12 FLUE-CURED TOBACCO IN FLORIDA

threads per square inch. These covers aid in maintenance of
better moisture and prevent damage from wind and frost.
(See figure 3) It is often advisable to provide extra protection
on extremely cold nights. However, the cloth should be removed
after plants attain the size of a quarter so that they will toughen
as they grow. The beds should be covered on all frosty nights.
Hardened plants survive best when transplanted to the field.
Plants grown in open areas may be scorched from frost and
appear damaged. However, if given additional growing time
they will recover and make satisfactory field growth unless
the bud was damaged.


Fig. 3: Tobacco Plants Damaged by Frost


 WATERING
 Water is most essential for establishing plant stands and
is very essential for maximum plant growth. Excess water,
particularly in low, poorly drained areas, may injure plants,
and in some instances plants will drown because of poor
aeration in wet soil. The amount of water and frequency of
application may be governed by atmospheric conditions and
vigor of plant growth. When pulling plants for transplanting
it is advisable to water the bed before pulling and sprinkle
the bed after pulling to settle the soil around the plants. (See
figure 4)