The 46th Annual South Carolina Peanut Growers Meeting will bring growers, researchers, and agribusiness leaders together to discuss the latest production strategies, technology trends, and economic outlooks for the 2026 season. A key theme this year is how better nutrient management and digital tools can improve peanut yields and farm profitability.
Calcium Management in Peanuts Takes Center Stage
One of the main technical topics will be calcium management in peanut production. Hardeep Singh, cropping systems specialist at the University of Florida, will explain why calcium is critical for pod development and overall crop health. His session will cover soil fertilization strategies and compare different calcium sources farmers can use to support stronger, more uniform yields.
Precision Agriculture in Peanut Research
Modern farming tools will also be in focus. Aaron Turner, Clemson associate professor of agricultural mechanization and business, will present updates on how precision agriculture technologies are being used in peanut research. This includes data-driven field trials, variable-rate applications, and how digital tools are helping researchers and growers make more accurate management decisions.
Economic Outlook and Industry Updates
The program will include several industry and policy updates. Hugh Weathers, South Carolina commissioner of agriculture, will open the meeting with a state-level update, followed by reports from the Farm Service Agency and the American Peanut Council.
Nathan Smith, Clemson Extension economist, will close the morning session with an analysis of production costs, market trends, and expected returns for peanut growers in 2026.
Varieties, Production, and National Programs
In the afternoon, the National Peanut Board will share updates on promotion and research programs. Dan Anco, Clemson Extension peanut specialist, will then review the latest peanut varieties and current production recommendations, helping growers plan for the upcoming season.
Equipment Prizes and Grower Awards
During lunch, peanut yield contest winners will be recognized. Growers will also have a chance to win major equipment-related prizes, including vouchers and certificates toward peanut combines, diggers, dump carts, and other machinery. To qualify, participants must be certified commercial peanut growers and be present at the event.
Event Info
- What: 46th Annual South Carolina Peanut Growers Meeting.
- Where: Santee Conference Center, 1737 Bass Drive, Santee, South Carolina 29142.
- When: January 29, 2026.
- Registration and trade show open at 8:30 a.m.
- Morning session starts at 9:30 a.m.
- Event concludes around 2:00 p.m.
