, The Peanut Grower but could turn off, is the export market. According to Tyron Spearman, Peanut Grower’s marketing editor, April’s exports were up 18.31 percent over last year. Mexico was the top buyer followed by Canada, China and the Netherlands. A trade war and renegotiation of NAFTA could hurt the export market, but as of now, the market is holding steady. The export market has continued in part because the total world peanut trade continues to grow. According to the American Peanut Council, in 2017, the total world peanut trade reached $9.4 billion, up 9 percent from the previous record high set in 2016. The U.S. peanut industry has been able to take advantage of this growth. Since 2012, U.S. exports have increased 81 percent by volume and 43 percent by value, while U.S. market share of world exports grew to 17 percent on average. In 2017, the United States was the world’s fourth largest supplier of peanuts, behind only India, Argentina and China. Over the past five years, the value of the world peanut trade has increased by almost $500 million, while total volume has increased by 1.5 million metric tons. Being part of a world market that continues to grow is another big positive for the industry. While there are always issues to work on in peanuts and the price could certainly be better, it is hard to be too down overall because of these positives.

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

One Grower Publishing, LLC 6515 Goodman Rd., Box 360, Olive Branch, MS 38654 Phone: 901-767-4020

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THE PE ANUT GROWER • JULY 2018

PE ANUTGROWE R .COM

Senate Ag Comm. Passes Bill

The U.S. Senate Committee o n A g r i c u l t u r e , Nu t r i t i o n & Forestry marked up the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 and delivered on promises for bipartisan legislation from Committee Chairman Pat Roberts, R-Kansas, and Ranking Member Debbie Stabenow, D-Michigan. The Farm Bill passed through committee with a 20-1 vote. “We are very pleased the bill is moving forward. This is a good Farm Bill for all peanut regions and segments of the peanut industry. The bipartisan vote in support of the Farm Bill is indicative of committee leadership working together,” says Southern Peanut Farmer’s Federation Chairman Armond Morris, a Georgia peanut farmer and chairman of the Georgia Peanut Commission. “ We are ver y appreciative of the hard work of peanut state senators on the Agriculture Committee, Senators David Perdue, R-Georgia, Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Mississippi, and John Boozman, R-Arkansas. Without representation on the Agriculture Committee, it would be difficult for our voices to be heard.” The Price Loss Coverage (PLC) program includes peanut provisions that are similar to the 2014 Farm Bill. Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Kentucky, mentioned in his remarks at the mark up that they will turn to the Farm Bill before the July 4 recess in regards to putting the bill on the Senate floor. The Senate will be in recess beginning on June 30. For more information, visit southern peanutfarmers.org.

House Farm Bill Fails

After nearly three days of debate, The House of Representatives failed to pass the Farm Bill (H.R. 2) by a vote of 213 to 198. The Farm Bill became a casualty over a dispute concerning immigration, and it’s uncertain when the House T WIT TER : @PE ANUTGROWER

will consider the legislation again. One group said it was an embarrassing defeat and was weighted down by the controversial food stamp reforms and finally the feud over immigration policy. Republicans from California, Texas and Florida who support legalizing the “dreamers” have joined Democrats in signing a discharge petition that would force action on the issue, but none has been forthcoming. The Freedom Caucus members are determined to head off the petition process and have seized on the Farm Bill to demand that, in return for their votes, the House act on an immigration bill sponsored by House Judiciary Chairman Bob Goodlatte, R-Virginia. GOP leaders promised a vote on the Goodlatte bill by June 25, but that wasn’t good enough to get the Freedom Caucus members to vote for the Farm Bill. Some will recall that five years ago, the Farm Bill failed on the House floor after an amendment to tighten SNAP work requirements cost critical Democratic support. The Farm Bill was revived in the Senate.

Next House Steps

The House Ag Committee next step could be to reconvene and seek a different compromise on the work requirement to get food stamps. No word on when the immigration legislation will happen. Following the vote, House Ag Committee Chairman K. Michael Conaway, R-Texas, issued the following statement: “We experienced a setback today after a streak of victories all week. We may be down, but we are not out. We will deliver a strong, new Farm Bill on time as the President of the United States has called on us to do. Our nation’s farmers and ranchers and rural America deserve nothing less.” House Ag Committee Ranking Me m b e r C o l l i n C . Pe t e r s o n ,

In Brief: • Senate Ag Committee passes bill with peanut provisions like 2014 Farm Bill. • House Ag Committee Farm Bill hijacked over immigration. • Ag Appropriations maintain vital export promotion funding. • Efficiencies gained at buying points in Georgia. • 15,000 PB&Js help spread the good news about peanuts.

D-Minnesota, said, “It’s unfortunate the Republicans chose to take this path, and it’s clear from their inability to get the necessary votes from within their own caucus that there are internal fractures they have to contend with. But this is a good opportunity for us to return to the table and fix this bill before we move forward. “Let’s come together and figure out a bill that works for everyone. We don’t have to let this process be held hostage by the demands of the extremes of our parties. We can and should take the time to get the Farm Bill right.”

Export Promotion Funds Approved

The House Ag Appropriations Su b c o m m i t t e e m a rk e d u p a n d approved a fiscal year 2019 (FY 19) bill. As approved, the legislation places no limits on funding for Market Assistance Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD). Therefore, both programs will continue to receive $200 million and $34.5 million respectively for FY 19. While the peanut industry continues to seek increased funding for MAP and FMD in the new Farm Bill, it’s important to urge members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees to maintain no less than what is currently authorized in the Farm Bill. The 5

JULY 2018 • THE PE ANUT GROWER /

bill will go to the full Appropriations Committee. The peanut industry receives about $3.1 million annually (before industry matching funds) for export promotion as managed by the American Peanut Council. Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) has introduced an amendment to H.R. 2 that would authorize an additional $10 million annually to be appropriated for MAP through discretionary funds in the new Farm Bill.

