It’s Time To Prepare For Planting

    

FLORIDA
David Wright
dlwright@ifas.ufl.edu

It seems like we have just gotten out of the 2009 crop with late harvest, and it is time to get ready to plant the 2010 crop. Deltapine 555 has been the variety of choice for Southeast producers for the past several years with it being grown on 95 percent of the acreage.

Many producers tried other varieties in 2009, and some outperformed the standard. This was due to insect problems in some areas and poor harvesting conditions in others and good genetics in the new varieties. Several varieties from different companies did better in variety trials all across the region than 555. This will make it easier for producers to switch knowing that there are several high-yielding varieties that have the potential for four-bale cotton, including early and late varieties.

Producers should check variety test information near them for the best high-yielding varieties. Most of these varieties will have the newest technology with two Bt genes and be able to apply Roundup later over the top.

 
MISSOURI
Mike Milam
milammr@missouri.edu

It is hard to realize that it has been a little more than a year since the ice storm in Southeast Missouri. Many were without electricity for up to three weeks in spite of the effort of service crews that suddenly appeared within days. I know that it made all of us more appreciative for what we have every day. We are truly blessed.

The reports indicate that there will be more cotton grown in Missouri this year, which will reverse our downward trend for the last several years. Looking back, it's hard to realize that we had almost half a million acres of cotton just a few years ago. While it is unlikely that we will ever reach that level again, we still have the potential for excellent crops.


source : cottonfarming