Tight supplies of expensive rice seed are causing Louisiana growers to wait for ideal conditions before planting to ensure a successful crop, the Lafayette, La., Daily Advertiser reported Tuesday.

Farmers in southern Louisiana's Acadiana region traditionally begin spring planting on March 15, but this year most farmers have yet to begin sowing the rice crop.

Farmers can wait until the second week of April to plant and still be able to harvest in time for a second crop in the fall,

Temperature is the most crucial factor. Soil temperatures have to be a little bit warmer for the best seed germination, according to the article.