Guaranteed Analysis
Nutrient Breakdown
N · Nitrogen8%
Provides 8% slow-release nitrogen from plant-based protein — higher than most seed meals, making it an excellent organic nitrogen source.
P · Phosphorus1%
Supplies 1% phosphorus for basic root development and cell energy.
K · Potassium2%
Delivers 2% potassium for improved water regulation, disease resistance, and stress tolerance.
Derived from: Ground peanut shells and residue after oil extraction (certified organic)
Overview
What It Is
Peanut meal (also called peanut cake or groundnut meal) is the solid byproduct remaining after peanut oil extraction. It contains approximately 45-50% crude protein, which translates to about 8% nitrogen when used as a fertilizer. The meal also provides small amounts of phosphorus, potassium, and trace minerals.
Like other seed meals, peanut meal is a slow-release fertilizer that depends on soil microbial activity for nutrient breakdown. It works best in warm, moist, biologically active soils where microbes can efficiently decompose the organic proteins. In cold soils, nutrient release slows significantly.
Peanut meal is a particularly good choice for slightly acidic soils, as it tends to have a mildly acidifying effect — beneficial for acid-loving crops like blueberries, azaleas, and rhododendrons.
Crop Fit
Best For
TomatoesPeppersLeafy GreensCornBlueberriesLawnsHerbsFlowers
Peanut meal's high nitrogen content makes it ideal for heavy feeders like tomatoes, peppers, corn, and leafy greens. The mild acidifying effect benefits acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas. Lawns respond with steady, even greening. Herbs and flowers appreciate the balanced nutrition without excessive nitrogen push.
Application Rates
How Much to Use
| Garden & beds | 2-5 lbs per 100 sq ft |
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| Lawn | 5-10 lbs per 1,000 sq ft |
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| Trees & shrubs | 1 lb per inch of trunk diameter |
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| Containers | 1-2 tbsp per gallon of soil |
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| Frequency | Once per growing season, or every 4-6 weeks for heavy feeders |
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Step by Step
How to Apply
1Soil Test
Test soil to determine nutrient needs. Peanut meal provides slow-release nitrogen with modest P and K.
2Application Rate
Calculate rate — 2–5 lbs per 100 sq ft for gardens. Use higher rates for nitrogen-hungry crops.
3Broadcast / Incorporate
Broadcast evenly and work into the top 3 inches of soil for faster microbial breakdown.
4Water In
Water thoroughly after application to begin slow organic decomposition and nutrient release.
5Reapply
Reapply every 4–6 weeks for heavy feeders like corn, tomatoes, and leafy greens.
6Seeding Delay
Allow 2 weeks before direct seeding small seeds. Decomposing peanut meal can inhibit germination of tiny seeds.
For garden beds, broadcast 2-5 lbs per 100 sq ft and work into the top 3 inches. For transplants, add 1-2 tablespoons per planting hole. For containers, mix 1-2 tablespoons per gallon of soil. For lawns, apply 5-10 lbs per 1,000 sq ft. Water in after application. Like soybean meal, fresh peanut meal may temporarily inhibit small seed germination — apply 2 weeks before direct seeding.
Handling & Timing
Safety & Season
Safety & Storage
Peanut meal is non-toxic and safe to handle. Be aware of peanut allergen sensitivity — wear gloves if you have a peanut allergy. Store in a sealed container in a cool, dry location to prevent moisture absorption and mold development.
Seasonal Notes
Apply in spring when soil temperatures are warming and microbial activity increases. Mid-summer side-dressing extends nutrition for heavy feeders. Avoid late fall application as plants are entering dormancy and cold soils slow decomposition.
In Context
How It Compares
Peanut meal vs. Soybean Meal: Peanut meal (8-1-2) offers slightly higher nitrogen and more potassium than soybean meal (7-2-1). Both are plant-based and slow-release. Peanut meal vs. Blood Meal: Blood meal (12-0-0) provides higher nitrogen but is animal-derived and contains no P or K. Peanut meal is a vegan option with more balanced nutrition.
Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is peanut meal fertilizer?
Peanut meal is a natural, organic fertilizer made from ground peanut hulls and residue remaining after oil extraction. With an NPK ratio of approximately 8-1-2, peanut meal is a moderate-to-high nitrogen organic amendment that also provides phosphorus, potassium, and trace minerals. It breaks down slowly in soil, releasing nitrogen over 4–8 weeks as soil microbes process the organic material. Peanut meal is also mildly acidifying, making it suitable for acid-loving plants. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Peanut Meal 8-1-2 is a versatile organic nitrogen source for gardens, landscapes, and container plantings.
What is peanut meal used for in the garden?
Peanut meal is used as a slow-release organic nitrogen source for feeding plants and building soil health. It is effective for vegetables, flowers, lawns, trees, shrubs, and acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas. The mild acidifying effect makes it especially useful in alkaline soils that need pH adjustment. Peanut meal also serves as an excellent compost activator, providing nitrogen to fuel microbial decomposition of carbon-rich materials. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Peanut Meal 8-1-2 is versatile for direct soil application, composting, and custom organic fertilizer blending.
How do I apply peanut meal to my garden?
Apply peanut meal by broadcasting 3–5 pounds per 100 square feet and incorporating into the top 4–6 inches of soil before planting. For side-dressing, apply 1–2 tablespoons per plant and work into the soil surface. For containers, add 1 tablespoon per gallon of soil at planting. Water thoroughly after application to begin the breakdown process. Reapply every 4–8 weeks during the growing season. Peanut meal has a pleasant, nutty smell and is easy to handle and spread. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Peanut Meal 8-1-2 is one of the most user-friendly organic amendments available.
Is peanut meal good for acid-loving plants?
Yes, peanut meal is excellent for acid-loving plants because it has a mild soil-acidifying effect as it decomposes. This makes it particularly well-suited for blueberries, azaleas, rhododendrons, gardenias, hydrangeas, and other plants that prefer lower soil pH. The nitrogen content also supports vigorous growth in these species. For maximum acidification, pair peanut meal with elemental sulfur or ammonium sulfate. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Peanut Meal 8-1-2 provides gentle, dual-action benefits — organic nitrogen plus natural soil acidification for acid-loving plant collections.
How does peanut meal compare to cottonseed meal?
Peanut meal (8-1-2) and cottonseed meal (6-2-1) are similar organic amendments — both are byproducts of oil extraction, both provide slow-release nitrogen, and both have mild soil-acidifying effects. Peanut meal typically has slightly higher nitrogen content and a more pleasant aroma. Cottonseed meal is more widely available in some regions. Both work well for acid-loving plants, general garden use, and composting. Choose based on availability and preference. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Peanut Meal 8-1-2 is a premium option for organic nitrogen with soil-acidifying benefits.
Can I use peanut meal in compost?
Yes, peanut meal is an excellent compost activator. Its high nitrogen content provides the fuel that decomposer microorganisms need to break down carbon-rich materials like leaves, straw, and wood chips. Add peanut meal at 5–10% by volume or scatter a thin layer with each addition of brown material. The combination accelerates composting and produces a richer, higher-nitrogen finished compost. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics Peanut Meal 8-1-2 is a cost-effective way to supercharge your compost pile with organic nitrogen.
Is peanut meal safe for people with peanut allergies?
Peanut meal fertilizer is applied to soil, not consumed, so the risk of allergic reaction is very low for most people with peanut allergies. However, individuals with severe peanut allergies should exercise caution when handling peanut meal, as inhaling dust particles or skin contact could potentially trigger a reaction. Wear gloves and a dust mask during application if you have peanut sensitivities. If you prefer to avoid peanut-derived products entirely, consider alternative organic nitrogen sources like feather meal or blood meal. Old Cobblers Farm™ offers multiple organic nitrogen options to accommodate different needs.
