by Dr. Calvin Trostle, Extension Agronomy, Lubbock

Hailstorms, wind damage, poor stands—and yes, occasionally too much rain(!)—place Texas farmers in a possible replant decision on a failed crop, usually cotton, or pushes planting back so much that cotton or other full-season crops are no longer viable. What to do? What are my options?

First, when possible crop failure is at hand and must be assessed, it is often best to walk away from a field for about a week. Then assess after the remaining seedlings or perhaps larger plants have had an opportunity to recover and show signs of growing again. The growing point must be assessed, leaf area may be a consideration, and the remaining stand of viable, productive plants accounted for. Keep in mind that thin stands, especially if fairly uniform across the field, may be more important than the actual number of plants per acre. Seedling and plant health is also a consideration. Many crops grown in Texas have a surprising ability to recover and be productive, and they often to not merit destroying or replanting.

With all the rains and flooding across Texas in recent weeks you may have questions about the viability of stands of different crops. Consult AgriLife Extension staff for possible resources to help you assess crop stands and crop damage.

Texas South Plains

Our 13th annual guide has been updated for producers, and it available for viewing, printing, or downloading at http://lubbock.tamu.edu/ (search for ‘hail’). Resources are provided to assess cotton stands in terms of damage. If you decide to terminate the crop, then the hailout/replant/late plant options are outlined in the region for over a dozen crops including grain sorghum, sunflower, sesame, summer annual forages, guar, etc. Producers will find a list of ‘first things’ you need to know including specific last recommended planting dates for your lower High Plains area, your target crop, and that crop’s individual hybrid or varietal maturity. For crops that are grown under contract, you will find a list of contractors and their contact information.

Be sure to check with your local Farm Service Agency office and crop insurance agent if either your federal farm program status or your insurance claims might be affected by replanting another crop.

What if you are beyond the South Plains? Growers in the Concho Valley to the south, the Rolling Plains to the east, and even north in to the Panhandle may find this information useful in understanding options, especially on minor crops that you may less familiar with.

Late-Season Maturation of Pre-plant Grain Sorghum-Terry Co.

Calvin Trostle
Professor and Extension Specialist
Lubbock, TX
803.746.6101
ctrostle@ag.tamu.edu