Can You Grow Peanuts In The UK?

Welcome to “Growing Peanuts in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide”! Often perceived as a crop exclusive to warmer climates, peanuts can indeed thrive in the UK with the right care and conditions. This guide is your ultimate resource for cultivating peanuts right in your UK garden. From selecting the right variety to understanding the unique growing requirements, we cover it all. We’ll walk you through each step – from planting, nurturing, to harvesting your very own peanuts. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a curious newbie, this guide is designed to help you successfully grow this fascinating and rewarding crop in the UK’s unique climate. Let’s embark on this exciting gardening adventure together and discover the joys of growing peanuts in your own backyard!

The question on your lips is can you grow peanuts in the UK? Well, here we are going to give you the answer and how to grow peanuts successfully in the UK with our gardening tips and advice. When you are gardening it is all about experimenting and trying new things. If you have never tried growing peanuts before you should certainly give it a try!

Peanuts are often called monkey nuts. One thing about monkey nuts is that squirrels love them so if you are wanting to keep squirrels away from your garden you may not want to try growing them.

Did you know that peanuts (monkey nuts) are not actually nuts? They are actually part of the bean family and grow underground and not in trees. Peanuts are part of the legumes family. It’s like when you find out that pineapples grow on a plant and not in a tree – sorry if I have ruined agadoo for you.

Here we will explain all about growing peanuts in the UK with our easy gardening tips and advice. Let us know if you try growing them.

Allotment and Kitchen Garden Book

Are you starting an allotment or planning on growing your own fruit, vegetables, herbs, and flowers in a kitchen garden? If so we highly recommend the book Allotment Month By Month. This does exactly what it does on the cover to help you with what you should be doing in the allotment and kitchen garden each month. Below you can see the link for Amazon where you can purchase the book directly. This book is extremely popular with all allotment holders as you will read in the reviews:-

You can check out all the allotment and kitchen garden books we recommend here.

Gardening With Ben Podcasts

Did you know that I am an award-winning podcaster winning the award for best Gardening Podcast in the Grow your Own Magazine Awards 2021. You can listen to our regular gardening podcasts on any platform Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Alexa plus lots more – search Gardening with Ben and you will find my podcasts. You can listen to my latest podcast below:-

Health Benefits Of Peanuts

Peanuts, despite their name, are not true nuts but belong to the legume family. They offer various health benefits due to their nutrient-rich composition. Here are some health benefits of peanuts:

1. Rich in Nutrients: Peanuts are a good source of essential nutrients, including protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium.
2. Heart Health: The monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in peanuts contribute to heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and increasing good cholesterol levels (HDL), reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
3. Weight Management: Despite being calorie-dense, studies suggest that including peanuts in moderation in a balanced diet may contribute to weight management due to their satiating effect, helping control overall calorie intake.
4. Antioxidant Properties: Peanuts contain antioxidants, including resveratrol, which may help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
5. Blood Sugar Control: The fiber and healthy fats in peanuts may help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of glucose. This can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes.
6. Brain Health: Peanuts contain nutrients like folate, niacin, and resveratrol, which may support brain health and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
7. Reduced Risk of Gallstones: Regular consumption of peanuts has been associated with a lower risk of developing gallstones, possibly due to the healthy fats and fiber content.
8. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Peanuts contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing inflammation in the body and lowering the risk of chronic diseases associated with inflammation.
9. Nutrient Absorption: The healthy fats in peanuts may enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin E, promoting overall nutrient absorption in the body.
10. Muscle Health: The protein content in peanuts contributes to muscle maintenance, repair, and growth. They are a convenient and affordable plant-based protein source.

It’s important to note that while peanuts offer numerous health benefits, individuals with allergies should avoid them. Additionally, moderation is key due to their calorie density. Including a variety of nuts and seeds in a well-balanced diet can contribute to overall health and well-being. Always consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized dietary advice.

How to Grow Peanuts

When you are growing peanuts it is always good to know the best way to grow them. Whether it be outside, in a greenhouse, or in a polytunnel you need to make sure you grow them in the correct climate for the country. Here we will be providing you with all the tips and advice on how to grow peanuts successfully in the UK with a great return of harvest.

