Impact of Pre-Bloom Square Loss on Yield and Lint Quality in Louisiana Cotton Cropping Systems

During the 2016 growing season, research was conducted at three locations in the state of Louisiana to evaluate the impact of pre-bloom square loss on cotton lint yield and fiber quality. Two cotton varieties, Phytogen 499 and Phytogen 222 were chosen to imitate early season square loss due to tarnished plant bug (Lygus lineolaris) feeding or unfavorable weather conditions. Thirty plants within each plot were selected and squares were counted. Squares were assigned numbers, and numbers were then randomized using a computerized number generator. To simulate intervals of minimum to maximum fruit loss, just prior to bloom, squares were removed at 0, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 percent. Throughout the growing season, weekly applications of insecticide were sprayed to keep plants insect free to avoid unwanted damage. At the end of the season, ten plants within the thirty plants previously chosen were plant mapped and each plot was hand harvested for lint yield and fiber quality. This research will provide growers with a better understanding of when an insecticide application may or may not be necessary and how early season square loss will affect their yields at the end of the growing season.