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Early Season Irrigation For Peanuts

By Jay Hathorn
 
The dryer weather couldn’t have come at a better time. But without any rainfall for the past 10 days or so many areas need a little moisture now. Here is some info from Dr. Wes Porter, UGA Irrigation Specialist, on early season irrigation for peanuts.
 
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We have been getting continual ample rainfall, and with the exception of a few days, we have had a relatively warm spring thus far, pushing soil temperatures warmer and warmer.  Based on what I’ve heard from around most people have gotten their peanuts into the ground sometime between early to late April.  With this said, we have had a few cooler nights that have dropped soil temperatures down below the optimum level.  This could have caused a reduction in emergence.
 
However, early May has brought some very good weather for both planting and emergence.  We have had adequate rainfall and enough dry periods to get planting completed.  Ideally we will continue to keep getting some ample rainfall and ideal weather throughout the month of May. If you have not had the opportunity to get your peanuts in the ground the first two weeks of May have produced optimum conditions. Below is the water use curve for peanuts, go ahead and get used to seeing this, as I will be sending it out with each update!  This update we are going to focus on the first few weeks after planting up to the first month of planting, based on when the peanuts were planted, i.e. early April or late April.  If the peanuts were planted in early April we are moving into 4-8 weeks after planting or requiring anywhere from 0.3 to 0.9 inches per week.  If the peanuts were planted in late April or early May, like most crops, peanuts do not require much water early, so do not over water them after planting.  During week 1 they require only 0.07 inches of water!  This is probably already available in the soil unless we’ve had a very dry spell just before planting.  This range goes from 0.07 up to 0.3 inches across the four weeks.  Still very little water required early, but we start requiring significant amounts around weeks 7 to 10.  Overwatering can hurt just as much as under-watering.  Remember this requirement is IRRIGATION and RAINFALL!  Irrigation may not even be required in the first few weeks!
 

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Why Seed Analysts are Thriving Under Seeds Canada

Video: Why Seed Analysts are Thriving Under Seeds Canada

Last month in Edmonton, Alta., industry leaders and stakeholders gathered to discuss the evolving landscape of the seed industry at Seeds Canada’s annual conference. Among them was Sarah Foster, president of 2020 Seed Labs and the new vice-president of Seeds Canada.

Foster, who has been on the board of Seeds Canada for over a year, has witnessed firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with the formation of the organization. Seeds Canada was established just over three years ago through the merger of multiple seed industry groups, including the Commercial Seed Analysts Association of Canada (CSAAC). Since then, the organization has been working to define its priorities and solidify its role in the industry.

“The challenge has been allowing the dust to settle after the merger,” Foster explained. “We’ve been focused on identifying what our priorities should be and ensuring that our members, especially the seed analysts, are getting what they need to continue their professional work.”

One of the recent highlights was a pre-conference event where the three major seed labs in Alberta — 20/20 Seed Labs, SGS Canada and Seed Check — opened their doors to members. The event saw a record number of seed analysts and business professionals in attendance. Foster emphasized the importance of this transparency, stating, “It’s crucial for people to see what goes on behind the scenes. We’re an open book now, and that openness helps build trust and understanding within the industry.”

The event also featured an environmental scan and a series of discussions that fostered strong communication among attendees. According to Foster, the dialogue was both encouraging and inspiring.

“A lot of people were really inspired by the fact that Seeds Canada is moving ahead with its agenda. The seed analysts, who have always worked diligently in the background, are now being recognized more prominently,” she said.

Before the merger, seed analysts were represented by CSAAC. Now, as part of Seeds Canada, they are finding their place within the larger organization. Foster believes that the integration has been successful, noting, “I think we’re thriving. You only need to look south of the border, where similar consolidations are happening.”

As Seeds Canada continues to evolve, Foster remains optimistic about the future. “I want to be totally transparent with anyone who is a seed analyst — I’ve got your back. We’re moving in a positive direction, and we’ll do everything we can to meet the needs of our members,” she said.