Peanut Growers Key Terms

Learn the peanut growers' lingo

By Emily Lugg

There are many things to take into consideration in order to grow peanuts properly. The soil and environment need to be just right in order for germination to occur, which is why peanuts are typically grown only in certain parts of the world.

These conditions may vary depending on the variety of peanuts you are trying to grow. And once the peanuts are grown, cultivation of the kernels is only half of the battle. Peanut kernels are encased in not one, but two, materials including the hull and the skin. Because of this, the peanuts need to go through more than one process before the kernels can be roasted, salted or sold wholesale.

Peg

The peg helps the peanut embryo to bury itself into the soil prior to it producing its fruit. The peg resembles a root and begins to grow once the flower blossom on the peanut plant dies.
Try: Utah State University Extension describes the peanut growing process and how the peg plays an important role.

Seed germination

Seed germination occurs at the time a seedling emerges from the ground after the embryo has buried itself. Germination is the first active step after a period of the peanut seeds remaining dormant.
Try: The Department of Entomology at Iowa State University explains the proper conditions for peanut seed germination.

Runners

Runners have become an increasingly popular type of peanut. Their uniform small kernel size and ability to ward off potentially harmful viruses make this variety an important commodity. Many peanut products, including candies and peanut butter, are being made using the runner variety.
Try: Peanuts Peanuts Peanuts gives some history of the runner peanuts. Southeast Farm Press from Penton Media details a case when runners were the optimal peanut variety choice.

Peanut kernels, seeds, cotyleden

The peanut kernel, also referred to as the cotyleden or seed, is a key part of the embryo of the peanut. This is the cultivated raw part of the peanut that is actually consumed. In its most raw form, the kernel is covered by a reddish layer of skin.
Try: Red Dog Peanut provides a detailed diagram of all of the parts of a peanut.

Hull, shell

The hull is the outside shell protecting the kernels. This fibrous part of the peanut is often overlooked for its usefulness, but can be made into flour as well as used for non-food items such as plastic composite.
Try: The Department of Food Science & Technology at The University of Georgia has some information on possible uses for the hulls.

Blanching

Blanching is the process in which the red skin is taken off the peanut kernel. Machines are often used for this process.
Try: Virginia-Carolina Peanut Promotions describes what is involved in the blanching process.