Peanut Grower July 2020

The

PEANUTGROWER ONE GROWER PUBLISHING, LLC

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

Find Optimum Maturity With A Profile Board SPECIAL TRIBUTE:

A Voice Of Accuracy And Precision

Ready, Set, Go! Field Test Equipment To Reduce Losses

JULY 2020

We make the best use of production research dollars so you can make the best use of your land and resources.

In its 20-year history, the National Peanut Board has allocated more than $37M toward peanut production research helping to increase yield, water efficiency and develop seed varieties with pest and disease resistance, to name a few advancements.

Find out more at www.peanutresearch.org

The

JULY 2020

PEANUTGROWER ONE GROWER PUBLISHING, LLC

JULY 2020

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

Find Optimum Maturity With A Profile Board

Volume 32 • Number 7

SPECIAL TRIBUTE:

A Voice Of Accuracy And Precision

Ready, Set, Go! Field Test Equipment To Reduce Losses

Departments 4

Editor’s Note Buy me some peanuts and Cracker jacks

5

News Briefs Researchers work on grading prototype

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Market Watch PB, snacks feed families in quarantine

20 Peanut Pointers Never leave peanuts unprotected from disease

12 Features

10 Southeast Climate Outlook

What can we expect for the rest of the growing season?

12 Ready, Set, Go!

Reduce digging losses with proper setup and field checks.

Stay Connected

14 A Weighty Decision

Dig at optimum maturity with the aid of a profile board.

16 A Voice Of Accuracy And Precision

A tribute to Dr. Barbara Shew, NCSU Research and Extension Plant Pathologist.

18 Collecting Samples Sign up for the monthly e-newsletter at peanutgrower.com to have exclusive industry news and content delivered directly to your inbox.

Follow The Peanut Grower on Twitter @PeanutGrower TWITTER: @PEANUTGROWER

Learn how to properly collect soil and root samples for nematode analysis.

19 10 Key Impacts

Ten ways cover crops lead to better soil health.

Cover photo by Amanda Huber JULY 2020 • THE PEANUT GROWER /

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EDITORIAL/PRODUCTION Editor Amanda Huber ahuber@onegrower.com Copy Editor Vicky Boyd vboyd@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 Audience Services Kate Thomas (847) 559-7514 Production Manager Kathy Killingsworth (901) 767-4020 kkillingsworth@onegrower.com For circulation changes, 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 Memphis, Tennessee, and at additional mailing offices. Copyright © 2020 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. One Grower Publishing, LLC, also publishes Cotton Farming, Rice Farming, Soybean South and Corn South.

Editor’sNote Editor’s Note Buy Me Some Peanuts And Cracker Jacks…

I

had a birthday recently. It was one of those big ones where the front number rolls over. In planning a family gathering to celebrate the event, my mother got the idea to dig out some pictures. I am old enough now that this task involves converting trays of slides into digital pictures. One by one, with the help of a digital slide scanner, I got it done. We thoroughly enjoyed seeing pictures we had not seen in decades.

One picture was of an event that happened a few years before I was born and that I had never heard about. The year was 1967, and both my grandfathers, Amanda Huber my dad, several uncles and a friend drove Editor, The Peanut Grower all the way to Atlanta to go to a baseball game. The picture shows them parking just outside Fulton County Stadium and walking in. Both grandfathers are dressed in suits. The “boys” are in button-down white shirts and dark jeans or slacks. It was certainly a different era.

Sports is one thing we have missed during quarantine. But that’s just as a fan. The lack of baseball games is also a critical hit to the in-shell peanut market. During a season of Major League Baseball, fans consume somewhere between 4 to 7 million bags of roasted peanuts, with more consumed in the minor league parks. It’s a big hit to Hampton Farms, the country’s largest roaster of in-shell peanuts and supplier to MLB, and for their growers.

Baseball is a “critical part of our business,” says Rick McGee, vice president of food service sales for the company. Ordinarily, 25% of roasted peanuts sold between March and October would be for stadiums. Another part of their business, the roasted peanuts sold to restaurants such as steakhouses, was another lost market.

In the 2000s, Hampton Farms acquired a facility to make ground nut butters and peanut butter, including organic peanut butter, is now part of their offering. I plan to try their PB Crave Cookie Dough Chocolate Chip soon.

Regarding their peanut butter sales, McGee says demand has been “literally off the charts,” and up year over year in some areas as much as 175%.

Peanut butter has also been a crucial item for the distributors that serve food banks.

While it is great that peanuts are such a versatile crop that can be consumed in different ways, I know everyone looks forward to the return of more normal life, including sports.

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THE PEANUT GROWER • JULY 2020

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NewsBriefs News Briefs Coronavirus Food Assistance Program

By the first week of June, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farmers to Families Food Box Program had distributed more than 5 million food boxes in support of American farmers and families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The Farmers to Families Food Box Program was designed to put American farmers and distributors of all sizes back to work while supporting overburdened food banks, community and faith-based organizations, and other nonprofits serving Americans in need, and the program is doing just that,” Perdue says.

“It’s encouraging to see the passion with which farmers, distributors and nonprofits have gone above and beyond to make this program work in support of the American people.

Although a momentous milestone, this is only the beginning for the program, and with continued support we expect up to 40 million boxes will be delivered throughout the country by June 30.”

First Food Assistance Program Payments U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the USDA Farm Service Agency has already approved more than $545 million in payments to producers who have applied for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program.

FSA began taking applications May 26, and the agency had received more than 86,000 applications for this important relief program by early June.

“The coronavirus has hurt America’s farmers, ranchers and producers, and these payments directed by President Trump will help this critical industry weather the current pandemic so they can continue to plant and harvest a safe, nutritious and affordable crop for the American people,” Perdue says.

TWITTER: @PEANUTGROWER

“We have tools and resources available to help producers understand the program and enable them to work with Farm Service Agency staff to complete applications as smoothly and efficiently as possible and get payments into the pockets of our patriotic farmers.”

FSA will accept applications through Aug. 28, 2020. Through CFAP, USDA has made available $16 billion in financial assistance to producers of agricultural commodities who have suffered a 5% or greater price decline due to COVID19 and face additional significant marketing costs as a result of lower demand, surplus production and disruptions to shipping patterns, and the orderly marketing of commodities. Prices for peanuts did not decline enough to make the commodity eligible.

A Modern Grading System The USDA’s National Peanut Research Lab has been working on the Peanut Shipping Point Modernization Initiative. In ongoing testing, the Georgia Agriculture Federal State Inspection Service collects data that the NPRL uses to refine the process.

Results from the 2019 crop was made available in a recent NPRL report. The findings offer pros and cons of the new equipment in relation to the current equipment while referencing how all components are used for loan value calculations.

For the in-shell peanut moisture meter, researchers report progress is being made at a rapid pace. Engineers are working to finalize a production scale prototype, with some components anticipated soon. Each component will be tested and then it will be assembled and tested as a unit.

