As peanut growers begin planning for the 2027 growing season, seed treatments remain an important consideration for protecting young plants and establishing a healthy crop. Representatives from Kannar AgriScience recently spoke with Southeast AgNet about Peanut Prep, a seed treatment designed to improve early emergence, protect against disease and support stronger plant development.
Here the full interview with Kannar AgriScience CEO, Sam Cloete and Business Development Lead Andy Hurst:
Protecting Peanuts During Early Development
Andy Hurst, business development lead for Kannar AgriScience, explained that Peanut Prep is a comprehensive seed treatment package applied by peanut shellers and seed treaters before seed reaches growers.
The treatment combines four fungicides designed to protect against seedborne and soilborne pathogens, along with pigments, polymers and a biostimulant system intended to promote early-season growth and vigor.
According to Hurst, the treatment targets several pathogens that can threaten peanut establishment, including Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, Rhizopus, Aspergillus and Pythium.
Beyond disease protection, the company emphasizes the importance of rapid emergence and uniform canopy development.
Sam Cloete, CEO of Kannar AgriScience, said more than half of American peanut growers have come to rely on Peanut Prep for its early growth and vigor characteristics.
Potential Benefits for Peanut Yields
Hurst explained that Peanut Prep differs from traditional dry-powder seed treatments through its liquid formulation and biostimulant components.
He also noted that faster canopy development may provide benefits in areas where tomato spotted wilt virus is a concern.
Kannar AgriScience representatives pointed to research conducted in cooperation with the University of Georgia examining peanut emergence, root health, plant vigor and yield performance.
According to Cloete, a recent study showed a 145-pound-per-acre yield increase when Peanut Prep was compared with alternative seed treatment technologies. He also referenced earlier extension research that demonstrated yield differences approaching 200 pounds per acre.
Those figures represent results reported by the company from specific studies rather than guaranteed yield improvements across all growing conditions.
Return on Investment for Peanut Growers
With production costs remaining a concern, seed treatment performance can play an important role in growers’ profitability.
Hurst emphasized that seed treatments are among the most valuable inputs peanut producers can make, citing comments from retired University of Georgia plant pathologist Dr. Tim Brenneman.
Company representatives also referenced an estimated $83-per-acre financial benefit associated with improved yields, highlighting the potential economic value of stronger crop establishment.
Planning Ahead for the 2027 Peanut Season
For growers interested in using Peanut Prep during the 2027 season, Hurst recommends contacting seed suppliers well ahead of planting.
Because the treatment is applied before seed reaches the farm, early communication allows suppliers to plan for grower demand.
Kannar AgriScience also discussed its partnership with the Georgia Conservancy, including an opportunity for growers to enter a drawing for tickets to the organization’s annual oyster roast fundraiser.
Growers can learn more about the treatment and the promotional opportunity at GoPeanutPrep.com.
Listen to the full interview above for more information from Sam Cloete and Andy Hurst about Peanut Prep, field research and planning for the upcoming growing season.