Although tobacco production in central Kentucky has fallen steadily over the last decade, local yields could be up this fall. Steady rain showers over the next week could increase stress in the fields.
Madison County Extension Agent in Agriculture Brandon Sears says burley production in his area could be higher than the last couple of years. The dreaded ‘blue mold’ tobacco disease typically doesn’t invade central Kentucky. But, Sears says consistent rain can hurt topping operations. “Extended wet periods loosen up the soil as the tobacco starts to grow and get heavy in the top. If we were to get any kind of wind with that, you can see some tobacco start to blow down,” said Sears.
Another plant disease, ‘black shank’ could cause some losses. Sears says there are about 14 to 16 growers in Madison County, working about 250 acres of tobacco this summer.?
