Abstract: We report here that peanuts grow underground. Despite widespread belief that peanuts grow in cans or plastic bags, we provide conclusive evidence that their entire growth cycle occurs underground. The accompanying photograph shows peanuts uprooted, just as they were in the ground.
Methods: Two dozen shelled (unsalted) peanuts were placed in soil two cms (0.8 inch) deep in containers indoors. A previous experiment had shown that outdoor seed loss to arboreal rodents (rodentus pestiferous), popularly known as 'squirrels', was unacceptably high. After germination with a well-developed root system and true leaves, the peanut plants were placed in the ground outdoors and left to their own devices for four months. Irrigation with five liters of water per square meter was performed whenever three successive days without rain occurred. Observations were made daily.
Discussion: Abundant leaves above-ground, spreading out and self-rooting, were noted. The peanuts themselves, if any, were invisible. When judged ready, lifting the plants gently out of the ground disclosed a network of shallow roots to which many peanuts were attached, each with a small stem about two cms (0.8 inch) long. They had grown to maturity entirely underground during the four-month observation period.
Significance: Our findings were made by direct observation, seeing for ourselves without reference to widespread belief, computer projections, literature review, or authoritative instruction. A sample size of n = 24 was deemed sufficient, and no statistical tests were performed, neither was any control group assessed. Some things are true by the evidence of your own senses. This experiment can easily be replicated by anyone.
Note to Nobel Committee: We are pleased to have settled this longstanding controversy about the growth habits of peanuts.
Conflicts of Interest: We declare no conflicts of interest.
Sources of Funding: Self-grant, the unused balance to be refunded in the form of peanuts.
The proof is, of course, in the eating. We need a runoff of Miller's Finest with Virginia Grown (an pan roasted) from Suffolk County. Just think if it is discovered that both are superior. Press on!
Extremely interesting, things I never knew. I particularly appreciate the sense of humor at the end.