J. J. Marois, D. J. Wright, D. J. Mailhot, P. Srivastava, B. Leite, and E. Osekre. University of Florida, 155 Research Rd, Quincy, FL 32351
Fusarium hardlock of cotton can be severe in the coastal areas of the southeastern United States. It is caused by Fusarium verticillioides. The fungus enters the flowers at bloom and quickly colonizes the developing seed. Using green fluorescent protein labeled strains of the fungus it was possible to monitor the colonization of the flower and boll with PCR. Fungicides applied during the bloom decreased disease more than those applied after boll opening. Insects can vector the pathogen (especially thrips and bumble bees) and their presence can increase disease severity. Insecticide plus fungicide combinations applied during the bloom period of the cotton provided the best control.
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