With some areas of the state having received and others that may yet be receiving much needed rain this week, we are also projected to see cool nighttime temperatures in spots (more so in the northeastern reaches of the state) that are dipping into the 40s tonight and, with the extended forecast, this coming weekend. If we are able to hold off until next week to plant peanut, I would think that would provide for healthier germination and emergence conditions to protect the investment of seed. Weather conditions and predictions can change quickly; even so, the projection of mostly overcast skies this week will slow soils from rebounding from cooler nights. Cool and wet conditions at planting can contribute to delayed emergence, skippy stands, and in more severe cases, infection and seed rot. Some areas of the state may be just fine, and I understand we cannot wait indefinitely, but keeping these items on the radar can help with individual decisions to wait versus plant.
Dan Anco
Extension Peanut Specialist and Associate Professor
Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences
Clemson University – Edisto Research and Education Center
64 Research Road
Blackville, SC 29817
630-207-4926 cell