The interaction between management and environment regulates the timing of the transition from nitrogen- to carbohydrate-oriented metabolism and, thus, potential chemical composition and quality of flue-cured tobacco. Specifically, variations in nitrogen fertility, tillage, irrigation, and rainfall, single or in combination, may result in tobaccos of varied character and quality. More importantly, the management factors can be intentionally manipulated to alter growth and ripening to produce tobaccos to meet specific quality preferences. Such techniques may prove useful in contract growing situations or in overcoming adverse weather conditions. The relative success of these techniques will be discussed.