NPRL director Marshall Lamb says, “It is our hope that the prototype will be ready for full testing and data collection this fall. Any necessary modifications will be made to the prototype following this analysis.

“Based on performance of the unit,

In Brief • Food box program, payments begin with goal of distributing 40 million boxes.

• National Peanut Lab continues testing new grading system.

• Alabama referendum underway.

• Black farmer organization to hold regional field days, showcase technology.

• Gypsum shortage, new regulations an industry concern.

• To meet a sheller need, a pod breakability machine is built.

we will then seek full scale production and commercial sale.”

Alabama Peanut Association Referendum Scheduled Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Alabama Peanut Producers Association had to delay their referendum earlier this spring. The vote will now move forward, and the deadline is July 23.

All persons engaged in the production of peanuts for the years 2017, 2018 or 2019 shall be eligible to vote.

The APPA has been certified by the Alabama Board of Agriculture and Industries as the authorized association to conduct a referendum among peanut producers in the state to determine whether or not an assessment shall be collected on all peanuts marketed in Alabama.

A favorable majority vote means that the current assessment will continue to be collected. The order from the Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries is for all persons, firms and corporations engaged in the business of purchasing peanuts in this state be deducted from the purchase price of JULY 2020 • THE PEANUT GROWER /

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NewsBriefs News Briefs peanuts at the rate of 12.5 cents per 100 pounds of peanuts sold. For information, contact Jacob Davis, APPA executive director, at 334-792-6482 or jdavis@alpeanuts.com.

American Peanut Council Issues Statement On COVID-19 The American Peanut Council fully supports the U.S. peanut industry as it continues to deliver safe, nutritious products to the world during this difficult time. Manufacturers are working hard to ensure the health and safety of employees while continuing to maintain production and shipment of healthy and nutritious products.

APC officials noted that peanuts and peanut products are plentiful.

Shelling, processing and production facilities continue to put protocols in

place to maintain operations and provide grocery stores and other food outlets with the peanut products consumers need and want.

Food production is critical, and the American peanut industry takes these responsibilities very seriously. The nation’s leading health and food and agriculture agencies are also working with industry to ensure a safe and stable food supply.

As more Americans face temporary economic instability, there will be increased demand for nutritious, economical protein-rich foods at food banks and other community food distribution points. Peanut butter is consistently one of the most requested items at food banks.

APC Chairman Monty Rast of South Carolina says, “Unfortunately, social distancing may make in-person, product donation drop offs challenging. For those who want to help, we ask that you make a donation to Peanut Proud, the non-profit industry organization dedicated to humanitarian

efforts. Together, we can help those in our communities who have become food insecure because of the impact of COVID-19. Thank you for your donation.”

Gypsum Shortage Peanut growers have been warned to expect a gypsum shortage this year.

Glen Harris, University of Georgia Extension crop fertility specialist, explained in an Extension alert that many power plants that produce smokestack gypsum as a byproduct are retiring coal-fired plants in favor of natural gas, a cheaper fuel source. This change spells a disruption in supply.

“Gypsum should be applied at early bloom, or 30 days to 45 days after planting. Peak pod fill is around 60 days to 90 days after planting,” Harris says. “A grower can still see benefit from a gypsum application made any

Model Farm Series Events The National Black Growers Council was organized about 12 years ago with the mission of improving the efficiency, productivity and sustainability of black row-crop growers.

A key part of this mission is addressed with a series of regional field days hosted by black farmers called the Model Farm Series.

“These field days hyper-integrate the industry’s latest technologies and USDA agency programs to demonstrate the possibilities for improvements,” says Dewayne Goldmon, NBGC executive director. “They are designed to reach black farmers where they are by providing relevant information and education in a hands-on manner.”

The Model Farm Series schedule is as follows:  July 16: Alheimer, Arkansas, Dell-Cam Farm Inc., (corn, rice, soybeans)  July 17: Bonita, Louisiana, Hill Farms, (corn, soybeans)  Aug. 21: Byromville, Georgia, Jibbs Vineyard, (peanuts, cotton, soybeans) “Key partners in this series include our sustaining members from the agriculture industry, USDA agencies and

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THE PEANUT GROWER • JULY 2020

land-grant universities,” Goldmon says. “We connect the dots on all levels of farm technology by demonstrating the evolution from elementary to high-tech adoption of programs and technologies.”

The field days, which are held at some of the most prominent black-owned farms, are open to the public and are a great way for people to see the cutting-edge technology used in some of the nation’s leading farms and businesses.

For more information, visit www.nationalblackgrower scouncil.com or call 870-692-4400.

PEANUTGROWER.COM

NewsBriefs News Briefs Researchers Build Pod Breakability Machine Maria Balota, Virginia Tech Tidewater peanut researcher, says there is nothing more important than to meet the needs of the industry he or she works for. A few years ago during a meeting of the Peanut Variety and Quality Evaluation Advisory Committee, shellers raised concerns that pods of the Bailey cultivar break too easily when used for in-shell products. Because this issue had not been raised before, Balota and others had no way to measure for pod breakability in the PVQE testing.

If there is a need, the challenge will be met by peanut industry researchers. Two technicians at the Tidewater Agricultural Research and Education Center helped Balota build a pod breakability machine.

The machine consists of a frame that lowers to allow a pneumatic cylinder to apply force to peanut pods and a scale to record the force needed to break the pods. An air compressor is used to activate the cylinder, and the scale is connected to a computer so that data can be recorded in an Excel file for analysis. time before 60 days after planting.�

A lack of calcium in the peanut pegging zone can cause pops or no kernels.

Harris says USG 500, a mined product, should be available, especially in east Georgia. There may also be some wet bulk, or phosphogyp, available from Florida and maybe even some recycled wallboard. Freight or trucking cost may be a factor depending on location.

Calcium needs to be in the pegging zone or top 4 inches of soil where pods develop. Water is needed to carry the calcium in solution through the hull into the developing kernels. Because of its increased solubility, gypsum can be applied at early bloom.

The other form of calcium, lime, TWITTER: @PEANUTGROWER

The system is still in testing, but Balota says she believes it will produce reliable information on this is used to adjust pH and should be applied before planting.

EPA Regulation May Affect Gypsum Members of the Ag Retailers Association and the peanut industry have written a letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency expressing concern about proposed coal combustion residual regulations.

Flue gas desulphurization gypsum is

characteristic important to shellers, which will be included in future PVQE testing. used on peanuts, and changes to the current regulations would cause an unfair financial burden and hardship on peanut farmers, the ARA writes.

The association argues that the EPA should treat gypsum being temporarily stored and then applied as a soil additive to farmland for the benefit of crop production and not as hazardous waste.

The ARA is concerned that these revisions could also impact the availability of gypsum used as an important fertilizer product.

In the letter, the ARA also notes that as a food additive, gypsum is used as a dietary source of calcium and is an ingredient in canned vegetables, bread and flour. The product is non-toxic and ecologically safe.