E-Nuts Integration For 2018

Buying points using the Georgia Federal State Inspection Service E-Nuts program and The Seam will experience an increase in efficiency by eliminating the need to re-enter information captured through E-Nuts. Information entered into E-Nuts will flow naturally to The Seam’s Farmer Stock Platform saving the need for re-entering information. “Collaborating more closely with GAFSIS on integrations such as this projects our mutual goal of continuous improvement and embracing technology to drive greater efficiencies for the peanut industry,” says Mark Pryor, The Seam chief executive officer.

Making Peanut Impressions

The National Peanut Board and The Peanut Institute partnered at their recent 2018 Culinary Retreat in Napa, Calif. The event brings together domestic and international journalists, researchers and chefs to share the latest about peanut nutrition, health and culinary versatility. At this year’s event, attendees heard from the experts about the protective health benefits of peanuts, how they can fit into healthy meals and snacking and their role in sustainability and conservation. NPB’s CEO and President Bob Parker shared an update of the work NPB is doing to support USA-grown peanuts as the preferred choice among consumers. Sherry Coleman Collins, NPB’s registered dietitian nutrition6 /

THE PE ANUT GROWER • JULY 2018

ist, shared the latest research on the early introduction of peanut foods to infants to prevent peanut allergies and an overview of research related to diagnosing and managing peanut allergies. Attendees were treated to inspirational chef demonstrations and a hands-on cooking session using a variety of peanut foods to create delicious and nutritious peanut-themed dishes at the Culinary Institute of America. Undoubtedly, attendees left the event more inspired about recommending, writing about and eating peanut foods. For more information about the event, be sure to visit The Peanut Institute’s YouTube channel.

Peanut Standards Board

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue has appointed three producers and three industry representatives to serve on the Peanut Standards Board. The six members appointed are listed by region and category and will serve the remainder of three-year terms of office ending June 30, 2020. Appointed are: • Southeast Region - Producer Martin L. McLendon, Leary, Ga; Industry Representative Elizabeth Kaye Smith, Golden Peanut Company LLC, Alpharetta, Ga. • Southwest Region - Producer James Richard Chandler, Portales, N.M.; Industry Representative John Edward Bennett, Mars Chocolate, Waco, Texas • Virginia/Carolina Region - Producer James Wilson Mason, Harrellsville, N.C.; Industry Representative Kathryn Olivia Swinson, Golden Grove Inc., Warsaw, N.C.

Peanuts And World Competition

The International Nut and Dried Fruit Council’s 2018 World Nut & Dried Fruit Congress in Seville, Spain took place in May. This large international event is dedicated to the nut and dried fruit industries with key industry decision makers from around

Calendar • July 10-12, 2018 — American Peanut Research and Educational Society Annual Meeting, Williamsburg, Va. For details, visit www.apresinc.com. • July 19-21, 2018 — Southern Peanut Growers Conference, Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, Miramar, Fla. For information, go to www.southern peanutfarmers.org. • July 24, 2018 — Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition Field Day, Spence Field, Moultrie, Ga. Shuttles begin at 9 am. Go to www.sunbeltexpo.com for information. • Aug. 7-8, 2018 — American Peanut Shellers Association and National Peanut Buying Points Association Pre-Harvest Convention, Lake Blackshear Resort & Golf Club, Cordele, Ga. For information, call 229888-2508 or 229-386-1716 or visit www peanut-shellers.org. • Aug. 15, 2018 — Southeast Georgia Research and Education Center Field Day, Midville, Ga. For information, call 478589-7472.

the world attending. The International Nut Council has reported that this year’s Congress was attended by more than 1,300 food professionals from industry and academia from more than 60 countries. In addition to providing a forum for the industry, the congress also features international companies in an exhibition area that displays the latest equipment, innovations and products in the nut and dried fruit sectors. The American Peanut Council met some new contacts in the nut processing, sorting and related businesses. The Congress has traditionally been more PE ANUTGROWER .COM

Hot, Grilled PB&Js

The National Peanut Buying Points Association has teamed with The Peanut Institute and the Georgia Peanut Commission to prepare and serve more than 15,000 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches during various peanut festivals this year. “This is an unbelievable project. The response has been excellent,” says Tyron Spearman, who continues to be amazed at the look on people’s faces when they first try a grilled PB&J. Although labor intensive, Spearman says it is worth it because of the satisfied customers and it opens the opportunity to spread the message about peanut nutrition and the healthy aspects of peanut butter. The grilling team makes their appearance at the Plains Peanut Festival, the Georgia Peanut Festival, the Florida Peanut Festival and the Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition in October. They also grill at Georgia Peanut Day at the Capitol, the Georgia Farm Bureau Convention and the Georgia Peanut Farm Show. Sponsors include the Georgia Peanut Commission and The Peanut Institute with supplies from Jif, Smuckers and Peter Pan, which is used exclusively at the Georgia Peanut Festival.

focused on tree nuts but has widened to cover peanuts and dried fruits in recent years. Ümit Ergin of Olam International fielded questions from the moderator related to peanuts.

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UF/IFAS Pre-Harvest Demo

The Suwannee County UF/IFAS Extension is hosting a multi-county Pre-Harvest Field Demonstration and Peanut Trade Show on Aug. 21, 2018. It will be held at the North Florida Research and Education CenterSuwannee Valley located at 8202 County Road 417 in Live Oak, Florida. The event starts at 4 p.m., with an optional core pesticide training with CEU’s available beginning at 3 p.m. This clinic will provide a general review of equipment adjustment and peanut harvest maturity to help producers minimize yield loss during the harvest season. Representatives from KMC, Amadas and Colombo companies will be on hand to complete demonstrations and answer questions. Additionally, there will be a vendor trade show. All farm owners, equipment operators and farm managers are invited to attend. Dinner is sponsored by Florida Peanut Federation. Attendees are asked to register by Aug. 7. For more information or to register for the free event, contact the Suwannee County Extension at 386-3622771 or email De Broughton at deonne@ufl.edu. T WIT TER : @PE ANUTGROWER