When To Sow, Plant, and Harvest Peanuts

Do you want to know the best time to sow, plant, and harvest your peanuts? Here is a simple chart of when the best times in the UK are. Remember this is only a guide and will depend on the weather and the temperature

Best Place To Grow Peanuts

Peanuts thrive in warm climates with well-drained, sandy soil. Here are some key considerations for the best place to grow peanuts:

1. Climate:

• Warm Temperatures: Peanuts require a warm climate with temperatures between 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). They are frost-sensitive and need a growing season of at least 4 to 5 months without frost.

1. Soil:

• Well-Drained Soil: Peanuts prefer well-drained sandy loam or sandy soil. Heavy or waterlogged soil can lead to issues like rot and disease.
• pH Level: A slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 5.8 to 7.0 is optimal for peanut cultivation.

1. Sunlight:

• Full Sun: Peanuts require plenty of sunlight for optimal growth. Choose a location that receives full sun exposure throughout the day.

1. Watering:

• Consistent Moisture: Peanuts need consistent moisture, especially during flowering and pod development. However, overwatering should be avoided as peanuts are sensitive to waterlogged conditions.

1. Spacing:

• Adequate Spacing: Provide enough space between peanut plants to allow for proper growth and development. Crowded plants can lead to disease issues.

1. Rotation:

• Crop Rotation: Avoid planting peanuts in the same location every year to reduce the risk of diseases that can build up in the soil.

1. Growing Season:

• Long Growing Season: Peanuts have a relatively long growing season, usually around 120 to 150 days. Ensure that the growing season in your region is sufficient for peanut cultivation.

1. Pest and Disease Management:

• Consideration for Pests: Be aware of potential pests and diseases that affect peanuts, such as nematodes and fungal infections. Implement appropriate pest and disease management practices.

1. Variety Selection:

• Suitable Varieties: Choose peanut varieties that are well-suited to your climate and soil conditions. Consult with local agricultural extension services for recommendations.

1. Elevation:
   • Low Elevation: Peanuts are typically grown at lower elevations. While they can be cultivated in various regions, lower elevations often provide the warmer temperatures required.

In summary, the best place to grow peanuts is in a warm climate with well-drained sandy soil, full sun exposure, and a long growing season. It’s essential to consider factors like water management, soil quality, and pest control for successful peanut cultivation. Always check with local agricultural experts or extension services for specific recommendations based on your region.

Best Soil To Grow Peanuts In.

Peanuts thrive in well-drained soil that is loose, sandy, and slightly acidic to neutral in pH. Here are the key soil characteristics for successfully growing peanuts:

1. Well-Drained Soil: Peanuts do not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so it’s crucial to plant them in well-drained soil. Sandy loam soil is ideal because it allows excess water to drain away, preventing root rot.
2. Loose Soil Texture: Peanuts develop underground, and loose, friable soil makes it easier for the plants to penetrate the ground and form peanut pods. This type of soil allows for proper aeration and facilitates the development of the peanut pegs.
3. Slightly Acidic to Neutral pH: Peanuts prefer soil with a pH level between 5.8 and 6.2. This slightly acidic to neutral range provides an optimal environment for nutrient uptake and overall plant health.
4. Warm Climate: Peanuts thrive in warm climates, and they require a long, frost-free growing season. The soil temperature should be consistently above 60°F (15°C) for successful germination and plant development.
5. Avoid Compacted Soil: Compacted soil can hinder peanut pod development and make it difficult for the plants to penetrate the ground. Proper soil preparation, such as tilling, can help prevent compaction.

Before planting peanuts, it’s advisable to conduct a soil test to assess the specific conditions in your garden or allotment. This test can provide information about the soil’s nutrient levels and pH, allowing you to make any necessary amendments.

If your soil does not meet the ideal conditions for peanuts, you can improve it by incorporating organic matter, such as compost, to enhance fertility and drainage. Additionally, raised beds can be a good option in areas with heavy or poorly-draining soil.

Ultimately, selecting the right location with well-drained, loose soil and providing the appropriate climatic conditions will contribute to the successful growth of peanuts in your garden or allotment.

How To Sow Peanuts

Sowing peanuts is a straightforward process, and they can be grown from seeds, which are actually the peanut kernels. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to sow peanuts:

1. Choose the Right Variety:

• Select a peanut variety that is suitable for your climate. There are various types of peanuts, including Spanish, Valencia, and Virginia varieties.

2. Timing:

• Peanuts require warm temperatures, so plan to sow them after the last frost when the soil has warmed up. Soil temperatures should be consistently above 60°F (15°C).

