AMPA: Rains slow cotton planting pace, but planting continues as expected in Mato Grosso.

The Mato Grosso Cotton Producers Association (AMPA) released a report on the state of cotton crops in Mato Grosso, covering the period from January 18th to 24th, 2026, which indicates a direct influence of climate instability on the progress of agricultural activities in the state. According to the survey, recurring rains and high volumes recorded in several regions limited the progress of the soybean harvest and reduced the pace of cotton sowing, especially in second-crop areas. Even so, cotton planting is proceeding as expected for the period, with 48% to 55% of the planned area already planted, generally showing good germination, adequate stand, and good initial establishment.

The soybean harvest progressed unevenly, conditioned by periods of dry weather. Average yields ranged from 53 to 87 sacks per hectare, with no significant losses recorded due to weather events. In some regions, the continued presence of soybeans at the end of their cycle has delayed the release of areas for cotton planting, especially for the second crop.

In crop monitoring, the main point of attention this week was the consistent increase in pest pressure, particularly the cotton boll weevil. The presence of the pest in traps increased in practically all monitored regions, especially after the soybean harvest progressed. Average captures ranged from 1.3 to more than 6 insects per trap, indicating a high residual population and requiring immediate intensification of management actions.

Among the measures considered fundamental are continuous monitoring, the installation and maintenance of traps and boll weevil traps, the application of insecticides according to technical recommendations, and the rigorous elimination of volunteer cotton plants, with the aim of reducing initial outbreaks of the pest.

In the phytosanitary field, significant occurrences of whiteflies, stink bugs, thrips, aphids, and caterpillars were also observed, with particular emphasis on the migration of whiteflies from soybeans to cotton in the early stages of development. The management of these pests is being carried out preventively and correctively, according to the infestation levels and operational schedules of each region.

Given this scenario, the week indicates good productive potential for the crops, but associated with a high phytosanitary risk, especially during the cotton establishment period. This context demands heightened attention from producers, rigorous adoption of integrated pest management, and regional coordination of control actions, aiming to preserve crop development and reduce impacts on the productivity of the 2025/2026 harvest.