LOUISBURG, NORTH CAROLINA (RFD News) — The next phase of tobacco planting is underway across North Carolina, with farmers working long hours to get plants in the ground.
At N&N Farms, fourth-generation farmer Travis Nelms is moving from greenhouse to field, transplanting tobacco into rows despite ongoing dry conditions.
Nelms says planting season is one of his favorite times of year: “Planting time is a good time, and it’s the start of everything. I love to see it go in the field. When it goes in the field, things are going good.”
Even with drought concerns, the work continues. Nelms plans to plant about 400 acres this season, averaging roughly 40 to 45 acres a day. While the crop thrives on predictably dry weather, yields and crop quality can suffer dramatically if producers are unable to get a good gauge on unpredictable hot and dry weather patterns.
North Carolina leads the nation in tobacco production and is responsible for about 60 percent of the U.S. crop.
Farmer John Jenkinson shares the latest on planting conditions in Kansas and what producers are facing this season.
April 10, 2026 12:48 PM
·
Rising input costs may squeeze margins and shift planting decisions. Scott Metzger with the American Soybean Association discusses fertilizer market pressures and what is at stake for farmers as planting season ramps up.
April 10, 2026 12:18 PM
·
Farm Bureau economist Danny Munch discusses the USDA’s request for feedback on data and research, how such requests work, and what farmers should know about submitting comments before the Thursday, April 9 deadline.
April 09, 2026 03:39 PM
·
Farm Bureau groups in Arkansas and Mississippi are working together to provide training and resources to rural communities.
April 09, 2026 03:24 PM
·
Georgia Ag Commissioner Tyler Harper explains the growing threat of invasive hornets in his state and what Southeastern growers should watch for this spring.
April 09, 2026 02:54 PM
·
Fertilizer relief may be limited despite the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz this week. AgriSompo’s Brooks York discusses marketing strategies, crop insurance considerations, and other tips for producers navigating volatility this planting season.
April 09, 2026 01:25 PM
·
