Peanut Maturity Clinics
Determining when to dig is a critical decision you will make in September. Harvest timing dictates yield and determines whether additional spray passes are necessary.
Despite a variable season, heat unit tracking shows the crop is currently on schedule. For Lewiston-Woodville, as of August 31, we have accumulated 2,512 heat units since May 1. Aside from severe drought or heat stress, peanuts require 2,650 to 2,700 heat units from emergence to reach full maturity. Compared to 2025 and 2024, we were at 2520 and 2482 DD56, respectively.
Upcoming Pod Blasting Maturity Clinics
- September 9: Powell & Stokes (Windsor) 8:30 AM
- September 11: Colerain Peanut & Supply (Colerain) 8:30 AM
- September 16: Powell & Stokes (Windsor) 8:30 AM
- September 23: Harvey's Fertilizer (Trap) 8:30 AM
How to Pull an Accurate Field Sample
Clinic results are only as good as the sample provided. Follow these steps to ensure accuracy:
- Field Selection: Pull 1 foot of row (3–4 plants) from 2 to 3 representative areas in the field.
- Pod Count: Collect all pods that would enter the combine. Target approximately 200 pods per sample (if you end up with more, mix thoroughly and cut the sample in half).
- Overnight Storage: If pulling samples the day before a clinic, remove pods from the vines and store them in a Ziploc bag filled with fresh water.
The Financial Risk of Digging Early
Research from Dr. David Jordan demonstrates that digging too early costs 45 lbs per acre/day. On a $425 contract, that translates to a direct loss of $9.50 per acre/day.
Digging decisions depend on balancing weather forecasts, vine health, labor availability, and farm logistics. Evaluate each field individually before dropping the digger.
If you need help evaluating your crop maturity, please call the North Carolina Cooperative Extension - Bertie County Center office at 252-794-5317