JULY 2020 • THE PEANUT GROWER /

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Watch Carryforward Almost Gone As PB, Snacks Feed Families In Quarantine

S

tress in agriculture has never been greater. Two major hurricanes, Irma and Michael, quality problems and now germination issues, low commodity prices, COVID-19 pandemic, riots and unrest in cities, talk of food shortages, a devastating court ruling on a popular chemical product...the list seems endless.

The U.S. peanut market has remained quiet during the COVID-19 pandemic.

There has been no panic in prices. The increase in prices for raw-shelled peanuts was caused mostly because of quality issues from the 2019 crop. Aflatoxin reared its ugly head and clean, top-quality raw-shelled peanuts became a premium.

Shellers and production facilities set up COVID-19 precautions and kept delivering while protecting their employees.

With consumers concerned about a food shortage, the peanut industry provided grocery stores and other food outlets with the peanut products they want and need.

The American peanut industry takes the responsibility of producing quality food products very seriously. The nation’s leading health, food and agriculture agencies were also working with industry to ensure a safe and stable food supply.

USDA Help Congress and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, through the Farm Service Agency, started accepting applications from agricultural producers who have suffered losses. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act allocated $16 billion to provide vital financial assistance to producers of agricultural commodities who suffered a 5% or greater price decline due to COVID-19.

Peanuts did not have a 5% or greater loss.

Other programs available included the Paycheck Protection Program and

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THE PEANUT GROWER • JULY 2020

J. Tyron Spearman Contributing Editor, The Peanut Grower

Leading Marketing Indicators (June 3, 2020) 2020 Acreage Est. (+7%) ...................................................1,468,000,acres 2020 Production Est. (4,000 lbs/A) ..................................... 2,936,000 tons 2019 Acreage (+ 1%) .........................................................1,391,000 acres 2019 Production (3,949 lbs/A) ............................................ 2,748,043 tons 2019 Market Loan ............................................................... 2,341,062 tons 2019 Remaining in Loan ........................................................ 945,973 tons 2019-20 Domestic Usage (9 Mo.) ........................................... Up + 5.5 % 2019-20 Exports (8 Mo.) ........................................................... Up + 25.3% POSTED PRICE (per ton) Runners -$424.13; Spanish - $416.70; Valencia and Virginias - $430.94

the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program, which was mainly for farmers with storm or drought losses.

Acreage Estimate And Production U.S. peanut production is forecast at 5.9 billion pounds (2,935,000 tons), up from 5.5 billion pounds in the 2019-2020 marketing year. Planted acreage intentions were up 7% to 1.5 million acres with the largest increase in Georgia. Some estimate that acreage could be up 15% to 20%.

Seed germination on later-shelled lots has been reported as problematic.

The U.S. average yield is projected to increase by 1% to 4,000 pounds per acre.

Based on the peanut supply and slightly increased use, the carryforward is now estimated at 11% less or 828,000 farmer stock tons.

Contract Offers Farmers wanted more than the $400 to $425 per ton for runners and $450 per ton on Virginias with shelled market prices at 45 cents per pound. Prices for cot-

ton or corn were not exciting enough to be in competition for peanut acres. Most farmer stock contracts were signed when raw-shelled prices jumped to 80 cents per pound. Farmers are hoping for a price improvement on uncontracted 2019 loan peanuts and 2020 uncontracted stocks.

Offers will likely be impacted by the acreage report issued by USDA on June 30.

PLC Payment Per USDA, the average price received by farmers for farmer stock peanuts averaged 20.6 cents per pound or $412 per ton in March. Prices in February were slightly lower at 20.5 cents per pound or $410 per ton. Prices have been the lowest in history this year with a low of $384 per ton in November to a high of $418 per ton in January. The ninemonth average is about $404 per ton.

Farmers who signed up for the Price Loss Coverage program will receive a payment in October, the difference between the average price, now at $404, and the reference price of $535 per ton or $131 PEANUTGROWER.COM

Watch per ton. The preliminary estimate from USDA is $125 per ton. This price would be applied to 85% of the peanut base tons on the farm.

U.S. Peanut Usage Use of raw-shelled peanuts in primary products in April 2020 was led by peanut butter up 12% versus April 2019 and up 5.5% for the year. The impact of the coronavirus pandemic’s call for families to stay at home has many grocery stores asking for more peanut butter.

The pandemic has led to more snacking, up 9.2% for the month and now up 5.4% for the year. Government purchases for nutrition programs in April totaled 1.173 million pounds of peanut butter, down 330% compared to same month last year. However, for the 9 months, government purchases are up 2.6% to 18.6 million pounds. Overall, usage is up 4%.

Export Peanut Usage U.S. peanut exports are up 25.3% over an eight-month period and up 33% comparing March 2020 and 2019.

In-shell peanut shipments to China totaled 5,939 metric tons in March and 61,000 metric tons for the year. China is also buying raw-shelled peanuts, ranking third in shipments behind Canada and Mexico. Raw-shelled exports are up 4%, but peanut butter is down 9.4%.

Argentina is almost complete with peanut harvest estimated at 1.26 million metric tons. Officials report that quality is good, and yield should be 3,300 to 3,500 kilograms per hectare. Acreage is about 10% less than last season, and sound mature kernels are reduced likely because of smut.

In Brazil, production, distributed between the first and second crop, is estimated at 557,300 tons, 28.2% more than the last crop. With ethanol in crisis, sugarcane has given ground to peanuts.

more bookings for late summer in case demand slides.

Peanut butter companies are aware of consumption increases but don’t know how long it will last. They are taking a wait-and-see attitude. Raw goods are still priced in the low- to mi- 80s. Europe is in a similar situation as both Brazil and Argentina are offering into the European Union market, but buyers are quiet for the same reasons. Officials are concerned about logistic problems in Brazil as the COVID virus is widespread and will affect shelling plants and moving goods to the port.

What Now? More than 70% of producers are worried to some degree about coronavirus’ impact on their farm’s profitability. Over 60% said they expect farmers’ equity positions to decline over the next year.

‘‘

As the economy returns to a new normal, sales of peanut butter and peanut products should be at an all-time high.

Good news for everyone is that the old 2019 crop and the large carryforward are about gone.

As the economy returns to a new normal, sales of peanut butter and peanut products should be at an all-time high.

Good news for everyone is that the old 2019 crop and the large carryforward are about gone. Stay healthy and safe, and have a good season. PG

Producers hope for a better quality crop in 2020.

Current Market The market today is at a standstill as demand is quiet for the time being. It appears that manufacturers are watching demand trends and are worried to put on TWITTER: @PEANUTGROWER

JULY 2020 • THE PEANUT GROWER /

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Southeast Climate Outlook What to expect for the rest of this growing season and into the fall harvest period.

By Pam Knox, University Of Georgia Weather Network And Agricultural Climatologist

N

ow that June 1 has passed, we are in climatological summer and also in the official Atlantic tropical season.

