# Crop Progress: Big Gains in Oklahoma Cotton

Author: Jim Steadman
Published: 2023-07-24
Canonical URL: https://www.cottongrower.com/cotton-production/crop-progress-big-gains-in-oklahoma-cotton/

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It’s always said that cotton loves heat. Based on the numbers from the [USDA Crop Progress report for the week ending July 23](https://downloads.usda.library.cornell.edu/usda-esmis/files/8336h188j/g445dx26n/nk323w46x/prog2923.pdf), the heat of the past week has made a big difference – especially in Oklahoma.

Overall, squaring is now reported in 78% of the U.S. crop – up 14 points in the past week, yet still 5 points behind the 5-year average for the date. Seven states are currently ahead of their respective averages.

Likewise, boll set is now reported in 37% of the total crop – up 12 points in the past week and 2 points off average. Three states are ahead of their 5-year averages.

So, what about Oklahoma? The report shows that cotton maturity exploded in the state over the past week. Squaring jumped from 32% to 79% – up a whopping 47 points (13 points ahead of average). And boll set went from unreported to 25% across the state (6 points ahead of average). Pretty good week.

Overall, U.S. cotton condition showed a few percentage point movements but remained relatively consistent: 46% good/excellent, 30% fair, and 24% poor/very poor.