This has been adapted from a article written by Scott Monfort and Scott Tubbs
The beginning of the planting season is just a few weeks away. There are many things to consider and get ready before first seed goes in the ground. One of the first questions I expect you get in the counties is “how early can I plant?” An easy question to answer. Right? Not Really. Based on the recommendation, the soil temperature at the 4 inch depth needs to be at least 68 degrees with no chance of a cold front within the next week after planting. Typically, this happens in the later part of April to first part of May. So what do you do when soil temperatures are in the high 60’s in the first part of April (See average daily soil temperatures below) and growers are asking about planting? Just Say No! Please keep your seed in the bag until the latter part of April. There is no need to be in a hurry to plant Peanuts.
Even with soil temperatures are warm enough for plating in early April in 2014 in SW Georgia, the average 4 in. soil temperature from April 16-20 was 61.3 F. In Tifton, GA the date on the calendar meeting the recommended planting conditions without a subsequent drop in soil temperature was May 5 (2014), May 9 (2013), April 27 (2012), April 21 (2011), and May 1 (2010) over the last five growing seasons. Thus, please be cautioned about putting seed in the ground too early. The chances for cooler temperatures to occur as the month of April progresses remain high historically until late in the month, which is a threat to establishing optimum plant stands.
Please take the time to perform maintenance on planters and sprayers to hopefully eliminate problems when planting begins. Think about early season weed management, inoculants, early season disease management – CBR vs. White mold. Finally, concentrate on the production practices proven to maximize their yield potential. Low price support years are not the time to spend extra money on inputs that are not proven by university research to provide consistent results.
Alma Soil Temperature April 1-15