We are beginning to see some yellow peanuts across the state given the amount of rain received recently (and possibly in the coming days.) Wet soils can affect nitrogen fixation (Bradyrhizobia bacteria in nodules on roots does not perform at peak levels when soil is wet.) As soon as we catch a break on rain and get days of sunshine, the bacteria will swing back in gear and provide the nitrogen needs of the plant. This is what we have observed historically. Plants are also not photosynthesizing at peak rates when conditions are cloudy and rainy, especially when these conditions exist over an extended period of time.

There is no value in rushing in as soon as soils begin to dry and applying nitrogen to yellow peanuts. In my experience, about the time you can get in the field and go across low spots, the peanuts will have started greening up because photosynthesis has increased (sunny days) and nitrogen fixation has increased (bacteria are in a better environment.)

We do have trials in Martin and Johnston Counties this year looking at applications of nitrogen (ammonium sulfate) at mid-season. Our goal was not necessarily to see how peanuts under wet conditions respond, but we might learn more about this from those trials.