#Plant26: Mississippi Farmers Navigate Drought Conditions and Rising Costs as Planting Season Kicks Off

Farmer Jeffry Mitchell with the Mississippi Farm Bureau joins us for a spring planting update from the southeast region as drought, input costs, and fertilizer access complicate crop progress.

CARY, MISS. (RFD NEWS)Mixed weather patterns and fluctuating input costs are shaping planting decisions this season, as farmers across the country work to get crops in the ground. We turn now to Mississippi for a regional update as progress ramps up.

Farmer Jeffry Mitchell, a multigenerational farmer with the Mississippi Farm Bureau, joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to share what he’s seeing on the ground and share more about his operation and how long he and his family have been involved in agriculture.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Mitchell provides an update on planting progress in his area, noting how recent weather patterns—including any drought concerns—are impacting fieldwork. He also compares this season to previous years and whether conditions have been more or less favorable so far.

Mitchell also addresses input challenges, including whether fertilizer needs were secured ahead of recent global tensions and how fluctuating prices or availability may be affecting local operations. He also highlights any unexpected hurdles farmers are encountering as planting continues.

Looking ahead, Mitchell shares his outlook for the growing season and what he’s hearing from other producers across the region, offering insight into whether conditions and concerns are consistent throughout Mississippi.

Related Stories
The most common mistake farmers make is waiting until a health crisis occurs to transfer the farm to their children.
U.S. Agriculture Faces Mixed Weather, Market Pressures
Strong exports and production support ongoing corn demand.
Brooks York with AgriSompo provide insight on crop insurance considerations and the decisions farmers are making as the enrollment deadline approaches.
Strong consumer demand supports livestock market outlook.
Farm legal expert Roger McEowen discusses a new rail antitrust case in Kansas and its potential implications for farmers as rail upgrades signal continued export-driven demand for logistics.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Three junior heifer exhibitors continue their trek through the Texas Swing at the San Antonio Stock Show, balancing competition, friendship, and life on the road.
Lynn County 4-H students showcase robotics and STEM skills at the San Antonio Stock Show, highlighting how ag education programs are preparing the next generation in agritech.
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold discusses lingering winter illnesses, shares strategies to boost immunity, and advises rural communities on when to seek medical care on Rural Health Matters.
Nick Westgerdes of the American Society of Farm Managers & Rural Appraisers breaks down farmland values, rental rates, and sales trends in Illinois, while previewing the upcoming land values conference for 2026.
As National FFA Week continues, Ag Teacher Appreciation Day serves as a reminder of the lasting impact ag educators have on students, communities, and the future of American agriculture.
Analysts warn the closed U.S.-Mexico border is straining cattle supplies and packing capacity. StoneX and USDA data point to long-term industry shifts.
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Farm Traveler is for people who want to connect with their food and those who grow it. Thanks to direct-to-consumer businesses, agritourism, and social media, it’s now easier than ever to learn how our food is made and support local farmers. Here on the Farm Traveler, we want to connect you with businesses offering direct-to-consumer products you can try at home, agritourism sites you can visit with your family, and exciting new technologies that are changing how your food is being grown.