Photosynthesis is the basis for life as we know it in our modern world. All food, fiber, and fossil fuel comes from the sun's energy. Photosynthesis by the cotton plant is the determining factor of the maximum yield potential of any given crop. If maximal photosynthetic rates are not attained through prior growth events, maximum yields cannot be reached. That is not to say that yields are not responsive to breeding and management but rather that photosynthesis is the foundation upon all other manipulations of growth are placed.