ENTO-PU-158 06/22

Managing Cotton
Insects in Texas

Suhas S. Vyavhare David Kerns

Associate Professor and Extension Specialist Professor, IPM Coordinator and Extension Specialist
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Lubbock Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, College Station
CONTENTS
PEST MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES.. ...................................1 OTHER PESTS. . ................................................................17
Cutworms................................................................................17
INSECTICIDE RESISTANCE MANAGEMENT......................2 Saltmarsh caterpillar.............................................................17
Cotton square borer..............................................................18
BIOLOGICAL CONTROL.....................................................2 Cotton stainer.........................................................................18
BT TRANSGENIC COTTON................................................2 Whiteflies.................................................................................18
Boll weevil................................................................................19
SCOUTING........................................................................3 Pink bollworm.........................................................................19
Beat bucket sampling method...............................................3
Drop cloth sampling method.................................................4 BENEFICIAL ARTHROPODS. . ........................................... 19
Sweep net sampling method..................................................4 Lady beetles............................................................................19
Sampling predatory insects....................................................4 Collops beetle.........................................................................19
Minute pirate bug...................................................................20
EARLY-SEASON PESTS. . ...................................................4 Damsel bug.............................................................................20
Thrips.........................................................................................4 Green lacewing.......................................................................20
Wireworms................................................................................6 Spined soldier bug.................................................................20
Cotton fleahoppers..................................................................7 Brown lacewing......................................................................20
Big-eyed bug...........................................................................20
MID-SEASON AND LATE-SEASON PESTS........................8 Assassin bugs..........................................................................20
Bollworm and tobacco budworm..........................................8 Ground beetles.......................................................................20
Aphids........................................................................................9 Flower flies or syrphid flies...................................................20
Stink bugs................................................................................11 Ichneumonid wasps...............................................................20
Verde plant bug......................................................................12 Braconid wasps.......................................................................20
Beet armyworm......................................................................12 Tachinid flies............................................................................20
Spiders.....................................................................................21
OCCASIONAL PESTS...................................................... 13
Grasshoppers.........................................................................13 NOZZLE SELECTION........................................................ 21
Lygus bugs...............................................................................14
Spider mites............................................................................15 PRODUCTS LABELED FOR CONTROL
Fall armyworms......................................................................16 OF ARTHROPOD PESTS OF COTTON.. ............................ 22
PREMIX INSECTICIDE PRODUCTS. . ............................... 29
PHOTO CREDITS. . .......................................................... 30

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Thanks to the Plains Cotton Growers, Inc. and the Cotton Incorporated State Support Program for supporting Texas A&M AgriLife
Extension Service cotton research and educational outreach. This work is supported by Crop Protection and Pest Management
Extension Implementation Program [grant no. 2021-70006-35347/project accession no. 1027036] from the USDA National Institute of
Food and Agriculture.
The objectives of this publication are to 1) describe economic arthropod pests of cotton in Texas, including their associated damage
to crop growth stages; 2) describe the various sampling methods for these pests; and 3) list the management tools for each pest
regarding action thresholds.
Use the control recommendations in this publication as a guide. Every cotton field differs in terms of soil, microclimate, surrounding
cropping patterns, and farmer input. The adage “one size fits all” does not apply to cotton pest management.
Texas ranks first in
cotton production in
PEST MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES
the United States, using The term Integrated Pest Management (IPM), a
about half of the philosophy used in designing disease, insect, mite,
country’s cotton acres and weed pest control programs, helps avoid
to produce half of the economic losses from pests, optimize production
total crop. Cotton is the and environmental sustainability, and minimize risks
leading cash crop in the to human health. Systems based on IPM principles
state and is grown on encourage the intelligent integration of compatible and
about 5 million acres ecologically sound combinations of pest suppression
annually (Fig. 1). tactics, including:

Cotton production in
► Cultural control such as manipulating planting dates
Texas occurs in the and stalk destruction, variety selection, fertilization,
following regions: and irrigation timing
the Panhandle, South ► Biological control such as conservation of existing
Plains, Permian Basin, natural enemies
Figure 1. Cotton plant.
Trans-Pecos, Rolling ► Host plant resistance
Plains, Blackland Prairies, Winter Garden, Coastal Bend,
and Lower Rio Grande Valley (Fig. 2). The South Plains ► Field scouting as the basis for treatment decisions to
is the largest cotton-producing area, with acreage keep pest populations below economically damaging
exceeding 3 million in some years. Approaches to cotton levels
production vary from one region to another because Major factors to consider when using insecticides
of differences in climate, harvest techniques, irrigation include:
requirements, pest pressure, soil types, and variety
selection. ► Efficacy of product
► Protection of natural enemies of cotton pests
For each region, a unique group of insect pests damage
cotton, making the crop vulnerable to attack throughout ► Possible resurgence of primary and secondary pests
the season. Therefore, frequent and careful scouting after applications
for insect pests and beneficial insects is critical for ► Development of insecticide resistance in pest
successful cotton production. populations

Using multiple pest suppression tactics allows growers

to control pests at a low cost, preserve natural
enemies, and slow the development of pest resistance
to insecticides and insect control traits. Applying
insecticides at the proper rates and only when necessary,
as determined by frequent field inspections and
economic thresholds, helps prevent economic losses that
pests can cause.

The integrated pest management concept assumes

that pests will be present to some degree and, at low
levels, do not cause significant economic losses. The first
line of defense is to use effective agronomic practices
and cultural methods to produce the crop in ways that
are unfavorable for pest problems to develop. Use
appropriate insecticides only when pest populations
reach levels that cause crop damage and losses
greater than the cost of the treatment. This potentially
injurious population or plant damage level, determined
through regular field scouting, is the economic or action
threshold. In short, pest management strives to optimize
Figure 2. Major cotton growing regions in Texas. rather than maximize pest control efforts.

► 1
Recent developments have significantly impacted of insecticides—organophosphates, such as acephate
managing pests in cotton. The availability of transgenic, and dicrotophos or carbamates, such as thiodicarb—also
insect-resistant traits in cotton has reduced the incidence affect an insect’s nervous system, but in a different way
of damaging populations of caterpillar pests. Eradication than pyrethroids.
programs have eliminated the boll weevil from all but far
IRAC has developed an insecticide mode of action
South Texas and the pink bollworm throughout Texas.
classification system that provides an IRAC number on
Additionally, neonicotinoid seed treatments have greatly
the insecticide label (see http://www.irac-online.org/ ).
decreased the pest status of thrips and other early-
Insecticides with the same number have the same
season cotton pests.
mode of action. This system makes it relatively easy for
Because of these technological breakthroughs, the use producers and consultants to determine different modes
of foliar insecticides in Texas cotton has been down by of action among the insecticides in order to rotate their
two-thirds since 2000, and cotton yields have increased treatment selection among the insecticide classes and
by 50 percent. Predictably, the lower threat level reduced slow the development of resistance in pests.
growers’ reliance on field scouting for insects and also
Resistance to transgenic traits slows when two or
affected the frequency that trained scouts have to
more effective traits are incorporated into a cotton
conduct effective scouting programs at the field level.
variety. This strategy selects for individuals in an insect
Current insect-related threats to the cotton system population that have resistance to more than one
are pest resistance to insecticides and transgenic transgenic control element at the same time, which is
technologies and the potential introduction of invasive very rare.
pests. Transgenic technologies and neonicotinoid
seed treatments have recently become targets of
environmental and food safety groups. BIOLOGICAL CONTROL
Weather, inadequate food sources, and natural enemies
can hold insect and mite infestations below damaging
INSECTICIDE RESISTANCE MANAGEMENT levels. Biological control relies on parasites, pathogens,
The Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC) and predators to help control pests. Recognizing
defines insecticide resistance as an inherited change in the impact of these natural control factors and,
the sensitivity a pest population has to an insecticide, where possible, encouraging their action is a key IPM
“reflected in the repeated failure of a product to achieve component.
the expected level of control when used according to
Natural enemies in cotton include assassin bugs,
the label recommendation for that pest species” (see
big-eyed bugs, collops beetles, damsel bugs, ground
https://irac-online.org/about/resistance/ ). Reliance on
beetles, lacewing larvae, lady beetles (or ladybugs),
insecticides that act the same way can cause pests to
minute pirate bugs, spiders, syrphid fly larvae, and a
develop resistance to the entire class of insecticides. This
variety of tiny wasps that parasitize the eggs, larvae,
phenomenon applies to transgenic traits as well.
and pupae of many cotton pests. Avoiding the use of
To delay resistance, growers should use IPM principles broad-spectrum insecticides until they are needed helps
and integrate other control tactics into their insect conserve existing populations of natural enemies and
and mite control programs. One strategy to avoid or prevents the development of economically damaging
delay resistance development in pest populations pest infestations. Selecting insecticides that are more
is to rotate insecticide groups to take advantage of toxic to the target pests than they are to natural enemies
different modes of action. Tank-mixing products from minimizes the impact insecticides have on natural
the same insecticide class is not recommended. The enemies.
combination of insecticide rotations and tank mixtures
with insecticides from different IRAC classes reduces the
chance of selecting individual pests that are resistant to BT TRANSGENIC COTTON
certain classes of insecticides. These practices may delay Bt cotton is genetically altered by inserting genes
the development of resistance, provide better control of from a common soil bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis,
target pests, and enhance the long-term sustainability of to make proteins that are toxic to specific groups of
cotton production systems. insects. For example, currently available Bt traits in
Insecticides with similar chemical structures act on cotton specifically target caterpillar pests such as beet
insects in similar ways. For example, pyrethroids, such armyworm, cotton bollworm, and tobacco budworm.
as bifenthrin, cyfluthrin, and lambda-cyhalothrin, affect Conventional or non-Bt cotton does not produce such
an insect’s nervous system in the same way. Other types insecticidal proteins and is more vulnerable to worm
damage.

