Peanut
Arachis hypogaea
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Quick Info
water
Regular watering during flowering and pod fill
spacing
15 cm between plants, 50 cm between rows
depth
3-5 cm deep
sun
Full sun
season
Plant at start of wet season
frost
Frost sensitive
height
30-50 cm
gemination
5-10 days
sprout to harvest
4-5 months
soil ph
5.5-6.5
soil type
Light, well-drained sandy loam
fertilizer needs
Low nitrogen (fixes own), moderate phosphorus and calcium
About
Peanuts (groundnuts) are a valuable food and cash crop in PNG, grown mainly in the lowlands and lower highland areas. The plant is unique in that it flowers above ground but develops its pods underground. Peanuts fix nitrogen in the soil, making them excellent rotation crops.
Health Benefits
High in protein (25-30%), healthy fats, vitamin E, niacin, folate, and minerals including magnesium and zinc. Good source of plant-based protein for PNG diets.
Market Requirements
Pods should be clean, dry, and free of mould. Shell should be intact. Kernels should be firm and not shrivelled. Sell fresh, boiled, roasted, or dried.