By Loren Lindler
Updated Feb. 2024
If you've ever traveled up I-75 through Tifton and stopped at the Georgia Peanut Commission for a bag of peanuts, you know how valuable peanuts are to the state of Georgia. March is National Peanut Month, so we thought it was the perfect time to share about this Georgia favorite.
Did you know Georgia is the top producer of peanuts in the United States? In fact, in 2022, Georgia produced more than half of the nation's peanuts. That same year, Georgia peanuts had a farm gate value of over $790.8 million. They are primarily grown in:
Mitchell County
Decatur County
Worth County
Early County
Miller County
Colquitt County
Irwin County
Bulloch County
Coffee County
Seminole County
Even though it has the word "nut" in its name, peanuts are actually considered legumes. But, that doesn't change the fact Georgians are "nuts" about peanuts. They're great boiled, roasted, or used in peanut butter. No matter how you enjoy them, a peanut-y treat is sure to bring a smile to your face.
Peanuts are primarily grown in south Georgia and harvested in the fall. If you're driving through south Georgia during that time of year, you may see peanut pickers and farmers hard at work to get those peanuts harvested.
To learn more about Georgia's peanut industry, check out the Georgia Peanut Commission and UGA Extension.
Comments