Arachis Glabarata

Description

Arachis glabrata (also known as Perennial Peanut) is a hardy, low-maintenance ground cover often used for erosion control, forage, and landscaping. Here’s how to take care of it properly:

1. Light Requirements

• Thrives in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight).
• Can tolerate partial shade but grows best with plenty of light.

2. Watering

• Drought-tolerant once established.
• Water regularly during the first few months to help it establish deep roots.
• After establishment, only occasional watering is needed unless there’s an extreme drought.

3. Soil & Drainage

• Prefers well-drained, sandy, or loamy soil.
• Tolerates a variety of soils but grows best in neutral to slightly acidic pH.
• Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture.

4. Temperature & Climate

• Grows best in warm, tropical to subtropical climates (USDA zones 8-11).
• Can tolerate brief cold snaps but may go dormant in winter.

5. Fertilization

• Generally, it does not need much fertilizer since it is a nitrogen-fixing plant.
• If the soil is very poor, apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer once or twice a year.

6. Mowing & Maintenance

• Can be mowed occasionally to maintain a neat appearance.
• In forage applications, it can be grazed by livestock or cut for hay.

7. Pest & Disease Control

• Resistant to most pests and diseases.
• Occasionally, it may attract aphids or fungal infections in overly wet conditions.
• Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

8. Propagation

• Propagates vegetatively from rhizomes rather than seeds.
• Best planted using rhizome divisions or sod pieces.
• Space rhizomes 12-18 inches apart for quick ground cover.