Peanut harvest is only a few weeks away and now is the time for growers to check their peanuts to determine the optimum maturity date. Digging peanuts at the right time is one of the most important decisions a producer can make. Peanut pod blasting techniques help farmers determine the ideal time to dig peanuts which can increase their bottom line. This management tool can add 300-500 pounds per acre and add 3-5 points on grading. 
“The time a farmer spends sampling and peanut pod blasting at our workshop pays dividends by adding to his peanut profits at harvest time each year,” said Jimmy Jones, Henry County Extension coordinator. “This method helps the grower make the most of the crop he has produced by maximizing his yield potential and making the highest grades possible for the year; therefore, the grower makes as much profit out of his peanuts for his one paycheck a year.”
Kris Balkcom, research associate with Auburn University and an advisor for the Alabama Peanut Producers Association, encourages growers to use the pod blasting procedure for pre-harvest testing. “It gives you a more timely digging date which helps make the best maximum grade and weight,” said Balkcom.
Growers interested in getting assistance in West Alabama can contact the Gulf Coast Research Center in Fairhope at 251-928-2740. The center is located at 8300 State Highway 104, Fairhope, AL 36532. The facility is open Monday – Friday, from 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The schedule for the Wiregrass Research and Extension Center in Headland will be from 8:00 a.m. – 12 noon each Tuesday and Friday during the months of September and October. All other times will be by appointment only by calling the Henry County Extension System at 334-585-6416.