The Influence of Plant Population on Peanut Varieties.

Throughout the Virginia-Carolina region, there exists some conflict among growers and researchers as to the ideal plant population for peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in this region. Besides affecting yield and value, plant population has the potential to influence other factors such and disease and insect pressure, as well as plant size. The objective of this study was to evaluate how several different peanut varieties responded to four different seeding rates. These seeding rates were 1.2, 3.0, 5.6, and 8.6 seeds per foot. The presence of insects and disease was measured throughout the growing season. Pod yield and grading characteristics were determined at physiological maturity. Significant differences due to plant population and variety were observed in yield and grading characteristics, as well as in disease pressure. Both the 5.6 and 8.6 seeds/ft seeding rate had the highest yield and value. These two seeding rates also had the least amount of Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV). This study will provide much needed clarification to peanut producers as to the proper seeding rate among peanut in the Virginia-Carolina region.