Arachis

Introduction

Native to South America, the leguminous genus Arachis is once again being brought into the limelight by the Florida Nurseryman Growers Association Florida Plants Of The Year Program.

The exact species that they chose for this years program is Arachis glabrata, or as it is commonly called, perennial peanut.

Other important varieties include Arachis hyprogaea, the peanut or groundnut, which is one of the world's most important crops. What you may not know about the species of Arachis is that they are a mat-forming perennial rhizome hardy from zone 8B to 11. They are also very productive under heavy grazing making them the perfect crop for well-grazed legume pastures in the tropics and subtropics.

Keeping Your Plant Healthy

Arachis is prone to whitefly so be sure to carefully inspect your plant before purchasing. Whitefly is easy to identify because you will see a puff of white coming off the plant when the leaves are brushed up against as well as many times a white wax will be noticed on the leaves of the plant. This is pretty clear evidence of whitefly infestation.

Although whitefly can be controlled, it is best not to introduce a new plant into your home or yard that is already infested. However, if a plant that you already have should get infested you can treat it with various chemical or organic methods.

Once these plants are established, they require little or no care and they are even drought resistant.

Providing Optimal Growing Conditions

Arachis prefer full sunlight preferably from the west or south. They are a good choice for a container grown plant as well as a good groundcover. A good general purpose potting soil that will retain some water but still has good drainage is the best choice for them. Do not allow the soil to pack too tightly around them.

A good homemade soil would consist of one part garden soil, one part sand or perlite and one part peat or humus with a light dusting of lime.

When you water, try to use warm water and keep the soil barely moist. Arachis do not acidic conditions although they will survive under these conditions, so do be aware of this fact. Although the foliage will die back in the event of frost, the plant will come back as long as the rhizomes don't freeze. They generally grow several feet deep and thus are pretty well protected.

Propagation Techniques

Arachis can be propagated by seed. A good choice for a seed starting soil would be moist peat and perlite. Be sure to cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or other similar device to help keep the moisture in. Place this in either indirect sunlight or under a fluorescent light until germination begins.

Go To Page: 1 2