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Growing Carryover Tonnage Suppresses The Market

he peanut market is about as stirred up as a large jar of mixed nuts. Nationa lly, Congress is wavering on passing the Farm Bill. Trump continues to talk of unfair trade agreements and farmers are expecting retaliatory tariffs on farm products. Planting season was first facing a drought. Then, it rained for three consecutive weeks delaying the planting of about 25 percent of the crop until after the crop insurance deadline. Other market factors include that most farmers decided against signing the $400 to $450 per-ton contracts. Lots of peanuts have been planted with only the loan of $355 per ton as price protection. The price of cotton has made a run to more than 90 cents per pound, which was inviting to many producers and offered a rotation option. In Argentina, farmers were plagued with the worst drought in 50 years and then at harvest came 20 days of rain and fog further damaging the crop and opening the door for U.S. sales to the European Union. All the unknowns slowed peanut movement, and stocks have started piling up at shelling plants and in cold storage. Peanut stocks in April, the ninth month of the marketing year, were 3.78 billion pounds, up 41.6 percent over last April. The industry seemed to go to sleep waiting for something positive to happen. What’s more, early planted peanuts, now waterlogged, are not growing, and cool soils have caused poor germination. Considerable acreage may have to be replanted in Georgia, Florida and South Carolina. Agronomists and farmers must decide whether it’s economically feasible to replant peanuts. Usually, June planted peanuts yield lower than those planted in May in the Southeast.

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THE PE ANUT GROWER • JULY 2018

J. Tyron Spearman

Contributing Editor, The Peanut Grower

Leading Marketing Indicators (June 6, 2018) 2018 Acreage (USDA) - 18 percent................................. 1,536,500 acres 2018 Est. Production (4,149 lbs/A)....................................... 3,059,887 tons 2017 FSIS Inspections ........................................................... 3,537,447 tons 2017 Market Loan (2017 crop)............................................ 2,734,755 tons 2017 Market Loan not redeemed...................................... 1,299,297 tons 2017-18 Domestic Usage (9 Mo.) ..............................................Up + 2.9 % 2017-18 Exports (8 Mo.) ......................................................... Down 14.7 % NATIONAL POSTED PRICE (per ton) Runners -$424.43, Spanish - $409.00, Valencia and Virginias - $429.97

Will the planted peanut acreage show a reduction enough to move the needle on carryforward? Prices Stay Low The first estimate by USDA indicates the 2018 crop will be down about 15 percent from last year after reducing acreage 18 percent. The earlier estimate of planted acreage is 1,537,000 acres. With a harvested acreage of 1,475,000 acres and an average yield of 4,149 pounds per acre, that’s a U.S. peanut harvest of 3,059,887 tons. That is about a 2 percent increase in the average yield and a production reduction of 15 percent. On peanut disappearance, domestic food use continues up about 2 percent; however, exports are expected down about 8 percent. The market depressant is the growing carryforward, now up to 1,415,000 tons versus 1,360,000 tons last year. PLC Help The Price Loss Coverage (PLC) payment is in the back of the minds of peanut producers with a farm base. The

average farm price of peanuts has been $464 per ton. USDA projected the PLC payment will be about $75 per ton. That only applies to 75 percent of the farm base. Loan Inventory Shellers are offering $400 per ton for uncontracted 2017 peanuts stored away in the loan. USDA would like for these loan peanuts to be redeemed and sold to the trade. USDA wants to avoid forfeitures. The volume is alarming and the 9-month storage period will soon be matured. At the end of May, loan volume was 1,299,397 tons versus 671,362 the previous year when all loan peanuts were sold. Shellers will need this storage space for new 2018 peanut crop. Domestic Market Peanut usage in the U.S. keeps trending upward. USDA estimates another 2 percent increase this year after a 1.3 percent increase last year. Total edible peanuts were up 3 percent after 9 months with candy and peanut butter about the same as last year and peanut snacks up PE ANUTGROWER .COM

10 percent. Government purchases were about the same as last year at 2.2 million pounds of peanut butter and 26,000 pounds of roasted peanuts. Nutrition Big Plus Extensive research by The Peanut Institute and others show that peanuts, peanut butter and peanut oil all help to prevent chronic diseases including heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Studies indicate a handful of peanuts eaten five or more times a week can cut the risk of heart disease in half. There is a lot more: peanuts keep arteries flexible and help to prevent heart disease by lowering cholesterol. Peanuts and peanut butter can lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. The perfectly powerful peanut needs everyone telling the story. Exports Market For the 8-month period, August through March, peanut exports last

year totaled 371,149 metric tons and in 2018 for the same period the total was 323,058 tons, down 12.9 percent. Global peanut production in 2018/19 is forecast down nearly one million tons to 44.6 million, as area harvested in the United States and Senegal is projected to decline. This third-largest peanut production on record would drop global stocks 23 percent. Argentina, India, China and the United States are likely to remain the primary exporters. U.S. exports are projected to decline 8 percent, mainly on slowing demand from China, dropping U.S. exports to 544,000 tons. Sources report the Argentine peanut crop is about 100 percent dug and 30 to 35 percent harvested. After the drought came about 15-20 days of rain, further deteriorating the crop increasing crushing stock. The crop estimate is now about 350,000 to 370,000 metric tons including birdfeed material.

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Even with all of these unknowns, I am optimistic. The peanut crop is usually excellent in quality and if supplies could be reduced, prices would improve.

Reasons For Optimism Even with all of these unknowns, I am optimistic. The peanut crop is usually excellent in quality and if supplies could be reduced, prices would improve. Export prices have already increased and some farmer-stock contracts are trending upward. Congress is sure to pass a Farm Bill as the future of agriculture depends on it. Populations are growing around the world, and peanuts will help solve hunger problems. PG

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Preparing To Dig Properly inverted plants will form a uniform, fluffy, well-aerated windrow with few pods touching the soil.

hen to dig peanuts is one of the most important decisions growers make each year. The hullscrape method of determining peanut maturity is an accurate way of judging when to harvest. County Extension agents routinely run crop maturity checks using the peanut profile board in the late season to determine the cropâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s progress and potential days to digging. Using this method is more accurate than simply going by days after planting as crop conditions can greatly affect maturity.