► 2
Since its introduction into United States agriculture
in 1996, Bt technology has developed from a single-
SCOUTING
gene trait to multi-gene trait packages. The first- Regular field scouting is crucial to any pest management
generation Bt cotton (Bollgard) had a single Bt gene that program because it is the only reliable way to determine
produced (expressed) Cry1Ac. The second-generation whether pests have reached the economic threshold.
Bt technologies, such as Bollgard II, TwinLink, and More than just “checking bugs,” scouting determines
WideStrike, produce two Bt toxins. The most recent third- insect density and damage levels by using standardized,
generation Bt technologies (WideStrike 3, Bollgard 3, and repeatable sampling techniques. It also monitors
TwinLink Plus) are three-gene trait products. beneficial insect activity, diseases, fruiting, plant growth,
and weeds, as well as the effects of pest suppression
practices.
Table 1. Bt technologies currently available in cotton
Growers or crop consultants should check fields at
Bt technologies Proteins expressed least once and preferably twice a week to determine
Second generation what species are present, their density, and the amount
of damage. Most pests can be monitored visually by
Bollgard II Cry1Ac + Cry2Ab thoroughly checking whole plants or plant terminals.
WideStrike Cry1Ac + Cry1F However, some pests, such as plant bugs (for example,
the verde plant bug), are more reliably sampled using a
TwinLink Cry1Ab + Cry2Ae
beat bucket, drop cloth, or sweep net (Figs. 3, 4, and 5).
Third generation

WideStrike 3 Cry1F + Cry1Ac + Vip3Aa

Beat bucket sampling method
► Tilt a 2.5- or 5-gallon white or black plastic bucket
Bollgard 3 Cry1Ac + Cry2Ab + Vip3Aa
toward the plants.
TwinLink Plus Cry1Ab + Cry2Ae + Vip3Aa
► Grasp the plant stems of two or three representative
plants (depending on plant size) and bend them into
Cotton varieties with third-generation Bt technologies the bucket.
have excellent activity against cotton leaf perforators, ► Vigorously shake the plants against the side of the
loopers, pink bollworm, and tobacco budworm, and good inside of the bucket.
activity against beet armyworm, cotton bollworm, fall
armyworm, and saltmarsh caterpillar. Some situations
► Hit the outside of the bucket several times to knock
may require supplemental insecticide treatment for the bugs to the bottom and quickly inspect the inside
bollworm and fall armyworm. Recommended economic of the bucket to count pests.
thresholds used to trigger insecticide applications on Bt ► Count the adults first because they can fly from the
cotton are the same as those used for non-Bt cotton but bucket and may be missed during scouting.
should be based on larvae larger than 1/4 inch.

Table 2. Relative efficacy of Bt traits against caterpillar pests

WideStrike 3 Bollgard 3 TwinLink Plus

Bollgard II TwinLink (Cry1Ac + Cry1F + (Cry1Ac + Cry2Ab (Cry1Ab + Cry2Ae
Pest (Cry1Ac + Cry2Ab) (Cry1Ab + Cry2Ae) Vip3A) + Vip3A) + Vip3A)

Year released or
introduced 2003 2013 2014 2017 2017

Bollworm 2.5 2.75 2.5 2 2

Tobacco budworm 1 1 1 1 1
Pink bollworm 1 1 1 1 1
Beet armyworm 2 2 1–2* 1–2* 1
Fall armyworm 2 2 1 1–2* 1–2*
Soybean looper 1 1 1 1 1
1 = Complete control
2 = Rarely requires oversprays
3 = Sometimes requires oversprays
4 = Frequently requires oversprays
*Incomplete data

► 3
 Sweep net sampling method
► Use a standard 15-inch canvas sweep net with a
handle. One sample should consist of 50 sweeps
across a single row of cotton. However, if you pick
up too much plant material in 50 sweeps, reduce the
sweeps to 25 or less.
► Walk briskly down the row and swing the net in front
of you, perpendicular to the row.
► Strike the plants so that the lower edge of the rim
strikes the plants about 10 inches from the top.
Figure 3. Beat bucket sampling.
► Keep the lower edge tilted slightly ahead of the upper
► Keep a running total of the number of plants shaken edge.
and the adults and nymphs of the insect being ► Keep the sweeps far enough apart that you do not
monitored. sweep plants that have already been jostled by the
► Shake a minimum of 40 plants to get an estimate of net.
the number of insects per plant. ► Keep the net moving to prevent adults from flying out.
► After each set of sweeps, count all the insect stages in
Drop cloth sampling method the net.
► Use an off-white or black cloth specific to the row ► Go through the sample slowly, counting insects,
spacing (such as 36 × 42 inches on 40-inch rows). inspecting each leaf, and watching closely for adults
► Staple a thin strip of wood, approximately 1 inch wide, flying from the net.
to the short sides of the cloth.
► Select a random site in the field and spread the drop
cloth on the ground in the row-middle from one row
to the next.
► Vigorously shake the plants in 2.5 feet of row on both
sides of the cloth.
► Count the insects that fall into the cloth, including any
insects that fall at the base of the plants. This total
gives the number of insects per 5 feet of row.
► Repeat the process in at least 16 locations in the field Figure 5. Sweep net sampling.
(sampling 60 feet of row).
► If the results show that populations are close to Sampling predatory insects
threshold levels, or if the field is very large (more than
Knowing how many predatory insects and spiders are
100 acres), sample more areas to increase confidence
present helps to make pest-management decisions,
in the results.
especially for aphids and caterpillar pests. Also, sampling
can identify fields at risk of pest outbreaks due to a lack
of predators. Predator populations can be sampled
using the procedures utilized while sampling for pest
populations.

EARLY-SEASON PESTS
(Emergence to the first 1/3-grown square—about 1/4 inch in diameter)
Thrips
The most common species of plant-feeding thrips in
Texas cotton include flower thrips, onion thrips, and
western flower thrips. Thrips are slender, straw-colored
Figure 4. Drop cloth sampling. insects about 1/15 inch long, with piercing-sucking

► 4
mouthparts (Fig. 6). Adults ► Look at the tops and
are winged and capable of undersides of each
drifting long distances in leaf, paying particular
the wind. They attack attention to the area
leaves, leaf buds, and very where the leaf veins
small squares, causing a intersect the central
Figure 6. Adult thrips.
silvering of the lower leaf leaf vein.
surface, deformed or
Thrips can migrate in
blackened leaves, and loss
large numbers from
of the plant terminal (Fig.
adjacent weeds or crops,
7). Under some conditions,
especially as small grains
heavy infestations may
dry down, causing
reduce stands, stunt
significant damage in just
plants, and delay fruiting
a few days. Pay attention
and maturity. Thrips
to immature thrips (Fig. Figure 8. Sampling
damage is most evident for thrips.
9) because their
during cool, wet periods
populations can increase
when seedling cotton
rapidly through in-field
plants are growing slowly.
reproduction as seed
Rain, blowing sand, wind,
Figure 7. Young cotton treatments become
residual herbicide damage, leaves damaged by ineffective. Thrips
and seedling diseases can thrips feeding.
development, from egg to
worsen thrips damage.
Under favorable growing conditions, cotton can usually adult, takes from 2 to 3
recover completely from early thrips damage. In areas in weeks. Infestations at the
which seedling emergence typically occurs under warm cotyledon and one-leaf
conditions, thrips are usually of minor concern. stage often reduce yield
more than later
Figure 9. Immature thrips.
infestations.
Management and decision making
Insecticide seed treatments have become an industry Chemical control and action thresholds
standard. Seed treatments usually provide thrips control
until the two true leaves stage. In areas with a history Preventive in-furrow or seed treatments usually provide
of frequent, heavy thrips infestations, consider using adequate thrips control until the second true leaf stage.
systemic insecticides in addition to treated seed. Foliar However, under adverse growing conditions, a foliar
sprays are often applied too late to prevent damage, treatment may still be necessary. Base the decision to
and research shows that applying foliar sprays after apply an insecticide on the number of thrips present
significant thrips damage occurs does not increase and the stage of plant development. As plants add more
yields. leaves, the number of thrips per plant needed to justify
an insecticide application increases. Treat fields from
Growers who may need to use post-emergence sprays cotyledon to the first true leaf stage when one or more
should: thrips per plant are present. Resistance to neonicotinoids
► Scout fields twice a week as the cotton emerges. has been confirmed in thrips species in other parts of the
Cotton Belt, but so far, not in Texas.
► Begin inspections once the cotton reaches about 50
percent stand emergence. Table 3. Thrips action threshold
► Randomly select 25 plants from four regions of
Cotton stage Action threshold
the field and inspect them, looking for adult and
immature thrips. Emergence to
► Look carefully through the terminal growth, picking it 1 true leaf 1 thrips per plant
apart with a pencil lead, toothpick, or another pointed 2 true leaves 2 thrips per plant
object, uncurling all of the leaves (Fig. 8). Thrips often
hide in tight locations, especially during rainy, windy 3 true leaves 3 thrips per plant
conditions. 4 true leaves 4 thrips per plant

5–7 leaves or squaring Treatment is rarely justified.

initiation

► 5
Wireworms The larvae damage cotton
by feeding on the root,
Wireworms (click beetle hypocotyl, and cotyledon of
larvae) and false plants before the plants
wireworms (darkling emerge from the soil. Root
beetle larvae) are cotton feeding can kill plants but
pests throughout Texas usually results in stunting.
(Figs. 10 and 11). The most severe damage
Figure 10. Click beetle.
occurs when the hypocotyl
The larvae of these
is severed, killing the plant
species are very similar,
and reducing the stand.
and it is difficult to Figure 14. Christmas-
Larvae also feed on the
distinguish wireworms tree-like growth from
growing point of the plant, subsurface wireworm
from false wireworms.
causing a loss of apical feeding on the plant
They are hard-bodied, terminal.
dominance. These plants
smooth-skinned,
often have a Christmas tree
elongated, cylindrical, and
appearance after they emerge (Fig. 14).
up to 1¼ inches long.
Creamy white to yellow or
light brown, their heads Figure 11. Darkling beetle. Management and decision making
are typically darker with In the spring, growers, scouts, and consultants should
small true legs clustered look for darkling beetles and their damage from planting
near the head and no to the four- to five-leaf stage. Darkling beetle adults can
abdominal prolegs (Fig. enter cotton fields from corn, pastures, sorghum stubble,
12). They move by slowly or weedy areas. These beetles are a threat only if they
pulling themselves with cut off the seedling plants, reducing the stand (Fig. 15).
their legs while dragging
their bodies. Wireworm Figure 12. False
larvae are soil-dwellers, wireworm larva.
and you will not see them
unless you remove them from the soil. They feed on
decaying vegetation, roots, seeds, and other subsurface
plant parts.

