In South Texas temperature and moisture stress often are the cause of yield reductions and lower fiber quality. A program to select cultivars with improved lint yields and fiber quality (primarily strength) has been underway for a number of years. Enhancements must occur with consideration given to early harvest and without loss of other desired qualities present in currently used cultivars. Screening of commercial lines, F₂ materials, selected cultivars and pima cotton were compared with widely-grown, regional varieties. Yield enhancements of 75-200 lbs per acre are possible through new genotypes. Fiber strength can be increased at least two grams/tex without compromising lint yields.