Earlier this spring, I wrote an article recapping real and perceived stand issues experienced in the 2025 peanut growing season. While there were real seed failures (primarily from specific, identifiable seed lots), many stand concerns turned out to be unfounded, with varieties and fields in question yielding well-within an acceptable range. This year, I have heard similar things regarding stands and emergence, particularly with several new-to-market varieties released by the UF/IFAS Peanut Breeding Program. In response to these concerns, UF/IFAS Extension agents are survey
ing annual on-farm peanut variety trial plantings across North Florida to validate yield and grade as it relates to plant stand.
First, it’s helpful to be reminded what evidence-based research suggests a non-yield limiting peanut stand is. A 2016 study conducted in Tifton, GA validated what researchers have noticed in plant stand studies for years: yield begins to plateau beyond 2.5 plants/row foot and is optimized around 3-4 plants/row foot. Stands with less than 2.5 plants/row foot and consistent gaps between plants of 2’ or more would probably benefit from replanting. Above 2.5 plants/row foot and replanting returns diminish. Even if you increase yield slightly, it may not be worth the $20/acre each additional replanted seed costs. However, growers continue to plant 7-10 seeds per foot, regularly achieve 5-6 plants/ft, and are concerned if the field is any “lighter”. This practice, while potentially ensuring peace of mind, is not founded in evidence and is probably costing you money.
To illustrate, I’ve included representative pictures of two fields planted with two different, newer varieties, with plant populations that would be considered “low” by many. The first field, a UF/IFAS variety trial in Calhoun County shows a planting of ‘Gorbet’ with conventional tillage achieving around 4 plants/ft. The second is a no-till field from Brock Farms in Jefferson County of GA-12Y achieving around 3 plants/ft. In neither of these fields can you discern any stand issues visually and it is highly likely that yield will be strong as well.
For more information on peanut varieties, agronomic best management practices, or any other agricultural topic, feel free to contact your local UF/IFAS Extension office.
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