Recent changes in cotton, Gossypium hirsutum L., ecosystems have created new challenges in the development of cost- effective IPM strategies. New pest management strategies and patterns of cropland use in cotton ecosystems have reduced foliar insecticide inputs and created “low spray” environments. Pests that have typically been perceived as secondary problems were controlled with frequent applications of broad-spectrum insecticides used for major pests. In “low-spray” environments and diverse farm landscapes, secondary pests are driving the decision-making process in cotton IPM. Recognizing the influence of changes in cotton production systems allows agricultural consultants and producers to successfully refine IPM practices to address their immediate needs.