Growth Management in Pima: PGR Versus Water Stress

There is a relatively long history of plant growth regulator (PGR) use for Acala cotton production in the San Joaquin Valley.  Similar plant growth regulator practices were initially utilized with Pima varieties.   However, many experiences with inadequate growth regulation with PGR’s have led to alternative approaches, including delayed irrigations producing water stress, and more aggressive PGR practices, including earlier applications, multiple lower dose applications, and higher rates.  Studies were conducted in two different soil types to evaluate the effects of multiple PGR management practices versus delayed irrigations on plant growth, yields and fiber quality.