What can we expect for the rest of this growing season and into the fall harvest period?

The major factors to consider for this year are the long-term climate trends and the status of El Niño/La Niña, which will affect the Atlantic tropical season.

Average temperature since the 1960s has risen across the Southeast by about 3 degrees Fahrenheit; daytime high temperatures have risen by about 2 degrees F, while nighttime minimum temperatures have increased by about 4 degrees F. The rise in nighttime temperatures is mainly attributed to increases in humidity.

Precipitation has not changed much over that same period while there have been yearly variations.

A Tropical Shift Over the past few months, we have been in ENSO-neutral conditions and on the warm side of neutral. In the last month, we have seen a swing toward La Niña, and I expect that by the end of summer that’s where we will be. La Niñas are associated with active Atlantic tropical seasons due to lack of vertical wind shear.

Based on those trends, I expect the summer to be warmer than normal across the region and wetter than normal, particularly along the Gulf Coast.

Increased humidity is likely, especially overnight. Fall is also expected to be warmer than normal, but there are no clear signals in precipitation, except in the Florida Peninsula, which is expected to be wetter than normal.

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THE PEANUT GROWER • JULY 2020

A Dry Fall Predictions of the number of Atlantic named storms this year uniformly indicate that we will see more storms than usual. Keep in mind, an active season does not necessarily bring more rain to the Southeast. Last year was well above normal in the number of storms, but there were only two that affected Georgia.

Since the Gulf of Mexico is quite warm, it means there is a potential for more rapid intensification of Gulf storms than usual. Because storms could

develop quickly, watch weather forecasts carefully when planning fieldwork and harvest.

If La Niña develops quickly, there is a chance for dry conditions in the fall. What happens at your location will depend on where the tropical storms go this year.

Climate updates are posted to my blog at https://site.extension.uga.edu/ climate, on Facebook at SEAgClimate, on Twitter at @SE_AgClimate or email me at pknox@uga.edu. PG

What Can We Expect: • • • •

Neutral conditions are expected to change to La Niña by fall.

An active Atlantic hurricane season is planned.

Long-term trend is toward higher temperatures and humidity, especially at night.

Warmer and wetter conditions likely across Southeast summer, especially near the Gulf Coast, with warmer-than-normal temperatures continuing through fall.

• Some potential for dry conditions in fall if La Niña develops.

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Ready, Set, Go! Reduce digging losses with proper setup and field checks.

By Amanda Huber

O

nce the decision to dig has been made and equipment is readied and pulled into the field, a quick field test is needed to put the final adjustments into place.

Clemson University agricultural engineer Kendall Kirk says that producers should synchronize the speed of their digger’s shaker chain, or conveyor belt, to their ground speed. If driving 2 mph, for example, the conveyor belt should be set to a speed of around 2 mph.

“Slower speeds should be used where digging losses are more likely, such as with larger pods, suboptimal maturity, heavier soils and drier soils,” Kirk says.

“Driving too slowly will reduce your ability to dig on a timely basis; driving too fast can cause higher yield losses.”

Vine Growth Affects Speeds Research conducted in 2016 by Kirk and others at Clemson found that digging losses for 80% to 110% of conveyor speed as a percent of travel speed were similar in both Amadas and KMC diggers in Virginia-type peanuts. Digging losses increased by 100 to 200 pounds per acre when conveyor speed was equal to 120% of travel speed.

In 2017, it was found that optimum conveyor speeds of 85% for both equipment brands in Virginias, with significant reductions in yield at higher conveyor speeds tested of 100%, 115% and 130%.

Similar tests in runner-type peanuts suggested that optimum conveyor speeds for the KMC digger were 100% to 115%, with at least a 350 pounds per-acre loss in yield digging at 70%, 85% or 130%.

Kirk says the results suggest that lagging the conveyor slightly in excessive 12 /

THE PEANUT GROWER • JULY 2020

vine growth of Virginia-type peanuts, particularly, may be beneficial.

Field Testing Conveyor Speed According to Kirk, a simple way to set the conveyor speed to match ground speed is to adjust it until the inverted windrow falls slightly, about 2 feet, down field from where the plants were growing.

This can be assessed by placing a flag outside of the digger path at the beginning of a row and observing the location of the end of the windrow relative to the flag.

The check works best if the digger is engaged at full operating speed prior to entering into the peanuts. If the end of the windrow is several feet farther into

the field than the flag, then the conveyor speed is lagging. If the end of the windrow is equal in position to or behind the flag, then the conveyor is faster than the ground speed.

Look For An Even, Smooth Vine Flow Producers’ best resource in digger set up and operation is the owner’s manual that comes with the equipment.

The KMC operation guide offers the following guidelines on set up and operating speed.

“Adjust hydraulic speed to match with miles per hour of the tractor or as needed to allow for even and smooth flow of peanut vines up the conveyor. Make PEANUTGROWER.COM

a partial pass in the field, then turn off machine and tractor or have someone following from behind to monitor machine performance.

“Check to be sure minimal peanut loss is found on the surface or down in the ground. Look at the inverted windrow to ensure that the tap roots are standing straight up in the air and not leaning to one side after inverting. If peanut vines are not inverting with the tap root up, adjust the vine rods to make a tighter windrow, and be sure that the cutting coulters are deep enough to fully cut the peanut vines.”

KMC says the proper speed of the conveyor can be adjusted by using the provided rear shaft tachometer readout and adjusting the hydraulic flow so that the readout shows 2.9 for a 3 mph tractor speed. The tachometer is programmed from the factory to give the correct readout for the speed relationship of 3 mph tractor speed, the normal operating speed.

Daily Checks For Machinery Each day of digging should begin with a careful examination of the equipment. Amadas’ operator manual advises inspecting the following digger parts.

“The conveyor belt assembly, drive chain and conveyor rods are a part of the digger-inverter that needs to be checked daily. Inspect conveyor rods for damage.

Check for bent pins or rods. Repair or replace as needed.

“Inspect the conveyor belts’ tension and tracking. The belts should have approximately 2¼ inches of sag. Inspect the conveyor drive chain daily for signs of wear. Make sure the chain is properly aligned and with the correct amount of tension. Repair or replace a damaged chain as needed.

“Inspect the inverter drive chains daily for signs of wear. Make sure the chains are properly aligned and have the correct amount of tension. Repair or replace a damaged chain as needed.

“Inspect inverter rods daily for visible damage. Adjust rods if out of alignment.

Replace or repair rods as needed.

“Scrapers are located at the bottom of each conveyor belt. Make sure each scraper is securely in place. Keep scrapers free from debris to ensure proper conveyor operation. As the scraper blades wear, it is important to adjust the placement of the scrapers to keep them close TWITTER: @PEANUTGROWER

Good Agricultural Practices At Harvest • Inspect and adjust digger and sharpen blades. Set the blades with a slight pitch to cut the taproot just below the pods.

• Ensure uniform, fluffy, well-aerated windrows. Pods should not touch the ground.

