ABSTRACT
Different planting and termination dates of Pima S-6 and Upland (Deltapine 90) cotton (Gossypium barbadense L. and hirsutum L. respectively) were tested for their effects on pink bollworm (Pectinophora gossypiella) infestations. Tests were conducted during 1989 and 1990 cotton seasons at the University of Arizona Yuma Valley Agricultural Experiment Station. Planting dates indicated little effect on early season infestations of pink bollworm for either cotton. However, irrigation termination had the greatest effect on late season infestations. In 1989, heat unit (degree day 12.8/30 C, lower and upper thresholds) development was several days earlier than 1990, due to a very warm year. Pheromone trap counts indicated higher populations in 1989 than 1990; however, infestations in the field were similar between the years. Infestations dramatically increased during July through September, indicating that a longer cotton season with actively growing fruit, results in a continued population increase. The termination dates affected the amount of fruiting structures left in the field and thereby affected infestations of overwintering larvae in the field.
|