Optimizing Peanut Production and Pest Management Through Applied Research

Research was conducted during 2013 at the Peanut Belt Research Station, the Upper Coastal Plain Research Station, the Border Belt Tobacco Research Station, and at on-farm locations in Johnston, Northampton, and Martin counties to compare a range of production and pest management practices. Experiments included: peanut response to inoculants and nitrogen rates in new and rotated fields; evaluation of planting and digging dates; comparison of thrips management programs; comparison of runner and Virginia market types; determining variety response to Apogee and other plant growth regulators; weed management with non-registered preemergence and postemergence herbicides that are on track for use in peanut; comparison of disease management programs; rotation schemes; and compatibility of pesticides and other products used in peanut. Results from these experiments are provided to Cooperative Extension Service agents, farmers and others in agribusiness.