University of Arkansas scientists’ work has shown a strong correlation in the Delta between high temperatures and low yields. They believe those temperatures’ effects on pollination/fertilization are an integral reason for yield and quality variability – a hypothesis they are trying to quantify in 2006.

Under the direction of Dr. Derrick Oosterhuis, the University of Arkansas scientists specifically are: 1) evaluating and quantifying the effect of environmental stress on the development of boll weight, yield and fiber quality of cotton; 2) determining the effect of high temperatures on pollination, fertilization and seed set and motes and fiber quality; 3) analyzing available temperature data and analyzing it for trends; and 4) investigating management strategies for improving seed set and boll/fiber development under high temperatures.