Crop Progress: Big Gains in Oklahoma Cotton

By Cotton Grower Staff|July 24, 2023

It’s always said that cotton loves heat. Based on the numbers from the USDA Crop Progress report for the week ending July 23, 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.