• Carefully adjust combine for your field conditions. Read your operator’s manual for specific adjustments. Proper combine adjustment and speed will reduce pickup losses, percent of loose-shelled kernels, hull damage and foreign material. Excessive dirt and trash blown into the basket during combining will cause airflow restrictions during the curing process and may result in uneven drying and mold development.

• Combine efficiency depends upon several variables including windrow condition, cylinder speed, forward travel speed, internal adjustments and modifications for large-seeded peanuts. Impact and mechanical injury during harvest is largely associated with fast moving parts of the picking cylinder.

• Speed can be the enemy of peanut quality. Fast-moving combine parts may damage a high percentage of hulls and kernels. Both visible and non-visible damage opens the door to insect and mold infestations.

• Read more of the U.S. peanut industry’s Good Agricultural Practices on the American Peanut Council website at https://www.peanutsusa.com/good-manage ment-practices.

to the front idlers (1/16 inches) to prevent soil build up.

“Excessive build up on the front idlers will over-tension the conveyor belt and cause premature wear. Note that an excessively worn blade may be flipped so that the other side can be used.”

See the operator’s manual for additional daily and weekly checks.

Conveyor Speed Calculator Current models of Amadas and KMC diggers provide an interface with a digital readout of the conveyor speed in miles per hour so that hydraulic flow

rate can be easily adjusted to match conveyor speed to travel speed.

In absence of a digital readout, Clemson University’s precision ag team created a conveyor speed calculator. Through simple calculations and set up, producers can use this method to set conveyor speed relative to ground speed. The tool can be found at http://precisionag.sites.clem son.edu/Calculators/PeanutDigger/ ConveyorSpeed/.

Reduce pod loss and add to the bottom line with careful setup and testing of harvesting equipment. PG

JULY 2020 • THE PEANUT GROWER / 13

A Weighty Decision Dig at optimum maturity with the aid of a profile board.

By Amanda Huber

D

etermining when to dig is always tough. The maturity profile board, developed in 1981 by E.J. Williams and J.S. Drexler, ushered in a new era of determining how close to ready a crop was without special equipment and the destruction of the pods.

Auburn University assistant Extension professor Kris Balkcom says, “The peanut maturity profile board is a tool that helps you get an average look at what kind of crop has been set and helps determine optimum digging.”

The profile board works because as peanuts mature, Performing A Maturity the mesocarp color changes Profile Board Check: from white to yellow, orange, • The sample must be a br ow n a nd t he n bl a c k . good representation A lthough kernels in pods of the field to get an with an orange mesocarp are accurate recommendation for digging. mature enough to be consid• Pull a field sample ered sound mature kernels, and check it against they continue to increase in the profile maturity both yield and grade by addboard at least twice. ing weight as they grow.

Two checks offer more To use the profile board, assurance that you are producers expose the mesoon target for a proper carp using a pressure washer. digging date.

“A pressure washer in the range of 1200 to 1600 psi is sufficient,” Balkcom says. “You don’t need a bigger one. The smaller ones do a good job and keep from busting up the pods, including the immature ones.”

Start With A Good Sample The key to getting an accurate reading on the profile board depends on getting a good sample.

“Pluck up a small bunch of peanuts from different locations across the field. Pick plants that are uniform and free of disease. Disease would affect the sample,” he says.

“Look at the pods and make sure they don’t show symptoms of disease. There could be pod rot or underneath white mold.

You want to look at those pods to make sure they are good and healthy and that will give you a good sample reading.”

Balkcom also says to look at the foliage and the condition of the vines and stems.

“You want to see that the plants are in good shape and will

14 /

THE PEANUT GROWER • JULY 2020

hold onto those pods.”

When you have all the samples gathered, pick off all the harvestable pods from the plant, including fully formed pods and immatures.

“Pick off all the pods that would go into the combine basket if being picked. Continue until you have got a good uniform sample of about 200 pods. That’s the sample size you need.

Like soil sampling, the goal is to get a good average,” he says.

Blast Hull To Show Mesocarp At that point, the sample goes into a wire mesh basket, and using the pressure washer, the outer layer is blasted off.

“Do not place the nozzle too close to the pods because it could disintegrate the more immature pods. As you begin to wash and spray the outer hull and expose the mesocarp, you can see the different color underneath.”

Once you are satisfied that the hulls of the sample have been separated and the mesocarp underneath exposed, the PEANUTGROWER.COM

sample is ready for grouping into colors.

“On the board, pods are placed light to dark with lighter ones being less mature and darker ones more mature.”

Shell Pods To Expose Kernel Once the pods are separated by color, Balkcom says some peanuts grouped in the darker area should be shelled so you can see what is happening with the kernel.

“Pods that are completely mature have a nearly black or black hull and the seed coat is tan or copper colored. Those pods would be placed in the three days to harvest category.

“The next group would have a seed coat that is a lighter color, but with dark oil spots formed on the surface as the peanut gets closer to maturity. The oil content increases in the kernel and comes to the surface. When you see the darkened oil spots, that generally means it is about seven days away from maturity. At 10 days, oil spots are not as distinctive as they are at seven days.”

Balkcom says many of the hulls will be dark, which is why shelling them is necessary.

“You need to take a look at what’s going on inside and look for those oil spots as a tell-tale sign of maturity progress.”

Take Two Samples For Certainty Other scenarios producers may see are where one kernel has the copper-tinged seed coat but the other has the oil spots.

“With one fully mature and the other needing a few days to bring it along, we would put that in the three- to five-day range,” he says.

When you end up with two distinct groups on the board, it is likely because there was a drought in the mid-season. This type arrangement presents some challenges, Balkcom says.

“The risk in waiting on the crop to mature further is losing those pods that are already mature.”

To get a more accurate picture of digging date, producers should pull samples and perform the profile maturity board check at least twice. The first time should be when it is estimated that the crop is about 10 days from digging. The second check would be when the first sample said to dig.

“Two checks will give you a better chance to get the top dollar for your crop,” Balkcom says. “It’s very important when you think about selling by the ton on the grade and you get more money per point. It adds up.”

Maturity profile boards are available at county Extension offices, buying points or product sales representatives. PG

NCSU Offers Updated Peanut Maturity Board North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension recently released an updated maturity profile board for Viriginia market type peanuts. It will be available through Extension offices.

NCSU Extension peanut specialist David Jordan says, “We included some images of things you might see in your crop on the profile board. The goal is to make it a better management tool and to help identify potential problems to avoid in the field.”

For many years, the North Carolina Peanut Growers Association has supported NCSU research and Extension efforts that have contributed to the information provided on the peanut profile board.

TWITTER: @PEANUTGROWER

JULY 2020 • THE PEANUT GROWER / 15

{

A TRIBUTE TO DR. BARBARA SHEW NCSU Research And Extension Plant Pathologist

}

A Voice Of Accuracy And Precision

T David Jordan

16 /

his fall, Dr. Barbara Shew will retire after many years of contributions to the peanut industry. Her work has encompassed the core components of the land-grant system — Extension, research and teaching — and in doing so, she has touched the lives of many people.