3. Soil Preparation:

• Choose a well-drained, loose soil with a pH between 5.8 and 6.2. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost, to improve fertility and drainage.

4. Planting Site:

• Select a sunny location for your peanut plot, as peanuts thrive in full sun.

5. Peanut Seed Preparation:

• Peanuts are typically sown directly into the soil. Each peanut seed consists of a shell with two or more kernels inside. Before planting, shell the peanuts and select healthy, well-formed kernels for planting.

6. Planting Depth:

• Plant the peanut seeds about 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) deep. Place the peanuts in the soil with the pointed end facing downward.

7. Spacing:

• Space the peanut seeds 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) apart in rows, with rows spaced about 24 to 36 inches (60 to 90 cm) apart. This spacing allows the peanut plants to spread and develop properly.

8. Watering:

• Water the soil thoroughly after planting to ensure good seed-to-soil contact and to initiate germination. Keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season.

9. Mulching:

• Mulch the peanut bed to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. A layer of straw or organic mulch can be beneficial.

10. Growth and Harvest:

• Peanuts develop underground, and the plants will produce yellow flowers before the peanuts begin to form underground. The peanut plants will mature in about 120 to 150 days. Harvest when the foliage begins to yellow, and carefully dig up the peanuts.

Tips:

• Avoid overwatering, as peanuts are sensitive to waterlogged conditions.
• Peanuts are legumes and have nitrogen-fixing nodules on their roots, so they can benefit from inoculation with rhizobia bacteria to enhance nitrogen fixation.

By following these steps, you can successfully sow and grow peanuts in your garden or allotment. Keep in mind that peanuts are a warm-season crop, so ensure that your growing season is suitable for their development.

How To Plant Peanuts

Your peanuts will germinate quite fast if they are growing in a warm sunny greenhouse. When the chance of frost has gone they can now be transplanted outside.

To plant your peanut plants outdoors you need to find a sunny spot that has full sun on it. Plant the peanut plants around 10 inches apart. Make sure the soil is loose and well-drained. You can add old compost to the soil to help it become loose.

Looking After Your Peanut Plants

To care for your peanut plants make sure that when the plants are around 6 inches tall that the soil around them is loose. As the peanut plants grow mound up the soil around the plants as you would for potato plants – this will help give better crops.

To keep the ground moist for the plants you can place grass clippings or straw around the plants. This will keep the ground moist.

Water your peanut plants every few days – make sure they are watered well when you do especially in dry weather.

You will get small pea-type flowers to develop on the plant along the lower part of the stem. When the flowers fade on the plant the ovaries will swell and they will start to grow towards the soil which will then push themselves into it. Hence the reason why the soil needs to be kept loose for the peanuts to grow well.

How To Feed Your Peanut Plants

Feeding peanut plants involves providing them with the essential nutrients they need to grow and produce healthy pods. Here’s a guide on how to feed your peanut plants:

1. Soil Testing:

• Before planting peanuts, conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient levels and pH of the soil. This will help you understand what nutrients may be lacking and guide your fertilizer application.

2. Balanced Fertilizer:

• Use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). For example, a general-purpose fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 can be suitable.

3. Application Timing:

• Apply fertilizer before planting and then again during the growing season. The first application can be incorporated into the soil during soil preparation, and subsequent applications can be made during the growing season.

4. Pre-Planting Fertilization:

• Before planting, apply a balanced fertilizer according to the recommendations from your soil test. Work the fertilizer into the soil to ensure even distribution.

5. Side-Dressing:

• As the peanut plants grow, consider side-dressing with a balanced fertilizer when the plants are about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) tall. Create a shallow trench alongside the row and apply the fertilizer, then lightly cover it with soil.

6. Nitrogen Fixation:

• Peanuts are legumes and can fix nitrogen from the air with the help of nitrogen-fixing bacteria in nodules on their roots. While they can produce their nitrogen, a small amount of nitrogen from fertilizer may still be beneficial, especially early in the season.

7. Micronutrients:

• Check for any micronutrient deficiencies that may be identified in the soil test. Peanuts generally require micronutrients like boron and manganese. If deficiencies are found, consider applying micronutrient-rich fertilizers or amendments.

8. Organic Options:

• If you prefer organic methods, consider using well-rotted compost or organic fertilizers. Organic matter improves soil structure and provides a slow release of nutrients.

