Arachis hypogaea PEANUT (plant)

Peanut is an annual plant from the Fabaceae family, native to Mexico in North America. Peanuts are cultivated in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions for their edible oilseed fruits.

The peanut plant grows very fast and has the unique characteristic of burying its own fruits underground.

Its yellow summer flowers attract many pollinating insects.

Its leaves are compound, consisting of several small leaflets (usually 3 to 5) attached to a central stem.

- Properties and Uses:

- Cultivation and Planting:

• Plant the peanut plant in a 5-liter pot or directly in the ground, making sure it is level with the plant's collar (base).
• Use a well-draining substrate such as potting soil or good compost.
• Water copiously at the base of the plant.
• Choose a full-sun location.

- Soil and Substrate:

The plant requires a very well-draining soil made of sand and potting soil to prevent its root system from rotting.

- Exposure and Light:

Due to its Mexican origin, it grows best in the sun. Prioritize a very sunny location. If you purchase the plant during the summer, it is recommended to acclimate it before full exposure to UV rays.

- Propagation:

Cuttings are possible but not recommended; it is much easier and faster to grow the plant from seed.

- Pests and Diseases:

The most common pests are nematodes, which are tiny microscopic worms that attack the plant's roots. The most common fungi that infect peanut plants are powdery mildew and rust.