Wireworm attacks on cotton (including wireworms and

false wireworms) tend to be most severe following small
grain crops (especially sorghum), grass-based cover
crops or in reduced-tillage systems. Overwintering larvae
inflict the most damage as they become active in the
spring. However, darkling beetle adults have been known
to girdle or clip seedling cotton off at the soil surface
much like a cutworm (Fig. 13). Figure 15. Stand loss due to wireworms.

Minimize wireworm infestations through clean

cultivation and clean fallowing. Infestations are most
severe in no-tillage or reduced-tillage situations,
particularly following cover crops and small grain.
Planting shallow and under warm conditions often allow
cotton seeds to germinate quickly so plants can outgrow
wireworm injury potential rapidly.

Treat wireworm larvae preventively. Insecticidal seed

treatments are the most effective way to minimize
wireworm damage. Treat for darkling beetle adults only
when they are present in large numbers, plant clipping is
evident, and unacceptable stand reduction is probable.
Figure 13. Wireworm stem girdling.

► 6
 Early squares are at high risk when large populations
Cotton fleahoppers migrate into cotton from healthy stands of wild hosts
The cotton fleahopper adult that survived mild winter conditions. Yield reduction
is about 1/8 inch long, with and development delays tend to be more pronounced in
piercing-sucking water-stressed cotton. Cotton fleahoppers can be more
mouthparts and a flattened plentiful in vigorously growing cotton under good rainfall
body (Fig. 16). Adults are and irrigation, but their damage is less severe.
active flyers—they readily
flit within the cotton Scouting and decision making
canopy when disturbed,
which makes insect Terminal inspection (Fig. 20) is
Figure 16. Cotton
sampling a challenge. fleahopper adult. the recommended scouting
Their eggs are not visible method for cotton fleahoppers.
because the adult inserts For terminal inspection:
them into the cotton plant
stem.
► As the first squares appear
(approximately four- to
Adults are pale green to six-leaf stage), examine the
gray-green; nymphs are main stem terminal (about
lighter-colored with reddish 3 to 4 inches of the plant
eyes (Figs. 17 and 18). top) of 25 plants in at least
Nymphs are very small and four locations across the
often confused with other Figure 17. Cotton field. Sample more sites in
plant bugs, such as the fleahopper nymph. fields larger than 80 acres.
verde plant bug and lygus Figure 20. Plant
► Scout fields for cotton terminal inspection.
bugs. Small black dots on
fleahoppers weekly. Cotton
the hind tibiae (fourth
fleahoppers move into cotton in early summer
segment of the leg)
as non-crop host plants mature and become dry.
distinguish late instar
Under wet spring conditions conducive to the rapid
cotton fleahopper nymphs
buildup of cotton fleahoppers in alternate hosts (such
from other common plant
as cutleaf evening primrose, horsemint, silverleaf
bug nymphs.
nightshade, and woolly croton), shorten the scouting
In both the adult and Figure 18. Cotton intervals to every 3 to 4 days, especially as the
nymphal stages, cotton fleahopper nymph. alternate host plants begin maturing or undergo
fleahoppers suck sap from drought stress.
the tender portions of the ► When approaching a plant to sample, watch for adults
cotton plant, including that might fly from it. Cotton fleahoppers move
small squares. Pinhead size quickly. Adults may fly away, and immatures often
and smaller squares are the hide within the plant canopy when disturbed.
most susceptible to cotton
fleahopper damage.
Fleahopper feeding causes
Chemical control and action thresholds
squares to die and turn Depending on the region, thresholds range from 10 to
dark brown. These Figure 19. Blasted square.
30 cotton fleahoppers per 100 plants (Table 4). In some
“blasted” squares dry up regions, combine insect density with square set during
and fall from the plant, leaving a characteristic scar on the first 3 weeks of squaring.
the fruiting site (Fig. 19).
After first bloom, fleahopper control is rarely justified
When fleahoppers are abundant, heavy square loss can but may be necessary if pre-bloom square set is low.
cause poor boll set and reduce yield. The first 3 weeks Insecticides applied during early bloom can result in
of squaring are the most sensitive to cotton fleahopper outbreaks of aphids, bollworms, and tobacco budworms
feeding, particularly in dryland cotton production. because of the destruction of predaceous insects and
spiders. Avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides after
The yield-cotton fleahopper relationship shifts with plant the second week of squaring.
stage, water stress, weather, and cultivar sensitivity.

► 7
 Table 4. Cotton fleahopper action thresholds

Region Fleahoppers Cotton growth stage

Blacklands 10–15 per 100 terminals

(terminal inspection)

Coastal Bend 15–25 per 100 terminals During squaring to early bloom
Winter Garden (terminal sampling)

Lower Rio Grande Valley

Week of squaring Square set

Panhandle
South Plains 1st week < 90%
25–30 per 100 terminals
Permian Basin 2nd week < 85%
(terminal inspection)
Rolling Plains 3rd week < 75%
Trans Pecos
After 1st bloom, treatment is rarely justified.

MID-SEASON AND LATE-SEASON PESTS Tobacco budworm and

bollworm eggs are pearly
(Remainder of the production season after first one-third-grown square) white to cream in color and
about half the size of a
Bollworm and tobacco budworm pinhead (Fig. 24). They can
be confused with looper
Bollworm and tobacco
eggs (which are flatter),
budworm larvae look very
can have a blue greenish-
much alike and cause
white tint, and are usually
similar damage. Full-grown
laid singly on the Figure 24. Cotton
larvae are about 1½ inches bollworm egg.
undersides of leaves.
long and vary in color from
pale green, pink, or Bollworm and budworm
brownish to black, with eggs hatch in 3 to 4 days,
longitudinal stripes along turning light brown before
the back (Fig. 21). Figure 21. Cotton bollworm
larval colors.
hatching. Young worms
usually feed for a day or
Bollworm and tobacco
two on tender leaves, leaf
budworm moths are
buds, and small squares in
attracted to and lay eggs Figure 25. Cotton bollworm.
the plant terminal before
in cotton with lush new
moving down the plant to
growth (Figs. 22 and 23).
attack larger squares and
Moths usually lay single
bolls (Figs. 25 and 26).
eggs on the tops or
Small worms are most
undersides of young,
vulnerable to insecticides
tender, terminal leaves in Figure 22. Cotton
bollworm moth. when they are in the upper
the upper third of the
third of the plant.
plant. However, it is not
uncommon to find eggs Moths sometimes deposit
on blooms, drying petals eggs on squares, bolls,
of blooms (bloom tags), or stems, and lower parts
other tissues deeper in of the plant when cotton Figure 26. Cotton bollworm.
the canopy. Larvae plants are stressed and
survive better because making little new growth or during periods of high
these Bt cotton tissues temperature and low humidity. Detecting eggs and
have lower concentrations Figure 23. Tobacco controlling small worms is more difficult when the eggs
of Bt protein toxins. budworm moth. are deposited in the lower plant canopy.

► 8
Budworms are typically less numerous than bollworms, ► Thoroughly inspect dried blooms or bloom tags
and in recent years, have rarely reached damaging levels. attached to small bolls.
With the increased adoption of transgenic Bt cotton, ► Count the number of undamaged and damaged fruit
insecticide sprays for bollworm and tobacco budworm
and calculate the percentage of damaged fruit.
control have become much less common in Texas,
particularly in West Texas.
Chemical control and action thresholds
Scouting and decision making Prior to bloom: Treat when three or more larvae (¼
inch or longer) are present per 100 plants or when
In Bt cotton, search the entire plant for tobacco populations threaten to reduce square retention below
budworm and bollworm larvae and injury. A proper 80 percent.
sample includes squares, white blooms, pink blooms,
bloom tags, and bolls. Reduce the scouting intervals to After first bloom: Treat when square and boll sampling
3 to 4 days during periods of increasing bollworm egg- show the presence of 6 percent or more injury and
laying, especially during peak bloom. The presence of worms. Alternatively, three or more larvae (¼ inch or
eggs alone should not trigger treatment since hatching longer) per 100 plants is also an acceptable threshold to
larvae must first feed on the cotton plant to receive a justify foliar treatment.
toxic dose.
In areas with heavy worm pressure and where injury to
Bt cotton is common, use an egg-based threshold of 20
Terminal and square inspection method percent egg-lay (20 or more eggs found per 100 plants)
► Divide the cotton field into four or more manageable for non-Bt and two-gene Bt cotton (Bollgard II, TwinLink,
sections, depending on the field size. and WideStrike). Do not rely on the egg threshold in
► Examine 25 plant terminals (upper third of the plant), areas where bollworm pressure is relatively light and
selected at random from each quadrant, for small injury to Bt cotton is uncommon.
larvae and eggs. Also, Insecticide choice and timing are important for these
from each quadrant, thresholds to be efficient. Timing insecticide application
examine 25 half- toward eggs and small larvae has proven to be most
grown and larger effective. Once the larvae reach second instar (more than
green squares as well ¼ inch long), they commonly move deeper into the plant
as small, medium, canopy and burrow into fruiting structures, which greatly
and large bolls for limits insecticide exposure. Pyrethroids perform poorly
bollworms and Figure 27. Cotton against bollworm and budworm and should be used
bollworm damage. bollworm damage. cautiously. They may also flare aphids and spider mites.
► Keep track of the Diamides (such as Besiege, Elevest, and Vantacor) are
number of undamaged the products of choice for bollworm control in cotton.
and damaged squares Besiege and Elevest are premixes of diamide and a
and bolls (Figs. 27 and pyrethroid, so flaring secondary pests may occur. Other
28). Select fruit at insecticides used for bollworm management in cotton
random and do not include spinosad, indoxacarb, and methomyl, but these
include flared or yellow insecticides tend to be less effective or exhibit shorter
squares in the sample. residual activity.
► Pay attention to bloom Fields that have accumulated 350 DD60 (degree days
tags and petals stuck 60) beyond five nodes above white flower (NAWF) are
to small bolls; they will no longer susceptible to first or second instar bollworm/
often hide larvae that tobacco budworm larvae.
burrow into the tip of Figure 28. Cotton
the boll. bollworm damage.
Aphids
Whole plant inspection method In Texas, three species of aphids feed on cotton plants as
secondary pests: the cotton aphid, the cowpea aphid,
► Divide the cotton field into four or more manageable
and the green peach aphid (Figs. 29, 30, and 31). Cotton
sections, depending on the field size.
aphids are the primary aphid species of concern in
► Make whole-plant inspections of five randomly cotton. Their color varies from light yellow to dark green
chosen groups of three adjacent cotton plants in each or almost black. They are not shiny and can occur
section. Look in every square, bloom, and boll. anytime during the growing season. The cotton aphid

