As peanuts have emerged and are growing in the early season before bloom, testing the soil for the calcium level in the pegging zone (top 3 inches) is important.
This test is to check the calcium levels at a 3-inch depth, where the peanut pegs and pods will be developing. On our runner varieties, if there is at least 500 lbs/A of soil test calcium AND if the calcium to potassium (Ca:K) ratio is 3:1 or better, no additional calcium is needed. If EITHER of these requirements is not met, then UGA recommends to apply 1000 lbs/A of gypsum or land plaster at early bloom. Also remember, any peanuts grown for seed should automatically receive this gypsum application regardless of soil test calcium levels.
Click here to see a short, educational video by UGA Extension-Irwin County on the Peanut Pegging Zone Test
For more information, please contact the Worth County Extension Office at 229-776-8216.