We are all very appreciative of her presence in the field, classroom, in front of an audience of peanut growers, around a table of eastern North Carolina seafood or barbeque, and in more formal settings such as the annual meeting of the American Peanut Research and Education Society and the American Phytopathological Society. In each of these settings, Barbara conveys a clear message of support and appreciation for the people in front of her with an eye toward helping someone else be successful. In

THE PEANUT GROWER • JULY 2020

helping others, Barbara has been very successful in her role in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology.

Clear Message Of Support I personally have gained much from Barbara’s presence and integrity as a person and a scientist. Those who have been around me know that my organizational skills are not the best and are somewhat lacking. My field maps have been found on the bottom of paper plates, and I have been known to write down important data on a truck tool box or tailgate, a plot stake or on yellow flags that have been sitting in the field all year. I think I remember the results of a trial, only to find that the summary in my head and the words to express it weren’t quite right. My peanut-breeding friends PEANUTGROWER.COM

would cringe at my stack of plot plans and notes for the year held together by a single clip.

My point is not to dwell on my limitations but to contrast them with a skilled and effective scientist — Dr. Barbara Shew. Often times, the words accurate and precise are contrasted, and on many occasions, students in prelims are asked to state which of these is more important. With Barbara, people in our industry have witnessed someone that is both accurate and precise in her work and in her words. Both of these matter.

An Example Of Integrity Clearly presenting both the strengths and limitations of her research findings and their application are what peanut farmers and those who support them need. We work in a landscape that can vary from field to field, day to day and certainly year to year. When combined with people’s personalities and views, what helps farmers the most is a clear message that is as accurate and as precise as possible. At times, I find myself telling someone what they want to hear (in most cases after trying twice to tell them what they really do need to hear.)

Barbara does not fall into that trap, and she has always stayed the course on what she knows in her recommendations. This applies not only to plant pathology but also to life. We have all gained from her integrity and rigor.

Barbara, we will truly miss both your presence and your message. You have taught us much about how to work with people and peanuts in ways that bring out the best in both. We wish you all the best in your next phase of life after North Carolina State University. PG — DAVID JORDAN North Carolina State University Extension peanut specialist

Tributes To Dr. Barbara Shew Peanut growers must find answers to many problems that arise in peanut fields. When it came to diseases, they knew that they could get help from their Extension agent. Dr. Shew worked with dedication to make sure findings from her research were transferred quickly to agents and consultants. Whether through the agent or in person, Dr. Shew brought NCSU and the College of Ag and Life Sciences to the farm.

Thank you, Barbara, for all of your work. We will miss you.

— BOB SUTTER North Carolina Peanut Growers executive secretary

◆◆◆ My observations are that Barb has always exhibited many admirable qualities. Maybe I just noticed them because they are ones that I battle. These include being highly organized, highly focused and her attention to detail. Barb always sought to provide solid answers in her research and to provide that information to growers in a timely manner and in a format that can be adapted to most any farming situation.

For many years, she has worked diligently with little fanfare and provided outstanding disease management programs for growers in North Carolina and beyond. Her collaborative spirit, deep desire to serve peanut growers and the entire industry as well as her mentoring role of younger female faculty in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology have been invaluable.

Barb will indeed leave a legacy of integrity and putting others first. We will miss Barb for reasons far beyond her peanut pathology expertise. Best wishes.

— RICK BRANDENBURG NCSU Extension entomologist and longtime colleague

◆◆◆ Barbara is an outstanding scientist dedicated to the proposition that we should seek the truth and preach it.

I certainly appreciate her abilities and accomplishments, but even more appreciate her spirit, always willing to help any way she can. She has certainly helped and encouraged me. Barbara has a brilliant mind, paragonal character, a big heart and a keen sense of humor.

— ALBERT CULBREATH University of Georgia research pathologist

“Barbara, we will truly miss both your presence and your message. You have taught us much about how to work with people and peanuts in ways that bring out the best in both.

We wish you all the best in your next phase of life after North Carolina State University.”

TWITTER: @PEANUTGROWER

JULY 2020 • THE PEANUT GROWER / 17

Collecting Samples Learn how to properly collect soil and root samples to test for nematodes.

When To Sample Research at Auburn University shows that generally the best time to sample fields for nematodes is August through October.

During this period, soil nematode popRecommended Sampling Period ulations are at their Peanuts ............................................. August highest level and are Corn ............................... August - October most easily detected.

Cotton .................. September - October Soybeans ........... September - October The worst time Tomatoes .................... June - September to sample for nemaPotatoes .............................. May – August todes is in late winter through early spring. Nematode populations are at their lowest level during this period and may not be detected in the sample.

Where And How To Sample Fields where crops have been grown repeatedly should be tested every two to three years for nematodes. In this way, a population of destructive nematodes may be detected prior to crop losses. This is particularly true where crop rotation is not practiced. For sampling, fields should be divided into 5- to 10-acre sections. Collect 20 or more random samples of soil from each section. Take samples from the top 8 to 10 inches of soil using a soil probe or shovel. Soil should be taken directly from the root zone if plants are still present. Mix samples thoroughly and remove one pint for the laboratory analysis. Do not collect samples when soil is dry or extremely wet, since nematode populations are usually low under these conditions.

18 /

THE PEANUT GROWER • JULY 2020

JONATHAN D. EISENBACK, VIRGINIA TECH, BUGWOOD.ORG

N

ationwide, crop losses caused by nematodes are estimated at around 5% to 10% annually. In the Southeast, where environmental conditions favor growth and reproduction of nematodes, losses are even higher. The seven most damaging nematode species that affect Alabama growers are soybean cyst, lesion, stunt, lance, reniform, southern and peanut root-knot nematodes.

Symptoms caused by nematodes are usually not specific enough to permit diagnosis by examination of infected plants.

Chlorosis (yellowing), stunting, early wilting and reduced yields are all frequently associated with nematode injury but also may be caused by other factors. Accurate diagnosis of nematode-induced disease or injury usually requires soil laboratory analysis. Before valid control recommendations can be given, the specific types and numbers of nematodes present must be determined. This requires proper collection of soil and root samples representative of the problem area.

When problem areas are present in the field, samples should be taken to determine if nematodes are the cause. Samples of moderately affected plants should be taken since nematode numbers are usually reduced beneath severely injured or dead plants. Samples should consist of roots and soil from several plants. Also, it is always a good idea to sample from an area where plants are unaffected. Keep samples separate and mark them “good area” and “bad area.”

Package And Send Soil samples should be placed in a plastic bag, sealed tightly to prevent drying and placed in a nematode sampling carton.

Sample cartons are available from county Extension offices.

Sample number and origin should be recorded on each carton. If samples are not mailed immediately, store at 40 degrees Fahrenheit (refrigerate). Avoid placing the sample in the sun or in a closed automobile. Samples stored under such adverse conditions can give inaccurate results.

