Source:Chris Bickers, SOUTHEAST FARM PRESS, 8/3/17


After miserable production in 2016, American burley tobacco producers had good prospects through mid-season of 2017 for producing a crop that could restore inventories and allow growers to realize a profit. Weather that allowed for a strong early start was an advantage for a number of growers. Some enjoyed an exceptionally early start. Ben Crain of Versailles, Ky., said, "I am 77 years old and have been growing tobacco nearly all my life, but I don't ever recall setting out burley in April."

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