Container Grown Peanuts: Growing Peanuts in Small Spaces

When we think of peanuts, we often imagine large fields and hot summers. However, you don't need acres of land or a warm climate to grow this beloved legume. Thanks to container gardening, it's possible to cultivate your own peanuts in small spaces like patios, balconies, or even windowsills. In this article, we'll explore the world of container grown peanuts, from choosing the right container to harvesting your crop.

Choosing the Right Container

Before you start growing peanuts in containers, you need to choose the right container for the job. Peanuts have deep taproots that require soil depth of at least 12 inches, so look for containers that are at least 14 inches deep. The diameter of your container should be at least 18 inches to allow enough space for the peanut plants to spread out. You can use any type of container that meets these requirements, such as plastic pots, wooden planters, or even old buckets.

Once you've chosen your container, it's time to fill it with soil. Use a high-quality potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage. Peanuts prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5, so test your soil before planting and adjust if necessary.

Planting Peanuts

Now that you have your container and soil ready, it's time to plant your peanuts. Start by soaking your raw peanuts overnight to soften the shells and speed up germination. Then, place the peanuts about 2 inches deep in your soil, spaced about 6 inches apart. Cover them with soil and water well.

It's important to keep the soil moist during the germination and growth stages, but be careful not to overwater. Too much water can cause the seeds to rot before they have a chance to sprout. As the peanut plants grow, you can reduce watering to once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Caring for Peanut Plants

Peanut plants require full sun and warm temperatures to thrive, so choose a sunny spot for your container. The ideal temperature for peanut plants is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If your area doesn't get enough sunlight or the temperatures are too low, you can use grow lights or a greenhouse to create a suitable environment for your plants.

As your peanut plants grow, they will begin to develop yellow flowers that eventually turn into pods. Once the flowers have fallen off and the leaves start to yellow, it's time to harvest your peanuts. Gently dig up the entire plant, being careful not to damage the pods. Shake off the excess soil and let the plants dry in a warm, dry place for about two weeks.

Harvesting and Storing Peanuts

After your peanuts have dried, it's time to remove the shells and enjoy your harvest. To remove the shells, simply rub the peanuts between your hands or use a rolling pin. You can store your peanuts in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to six months.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try roasting your homegrown peanuts. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spread the shelled peanuts on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peanuts are golden brown and fragrant.

A plastic container filled with soil and young peanut plants

Container gardening opens up a world of possibilities for urban gardeners and anyone with limited outdoor space. With a little bit of planning and some care, you can grow your own peanuts in a container, no matter where you live. Not only is it a fun and rewarding experience, but you'll also get to taste the delicious fruits of your labor. So why not give container grown peanuts a try?

Related container gardening, legumes, urban gardening, planters, roasted peanuts