#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
SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler breaks down the Grocery Guarantee Program, its goals for expanding farmer access to capital, and its potential impact on food production and prices.
Lower shipping costs alone will not restore export competitiveness.
Rising fuel costs will soon increase grain transportation expenses.
The five-day auction drew up to 6,000 people and saw steady prices throughout the event
Cattle farmer Scott Porter, Kentucky Farm Bureau’s 2025 Farmer of the Year, discusses his commitment to mentorship and the importance of strengthening the future of agriculture.
Son of a South Dakota Rancher, Kolt Mendenhall is turning his lifelong passion for riding into a collegiate career, committing to Southeastern Oklahoma State University next fall, bringing years of ranch experience to the collegiate arena.

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:

EPA estimates the rule could generate more than $10 billion for rural economies and support over 100,000 jobs across agriculture and manufacturing sectors.
White House hosts “Celebration of Agriculture” as Trump administration signals new farmer support, including potential tax breaks and upcoming renewable fuel policy updates.
Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Michael Kelsey joined us to discuss wildfire impacts across the Southern Plains, the importance of community support, and the path forward for affected producers.
As ag lawmakers in the Senate await the House vote on the Farm Bill, they are eager to discuss the challenges farmers face before it is their turn to take up the critical legislation.
Elena Chavez with Halter provided insight into the company’s virtual fencing technology, its adoption in the U.S., and the impact of recent funding on ranching operations.
Brooks York with AgriSompo addresses how current market conditions and risk management are impacted by volatility in the Middle East, and considerations for farmers in the spring planting season.
Agriculture Shows
“DocTalk” with host Dr. Dan Thomson will be teaming up with practitioners around the country to tackle issues with your livestock.
This high-yield corn contest showcases real-life Corn Warriors dealing with elements that every farmer knows well. Get an authentic look at what it takes to compete in a high-yield corn contest, and see who will take the title of Corn King.
As the trusted voice of the U.S. cattle and beef industry, the National Cattlemen Beef Association strives to share timely, relevant news. NCBA’s “Cattlemen to Cattlemen” is the leading TV show for beef producers to receive cattle industry news, education, and information.
America’s Heartland brings positive, heartfelt stories about American agriculture to viewers in both urban and rural areas.