► 9
and the cowpea aphid are (Fig. 33), older leaves to
the only species that turn yellow and shed,
establish sustainable, squares and small bolls to
reproductive colonies drop off, and smaller bolls
during most of the to develop, resulting in
growing season. Common incomplete fiber
on seedling plants, the development.
cowpea aphid is shiny
Late in the season,
black with white patches
honeydew excreted by
on its legs. The nymphs of
aphids can drop on fibers Figure 33. Leaf curling
the cowpea aphid are from cotton aphid
in open bolls. A black,
ash-gray. Green peach infestation.
sooty fungus sometimes
aphids are light green or
Figure 29. Cotton aphids. develops on honeydew
pink and can occur on
deposits during wet
cotton seedlings early in
periods. The honeydew-
the growing season.
contaminated lint from
Aphids have piercing- such bolls is stained, sticky,
sucking mouthparts, and and of lower quality,
those that infest cotton making it difficult to
have two protrusions harvest, gin, and spin the
(cornicles) at the back fiber (Fig. 34).
of the abdomen. Aphid
Natural controls such as
adults can be winged or Figure 34. Honeydew
parasites, pathogens,
wingless. The immatures accumulation on leaves.
predators, and
or nymphs look like the
unfavorable weather can
adults, but smaller. They
Figure 30. Cowpea aphids keep aphid populations below damaging levels. However,
are usually found on the
feeding on weedy kochia. cotton aphid populations can increase when treatments
undersides of leaves, on
with nonselective insecticides for other pests destroy
stems, in terminals, and
their natural enemies.
sometimes on fruit (Fig.
32). They suck phloem sap
and its sugars from the Scouting and decision
plant, robbing it of energy making
otherwise used for growth
Scout fields infested with
or fruit production.
cotton aphids twice a
Heavy and prolonged week since aphid numbers
Figure 31. Green peach can increase rapidly (Fig.
infestations can cause
aphid adult.
leaves to curl downward 35). From plants across
the field, sample 60 leaves
divided among the top,
middle, and lower portion
of a plant to determine Figure 35. Aphid colony on
actual infestation levels. the plant terminal.

Chemical control and action thresholds

Table 5. Aphid action threshold

Cotton stage Action threshold

Prior to first cracked boll 40–70 aphids per leaf*

After first cracked boll 10 aphids per leaf**

*Higher the yield potential (>1000 lbs lint/acre), lower the threshold
Figure 32. Cotton aphid colony on **Where rainfall is not likely to wash honeydew from the lint
the underside of a cotton leaf.

► 10
 and stained lint. There
Stink bugs may be several spots on
Several stink bug species the outside of a boll
feed on bolls in Texas without internal feeding
cotton fields. In South and damage being present
East Texas, the primary (Fig. 42). Damage to the
stink bug species is the internal boll wall is a good
southern green stink bug, indication that lint and
followed by the green stink Figure 36. Southern green seed are affected.
bug, then brown stink bug stink bug adult.
Excessive stink bug Figure 41. Boll wall warts.
(Figs. 36, 37, and 38). They feeding causes reduced
are strong flyers and can yield, stained lint, poor
move into cotton from color grades, and reduced
corn, grain sorghum, fiber quality (Fig. 43). In
soybeans, and various addition to direct damage,
alternate hosts. In West stink bug feeding can
Texas and the Winter transmit plant pathogens
Garden region in South that cause boll rot.
Texas, the Conchuela stink
bug is the most prominent Figure 37. Green stink
bug adult. Scouting and decision
species (Figs. 39 and 40).
Its populations develop on
making
Figure 42. External signs of
mesquite and then move Stink bugs are difficult to stink bug feeding.
to cotton and grain scout, especially in tall,
sorghum. vigorous cotton. Adults
tend to aggregate, and
Stink bugs have piercing- the distribution of stink
sucking mouthparts, and bugs within a field may
damage cotton by piercing be highly concentrated,
the bolls and feeding on particularly along field
the developing seeds. margins. Use any of the
Stink bug infestations Figure 38. Brown stink sampling techniques such
can cause substantial bug adult. Figure 43. Lint staining
as visual inspection, drop caused by stink bug
economic losses through cloth, and sweep net for feeding.
reduced yield, loss of fiber quality, and increased control scouting. However, recent
costs. research by entomologists at the University of Georgia
and Clemson University suggests that decisions to treat
Although stink bugs favor medium-sized bolls, they can
for stink bug infestations are best made based on the
feed on any size boll. Although stink bugs may feed on
percentage of bolls with evidence of internal damage
bolls 25 or more days old, bolls of this maturity are
(warts or stained lint associated with feeding punctures).
relatively safe from yield loss. Their feeding on young
To use this technique:
bolls (less than 10 days old) usually causes the bolls to
shed. In larger bolls, stink bug feeding often results in ► Remove about 10 to 20 bolls, 1 inch in diameter
dark spots about 1/16 inch in diameter on the outside of (about the size of a quarter), from each of the four
bolls. These dark spots do not always correlate well with parts of the field, avoiding field edges.
the internal damage—callus growths or warts (Fig. 41) ► Break open the bolls by hand or cut them with a knife.
Look for internal warts on the boll walls and stained
lint on the cotton locks.
► Check bolls with visible external lesions first to
determine if the internal damage threshold has been
met because bolls with external lesions are more
likely to also be damaged internally.

Once the cotton has reached 450 DD60 (degree days

Figure 40. Conchuela 60) beyond cutout (five nodes above the white flower),
Figure 39. Conchuela
stink bug adult. stink bug nymph. sampling and treating for stink bugs may no longer be

► 11
necessary since bolls produced after this point will not and, depending on cotton planting time, coincides with
become fully mature or contribute significantly to the bloom.
crop yield. However, it is possible that this value may
Economic yield decline from the verde plant bug is
shift slightly due to factors such as boll shading, variety,
usually from injury to young bolls during early to mid-
and water stress.
bloom, when mild winters favor egg overwintering
and spring populations on wild hosts, and when the
Chemical control and action threshold environment favors the introduction of cotton boll
Use the dynamic boll injury threshold shown in Table rot by the insect. The verde plant bug feeds on large
6 to make a treatment decision for stink bugs. To use squares and bolls up to about an inch in diameter.
this threshold for stink bugs, keep track of what week of Feeding injury causes a combination of dropped mature
bloom the field is in. We define the 1st week of bloom squares and very young bolls as well as internal boll
when about every other plant has its initial flower. damage, including damage from cotton boll rot. Feeding
Detection of one or more stink bugs per drop cloth (6 injuries and plant symptoms associated with boll-rotting
row feet) would also justify treatment. Use suggested organisms look the same as those caused by stink bugs.
insecticides to control southern green, green, and
Conchuela stink bugs. Brown stink bug populations tend Scouting and decision making
to be more tolerant to pyrethroids than other stink bugs
Scout for verde plant bugs when they are first detected
in cotton.
until the last harvestable bolls are more than 20 days
old or 450 heat-units (degree days 60) after cutout (five
Table 6. Dynamic boll injury threshold for stink bugs
nodes above white flower). Because the verde plant bug
Threshold is an internal boll feeder, also inspect bolls for internal
Week of bloom (% internal boll damage) injury similar to that caused by stink bugs. Use these two
1 50% measures to evaluate boll risk.

2 30% Use a beat bucket to sample for verde plant bug through
3 10%
late bloom of cotton:

4 10%
► At each sampling site, bend the upper part of 40
plants into the bucket and shake them.
5 10%
► Count the dislodged nymphs and adults inside the
6 20% bucket.
7 30% ► Adjust the total to a count per 100 plants and
8 50% compare it to the treatment threshold. If small
nymphs dominate the sample, a hatch is in progress,
and the population may increase rapidly. Consider
Verde plant bug this result in evaluating risk, adjusting the threshold,
or increasing the sampling frequency.
Verde plant bugs are
cotton pests primarily in
coastal South Texas and Chemical control and action threshold
Mexico. Adult verde plant Treat for verde plant bugs when, while using the beat-
bugs are elongate, about ½ bucket method, you find more than 20 to 25 bugs per
inch long. They have 100 plants.
well-developed wings lying
flat on the back, red eyes, Beet armyworm
prominent antennae that
extend out from the body, Both beet armyworm
and red striping in early (Figs. 45 and 46) and
Figure 44. Verde plant bug. yellow-striped
instars (Fig. 44).
armyworm moths lay
The verde plant bug life cycle (egg, nymph, and adult) eggs on leaf surfaces in
and overwintering habits are similar to the cotton masses covered by a
fleahopper. It is found on many alternative hosts, whitish, velvety material.
including annual seepweed, Chenopodium, pigweeds, Young beet armyworms
and sorghum, commonly seen on maturing heads. hatch, “web up,” and
Migration to cotton occurs as these wild hosts decline feed together on leaves. Figure 45. Beet armyworm.