Pest management, particularly an effective weed control program, makes harvesting easier, reduces weed pressure and lessens soil compaction. Use tillage or herbicide treatments to suppress grass and other weeds along field borders and at the ends of peanut rows. When vegetation is present where the digger blades engage the soil, it has a tendency to wrap around the blades, covering the cutting edge. The presence of tough, dead plants at harvest hampers digging even more than the presence of live plants.

Factors Affecting Peanut Loss 1. Blade depth too shallow. 2. Dull blades. Blades are dull when they do not cut cleanly through the taproot. If they push on the root, they will drag the plant. 3. Vine cutter springs too loose or coulters too dull. 4. Conveyor pickup running too high above the lifter rods. 5. Tractor RPM or hydraulic flow too fast. 6. Vine flow not synchronized with ground speed and conveyor speed. 7. Inventer not precisely aligned with the row (indicated by taproots leaning left or right).

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THE PE ANUT GROWER â&#x20AC;˘ JULY 2018

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Minimize Losses In a recent study by Clemson University agricultural engineer Kendall Kirk, he found that driving too fast can lead to significant losses when digging peanuts. Conversely, driving too slowly can rip vines apart and increase costs. According to his study, the optimal ground speed for digging Virginia peanuts is 2-2.5 miles per hour. For each mile per hour above that target speed, digging losses increased 200 pounds per acre. Kirk also says growers should synchronize the speed of their digger’s shaker chain, or conveyor belt, to their ground speed. If driving 2 miles per hour, for example, the conveyor belt should be set to a speed of around 2 miles per hour. A conveyor belt running about 20 percent faster than ground speed can result in yield loss of 100 to 200 pounds per acre, he says. Pre-Digging Inspection Before a speed can be selected, a thorough inspection of the equipment is a must. Inspect the digger-inverter for broken, bent or missing parts before making adjustments. Make sure the front tool bar is level with the tractor. Stand at the rear of the machine with the implement raised and sight the top of the tool bar with the top of the rear axle. For accuracy, first be sure the rear tractor tires are inflated to the same pressure. If the tool bar is not parallel to the tractor axle, level the digger by adjusting the lift arm. Next, inspect the blades. A well-adjusted digger will have sharp, flat-running blades set to clip taproots just below the pod zone where the taproot starts branching. Blades should run level, with a slight forward pitch to lift plants into the shaker. This adjustment can be accomplished best on a flat surface. Excessive pitch of the digger blades may result in soil and pods being carried forward by the blade before being freed by the cutting edge. Such pods are usually lost. Dull blades cause most digging losses because they fail to cleanly cut the taproot and may drag roots or pods, dislodging the pods from the plant.

Tips From Mid-Season To Harvest • Be timely with inputs, especially fungicides. • Apply herbicides when weeds are small for maximum control, especially pigweed. • Keep up with irrigation needs, especially during peak bloom and pod fill. • Don’t forget to supply needed calcium. • Know what insects are more likely for given weather conditions. • Consider using a weather advisory for leaf spot. • Scout, scout, scout. • Maturity can be sped up or delayed depending on conditions. • Don’t dig based solely on days after planting or before a freeze or frost is forecast.

veyer. The shaking conveyer should be set at a depth at which it picks up vines with its teeth just clearing the soil. Check the conveyer chain speed and depth. The chain speed should be set to avoid a pileup of vines ahead of the pickup point and allow a smooth flow of vines through the digger-inverter. In the field, notice the shaking action. It should be enough to remove soil from the vines. More aggressive shaking is needed where soil clings to pods, roots and stems. The amount of shaking can be changed by adjusting knocker wheels up or down. As vines exit the shaking conveyer, they

engage the inversion wheels and rods. These rods are factory set; however, they will change position with use. Adjust the inversion rods before going to the field by placing the digger on a level surface and setting them according to the operator’s manual. Properly inverted peanut plants will form a uniform, fluffy, well-aerated windrow with very few peanut pods touching the soil. PG For more information on harvesting equipment, consult your equipment owner’s manual or University of Georgia Extension publication: Peanut Digger And Combine Efficiency at www.ugapeanuts.com.

Set Up For Good Drying After plants pass over the digger blades, they are transferred onto the shaking conT WIT TER : @PE ANUTGROWER

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Rain Stunts Crop Plants are not developing properly in waterlogged soils.

wo consecutive weeks of rainfall in Georgia stunted the growth of the state’s peanut crop and has left farmers scrambling to decide what to do next. Georgia’s peanut and cotton acreage remains in flux due to the inclement weather. According to the Georgia Crop Progress and Condition Report, issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service, 73 percent of this year’s peanut crop has been planted. Some of the crop will likely need to be replanted because of saturated field conditions. Weeks Behind University of Georgia Cooperative Extension peanut agronomist Scott Monfort says the steady rainfall stalled the growth of peanut plants across Georgia. Fields are waterlogged from the abnormal amount of rainfall, and the plants are not pulling any essential nutrients from the soil. “I’ve been in quite a few fields where everything looks like it’s several weeks behind. Peanuts that were planted a month ago look like they were planted a week ago. They’re just not growing,” Monfort says. UGA Extension crop experts believe the upward swing of cotton prices that started at the beginning of this year may entice row crop farmers to switch some peanut acreage to cotton when farmers can get back into their fields and planting resumes. Switch To Cotton? Cotton cash prices are currently 88 cents per pound, the highest reported average since 2014, according to UGA Extension cotton economist Yangxuan Liu. While this is encouraging news for cotton producers, it presents a predicament for peanut growers, like Bill Brim, who haven’t planted their entire crop.

