Burley Tobacco Sales in Full Swing; Prices Vary

(AP/ABC) ... Most burley farmers sell leaf under production contracts with tobacco companies determine how much each grower can raise and set a range of prices. Burley tobacco sales usually start in November and stretch into late winter. Paydays for growers are based on the weight of leaf and its quality, with tobacco buyers looking at texture, color and smell.
A drought has produced a brutal curing season — when green burley leaves ideally turn a dark reddish brown tint while hanging in barns. Instead, some tobacco became an undesired light tan color as burley dried too fast. Continued