Source: NCSU COLLEGE OF AG & LIFE SCIENCES, 9/10/21


September is always a time for anxiety and anticipation for NC cotton growers, and we always seem to be on edge this time of year as we watch our crop approach defoliation and harvest season. Rightfully so….in several years past, we’ve seen our crop diminish in both yield and quality due to extended cloudy, wet conditions for more than a few days on several occasions in September, not to mention heavy winds or rains resulting from hurricanes or tropical storms. Currently, we have a variable crop across the state, but there are several areas with above-average to exceptional yield potential. Thus far, September weather has been favorable (mostly dry, warm, and sunny) for boll opening in early planted cotton, and we certainly hope that continues through October or beyond. Lighter rains every now and then dont usually hurt anything, as long as dry, sunny conditions return quickly and rainfall amounts aren’t excessive. The weather is beyond our control, however there are a few things that we can control that might help us capture most or all of our yield potential.

For more of this story, click here.