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“We’ve got to make a decision on whether we’re going to continue to try to hold out and plant more peanuts or plant cotton. Cotton is close to breaking 90 cents, so it’s looking better and better to plant cotton than it is (to plant) peanuts,” says Brim, owner and CEO of Lewis Taylor Farms in Tifton, Georgia. The company runs Quality Produce, a plasticulture and ground vegetable production operation that covers more than 6,500 acres. Days Of Sunshine Needed Only 65 percent of Georgia’s cotton acreage has been planted, according to the same Georgia crop progress report. UGA Extension cotton agronomist Jared Whitaker said that it’s risky for Georgia farmers to plant cotton in June, but they do it every year. “It’s a good opportunity. We have cotton close to 90 cents to rely on. It’s good, assuming we can get the crop in if it ever stops raining,” Whitaker said. According to weather.uga.edu, Moultrie, Georgia, received 6.19 inches of rain from May 14 through May 28. Over the same time period, Tifton received 4.32 inches with 13 rainy days, and Albany, Georgia, received 6.23 inches with 14 rainy days. Rainfall is predicted to continue. Even then, farmers need several days of sunshine before they will be able to get in their fields, assess the situation, and determine whether it’s economically feasible to plant more peanuts and expect good yields. “The next two weeks are going to change some people’s thinking. We’re not going to be able to get back in the field for at least a week,” Monfort said. “If we could get (the peanuts) in the ground now, we could keep moving along. But that’s not the way it’s working out.” PG Article by Clint Thompson, University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.

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Devised new sensors for real-time monitoring. Saved up to $22,000 in annual energy costs per drying station using the sensors. Found the sensors performed better than currently used meters in determining drying uniformity.

THE PE ANUT GROWER • JULY 2018

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Monitoring Moisture New sensor technology is better at determining drying uniformity, saves on energy costs.

gricultural Research Service (ARS) engineers in Georgia have developed a network of sensors that will save thousands of dollars in drying costs for peanut growers and processors. When peanut farmers in Georgia sell their crop, they bring it to a buying point to be graded and priced. The peanuts’ moisture content is measured, and if it is too high, the peanuts are transferred to trailers for drying. The drying process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Throughout the process, peanut temperature and air temperature and humidity must be kept at specific levels. About once every 4 hours, someone has to climb to the top of the trailer, collect peanut samples, shell them, and measure the moisture content of the peanut kernels. The same types of moisture meters have been used for about 50 years, and farmers and peanut processors have long asked for better ways to monitor the drying process. “We’ve had intense interest for years for improved technologies—both from peanut growers in the United States and, lately, from growers overseas,” says Samir Trabelsi, an ARS electronics engineer in Athens, Georgia. Quality On The Line Proper drying is crucial. If the peanuts are under-dried, over-dried, or dried too slowly or too quickly, it degrades their quality, and they will sell for a lower price. In previous research, Trabelsi and Micah Lewis, an agricultural engineer, designed a network of sensors that monitor temperatures and humidity levels inside and outside the trailers. The network is tied into a weather station that tracks outdoor air temperature, humidity levels, and wind speeds, which can all affect peanut moisture levels. In recent work, Trabelsi and Lewis upgraded the technology to give real-time kernel-moisture readings that can be sent to a computer or smart phone. That way, when the peanuts are sufficiently dried, operators know immediately to turn off T WIT TER : @PE ANUTGROWER

the blowers. An added benefit is that no one has to climb up to collect peanut samples to check their moisture content. Considerable Savings Trabelsi and Lewis showed that the real-time monitoring capability could save up to $22,000 per year in energy costs at a typical drying station. That’s a significant savings, considering Georgia has 130 peanut buying points. Peanut growers pay to use the privately owned stations, so the technology should lower the fees for growers, Trabelsi says. Results were published in Drying Technology: an International Journal. Because “drying wagons” have more than doubled in size in recent years, Trabelsi and Lewis also evaluated the sensors’ effectiveness in larger trailers. Results published in Applied Engineering in Agriculture showed that over four harvests, the sensors performed better than the currently used meters in determining drying uniformity. The optimal number of sensors has yet to be determined for the larger trailers. Trabelsi is working with a partner to bring the technology to market. He is also searching for less expensive components so that peanut farmers— and not just processors—can afford the technology and monitor their own drying. PG By Dennis O’Brien, ARS Office of Communications. 15

JULY 2018 • THE PE ANUT GROWER /

rior II

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Navigating The Late Season

Lannate

Lorsban 4E

Chlorpyrifos 15G

Orthene

Radiant SC

Sevin

Steward

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Blackhawk

Dimilin

Intrepid

Prevathon

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G/E

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What are the factors affecting final sprays and digging decisions?

G not or NL decision NL of whetherP/F to spray or when to start digging is not always NL NL NL NL G an easyF/G one. The decision is made more difficult NL NL NL G NL NL when a storm or bad weather is predicted. NL NL NL NL Last year’sNLactive hurricane season NL made end-of-season NL planning NL NLtricky. Based NL on early NL seasonG/E and execution conditions and in case harvest conditions are F NL NL G/E NL similar P to last year, Clemson University peanut specialist Dan E NL NL E G G Anco has the following advice.

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ChangingF/G Planting Dates F/G NL NL NL Rains over several weeks in May caused some plans to NL NL NL NL NL NL change. Rain brought on late leaf spot to volunteer peanuts. Early pressure calls for early action. As we entered June, there was still time to get peanuts planted and Burrower obtain a reasonable window of conditions forBug growth and Burrower bugs can be hard to idenharvesting. tifytime in the field and an peanuts infestation Mid-May is generally the best to plant is often not detected until harvest. in South Carolina, although peanuts can still be made if Burrower bugs have a black-toplanted into early June. Once planting dates June brown body, smallreach red eyes on a 10, we are looking at approximate digging dates near small-sized head. The upper wings of burrower bugs are shiny and Oct. 20 for a 132-day variety like Bailey or digging dates semi-hardened with the membraentering into November for moderate-maturity varieties nous tip overlapping. Its legs are like Georgia 06G. pearman ad 11/14/08 3:19 PM Page spiny,1and needle-like, piercing, One of the concerns around that time of year becomes sucking mouth parts are visible slow drying conditions prior to with combining that can lead a hand lens. Burrower bug is related to stink bugs.too to quality issues if they sit out closely in damp conditions long. Every year is a little different, but overall the combination of lower yield potential, higher late leaf spot pressure and generally unfavorable harvesting conditions are more prevalent for peanuts planted after about June 10. NL