► 12
The damaged leaf or The likelihood of a substantial outbreak increases as
leaves (Fig. 47), called more of these factors occur in a given location. Control
hits, turn tan and are may be justified when beet armyworms begin to damage
distinctive and easily the fruit, especially bolls. Beet armyworms longer than
seen when walking ½ inch may be difficult to control, so early detection of
through fields—a quick populations helps improve control.
way to determine if the Figure 46. Beet armyworm
moth.
field has a beet Scouting and decision making
armyworm infestation.
After a few days, small Conduct general observational scouting to detect
beet armyworms armyworm hits on a 5- to 7-day schedule throughout the
disperse and become growing season. Because infestations within a field may
solitary in their feeding be spotty, scout to determine the need for and the area
habits. of the field requiring control. It is not uncommon for only
a portion of a field to require treatment.
In early-season
infestations, the larvae Once you detect armyworm hits, conduct more
feed on leaves and extensive scouting. Using the whole plant inspection
terminal areas (Fig. 48), method described previously, thoroughly inspect 10 to
skeletonizing leaves rather 20 plants from three to four locations throughout the
than chewing large holes field. Carefully scout weedy areas of the field, especially
Figure 47. Beet those infested with pigweed, since beet armyworms
in them. Occasionally, armyworm damage.
they destroy the terminal, are strongly attracted to pigweed and may move from
causing extensive lateral pigweed onto cotton. Migration of the worms from
branch development and pigweeds to cotton is more of a problem in fields treated
delayed maturity. Early- with a herbicide to kill the pigweed. Bt cotton varieties
season insecticide usually control beet armyworms effectively.
applications may be
warranted when plants Action threshold
with undamaged
terminals approach lower Table 7. Beet armyworm action threshold
optimal plant stand limits. >10% infested plants with 15 larvae/100 plants
Figure 48. Beet armyworm.
Damaging infestations
sometimes develop late in the season. These infestations
are more prone to feed on terminals, squares, blooms, OCCASIONAL PESTS
and bolls. Several factors can contribute to beet
armyworm outbreaks: Grasshoppers
► Mild winters (the absence of prolonged freezing The most common
temperatures) grasshopper species in
Texas cotton are the lubber
► Late planting
grasshopper, differential
► Delayed crop maturity grasshopper, and migratory
► Heavy early-season broad-spectrum insecticide use grasshopper (Fig. 49).
Lubber grasshoppers move
► Continued hot, dry weather conditions
quite slowly and travel by
Figure 49. Adult
► Pre-bloom presence of beet armyworms feebly walking and crawling differential grasshopper.
► Conducive weather conditions for long-distance over the soil surface. They
migration most commonly damage presquaring cotton, while the
other winged and more agile species invade large-bloom
Additional characteristics of high-risk fields are: to open-boll stage cotton as pastures dry down.
► Sandy and droughty fields Depending on the conditions in a particular year, early
► Skip-row planting in the spring, populations may be high in pastures,
rangeland, and other non-crop areas. Large populations
► Fields with skippy, open canopies
of winged grasshoppers occasionally occur mid-to-late
► Drought-stressed plants and fields infested with summer.
pigweed

► 13
Usually, grasshoppers feed on cotton foliage without brown with reddish-
causing much damage. However, they can be very brown to black markings
destructive to seedling cotton and destroy stands (Fig. 52). Nymphs
during large outbreaks, especially at the field edges. (immatures) are
Grasshoppers rarely damage older cotton. uniformly pale green
with red-tipped
antennae; late instars
have four conspicuous
black spots on the thorax
and one large black spot Figure 53. Lygus bug nymph.
near the base of the
abdomen (Fig. 53). The
nymph’s wings are not
developed, but they can
move rapidly and are
difficult to detect in
cotton foliage. It is easy
to mistake small nymphs
with aphids, cotton
Figure 50. Grasshopper damage. fleahoppers, and
leafhopper nymphs, but
their broader shape,
Scouting and decision making quick movements, larger Figure 54. Dirty bloom.
Treat when unacceptable stand loss or severe defoliation size, and the specific
(more than 30 percent) is characteristics discussed above help differentiate them.
evident, and grasshoppers
are present (Fig. 50). Lygus bugs prefer legumes to cotton and usually occur in
Control damaging large numbers in alfalfa, potato fields, or on wild hosts
infestations early while the such clovers, dock, mustard, pigweed, Russian thistle,
grasshoppers are small, vetches, and wild sunflower. Lygus bugs are attracted to
wingless, and still in crop succulent growth. In cotton, their feeding causes:
border areas (Fig. 51). In ► Deformed bolls
many cases, field edge
Figure 51. Grasshopper ► Dirty bloom (damaged anthers in blooms) and
treatments can stop the
nymph. puckered areas in petals (Fig. 54)
damage.
► Shedding of squares and small bolls
Lygus bugs ► Stunted growth
There are three predominant species of lygus in Texas ► Small black spots or small, dark, sunken lesions on
cotton: the western tarnished plant bug, the tarnished the outer surface of the developing bolls that can
plant bug, and the pale legume bug. The western penetrate the boll carpel wall and damage developing
tarnished plant bug is the most common species in seeds or lint
the western half of Texas, and the tarnished plant bug
dominates in the eastern half of the state. These species Scouting and decision making
are similar in appearance, biology, and the damage they
The abundance of lygus bugs in relation to the fruiting
cause. In this publication, we will call them lygus and
condition of the cotton plants determines the need for
discuss them as a single pest.
control measures. Inspect fields for lygus bugs at 4- to
Lygus bugs feed on cotton 5-day intervals throughout the fruiting period.
terminals, squares,
flowers, and small bolls. Before peak bloom, using a sweep net is the most
Adults are 1/4 inch long, accurate way to sample for lygus. After peak bloom,
have a conspicuous a drop cloth is best. Instructions on how to use beat
dark-colored triangle in bucket, drop cloth, and sweep net sampling are
the center of the back, discussed in the “Scouting” section of this guide.
have wings, and vary from
Figure 52. Adult lygus bug.
pale-green to yellowish-

► 14
Chemical control and action thresholds
Table 8. Lygus action threshold

Cotton stage Drop cloth Sweep net

1st 2 weeks of 1–2 per 6-ft row 8 per 100 sweeps

squaring* with unacceptable with unacceptable
square set square set

3rd week of 2–3 per 6-ft row 15 per 100 sweeps

squaring to 1st with unacceptable with unacceptable
bloom square set square set

After peak bloom 4–6 per 6-ft row 15–20 per 100
with unacceptable sweeps with
fruit set the first unacceptable fruit
4–5 weeks set the first 4–5 Figure 56. Twospotted spider mite infestation on the
weeks underside of a cotton leaf.

Sweep net: Standard 15-inch net, sample 1 row at a time, taking 15–25
sweeps. Recommended before peak bloom.
Drop cloth: Black recommended, 3-foot sampling area, sample 2
Specking damage is Phase I damage. As feeding increases
rows. Recommended after peak bloom. Stop sampling and treating and the mites persist, the damage spreads, leaves
when NAWF = 5 + 350 DD60s.
develop a reddened appearance (Phase II damage),
*In West Texas, insecticide applications for lygus are rarely needed
in pre-bloom cotton as lygus generally stay in roadside weeds and and eventually turn brown. This damage affects cotton
vegetation until cotton begins flowering. photosynthesis, which appears to decline sharply at
Phase II, or about 20 mites per leaf.

Spider mites Spider mites also infest bracts of squares and bolls,
causing the bracts to desiccate (dry up). Heavy and
Two species of mites
prolonged spider mite infestation can prematurely
commonly feed on cotton
defoliate cotton plants. Spider mite injury can reduce
plants in Texas: the
cotton yield, fiber quality, and seed.
twospotted spider mite
and the carmine spider
mite. These two species Management and decision making
are difficult to distinguish Hot, dry weather favors spider mite infestations.
Figure 55. Twospotted
from one another. spider mite. Conversely, high relative humidity and precipitation
Carmine spider mite deter spider mite infestations by washing them off
females are red; twospotted spider mites are greenish. leaves and creating conditions that favor disease
When conditions are suitable for initiating diapause outbreaks. Since spider mite outbreaks tend to develop
(dormancy), female twospotted spider mites may also be on field borders adjacent to spider mite-infested weeds
red. Because the damage they inflict and their biology or other crops, managing weeds along field margins
and ecology are similar, we will discuss them as one pest often prevents the mites from migrating into cotton.
for this guide (Fig. 55). Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer because spider mite
outbreaks occur more frequently in fields fertilized
Spider mites can infest cotton at any point in the growing
with higher than necessary nitrogen rates. Spider mite
season, but cotton is most susceptible to injury from
populations often develop where dust from roads blows
spider mites during fruiting periods and when the crop
onto cotton plants, possibly interfering with natural
suffers water-deficit stress. Spider mites infest the
enemy efficiency.
underside of leaves (Fig. 56).
The spider mite treatment threshold has not been fully
Infestations most often develop in hot spots in fields,
worked out, but the following formula provides general
near grain crops, and at dusty field margins. Spider mite
guidelines for treatment. Before bloom, scout cotton
infestations are often made worse by broad-spectrum
for leaf damage to protect it from spider mite-induced
insecticide applications that target other pests. High
defoliation. After bloom, protect leaves responsible for
winds or equipment from infested crops nearby can
boll filling from spider mite damage until 650 to 750
move mites from one location to another.
DD60s beyond cutout or NAWF + 5. Because spider mite
They feed by piercing plant cells with their mouthparts populations are often clumped together, particularly
and sucking the liquid contents of the cells. Damaged along field edges, spot treating infested areas often
leaves develop white or yellowish specks, called stipules. prevents spread and can be cost-effective. Consider

► 15
alternatives to pyrethroids for managing pests such as prominent, white inverted “Y” on the front of the head
bollworms and lygus. Also, consider selective insecticides (Fig. 61). Black hairs on their bodies distinguish them
such as neonicotinoids for aphid control when mites are from beet armyworms. Because bollworms also have
present. Maximize insecticide coverage when treating hairs on their bodies, this characteristic may lead to
for mites. Drop nozzles and high spray volumes can confusion between small fall armyworms and small
significantly enhance mite control. bollworms. Fall armyworm larvae also have four large
spots that form a square on the upper surface of the
last body segment. When larvae are large, these spots
Table 9. Spider mite action threshold
help differentiate fall armyworms from bollworms.
Treat when 40% or more of the plants show noticeable leaf Depending on the strain of fall armyworm, damage to
damage and the mite population is growing. cotton may be nonexistent to severe. Although rare, rice
Spot treat problem areas and field edges when infestations strain larvae have been seen dispersing from pastures
are relegated to small areas. Stop sampling and treating into cotton, where they fed exclusively on grassy
when NAWF = 5 + 650-750 DD60s. weeds. The corn strain larvae, however, can do extreme
damage to cotton. Fall armyworms that feed on cotton
are typically more damaging than other armyworm
Fall armyworms species because they tend to feed on fruiting structures,
especially bolls. However, they do not feed as voraciously
There are two host strains
on fruit as bollworms do, and their populations develop
of fall armyworms: the
more in grain crops such as corn and grain sorghum in
rice strain and the corn
preference to cotton.
strain. The rice strain is
associated with rice,
Bermudagrass, and other
pasture grasses. The corn
strain is the predominant Figure 57. Fall armyworm.
fall armyworm on corn,
sorghum, and cotton. Other than feeding habits, these
strains are indistinguishable without using molecular
identification techniques (Fig. 57).

