In May 2008, farmers in Liaoning and Hebei provinces faced a serious issue with rotting peanut seeds. Seedlings failed to emerge until late May, and when they checked the soil surface, they found that the seeds had already rotted underground. Many local households reached out to agricultural experts via hotlines, asking why their peanuts weren’t sprouting. As the peanut planting season approaches again, Professor Cao Yiping from China Agricultural University has shared insights into the causes of seed rot and important precautions for successful planting.
According to the expert, last year’s problem was due to both external and internal factors. Externally, the spring weather was unusually cold and wet, with a few cold spells in late April and early May. This made it difficult for heat-loving peanuts to germinate. Internally, the characteristics of peanut seeds themselves played a role. Peanuts require specific conditions for emergence, and if planted too early or in poorly prepared fields, they are more likely to rot in cold, damp soil.
To avoid such issues this year, it's essential to understand the specific needs of peanut seeds. From germination to emergence, peanuts require strict conditions regarding temperature, water, and oxygen.
First, temperature is critical. Different peanut varieties have varying dormancy periods. Some need a minimum temperature of 15°C to germinate, while others can start at 12°C. The total effective temperature required during germination should be over 115°C, and the process usually takes 10–20 days. For the seedling stage to begin, the soil temperature must reach at least 14–16°C.
Second, water absorption is vital. Peanut seeds are large, often weighing over 100 grams, and they need to absorb four times their weight in water during germination.
Third, oxygen is crucial. Peanuts consume oxygen during germination, so poor soil aeration can hinder emergence.
Other factors include seed quality, climate, sowing technique, pests, and soil conditions. Peanuts thrive in well-drained sandy loam soils rich in organic matter. Proper seed preparation before planting is also key. Sunning the seeds can boost their vitality, and shelling should be done just before planting to preserve the protective layers. Soaking seeds in warm water helps them absorb enough moisture, but care must be taken not to over-soak them. Once white tips appear, they should be sown immediately. However, soaking is not always necessary—especially in cooler conditions or when sowing early.
To prevent seed rot this season, several measures should be taken. First, ensure timely sowing at an appropriate depth, only when temperatures are stable. Second, use fertilizers like calcium sulfate, diammonium phosphate, or low-nitrogen, high-potassium compounds. Avoid using urea-based fertilizers that are high in nitrogen. Third, if cold weather is expected, delay planting if possible. If reseeding is needed, consider pre-germinating seeds or inoculating them with beneficial bacteria.
In conclusion, by carefully monitoring local soil temperature and moisture levels, choosing the right time to sow, and properly preparing the seeds, farmers can significantly reduce the risk of peanut seed rot and ensure a successful harvest.
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