Risk For Late Leaf NL FactorsNL G Spot NL

• Short rotations (less than 2 years out of peanuts) NL NL NL NL NL NL • Highly susceptible variety (Virginia types, Georgia 13M, Spain, NL NL NL NL NL NL TUFRunner 511) • Late (May 26 or later) NL planting G NL NL NL NL • Poor control of volunteer peaNL G/E NL NL NL NL nuts in rotational crops • Poor season controlEof NL end of NL G/E E E/G late leaf spot in an adjacent NL NL NL NL NL NL upwind field the previous year NL NL NL NL NL NL • Starting fungicide programs any later than 45 DAP; better NL NL NL NL NL E/G early than late Edited by Dr. Mark Abney, • Extending spray intervals be- University of Georgia Extension Entomologist yond 15 days • Repeated, frequent periods of Three-Cornered leaf wetness; excessive rains, Alfalfa Hopper frequent irrigation Three-cornered alfalfa hoppers • Rain immediately after appliare light green and wedgecation – wait 24 hours to irrigate shaped. They stand about ¼ • Consecutive use of fungicides with the same mode of action (exinch high and are about ¼ inch cept chlorothalonil) long. Both adults and nymphs have piercing mouthparts and feed by penetrating the Slowing A Growing Leaf Spot Epidemic: and sucking plantnot juices. Effective fungicide programs are designed tostem prevent disease, They tend to feed in a circular cure it after the fact. If something goes wrong and you find late leaf fashion around a stem, making spot lesions in the bottom of the canopy, especially with less than 30 feeding punctures as they go. The damaged area typically swells and above ground root days until harvest, treat immediately, retreating in 10 days, with one growth may occur. On peanuts, feeding may occur on limbs, leaf petioles or pegs. of the following:

• Topsin 4.5 FL 10 fl oz + 1.5 pt Bravo • Provost Opti 10.7 oz + 1.5 pt Bravo • Priaxor 8 fl oz

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JANUARY 2 018 • THE PE ANUT GROWER / PE ANUTGROWER .COM

Harvest Scenarios At season’s end, if peanut fields are at maturity, they would likely fare better dug and on top of the ground than risk becoming over mature in the ground. This is because of the uncertainty as to when you might be able to get back into the field to dig or to spray for runners that might need more season to fully develop, particularly fields with heavy soils or poor drainage. If the field is extremely dry to the point where there would be digging losses from hard soil, that complicates things and there is not an easy answer. A lot there depends on how quickly each field might dry out and how mature the pods are cur-

rently and if they have time to wait it out. Peanuts that get rained on for only a day or so should be okay on top of the ground. Without additional rain, what’s above ground will dry out quicker than what’s below ground. Keep Peanut Protected On the other hand, if maturity indicates peanuts aren’t ready to be dug, it is important to keep them protected with fungicides until they are ready. Late leaf spot is difficult to slow down once it gets established, especially with defoliation. If defoliation starts to become severe, additional fungicides are usually too late and early digging needs to be considered. PG

New Clemson Expert To Bring High-Tech Farm Solutions A new Clemson Extension associate will help South Carolina farmers learn how to use technologies to increase efficiency. Michael Plumblee is the new precision agriculture specialist at Clemson’s Edisto Research and Education Center. He will work with growers of all major crops including: corn, cotton, peanuts and soybeans. “I want to work with growers and Extension agents to build a program where everyone can learn how to use precision ag technologies,” Plumblee said. “I want to help increase the adoption of these technologies. I want to bridge the gap between the engineering and agronomic aspects of precision ag and help farmers learn how to make use of technologies to improve their production capabilities.” Plumblee is interested in helping farmers use yield monitors, soil moisture sensors, new sprayer technologies and variable rate technologies, among other technologies. “Most farmers know how to farm. Maybe we can help them do what they’re doing, better.” Plumblee said his program will be “hands-on” training. “Seeing is believing” and Plumblee said he plans to do a lot of on-farm trials, hold field days and other activities to help growers learn about precision agriculture. “Clemson Extension has great county agents who know South Carolina growers and they understand what South Carolina growers need and want as it relates to precision agriculture,” Plumblee said. “My plan is to utilize this network of county agents to interact with growers and help them determine what precision agriculture T WIT TER : @PE ANUTGROWER

technology or technologies will work best for their situation.” Plumblee graduated from Clemson University in 2013 with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural mechanization. Then he traveled to the University of Georgia at Tifton, where he graduated with a master’s degree in agronomy in 2015. After earning his master’s degree, Plumblee went to Mississippi State University where he graduated with his doctorate in agronomy this May. PG Article by Denise Attaway, College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences; Public Service and Agriculture. JULY 2018 • THE PE ANUT GROWER /

Boron On The Move With heavy rains, a deficiency of this leachable nutrient is possible. By Ethan Carter, UF/IFAS Regional Crop IPM Agent, and Michael Mulvaney, UF/IFAS Cropping Systems Specialist

n early June, peanut fields across the Florida Panhandle ranged in age from freshly planted to nearly 40 days old. Many areas have had consistent rainfall and overcast days, which has left fields saturated and complicated late plantings and spray applications. It also offers the opportunity to discuss boron and potential issues associated with this leachable nutrient. Boron is highly mobile in the soil and can rapidly leach from the root zone. Along with manganese, it is one of the most commonly deficient micronutrients on sandy soils. When tissue testing is done to evaluate boron levels, the entire aboveground portion of plants is collected. The desired range is 20 to 60 parts per million. Less than 20 parts per million is a critical level for deficiency and 100 parts per million or more is a critical level for toxicity.