Fall armyworm moths

(Fig. 58) lay their eggs
in masses (Fig. 59), and, Figure 61. Prominent inverted Y on the
unlike beet armyworms, head of the fall armyworm.
the larvae quickly disperse
from the egg mass (Fig. When abundant in pre-bloom cotton, fall armyworms
60). First and second Figure 58. Fall may cause defoliation, but the greatest damage comes
instar larvae are difficult armyworm moth. from topping the plants— branches cut off and stalks
to distinguish from other almost severed. The most damaging populations of fall
armyworm species and bollworms. Fall armyworm armyworms are those that occur during boll filling.
larvae are usually greenish-brown with a white line
below the top of the back, a brownish-black stripe above Because fall armyworms quickly disperse away from the
the midline, and a pale stripe with a reddish-brown egg mass, which is often inside the plant canopy, it is not
tinge below. Their most distinctive characteristic is a uncommon to find small larvae individually feeding on
squares, bolls, and bloom tags, much like a bollworm.
Like bollworms, fall armyworms are cryptic (hidden/
concealed) feeders; therefore, they are easy to miss and
often first noticed feeding in blooms.

Occasionally, fall armyworms will feed in fairly high

numbers on Bt cotton blooms. In these cases, the
blooms may not have produced high enough levels of
Bt toxins to kill them. There have been some instances
where these larvae have completed their entire life cycle
Figure 59. Fall armyworm Figure 60. Fall armyworm feeding exclusively on Bt cotton blooms without causing
egg mass. egg hatch. significant boll damage or pollination issues.

► 16
Management, scouting, and decision making often shiny or glossy and always have four pairs of
prolegs (Fig. 63).
Currently, planting Bt cotton is the most effective way to
control fall armyworms. Third-generation Bt cotton with Cutworms usually cut
three toxins (Bollgard 3, WideStrike 3, and TwinLink Plus) off seedling cotton plant
develop lower fall armyworm populations compared stems at the soil surface.
to second-generation Bt cotton. However, areas with The resulting stand
heavy fall armyworm pressure may occasionally require reduction may be more
treatment. Large acreages of cotton, particularly in the visible at field margins
South Plains and Panhandle, are still planted in varieties and in low-lying, weedy
that do not contain the Bt genes. These fields may areas. On rare occasions,
become infested with fall armyworms. cutworm damage can be Figure 63. Cutworm larva.
severe enough to require
Field monitoring is essential in Bt cotton because fall
replanting.
armyworm populations may develop, particularly on
blooms and, late in the season, on stressed cotton In no-till or limited-till situations, cutworms can establish
with compromised Bt toxin production. Thresholds in on existing vegetation and move to emerging cotton
Bt cotton fields are based upon surviving second and seedlings when that vegetation dies. Reduce the risk of
third instar larvae and not upon newly hatched larvae. cutworm attack by destroying all existing vegetation 3 to
Because newly hatched larvae must feed on the plant for 4 weeks before planting.
the Bt toxin to be effective, delay decision making until
you can determine how many larger larvae (worms) are
Chemical control and action threshold
surviving.
Treat for cutworms if infestations threaten to reduce the
Small fall armyworms are difficult to distinguish between stand below 35,000 plants/acre (on average, 2.68 plants/
bollworms and budworms. Unless you find these larvae row foot with 40-inch row spacing) in a field or part of a
feeding in a mass, include them with the bollworm and field.
budworm counts. To detect fall armyworm populations
and make management decisions, inspect whole plants Saltmarsh caterpillar
using the techniques described above for bollworm and
tobacco budworm. The larval stages of the
saltmarsh caterpillar and
the banded woolly bear
Chemical control and action thresholds are called woolly bears
When you detect larger, distinguishable worms, note because of the long hairs
whether they are bollworms, budworms, or fall, beet, or covering their bodies.
yellow-striped armyworms, as control tactics for these They are dark-headed,
species will differ. woolly, yellow, gray, black,
or reddish brown (some Figure 64. Saltmarsh
Because of the similarity in damage and difficulty caterpillar.
with rusty red and black
in distinguishing small fall armyworm larvae from
bands) (Fig. 64 and 65).
bollworms, include them along with bollworm and
We will discuss both
budworm counts and base your treatment decisions on
species as saltmarsh
the cumulative total of caterpillars counted.
caterpillars because of
their similar appearance,
OTHER PESTS biology, and the damage
they inflict.
Figure 65. Saltmarsh
Cutworms The saltmarsh caterpillar caterpillar.
Several species of is a problem on the edges
cutworms infest cotton. of fields and where alternate host plants are available.
The adult cutworm is a Early in the growing season, large populations can
robust brown to gray develop in outbreak years, destroying plant stands along
moth (Fig. 62). When the field edges.
disturbed, cutworm larvae Treating isolated areas within a field or along the field
curl up into a C-shape and borders effectively controls saltmarsh caterpillars and
regurgitate. The larvae are Figure 62. Cutworm moth. reduces their spread across fields.

► 17
Cotton square borer
The adult cotton square borer is a slate or bluish-gray
butterfly. It has two large black spots on each wing with
smaller reddish-orange spots above these at the back
edge of the hind wing. There are usually two or three thin
tails that mimic antennae on the hind wing (Figs. 66 and
67). The larval stage is a velvety, light-green, slug-shaped
worm (Fig. 68).

Figure 69. Adult cotton Figure 70. Cotton stainer

stainer. nymph.

Whiteflies
Silverleaf whitefly (SLWF) and bandedwing whitefly
(BWWF) are the two most common whitefly species that
infest Texas cotton.
Figures 66 and 67. Adult cotton square borer. Both whitefly species are
similar in appearance and
The adult begins laying basic biology. The adults of
eggs early in the spring. both species resemble tiny
They take about 6 days white moths with yellowish
to hatch. Then, the small bodies, about 1/16 to 1/10 of
larvae feed on cotton an inch long. Their wings
squares for around 20 fold roof-like over their
days. abdomens. The SLWF (Fig.
71) has solid white wings,
The presence of adult Figure 68. Cotton square and the BWWF has grayish-
butterflies is usually the borer larva.
brown-colored bands
first indication of cotton across its wings.
square borer activity. However, hollowed-out squares
The nymphs are flat, Figure 71. Adult whitefly.
with almost perfectly round entrance and exit holes
are another sign. Unlike bollworm or tobacco budworm scale-like insects, usually
damage, there is no frass (the excrement of insect larvae) about 1/30 of an inch long
present with cotton square borer damage. Insecticide (Fig. 72). The immatures
treatment for cotton square borer control is almost feed with sucking
never necessary in Texas. mouthparts on the
underside of leaves.
Damage ranges from
Cotton stainer stunted growth and
The cotton stainer is a true bug (has piercing-sucking reduced plant vigor during
mouthparts). The head and pronotum are bright red; the the early season to
remainder of the body is dark brown, crossed with pale- reduced plant vigor,
yellow lines (Fig. 69). Immature stages are smaller but honeydew deposited on
resemble adults without wings (Fig. 70). open cotton lint (sticky
cotton), and premature Figure 72. Whitefly nymph.
The cotton stainer damages developing bolls by
defoliation during the mid
puncturing seeds and causing plant sap to exude from
and late season. Like aphid honeydew, whitefly
the feeding site. The plant sap stains the lint an indelible
honeydew is a food source for black sooty molds that can
yellow. Feeding by the cotton stainer also interferes
stain lint and reduce fiber quality. Heavy whitefly
with the bolls’ natural development. In recent years, the
infestations can severely reduce cotton yield.
cotton stainer has been rare in Texas cotton.

► 18
Scouting Pink bollworm
To sample for whiteflies: The pink bollworm has been eradicated from the United
► Examine the underside of at least 30 key leaves States (Figs. 74–77). Contact your local AgriLife Extension
(leaves located at the fifth node down from the office for information.
terminal) and note how many leaves are infested with
at least three adults.
► Use a hand lens to examine a quarter-sized area on
the underside
► of the leaf between the main middle vein and one of
the main lateral veins.
► Note how many hand-lens views contain at least one
large whitefly nymph (third and fourth instars).
Figure 75. Adult pink
Figure 74. Boll weevil larva. bollworm.
Chemical control and action thresholds
Table 10. Whitefly action thresholds

Insecticide option Silverleaf whitefly

Adulticide When ≥40% of the 5th node leaves are

infested with three or more adults

Insect growth When ≥40% of the When ≥40% of

regulator (IGR) 5th node leaves quarter-sized
are infested with disks* contain at
three or more least one large
adults and nymphs nymph
are present Figure 76. Pink bollworm Figure 77. Pink bollworm
larva. damage.
Cotton stage Bandedwing whitefly

Before open bolls 50 whitefly nymphs per 5th node leaf

BENEFICIAL ARTHROPODS
After open bolls 25 whitefly nymphs per 5th node leaf
Natural enemies such as parasites, pathogens, and
*Quarter-sized area taken between the main middle vein and one of
the main lateral veins from a 5th node leaf
predators feed on various arthropod pest species
in agricultural fields and provide natural control.
Conserving such beneficial organisms is an important
component of IPM. The following are examples of
Boll weevil beneficials commonly found in cotton fields.
Boll weevil (Fig. 73)
have been functionally Lady beetles (Fig. 78)
eradicated from majority
of cotton growing regions Generalist predators:
in Texas. The only area if Feed primarily on aphids,
Texas with persistent boll caterpillars, insect
weevil infestations is the eggs, mealy bugs, scale
Lower Rio Grande Valley. insects, spider mites, and
In 2016, the only zones whiteflies. Some species
Figure 78. Lady beetle.
in the United States to are plant feeders.
Figure 73. Adult boll weevil.
capture weevils were the
Lower Rio Grande Valley and South Texas/Winter Garden Collops beetle (Fig. 79)
zones (Fig. 73). Contact your local Texas A&M AgriLife
Adults feed on aphids,
Extension office or the Texas Boll Weevil Eradication
stink bug eggs, moth
Foundation (325-672-2800) for information.
eggs, small caterpillars,
spider mites, and
whiteflies.
Figure 79. Collops beetle.

