Manganese foliar fertilizer does not impact yield or grade of Florida peanut

Abstract In the southeastern United States, peanut [ Arachis hypogaea (L.)] is grown in sandy soils with recommended pH ranges (6.2–6.5) that might cause manganese (Mn) deficiency. This study evaluated the effect of foliar‐applied Mn on yield, grade and leaf nutrient content of peanuts grown in sandy soils with a moderately acidic pH. Treatments compared two rates, timings, and sources (1x or 2x current recommendation; one application at first flower or one application at first flower and again 2 weeks later; manganese sulfate (MnSO 4 ) or chelated Mn‐EDTA [ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium manganese]). Small plots were established at three site‐years, and treatments were replicated five times using a randomized complete block design. Site‐years had average pod yields of 7221–9899 kg ha −1 with no treatment effect within site‐year ( p = 0.63). Leaf Mn content averaged 43.3–67.5 ppm at each site‐year, with no treatment effect within site‐year ( p = 0.25). Foliar applications of MnSO 4 or Mn‐EDTA to peanut are not required when symptoms of deficiency in leaf tissue are not evident and soil pH is below 6.2.