Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) Response to Simulated Triclopyr Drift

Abstract

Cotton response to triclopyr was evaluated when it was applied over-the-top at simulated drift rates to pin-head square and early bloom cotton growth stages in 1987 and 1988. The herbicidal effects of triclopyr were most evident after a lag period of 10 to 15 d. Triclopyr at 60 g ai ha-1applied at pin-head square reduced cotton height in 1987, but not in 1988. Triclopyr applied at pin-head square and early bloom reduced cotton flowering initially, as measured by white bloom counts, in both years. Total blooms were reduced in 1987, but not in 1988. Cotton maturity was delayed by triclopyr application during early bloom, as shown by a decrease in percent open bolls, and a decrease in first pick cotton yields. Cotton yield was lower in plots receiving triclopyr, with the greatest yield reduction caused by a 60 g ha-1triclopyr application at early bloom.