► 19
Minute pirate bug (Fig. 80)
Generalist predator:
Feeds on aphids, insect
eggs, leafhopper nymphs,
scale insects, small
caterpillars, spider mites,
thrips, and whiteflies. Figure 86. Assassin bug. Figure 87. Ground beetle.

Damsel bug (Fig. 81)

Assassin bugs (Fig. 86)
Generalist predator: Figure 80. Minute
Feeds primarily on aphids, pirate bug. Generalist predators: Feed primarily on aphids,
caterpillars, insect eggs, caterpillars, insect eggs, leafhoppers, true bugs, and
leafhoppers, spider mites, various small beetles.
and thrips.
Ground beetles (Fig. 87)
Green lacewing (Fig. 82) Generalist predators:
Larvae are generalist Feed primarily on small
predators: Feed primarily insects, spiders, and
on aphids, insect eggs, Figure 81. Damsel bug. various other ground-
leafhoppers, mealybugs, dwelling arthropods.
psyllids, small caterpillars, spider mites, thrips, and Some species feed on
whiteflies. Depending on the species, adults are also seeds.
Figure 88. Syrphid fly larva.
predaceous.
Flower flies or syrphid
Spined soldier bug (Fig. 83) flies (Fig. 88)
Generalist predator: Feeds on beetle larvae, caterpillars, Larvae are generalist
and true bug nymphs. predators: Feed on
aphids, mealybugs, scale
Brown lacewing (Fig. 84) insects, spider mites, and
Generalist predator: Feeds primarily on aphids, insect thrips.
eggs, leafhoppers, mealybugs, mites, psyllids, small
caterpillars, thrips, and whiteflies. Ichneumonid wasps
Figure 89. Ichneumonid
(Fig. 89) wasp.
Big-eyed bug (Fig. 85) Ichneumonid wasps (Fig.
Generalist predator: Feeds primarily on flea beetles, 89) Larvae are parasitoids
insect eggs, mites, small caterpillars, thrips, whiteflies, of beetle larvae,
and other true bugs. caterpillars, and other
insects.

Braconid wasps (Fig. 90)

Larvae are parasitoids
of aphids, beetle larvae, Figure 90. Braconid wasp.
caterpillars, and other
Figure 83. Spined insects.
Figure 82. Green lacewing. soldier bug.

Tachinid flies (Fig. 91)

Larvae are internal
parasitoids of beetle
larvae, caterpillars,
grasshoppers, and other
insects.
Figure 84. Brown lacewing. Figure 85. Big-eyed bug. Figure 91. Tachinid fly.

► 20
Spiders (Figs. 92 and 93) NOZZLE SELECTION
Spiders are beneficial predators and serve a significant For adequate coverage of the target, insecticides require
role in keeping populations of many insect pests in smaller droplets than systemic herbicides do. When
check. choosing nozzles for insecticide applications, consider
both the droplet size and the spray volume. Smaller
droplets provide better coverage, but larger droplets are
less likely to drift.

Air induction nozzles recommended for new herbicide

technologies produce a coarser spray that is less prone
to drifting. However, these nozzles can reduce insecticide
penetration through dense plant canopy, resulting in a
less thorough coverage. Improve penetration through
the plant canopy by increasing the final volume (no less
Figure 92. Crab spider. Figure 93. Lynx spider. than 10 gallons per acre with a preference of 15 gallons
per acre), lowering the boom to just above the plants,
increasing the operating pressure, and slowing down
the travel speed. Research indicates that penetration
is better with hollow-cone nozzles compared to air
induction nozzles when using high final volumes (15 to 20
gallons per acre). To improve aerial application coverage,
increase the spray volume (about 5 gallons per acre)
where practical.

Always read the label. Pesticide product labels may

specify what droplet size and spray volume to use. This
information will direct nozzle selection and, in turn,
affect spraying equipment configuration and calibration.

► 21
 Table 11. Products Labeled for Control of Arthropod Pests of Cotton

Product Name/ Formulated Rate Acres Treated Signal Insecticide Class Re-entry Pre-harvest
Pest Common Name Active Ingredient/s (fl oz or oz/A) lb AI/A per gallon/lb Word (*IRAC Groups) Interval Interval (d)

Thrips
Seed treatments
Gaucho 600 imidacloprid^ 12.8 fl oz/100 lbs 0.375 mg AI/seed Caution Neonicotinoids (4A)
seed
Aeris thiodicarb + 25.6 fl oz/100 lbs 0.375 mg AI/seed + Caution Carbamates (1A) +
imidacloprid seed 0.375 mg AI/seed Neonicotinoids (4A)
Cruiser 5FS thiamethoxam 0.300–0.375 mg AI/ Caution Neonicotinoids (4A)
seed
Avicta Duo abamectin + 0.15 + 0.375 mg AI/ Warning Avermectins (6) +
COT202 thiamethoxam seed Neonicotinoids (4A)
Avicta Elite abamectin + 0.15 + 0.375 + 0.375 Warning Avermectins (6) +
thiamethoxam + mg AI/seed Neonicotinoids (4A)
imidacloprid
Acceleron imidacloprid 0.375 mg AI/seed Caution Neonicotinoids (4A)
Standard
Acceleron Elite imidacloprid + 0.375 + 0.424 mg AI/ Caution Neonicotinoids (4A)
clothianidin seed
Acephate 97UP acephate^ 0.28–0.4 lb/100 lbs Caution Organophosphates
seed (1B)
At planting in furrow treatments
Admire Pro imidacloprid 7.4–9.2 0.266–0.331 17.30–13.91 Caution Neonicotinoids (4A) 12h 14
Orthene 97 acephate^ 8–16 0.487–0.974 2–1 Caution Organophosphates 24h 21
(1B)
AgLogic 15G aldicarb 2–5 lbs/a 0.3–0.75 0.5–0.2 Danger Carbamates (1A) 48h
Acephate 90 Prill acephate^ 8.9–17.6 0.5–0.99 1.80–0.91 Caution Organophosphates 24h 21
(1B)
Foliar treatments
Bidrin 8 dicrotophos^ 1.6–3.2 0.1–0.2 80–40 Danger Organophosphates 6d
(1B)
Acephate 90 Prill acephate^ 2.5–3.3 0.141–0.186 6.4–4.85 Caution Organophosphates 24h 21
(1B)
Orthene 97 acephate^ 2.5–3.0 0.152–0.183 6.4–5.33 Caution Organophosphates 24h 21
(1B)

►
Radiant SC spinetoram 4.25–8 0.0332–0.0625 30–16 Caution Spinosyns (5) 4h 28

22
Dimethoate 4E dimethoate^ 4–8 0.125–0.25 32–16 Warning Organophosphates 48h 14
(1B)
 Table 11. Products Labeled for Control of Arthropod Pests of Cotton

Product Name/ Formulated Rate Acres Treated Signal Insecticide Class Re-entry Pre-harvest
Pest Common Name Active Ingredient/s (fl oz or oz/A) lb AI/A per gallon/lb Word (*IRAC Groups) Interval Interval (d)

Cutworms
Acephate 90 Prill acephate^ 13.3 0.748 1.20 Caution Organophosphates 24h 21
(1B)
Orthene 97 acephate^ 12 0.731 1.33 Caution Organophosphates 24h 21
(1B)
Fanfare ES bifenthrin^ 2.6–6.4 0.04–0.10 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids(3A) 12h 14
Brigade 2EC bifenthrin 2.6–6.4 0.04–0.10 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids(3A) 12h 14
Discipline 2EC bifenthrin 2.6–6.4 0.04–0.10 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids(3A) 12h 14
Silencer (Silencer lambda-cyhalothrin^ 1.92–2.56 0.015–0.02 66.67–50 Warning Pyrethroids(3A) 24h 21
VXN)
Karate/Warrior II lambda-cyhalothrin 0.96–1.28 0.015–0.02 133.33–100 Warning Pyrethroids(3A) 24h 21
Baythroid XL beta-cyfluthrin 0.8–1.6 0.007–0.013 160–80 Warning Pyrethroids(3A) 12h 0
Declare gamma-cyhalothrin 0.77–1.02 0.0075–0.01 166.23–125.49 Caution Pyrethroids(3A) 24h 21
Mustang Maxx zeta-cypermethrin 1.28–1.92 0.008–0.012 100–66.67 Warning Pyrethroids(3A) 12h 14
Mustang zeta-cypermethrin 1.4–2.0 0.016–0.024 91.43–64 Warning Pyrethroids(3A) 12h 14
Bollworm and **Tobacco Budworm
Blackhawk spinosad 1.6–3.2 0.036–0.072 80–40 Caution Spinosyns (5) 4h 28
Vantacor chlorantraniliprole 1.2–2.5 0.047-0.098 106.67–51.2 Caution Diamides (28) 4h
Prevathon chlorantraniliprole 14–27 0.047–0.09 9.14–4.74 Caution Diamides (28) 4h
Radiant SC spinetoram 2.8–8 0.0219–0.0625 45.71–16 Caution Spinosyns (5) 4h 28
Lannate LV methomyl 24–36 0.45–0.68 5.5–3.5 Danger Carbamates (1A) 72h
Steward EC indoxacarb 9.2–11.3 0.09–0.11 14–11.5 Caution Oxadiazines (22A) 12h
Fanfare ES bifenthrin^ 2.6–6.4 0.04–0.10 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Brigade 2EC bifenthrin 2.6–6.4 0.04–0.10 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Discipline 2EC bifenthrin 2.6–6.4 0.04–0.10 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Silencer lambda-cyhalothrin^ 3.2–5.12 0.025–0.04 40–25 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 24h 21
Karate/ Warrior II lambda-cyhalothrin 1.60–2.56 0.025–0.04 80–50 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 24h 21
Declare gamma-cyhalothrin 1.28–2.05 0.0125–0.02 100–62.44 Caution Pyrethroids (3A) 24h 21
Mustang Maxx zeta-cypermethrin 2.64–3.60 0.0165–0.0225 48.49–35.56 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Baythroid XL beta-cyfluthrin 1.6–2.6 0.013–0.021 80–49.23 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 0

