Jumbo Viginia Peanut (Arachis hypogaea)

Jumbo Viginia Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea): from Brazil, these legumes are now grown in many countries, including Italy. Cultivation is easy, the plant does not need a particularly rich soil, the water demand is low, they can even be irrigated only in case of drought, instead they fear water stagnation. Periodic earth up is useful, especially after flowering, because once the flower is been pollinated it returns to the earth to produce the pods, the peanuts. To be sown sown in seedbed from March to May (in the south), it is necessary to remove the seed from the pod, germination takes a few days. They are transplanted when they reach 5 cm in height. The planting space depends on the variety: the J. Virginia is amongst the largest, it takes about 40 cm between plants and at least 60 between rows. Each pod carries two large seeds, production is important, a plant in good condition can produce more than 50 pods. It is rare to have multiple varieties of peanuts in the same garden, but there is little to worry about, the percentage of hybridisation would still be very low and negligible a few rows away. To reproduce the seeds, harvest the ripe peanuts 110 days after transplantation, anticipating if necessary in the event of heavy rains. Extirpate the whole plant, clean the pods well and place them in the shade in a ventilated place until they dry completely. Peanuts should be stored with the pod intact, under penalty of loss of germination. They are consumed roasted, and even in delicious and healthy peanut butter.