I admit defeat! Well not completely, but I have to say things are not looking good.
On my main patch where I planted 11 varieties about 110 plants, half of the plants are already budding even though they are not even knee high! They were planted to early with the weather we have been having this summer and does not look good at all. Last week we finally had some warm weather coming our way and my "farmers tan" moved from the wrists upwards to where it should be, ending right above the biceps. But now its over and we are back to wind, rain and low temps. 10 day forecast show high temps of 17-18 deg C (mid 60s F).
My second patch where I grow 2 varieties totaling around 95 plants, seem to do much better, although they are still small about 8-10" high and 10-12" big leafs, they are much darker green and overall healthier looking baccy (pics are on the way). Since this is my first year growing I will be happy to get some tobacco for my snusmaking and I am still hoping this second patch will give somewhat decent return on the effort I have put in Thus far.
Even though I very rarely comment I have to say that I enjoy this forum very much and it has become one of my most frequently visited websites. I thank you all for the work you do to help Me and others in our tobacco growing, cigar rolling, pipetobacco blending and snusmaking efforts. Big thumbs up from me and good luck on all your grows!
Ps. Deluxestogie if you are reading this your analysis of the old cigar was spot on! Bought in Europe in mid 50s and brought here as a gift.