Evaluation of Stalk Destruction Programs for 2,4-D Tolerant Cotton in South Texas

Cotton stalk destruction is an essential practice for the management of boll weevil in Texas. Effective and timely stalk destruction must be employed by growers in an effort to meet stalk destruction deadlines within their respective growing region. 2,4-D is widely utilized in an overall stalk destruction program; however, the adoption of 2,4-D tolerant cotton varieties has led to the need for alternative herbicides for effective control of these varieties. Several field trials evaluating different stalk destruction programs for 2,4-D tolerant cotton varieties have been conducted over the past three growing seasons across multiple locations in South Texas. Programs evaluated included the application of alternative herbicides and mechanical stalk destruction.