Label And Mail Keep written records of the number and origin of each sample. In order to make a useful recommendation, information on the previous crop history and crop to be planted is needed.

This information, along with the name and address where lab results are to be sent, can be placed on the Information Sheet for Nematode Soil Samples (Form ANR-F7). Mail samples to the appropriate plant diagnostic laboratory and include the sample service charge as needed. PG Article by Edward Sikora, Kassie Conner, W. Gazaway, A. K. Hagan and J. M. Mullen, Alabama Cooperative Extension Service.

PEANUTGROWER.COM

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SCR Advisory For V-C Producers

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It is also available for download Edited by Dr. Mark Abney, University of Georgia Extension Entomologist Edited by Dr. Mark Abney, University of Georgia Extension Entomologist • Extending spray intervals becan be beneficial for building organic matter and soil health.

It is in peanut.

According to research conbon-based molecules.

Some of the carbon is recycled through nuts. Early pressure calls for early action. As we entered Edited by Dr. Markas Abney, University of Georgia Extension Entomologist a PDF. yonda15 days way to profit from cover crops. soil organisms, butstill some ducted in that Virginia North Carolina, Finding in becomes thetosoil dif- substances June, thererootworms was time getishumic peanuts planted andbuildandalso The advisory is designed to help de• Repeated, frequent periods of soil organic matter, is improving nutrient and moisture availability.

Threecornered Burrower Bug preventative ficult, and injury often not detected Bug obtain a reasonable window of conditions for growth andinsecticide applications termine in a few Three-Cornered minutes whether fields Burrower Bug leaf wetness; rains, reduce soil Three-Cornered Coverexcessive crops greatly erosion Hopper and loss. The Alfalfa Hopper hard to to infestations idenBurrower bugs can bebefore hard idenmade are established until after peanuts are dug when it is need an insecticide treatment.

PG harvesting.

Alfalfa Hopper Burrower bugs can be hard to idenfrequent irrigation

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too late for control measures. Scout for 4 SCR by pulling up plants and examin-

10

future of our food supply depends on topsoil, and cover

Cover crops contribute totify better management soil There are no foliThree-cornered hoppers in the field, field and Threecorneredalfalfa alfalfa and an an infestation infestation provide goodofcontrol.

Mid-May is generally the best to plant Three-cornered alfalfa hoppers tifytime in the field and an peanuts infestation Rain immediately after atappliare exceptional helping stop erosion. with cover nutrients. By building soil organic matter, cover may • crops are lightNo-till green and wedgeuntilcrops harvest. hoppers are light green is often not detected are light green and wedgeis oftencan not detected harvest. ar insecticide available, and in South Carolina, although peanuts still beuntil made iftreatments cation – wait 24 hours to irrigate crops reduces erosion to a fraction of what it would be.

Even with shaped.

They stand about ¼ black-toand wedge shaped. They Burrower have aa black or impact the need for fertilizer. Cover crops bugs scavenge for nutrients shaped.

They stand about ¼ Burrower bugs have a black-totargeting the adult beetle has not abeen ing the roots and pods feeding injuplanted into early June.forOnce planting dates reach June • light Consecutive use fungicides with the mode of action (extillage, fieldofwith cover crops is same still inch better protected.

PG high and are about ¼ inch small redinto eyes on a stand about ¼ inch high brown body, body and small, red eyes and hold nitrogen rather than letting it escape rivers or inch high and are about ¼ inch brown body, small red eyes on a cept chlorothalonil) 10, we are looking at approximate digging dates near shown to reduce injury or improve ry and sifting through the loose soil to long.

Both adults and nymphs small-sized head.

The upper wings and are about ¼ inch long. on a small-sized The upper groundwater. The nitrogen is released to the head. nexthead. year’s crop. long. Both adults and nymphs small-sized The upper wings have mouthparts of burrower bugs are shiny and Article from the Southern Agriculture Research and Education Oct. the 20 for a 132-day like Bailey or digging dates Both piercing adults and nymphs wings of bugs are shiny yields. find larvae.

It mayvariety be necessary toburrower have piercing mouthparts of burrower bugs are shiny and and by penetrating the semi-hardened with the membrahavefeed piercing mouth parts program. information, visit www.sare.org/covercrops. and with the memSlowing AFor Growing Leaf Spot Epidemic: entering November for moderate-maturity varieties Determine theto need to treat on a wash off into wetcrops or clay soils to the clearly see Cover help keep soilsemi-hardened covered.

Rain is likely and feed by penetrating the semi-hardened with the membrastem and sucking plant juices. nous tip overlapping.

Its legs are and feed by penetrating branous tip overlapping.

Its legs Effective fungicide programs are designed tostem prevent disease, and sucking plantnot juices. nous tip overlapping.

Its legs are like Georgia 06G. cause bare soil to erode, form a crust or overheat in direct field-by-field basis.

Decisions can be damaged pods. pearman ad 11/14/08 3:19 PM Page 1andand tend and feed in a circular spiny, needle-like, piercing, the sucking plant are spiny needle-like.

Piercing, it after the fact. If something goes wrong They andstem you to find late They tend to feed in a leaf circular spiny, and needle-like, piercing, sun.

Some bare soils can reach 140 degrees, killing soil organOne of growth the concerns around that time ofbased year becomes on both adultcure populations and for improving and Rapid after rain can cause fashion around a stem, making sucking mouth parts are visible Four principles maintaining juices.

They tend to feed sucking mouth parts are visible with spot lesions in the bottom of the canopy, especially with less than 30 fashion around a stem, making sucking mouth parts are visible isms stressing the crop.

Cover crop residue protects the slow and drying conditions prior to awith combining that can lead punctures as they go. The damaged areafeeding typically punctures swells and above ground root past history in isissoil. peanutfeeding fields. short splits or creases to occur in athe hand Burrower bug in a circular fashion around a stem, making as they go.

The hand lens. lens.

Burrower bug is closely soil health: days until harvest, treat immediately, retreating in 10and days, with one feeding punctures as they go. The damaged area typically swells above ground root with a hand lens.

Burrower bug may occur.

On soil peanuts, feeding may occurasonpossible. limbs, leaf petioles or occur. pegs. On closely related to stink bugs.toolate in growth to quality if they in damp conditions damaged area typically swells, and above-ground root growth may related to stink bugs.

Treatment the season followouter pod issues wall that cansitbeout confused • Keep the covered as much growth occur. On peanuts, feeding may occur on limbs, leaf petioles or pegs. closely related to stink bugs. of the may following: crops the biodiversity in farm fields. peanuts, feeding occur on limbs, leaf petioles or pegs. long.Cover Everydamage. year is aimprove little different, but overall combi• Topsin Disturb the soilfl as ing the significant rainfall •may be 4.5 toomay late with SCR FL 10 oz little + 1.5asptpossible.