What To Look For In our region, typically well-drained to excessively-drained sands are most susceptible to boron deficiency. A deficiency can also occur when little or no boron is applied with the crop fertilizer. In peanut, boron deficiency is associated with hollow-heart, which lowers grade. This condition presents itself as discoloration within the Split stems and roots on peanut plant is kernel. However, a symptom of severe boron deficiency. severe boron deficiency can present itself in a manner similar to zinc toxicity with split stems and roots, compacted branch terminals and few developing pods. Classic deficiency symptoms in the field are compacted branch terminals and cracks on stems and pods, dark areas on internodes, mottled leaves and stubby roots with negligible pod yield. Stem and branch cracking symptoms can remain visible even after harvest to help diagnose boron deficiency. When these type symptoms are found, a tissue sample and soil test are important to determine if the field has issues with either boron or zinc. Boron can be added to the initial crop 18â&#x20AC;&#x160;/

THE PE ANUT GROWER â&#x20AC;˘ JULY 2018

This picture shows boron-deficient Tifguard variety peanuts, confirmed by tissue and soil tests, at more than 100 days after planting.

fertilizer or applied with early herbicide and fungicide applications. Foliar applications of one-half pound per acre elemental boron can be made during the mid-bloom stage to correct boron deficiency. Fertility should always be monitored after prolonged rain events or heavy irrigation. Nutrient leaching can result in unexpected field problems. Erosion Can Cause Toxicity Toxicity symptoms first present as leaf-tip chlorosis that extends down the margins and between the veins. With increasing levels of toxicity, the leaf margins die. Excessive boron application can result from slowing the tractor down at the end of the rows rather than maintaining constant speed until cutting the sprayer off before turning. Rainfall events can cause toxicity as well as deficiency. For example, a localized boron toxicity was caused in a field by a rainfall event of 4 to 5 inches, where sheet erosion puddled water and topsoil run-off in lower areas of the field. Boron was probably concentrated in those lower areas through sheet erosion rather than leaching through the soil profile. A tissue sample of these plants showed boron concentration was 1,116 parts per million. Boron and manganese are normally the most deficient micronutrients on sandy soils. If peanuts are to be planted on a sandy soil, it would be advisable to use boron at the rate of 0.5 to 0.75 pounds of elemental boron per acre. PG PE ANUTGROWER .COM

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New Leaf Spot Fungicide Syngenta recently announced that its latest carboxamide fungicide with SDHI mode of action – Adepidyn – has been registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Formulated in five products under the Miravis brand family, Syngenta will make Adepidyn fungicide broadly available in late 2018 and 2019, subject to state approvals. Containing unmatched potency within the carboxamide class of chemistry, each product in the Miravis range will set a new standard for disease control and potential return on investment. “Adepidyn fungicide is the third new fungicide Syngenta has brought to market in the past three years, in keeping with our commitment to provide growers with the tools they need to help make their operations more efficient and profitable,” said Steve Eury, fungicide product marketing lead at Syngenta. “With Adepidyn fungicide we have applied our expertise in fungicide development to combine the best features of previous products into a single active ingredient, delivering a more complete combination of power, spectrum and stamina.” The Miravis line of products will be offered to growers in a wide range of crops, from corn and soybeans, to wheat, peanuts, grapes, vegetables and potatoes

Adepidyn Fungicide Efficacy on Leaf Spot in Peanuts: (from left) Untreated, Adepidyn fungicide, Priaxor

through five distinct brands. In peanuts, Miravis fungicide is expected to be a game changer against early and late leaf spot, providing unmatched potency and extended control. When combined with proven performer Elatus fungicide, introduced by Syngenta in 2016, growers can feel confident they have achieved the longest-lasting, most potent leaf spot and white mold control available. “As we’ve developed the Miravis brands in the United States, what has stood out in hundreds of trials is how powerfully and consistently they perform regardless of crop or geography,” Eury said. “It’s going to be very satisfying to show our grower customers what these new products can do for them.” For more information about the new line of Miravis products, go online to www.syngenta.com and www.good growthplan.com.

John Deere’s New W170 Windrower To meet the demands of small grain customers growing high-yielding canola varieties, John Deere introduces its smart, powerful W170 Windrower and a wide range of draper headers to make swathing faster and easier in heavy crop and hilly conditions. “During benchmarking studies in heavy crop conditions, the W170 Windrower showed an impressive 20 percent productivity gain,” Nick McKelvey, John Deere marketing manager for windrowers, says. “With 46 inches (116.8 cm) of ground clearance and 12-inch (30.48 cm) wider walking beams, tall windrows can flow easily beneath the machine’s frame and are corralled by a new swath compressor. The swath compressor forms a loose crop into a tight, uniform windrow, making it easier for a combine to pick up, eliminating the need for a canola roller.” Part of the productivity gain realized by the W170 can be attributed to its proven John Deere 4.5L engine that produces 12 percent more horsepower than its W155 predecessor. 20 /

THE PE ANUT GROWER • JULY 2018

Lindsay And Farmers Edge Partnership Lindsay Corporation, manufacturer/ distributor of irrigation and infrastructure equipment and technology, and Farmers Edge recently announced a new strategic partnership that will deliver a suite of ag tech and digital agronomy solutions for their customers. The collaboration will provide farmers with a simple solution to easily access field-centric data and deep insights they need to make informed decisions and get the most out of every acre. Growers who use both FieldNET, a fully integrated wireless management tool, and the Farmers Edge digital platform will have the ability to seamlessly share key data back and forth between the two platforms, which will help optimize water application and other inputs while growers work to maximize yields and profitability. When data comes to life in charts, graphs and reports, you will see things as never before. As part of the agreement, the Farmers Edge suite of digital agronomic tools will be offered via Lindsay Corporation’s vast global network of Zimmatic dealers. For more information about Farmers Edge, visit FarmersEdgeUsa.com or FarmersEdge.ca. For information about FieldNET technology, visit a Zimmatic dealer or www.myfieldnet.com.

