Data from four field tests conducted in the Texas Coastal Bend in 1990 and 1991 were combined for analysis of the effects of acephate (Orthene 90S, 0.9 lb ai/acre) alone or in combination with liquid fertilizer (4-1-0 at a total volume of B-10 gallons/acre) applied in the seed furrow at planting. Early season aphid numbers were reduced, a numerical trend existed for fewer thrips numbers, and fleahopper populations were not changed in Orthene treated cotton. No interaction between starter fertilizer and orthene was observed. There was a trend for reduced plant numbers in starter fertilizer treated plots, percentage of total cotton lint obtained on the first harvest date was significantly lower in the check, no differences were observed in total lint yield, and micronaire measurement was favorably reduced in starter fertilizer treated cotton. Additional tests will be conducted during the next 3-year period.