Morningglories (Ipomoea spp.) are problem weeds in Oklahoma, New Mexico and Texas cotton, resulting in harvest interference and yield reductions. Extension specialists estimate that morningglories of various species infest 10 to 20% of the cotton acreage to some extent (475,000 to 955,000 acres in 1969). Acreage infested seems to be increasing annually because control measures presently used are not totally effective.

Caparol or Cotoran applied preemergence followed by cultivation are the most commonly used control practices, except on sandy soils, where these herbicides often cause cotton injury. Probe is being used some as a replacement for Sancap, which is no longer marketed. Preemergence treatments usually result in a degree of control and aid in creating a height differential between the crop and weeds.

Control strategies for the future include: crop rotation to reduce morningglory seed in soil, preemergence herbicides, cultivation, early postemergence directed herbicides, layby treatment, fall application of 2,4-D or Banvel for perennials.

A planned program of integrated practices is necessary to bring morningglories under control, including early postemergence directed applications. Greater emphasis will be placed on this in Extension programs in 1990.