442 



PEAS, BEANS, VETCHES, PEANUTS 



very few plants. The following table gives the composition of 

 peanuts in comparison with some other standard products : 



Composition of Peanuts and Other Products 



Climatic Requirements. Peanuts, being a tropical plant, re- 

 quire a long growing season free from frost. The earlier varieties 

 require from 100 to 120 days without frost, while the larger varieties, 

 such as Virginia, require a month longer. The peanut is favored by 

 bright, sunshiny weather and comparatively light rainfall during the 

 growing season. 



Soils for Peanuts. Peanuts thrive on almost any soil type, 

 ranging from light, sandy soil to clays. The light, sandy soils, how- 

 ever, are generally preferred for two reasons: It is easier to keep 

 the surface in a mellow condition under the vines, and also the pods 

 have a brighter and a cleaner appearance. The color of the pod, 

 however, is only important in the case of peanuts to be sold on the 

 market, but of no consequence where they are grown for stock feed 

 or to be shelled. Good drainage is also necessary. 



Fertilizers and Manures. It is generally considered quite im- 

 portant to have sufficient lime present in the soil so there is no 

 acidity. While the vines grow very well on a slightly acid soil, they 

 do not usually set so good a crop of pods. The amount of lime re- 

 quired will vary from 500 to 1000 pounds per acre. It is best applied 

 some weeks before planting. In natural limestone soils, of course no 

 lime is required. 



The most important mineral fertilizer for peanuts is phosphate, 

 while potash is probably next in importance. Only a small quantity 

 of nitrogen is needed, since the peanut is a legume and acquires its 



