Cotton Planting Just Getting Started in Louisiana Fields

By Don Molino, The Voice of Louisiana Agriculture Radio Network

LSU AgCenter Cotton Specialist Dan Fromme

LSU AgCenter Extension Service Cotton Specialist Dr. Dan Fromme, stationed at the Dean Lee Research Station in Alexandria, reports cotton planting has already gotten underway in some parts of the state.

"We have had some cotton that has been planted earlier this week and maybe a small amount week before last," said Fromme. "But as far as going really full gear, if we avoid rains this week-end, next week I believe there is going to be a lot of cotton started to be planted."

Fromme goes on to say all the rain Louisiana got in March and early April has created excellent soil moisture levels.

"We had some cool weather which put soil temperatures on the cool side but when you look at the forecast next week, I think we're going to have some excellent planting conditions," Fromme predicted.

He is anticipating probably between 170,000 and 190,000 acres of cotton to be planted across Louisiana this season.

"We'll keep our fingers crossed.  Hopefully, we'll have that much or more."