The effects of early season square removal with ethephon applied at 0.25 lb ai/A in 2.6 acre plots was investigated to determine a) growth and fruiting pattern responses of DES 119 cotton planted in 30-inch rows and b) response of boll weevil populations. The ethephon treatment modified the fruiting patterns from that of the check; specifically bloom initiation was delayed seven days, daily bloom rate and total bloom load were significantly enhanced, and the duration of the boll opening period was significantly shortened. The ethephon treatment did not delay seasonal crop maturity nor reduce lint yield or quality compared to the check. Delayed availability of squares suitable for oviposition by overwintered boll weevils resulted in a delayed and decreased rate of oviposition punctures by emerging F₂ weevils in the ethephon treated plots. The implications of modifying fruiting patterns with ethephon early-season as a boll weevil management tactic are discussed.