Peanut Pegging Zone Testing Info
- Pegging zone tests should be done prior to bloom to determine calcium needs in peanuts. We routinely send these off from the Cook Extension Office. ($5/sample). Usually results return in less than a week.
- Samples should be collected slightly offset from the row, approximately three inches deep.
- Two conditions are used in determining the need for supplemental Ca: a) The soil test for Ca must be at least 500 lb./A and, b) The Ca:K ratio must be at least 3:1 (i.e. at least three times as much Ca as K).
- Calcium is passively absorbed by the peanut. The amount absorbed depends on the concentration of Ca in the soil solution and the amount of water absorbed by the plant.
- Peanuts to be saved for seed should receive 1000 lb/a gypsum at early bloom to runner-type peanuts regardless.