Bravo Generally, the more plant diversity in a field and the longer • Keep plants growing throughout the year to feed the soil. nation of lower yield likely potential, higher late to leafeffectively spot presprevent rootworm injuThis pest is more to be found • Provost Opti 10.7 oz + 1.5 pt Bravo that living roots are growing, the more biodiversity there will • Diversify crop rotations as much as possible, including cover surelow and spots generally harvesting ry. conditions are treatments Late-season may in andunfavorable heavier-textured • Priaxor 8 fl also oz be in soil organisms, leading to healthier soil.

Growing mixes of crops. more under prevalent for peanuts planted after about June 10.spider mite outbreaks. PG encourage soils moist conditions or with cover crops improves diversity.

5

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PE ANUTGROWER JANUARY THE PEANUT GROWER / JANUARY 2019 • 2020 THE •PE ANUT GROWER

Pointers Never Leave Peanuts Unprotected July brings a series of decisions that are generally associated with disease management. While herbicides will need to be applied in some fields and there could be outbreaks of foliar-feeding insects (hopefully not spider mites), the key to optimizing yield will be timely applications of effective fungicides. Starting DAVID JORDAN North Carolina State fungicide sprays at the R3 University stage of peanut development Extension Agronomist is the general recommendation in the Virginia-Carolina region. With the exception of fungicide programs that include Miravis with either Elatus or Convoy for stem rot control, applying fungicides every two weeks, as long as conditions are favorable for pathogens, is critical.

When weather is not favorable for leaf spot to develop, which can be determined using local weather-based advisories, stretching out the days between sprays can reduce expenses and minimize the likelihood of spider mite outbreaks without sacrificing leaf spot control.

Never leave peanuts unprotected when conditions are favorable for pathogen development and incidence of disease. When fungicides are applied in a timely manner and in a way that should keep peanuts protected, remember to select the correct fungicide to do the job at hand. With leaf spot resistance present for several fungicide sites of action, making sure effective fungicides or mixtures of fungicides are applied can make all the difference. Check with your local Extension agent or specialist to know what levels of resistance might be present in your area and formulate a fungicide program accordingly.

In July, Apogee or Kudos is applied. These products prevent internode elongation and minimize growth. Two applications are generally needed. The first goes out at 50% row closure where half of the vines from adjacent rows are touching. The follow-up spray goes out two to three weeks later depending upon regrowth and weather conditions.

Don’t be early on the first spray, and make sure nitrogen is included with the application.

While increases in yield and grade can be inconsistent, there are more intangible benefits to using these products.

Digging can be easier when rows are more clearly defined, and as peanut plants move through the digger, there is less loss of pods. Vines invert more easily and stay in windows (falling over) more often when these products are applied, especially for peanut varieties that have a vigorous growth 20 /

THE PEANUT GROWER • JULY 2020

habit, also considered rank growth.

Much of what happens in July and August is setting us up for flexibility and efficiency in digging and harvesting peanut. Actions now determine the flexibility you will have in September and October. Increased f lexibility means greater ability to optimize yield and financial return, especially with the unpredictable nature of weather.

Apply Fungicides Preventatively Disease and insect management will be important as we move into the second half of the growing season. It is highly encouraged to scout fields on a weekly basis even if you believe you are in the good fungicide program. We observed mite infestations in several fields in the west EMI KIMURA Texas during 2019 growing Texas A&M AgriLife season. Although it is not a common issue, environmen- Extension Peanut Specialist tal conditions were favorable for mite populations. Without careful scouting of fields, such problems can be easily ignored. They will reduce yield potential if they are not treated immediately.

In the Southwest, the common diseases affecting peanuts are the pod rots, leaf spot and Sclerotinia blight. Research compared fungicide applications between preventative calendar-based applications 60 to 70 days after planting and PEANUTGROWER.COM

Pointers after the disease symptom observation for a curative treatment. The result showed that preventative fungicide applications were more effective than curative applications of fungicide on Sclerotinia blight and pod rot disease complex.

This approach will be effective for managing foliar diseases.

Minimize The Impact Of Disease The 2020 production season has been a roller coaster ride for the first 60 days. Growers have had a difficult time establishing stands because of cooler than normal temperatures during late April and early May, as well as having to deal with seed quality issues throughout the planting season. The good news SCOTT MONFORT is that the crop has turned the University of Georgia corner and looks good across Extension Agronomist most of Georgia.

Based on the information from our climatologist, Pam Knox, the weather is predicted to be warmer and potentially wetter than normal. She also notes that humidity levels could be higher, especially at night. Although everyone

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hopes the rain continues, the higher than normal temperatures and moisture/humidity can lead to an increase in disease pressure. With this in mind, disease management needs to remain on the minds of growers for the rest of the year.

There are several things growers can do to minimize the impact of diseases and other pests on their crop’s yield potential. The number one thing is to have a scout in your fields weekly. A good scout will keep you informed when a pest problem develops, thus allowing you a chance to make changes to your management tactics before it costs you a loss in yield potential.

Secondly, effectively managing diseases in peanut is dependent on the fungicide program you choose to use on your farm. Growers in Georgia have the advantage of having quite a few fungicides to choose from. Understandably, growers often select the base, or cheaper, fungicide programs in an effort to save money. The problem in disease-prone years is that the base fungicide programs may not be as effective as more expensive, premium programs, thus leaving money on the table and yield in the field.

JULY 2020 • THE PEANUT GROWER /

21

Pointers This does not mean a grower needs to utilize the most expensive fungicide program.

In the end, growers need to have an understanding of the historic disease pressure on their farm, have someone scouting their crop, and put together the most effective and economical fungicide program that fits his/her needs.

Peanut Rx should be a helpful tool in this endeavor. The Peanut Rx can be found at uga peanutteam.org, and do not hesitate to contact your local Extension agent for help.

“...Be sure to check the calcium values across your fields and remember that gypsum is applied to dryland fields rather than lime.”

KRIS BALKCOM

Check Fields For Calcium I know many of you had some seed issues this planting season.

The cooler temperatures in April and May worsened that problem. Thankfully, not everyone had stand problems.

KRIS BALKCOM Auburn University But for those who Extension Specialist did, hopefully we have minimized the problem as best we can by patching in a few more seeds or completely replanting those fields.

Just remember, by harvest those plants may not be as far apart in age as you would think since those first ones were so slow because of the cooler weather. I encourage you to not give up on them even though they aren’t perfect or what you expected to have this year. I have seen those type stands still make very well. Continue to keep them clean and free from weeds.

Many of you are reluctant to use higher-end fungicides, but it is worth the money and will give the return. They are essential in combating disease.

Also, be sure to check the calcium values across your fields and remember that gypsum is applied to dryland fields rather than lime. The reason for this is that we may not get enough rain on dryland fields to make calcium from lime available to the plant compared to irrigated fields where we are frequently watering.

Keep scouting and concentrate on making a respectable yield.

22 /

THE PEANUT GROWER • JULY 2020

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