9. Mulching:

• Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw, around the peanut plants. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and gradually adds organic matter to the soil.

10. Watering:

• Ensure proper watering practices. While not directly related to feeding, adequate water is crucial for nutrient uptake. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as peanuts are sensitive to excessive moisture.

Caution:

• Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nitrogen can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of peanut pod development.
• Always follow the recommended application rates on the fertilizer packaging to prevent nutrient imbalances.

By providing the right nutrients at the right times, you can support the growth and development of healthy peanut plants, leading to a successful harvest.

Harvesting Your Peanuts

Now, is the best time to harvest your peanuts from the plants. So the question is how do you know when the peanuts are ready to harvest when they grow under the ground? Well here is the answer – as potato plants you know they are ready when the plants start to go yellow and die back – this is the same for peanut plants. Around September to October, the peanut plant will start turning yellow, wilt, and die back. This is when the peanuts can be harvested from the plant.

Peanut Plant Pests And Diseases

Peanut Plant Diseases

Not many diseases will affect peanut plants so hence why it is good to grow them at your allotment or in the garden.

• Leaf Spot – This can be caused if the peanut plants are grown in a location where it is warm or moist – this probably would not be the case in the UK only if you grow them in a greenhouse or polytunnel. Leaf spot is when the leaves start to get a small spot on them, the leaves will then turn yellow and drop off. If this does appear – burn the crops and use a different location next time.

Peanut Pests

There are a few pests around which can attack peanut plants as they are growing:-

• Grub – These can attack when there has been grass grown in the area before. They tend to eat at the bottom of the peanut plant underground. A way to prevent them is by using nematodes.
• Aphids:- these tend to suck the sap from the plant. To prevent them use a soapy spray.

Purchase Peanut Seeds

If you are looking at purchasing peanut seeds to grow we have provided a link below to purchase them from Amazon. All you need to do is click the image and it will take you straight to them.

We hope that you have found these tips useful for growing peanuts in the UK. Let’s see that you get a successful crop of peanuts to eat come September and October.

Peanut growing questions:-

1. Q: Can I grow peanuts in my garden or allotment?

• A: Yes, peanuts can be grown in gardens or allotments, provided the climate is warm and frost-free.

1. Q: When is the best time to plant peanuts?

• A: Peanuts should be planted after the last frost in spring when soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F (15°C).

1. Q: What type of soil do peanuts prefer?

• A: Peanuts thrive in well-drained, sandy loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.

1. Q: How do I plant peanuts?

• A: Plant peanuts by placing seeds about 1 to 2 inches deep and 8 to 12 inches apart in rows, ensuring proper spacing for adequate growth.

1. Q: Do peanuts require a lot of water?

• A: Peanuts need consistent moisture, especially during the flowering and pod development stages. However, they are sensitive to overwatering, so well-drained soil is crucial.

1. Q: Can I grow peanuts in containers or pots?

• A: While peanuts have deep taproots, they can be grown in larger containers with well-draining soil, allowing room for the roots to develop.

1. Q: How long does it take for peanuts to mature?

• A: Peanuts typically take about 120 to 150 days to mature from planting to harvest, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

1. Q: Do peanuts need fertilization?

• A: Peanuts benefit from a balanced fertilizer application, especially one with higher phosphorus content. However, avoid excessive nitrogen.

1. Q: Are there common pests or diseases that affect peanuts?

• A: Peanuts can be susceptible to diseases like leaf spot and fungal infections. Proper crop rotation and disease-resistant varieties can help mitigate these issues.

1. Q: How do I harvest and store peanuts?
   • A: Harvest peanuts when the plants begin to yellow and the pods have matured. Lift the entire plant, shake off excess soil, and allow the peanuts to dry before storing in a cool, dry place.

These questions cover essential aspects of growing peanuts, helping both beginners and experienced gardeners cultivate a successful peanut crop.

Conclusion

In conclusion, growing peanuts in the UK is not only possible but can be a highly rewarding gardening project. With careful selection of the right varieties, appropriate soil preparation, and consistent care, you can successfully harvest your own peanuts even in the cooler UK climate. This guide aims to provide you with the knowledge and confidence to embark on this unique gardening journey. Remember, patience and attention to your peanut plants’ needs are key. We hope this guide inspires you to try your hand at growing peanuts and adds an exciting new dimension to your gardening experience. Happy peanut planting, and may your efforts lead to a bountiful harvest!