Cotton (Gossypium spp.) was planted in 1990 and 1992 to determine the effect of nitrogen rate on growth and yield when produced on a Red River alluvial soil (Norwood silt loam, pH near 8.0) in central Louisiana. Seven rates of N ranging from 0 to 150 lbs/A, in 25-lb increments, were applied prior to planting in randomized complete block design. Bolls were classified as rotten, immature, open, or missing. The number of rotten bolls was small and marginally affected by N rate. The greatest potential for yield improvement appeared to be in reducing boll loss. Missing boll number at the 100 lb N rate was approximately half that of open bolls in 1990, and was double that of open bolls in 1992.