The engine is paired with a higher-capacity variable-speed fan that can be reversed, making it easier for operators to clean. At 27.3 mph (43.9 kph), the W170 has the fastest transport speed in the industry to quickly move operators from field to field. For more information, contact your local John Deere dealer or visit JohnDeere.com/ag. PE ANUTGROWER .COM

Enhance Leaf Spot Control By this time of the year, many key inputs have been taken care of for peanut in the Virginia-Carolina region, such as management of thrips and weeds, applications of gypsum and use of insecticides for southern corn rootworm. While weeds and foliar-feeding insects can be an issue later in the season and folks are DAVID JORDAN North Carolina State addressing micronutrient issues University and deciding whether or not to Extension Agronomist apply prohexadione calcium, the focus in July and through August and September will be control of disease, in particular stem rot and leaf spot. In 2017, we experienced challenges with sustained disease control in some fields, and our plant pathologists across the region are working hard to define the cause of some of the leaf spot control failures and to develop solutions. Several basic practices can help us stack things in our favor and include: 1) using the recommended rate each time a fungicide is applied, 2) applying fungicides at appropriate intervals and not stretching sprays too far apart, 3) using approaches that optimize coverage and penetration into the canopy (spray volume, pressure), 4) rotate modes of action for fungicides, 5) apply mixtures of different modes of action, and 6) consider a follow up application if heavy rain occurs shortly after application. These fundamentals can help a great deal. We all know that digging at optimum timing can optimize

T WIT TER : @PE ANUTGROWER

yield and economic income. But with our acreage and inconsistent weather patterns, sometimes we can’t get to the right field at the right time. One thing that can really help with flexibility at digging is to have healthy peanuts, and the only way to do this is to make sure leaf spot is controlled. Prices for peanuts are certainly lower this year, but even at lower prices, pest management inputs almost always pay for themselves. As we move into an era of unpredictable leaf spot control, at least in the near term based on 2017, a strong and well-designed disease-management program will pay dividends.

Dealing With Late Planting I know many producers didn’t get to plant as early as planned this year because of the cooler temperatures in April, dry weather in early May or the three weeks of rain the end of May through the beginning of June. This made for a much narrower planting window. Many areas experienced a KRIS BALKCOM three to four week dry periAuburn University od after the start of planting. Extension Specialist Some of you left off Valor since no rain was in the forecast. It seems like the last few years not as many producers have been burning their peanuts. Some of that is because good showers behind planting have activated the herbicides giving good control of weeds earlier. As to the fear of burning peanuts, recent research has showed us no yield losses from burning our peanuts back with gramoxone early. Take advantage of the opportunity to kill that flush of weeds with the combination of gramoxone and 2,4DB if you left off your pre-emergence herbicides or didn’t get good control from the dry period after planting. Also add in other products like Dual Magnum, Zidua, Warrant or Outlook to get some residual weed control in the soil. I have received lots of calls about late-planted peanuts. Don’t beat yourself up over the fact that you couldn’t get in there and plant them as early as you wanted. Let’s just take the hand we were dealt and work with it. I want to encourage you to manage those fields just as you would have had you gotten them planted earlier. I say this because you still have time to produce a good crop of peanuts. I have planted several tests as late as June 15-25 to see how well those peanuts would produce. They have averaged anywhere from 4,500 to 6,000 pounds per acre. Obviously, the yields vary depending on your rainfall and fall temperatures. I hope that you have a prosperous growing season and I look forward to seeing you around. 21

JULY 2018 • THE PE ANUT GROWER /

Work On Reducing Stress I had the opportunity to talk with several experienced and lifelong peanut growers the other day about the differences and challenges faced over their careers. The one thing I heard in the conversation was how they compared any one year to what they called the “typical growing season.” I have heard this comparison many times SCOTT MONFORT University of Georgia over my career. I have even used Extension Agronomist it myself in talks to growers, etc. I am confident I have never observed one of these “typical” growing seasons and more than likely never will. Why do I bring this up as we move into July? The main reason is to remind growers, Extension agents and consultants to stay on your toes. Growers have already experienced extreme situations since May 1, and I expect Mother Nature to stir things up even further. Georgia growers started the year off on a good note with decent weather conditions, good quality seed and time to get peanuts planted and off to a good start. Exactly what we consider it would be like in a typical year until things drastically changed. Roughly 50 to 60 percent of the crop was planted in the ideal planting window of May 1-15 with the remainder of the crop scattered from late May to mid-June because of rainy conditions. The rainy, cloudy weather has caused a shallower than normal root system in some areas. This could reduce the productivity of the plants if stress develops in July and August. All growers can do is try to be as timely as possible with pest control measures and irrigation management programs to help reduce any potential stress on the peanut crop for the remainder of the year, which is easier said than done, I know. Keep in mind the following things as we move into July and August: • Know what is going on in your field – hire a consultant or scout. This will help keep you timely and effective with your pest management programs. • Do not cut corners on disease management. • Watch your input costs. • It is often easier to prevent a problem than fix one. If you have a question about a product or a recommendation, call your county agent and have them get in touch with a specialist if needed. • Let your county Extension Agent know if you are experiencing a higher than normal level of TSWV. Also, please let your agent know if you are observing any peg deterioration. This will help UGA specialists determine 22 /

THE PE ANUT GROWER • JULY 2018

if peg deterioration observed in Georgia last year is a recurring problem in 2018.

Avoid Disruptions In Flowering Peanuts continue to actively grow; however, much of the crop is at or will soon approach peak bloom. Peanut is an indeterminant crop, which means the number of flowers will continue to increase over the next several weeks. Flower development will eventually begin to decline as pegs and pods form JASON WOODWARD and start to mature. This results Texas Agri-Life Extension from developing pods competPlant Pathologist ing with vegetative components of the plant for carbohydrates and nutrients. In order to maximize yield and grade, it is imperative that optimal crop conditions be maintained as much as possible. Extreme conditions such as high temperatures, moisture stress and low humidity can have a negative impact on flowering, limiting the number of flowers produced and reduce pollination. While peanut plants are capable of compensating for such situations, disruptions in flowering that occur during the latter part of the season will result in a split maturity. Delays in pod set and differences in maturity result in challenges later in the season when making harvest decisions. Irrigation timing and the amount applied is important during this time, as crop water demand increases substantially as plants continue to transition from vegetative growth to reproductive stages and later pod development and maturity. Attention should be paid to irrigation pumping capacity, as well as water quality especially in areas where little rainfall has been received. While peanuts respond well to irrigation, precipitation is also required to leach salts that may accumulate from the constant application of irrigation water.

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