The Texas rice harvest is underway, and growers are hopeful a strong second crop will help close out what has been a challenging season. According to Sam Rustom, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension agronomist and assistant professor in the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Department of Soil and Crop Sciences in Eagle Lake, overall rice production is looking about average for 2025. Farmers planted early this season, which allowed for earlier harvesting, but statewide production still dropped by 6,000 acres to about 143,000 acres. Yields are averaging 8,000 to 9,000 pounds per acre, with final rice quality yet to be determined as mills continue drying down kernels. Rain and extreme heat during peak flowering in late June and early July reduced potential yields, while infestations of rice delphacidโa piercing-sucking insect that can also spread diseaseโadded to production challenges. The rice delphacid first appeared in 2015, but this was the first season it became a widespread problem in the main crop across all Texas rice-producing regions. Although it negatively impacted some fields, farmers still reported better-than-expected yields in affected areas.
ย
ย
Protecting the Ratoon Crop
For many Texas rice growers, profitability often comes from the ratoon cropโthe second harvest produced from plant regrowth after cutting the main crop. Because of this, growers are being urged to take aggressive measures to control rice delphacid infestations, including mowing back stubble to 8โ10 inches and applying treatments as early as possible. Aside from pest concerns and issues with controlling barnyard grass, conditions are favorable for a strong ratoon crop thanks to the early harvest. Rustom emphasized that protecting the ratoon crop is critical, as it is what keeps many operations financially viable.
ย
ย
Prices and Future Outlook
Rice prices remain lower than average, sitting around $12.75 per hundredweight compared to the typical $14โ$17. While tariffs on imported rice have had little effect, growers may benefit from new agricultural provisions in the federal funding bill, which could provide better price assistance. Looking ahead, Texas rice acreage may rebound significantly in 2026. Heavy rains have replenished surface water reservoirs that had been unavailable to agriculture for years, opening up irrigation opportunities. This could add 20,000 to 40,000 acres of rice, particularly in the Eagle Lake and Bay City areas. Despite lower prices and ongoing pest challenges, Texas rice farmers are optimistic that careful management of the ratoon crop will ensure a stronger finish to the season.
ย
