Heat stress
scouted May 22, 2026
- Scientific Name
- Heat stress
- Background
- A tobacco field, variety NC196, was being scouted 6 days after transplant, and it was observed that 50% of the field was affected by yellowing, wilting, and scorch/burns. Widespread issue in random parts of the field. The field is a dry and sunny site. Suspected sore shin; sample submitted to the PDIC for diagnosis.
- Conclusion
- The issue was identified as heat stress. In tobacco, high temperatures can cause sun scald due to wilting, moisture loss and root damage. Tobacco can tolerate some dry weather especially between transplanting and layby but if crop is not yet at laybay and growth has been significantly delayed, consider irrigation.