Heat stress
scouted May 22, 2026
- Scientific Name
- Heat stress
- Background
- A tobacco field, variety NC987, was being scouted, and it was observed that 10% of the field was affected by browning, yellowing, and wilting, as well as scorched leaves. Widespread issue in patches across the field. Suspected sore shin. A sample was 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.