Daniel J. Mailhot, James J. Marois, and David L. Wright. University of Florida, NFREC, 155 Research Rd., Quincy, FL 32351
Cotton affected by hardlock fails to fluff outward at boll opening, thereby reducing the harvestable lint yield. This is a major problem in certain areas of the Southeast, particularly north Florida. Prior studies have linked the symptom to infection by Fusarium spp., and to the presence of thrips (Frankliniella spp.) in the flowers. It is hypothesized that Fusarium infects through the flower on the day of bloom, sustains itself in the developing boll, and alters fiber development. This paper investigates the influence of weather variables, particularly night temperature, on hardlock severity. Models were created for predicting hardlock on a daily and yearly basis. The influence of temperature and hardlock on yield was also explored.
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