►
23
 Table 11. Products Labeled for Control of Arthropod Pests of Cotton

Product Name/ Formulated Rate Acres Treated Signal Insecticide Class Re-entry Pre-harvest
Pest Common Name Active Ingredient/s (fl oz or oz/A) lb AI/A per gallon/lb Word (*IRAC Groups) Interval Interval (d)

Aphids
Sivanto Prime flupyradifurone 7.0–14 0.0913–0.183 18.29–9.14 Caution Butenolides (4D) 4h 14
Carbine 50WG flonicamid 1.4–2.8 0.044–0.089 11.43–5.71 Warning Flonicamid (29) 12h 30
Intruder Max acetamiprid^ 0.6–1.1 0.025–0.05 26.67–14.55 Caution Neonicotinoids (4A) 12h 28
70WP/Strafer
Max
Sefina Inscalis afidopyropen 3 0.0096 42.66 Caution Pyropenes (9D) 12h
PQZ pyrifluquinazon 2.4–3.2 0.035–0.047 53.33–40 Caution Pyridine 12h
Azomethine
Derivatives (9B)
Transform WG sulfoxaflor 0.75–1 0.023–0.031 21.33–16 Danger Sulfoximines (4C) 24h
Bidrin 8 dicrotophos^ 4.0–8.0 0.25–0.5 32–16 Danger Organophosphates 6d
(1B)
Beet Armyworm
Confirm 2F tebufenozide^ 4–16 0.06–0.12 32–8 Caution Diacylhydrazines 4h 14
(18)
Prevathon chlorantraniliprole 14–27 0.047–0.09 9.14–4.74 Diamides (28) 4h
Vantacor chlorantraniliprole 1.2–2.5 0.047–0.098 106.67–51.2 Caution Diamides (28) 4h
Lannate LV methomyl 24–36 0.45–0.68 5.5–3.5 Danger Carbamates (1A) 72h
Steward EC indoxacarb 9.2–11.3 0.09–0.11 14–11.5 Caution Oxadiazines (22A) 12h
Blackhawk spinosad 1.6–3.2 0.036–0.072 80–40 Caution Spinosyns (5) 4h 28
Intrepid 2F methoxyfenozide^ 4–10 0.06–0.16 32–13 Caution Diacylhydrazine (18) 4h
Radiant SC spinetoram 4.25–8 0.0332–0.0625 30–16 Caution Spinosyns (5) 4h 28
Grasshoppers
Prevathon chlorantraniliprole 8–20 0.047–0.09 16–6.4 Caution Diamides (28) 4h
Vantacor chlorantraniliprole 0.7–1.7 0.027–0.066 182.86–75.29 Caution Diamides (28) 4h
Bidrin 8 dicrotophos^ 3.2 0.2 40 Danger Organophosphates 6d
(1B)
Baythroid XL beta-cyfluthrin 2.0–2.8 0.016–0.022 64–45.71 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 0
Mustang Maxx zeta-cypermethrin 3.0–4.0 0.01875–0.025 42.67–32 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Mustang zeta-cypermethrin 3.2–4.3 0.0375–0.05 40–29.77 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14

►
24
 Table 11. Products Labeled for Control of Arthropod Pests of Cotton

Product Name/ Formulated Rate Acres Treated Signal Insecticide Class Re-entry Pre-harvest
Pest Common Name Active Ingredient/s (fl oz or oz/A) lb AI/A per gallon/lb Word (*IRAC Groups) Interval Interval (d)

Cotton Fleahopper
Vydate C-LV 3.77 oxamyl 8–32 0.125–0.5 16–4 Danger Carbamates (1A) 48h
Orthene 97 acephate^ 4 0.244 4 Caution Organophosphates 24h 21
(1B)
Acephate 90 Prill acephate 4.4 0.248 3.64 Caution Organophosphates 24h 21
(1B)
Intruder Max acetamiprid^ 0.6–1.1 0.025–0.05 26.67–14.55 Caution Neonicotinoids (4A) 12h
70WP/Strafer
Max
Carbine 50WG flonicamid 1.7–2.8 0.053–0.089 9.41–5.71 Warning Flonicamids (29) 12h 30
Centric 40 WG thiamethoxam 1.25–2.5 0.0313–0.0625 12.8–6.4 Caution Neonicotinoids (4A) 12h 21
Alias 4F imidacloprid^ 1–2 0.0313–0.0625 128–64 Caution Neonicotinoids (4A) 12h 14
Sefina Inscalis afidopyropen 3–6 0.0096–0.019 42.66–21.33 Caution Pyropenes (9D) 12h
Sivanto Prime flupyradifurone 7–14 0.09–0.18 18.29–9.14 Caution Butenolides (4D) 4h
Transform WG sulfoxaflor 0.75–1.5 0.023–0.047 21.33–10.66 Danger Sulfoximines (4C) 24h
PQZ pyrifluquinazon 1.6–3.2 0.023–0.0466 80–40 Caution Pyridine 12h
Azomethine
Derivatives (9B)
Fanfare ES bifenthrin^ 2.6–6.4 0.04–0.10 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Discipline 2EC bifenthrin 2.6–6.4 0.04–0.10 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Brigade 2EC bifenthrin 2.6–6.4 0.04–0.10 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Bidrin 8 dicrotophos^ 4.0–8.0 0.25–0.5 32–16 Danger Organophosphates 6d
(1B)
Plant Bugs
Vydate C-LV 3.77 oxamyl 8–32 0.125–0.5 16–4 Danger Carbamates (1A) 48h
Intruder Max acetamiprid^ 1.1–2.3 0.05–0.1 14.55-6.96 Caution Neonicotinoids (4A) 12h
70WP/ Strafer
Max
Acephate 90 Prill acephate^ 4.4–17.6 0.248–0.99 3.64–0.91 Caution Organophosphates 24h 21
(1B)
Orthene 97 acephate 4–16 0.244–0.974 4–1 Caution Organophosphates 24h 21
(1B)

►
Transform WG sulfoxaflor 1.5–2.25 0.047–0.071 10.66–7.11 Danger Sulfoximines (4C) 24h

25
 Table 11. Products Labeled for Control of Arthropod Pests of Cotton

Product Name/ Formulated Rate Acres Treated Signal Insecticide Class Re-entry Pre-harvest
Pest Common Name Active Ingredient/s (fl oz or oz/A) lb AI/A per gallon/lb Word (*IRAC Groups) Interval Interval (d)

Plant Bugs continued

Diamond 0.83 EC novaluron^ 9–12 0.0584–0.0778 14.22–10.67 Warning Benzoylureas (15) 12h 30
Carbine 50WG flonicamid 1.7–2.8 0.053–0.089 9.41–5.71 Warning Flonicamid (29) 12h 30
Dimethoate 4E dimethoate^ 8 0.25 16.0 Warning Organophosphates 48h 14
(1B)
Bidrin 8 dicrotophos^ 4.0–8.0 0.25–0.5 32–16 Danger Organophosphates 6d
(1B)
Alias 4F imidacloprid^ 1–2 0.0313–0.0625 128–64 Caution Neonicotinoids (4A) 12h 14
Centric 40 WG thiamethoxam 1.25–2.5 0.0313–0.0625 12.8–6.4 Caution Neonicotinoids (4A) 12h 21
Stink Bugs
Acephate 90 Prill acephate^ 13.3 0.748 1.20 Caution Organophosphates 24h 21
(1B)
Orthene 97 acephate 12 0.731 1.33 Caution Organophosphates 24h 21
(1B)
Fanfare ES bifenthrin^ 2.6–6.4 0.04–0.10 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Discipline 2EC bifenthrin 2.6–6.4 0.04–0.10 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Brigade 2EC bifenthrin 2.6–6.4 0.04–0.10 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Bidrin 8 dicrotophos^ 4.0–8.0 0.25–0.5 32–16 Danger Organophosphates 6d
(1B)
Baythroid XL beta-cyfluthrin 1.6–2.6 0.013–0.021 80–49.23 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 0
Mustang Maxx zeta-cypermethrin 2.64–3.60 0.0165–0.0225 48.49–35.56 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Mustang zeta-cypermethrin 2.8–3.8 0.033–0.045 45.71–33.68 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Silencer lambda-cyhalothrin^ 3.2–5.12 0.025–0.04 40–25 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 24h 21
Silencer VXN lambda-cyhalothrin 3.2–5.12 0.025–0.04 40–25 Caution Pyrethroids (3A) 24h 21
Declare gamma-cyhalothrin 1.28–2.05 0.0125–0.02 100–62.44 Caution Pyrethroids (3A) 24h 21
Karate lambda-cyhalothrin 1.60–2.56 0.025–0.04 80–50 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 24h 21
Warrior II lambda-cyhalothrin 1.60–2.56 0.025–0.04 80–50 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 24h 21
Spider Mites
ABBA Ultra abamectin^ 2–8 0.00469–0.01875 64–16 Warning Avermectins (6) 12h
Agri-Mek SC abamectin 1.0–1.25 0.00547–0.00684 128–102.4 Warning Avermectins (6) 12h 20

►
26
 Table 11. Products Labeled for Control of Arthropod Pests of Cotton

Product Name/ Formulated Rate Acres Treated Signal Insecticide Class Re-entry Pre-harvest
Pest Common Name Active Ingredient/s (fl oz or oz/A) lb AI/A per gallon/lb Word (*IRAC Groups) Interval Interval (d)

Spider Mites continued

Oberon 4SC spiromesifen 3–8 0.09–0.25 42.7–16 Caution Tetronic and 12h
Tetramic acid
derivatives (23)
Zeal 72WSP etoxazole^ 0.67–1 0.03–0.045 23.88–16 Caution Etoxazole (10B) 12h
Portal fenpyroximate^ 16–32 0.05–0.10 8–4 Warning METI Acaricides
(21A)
Fall Armyworm
Prevathon chlorantraniliprole 14–27 0.047–0.09 9.14–4.74 Caution Diamides (28) 4h
Vantacor chlorantraniliprole 1.2–2.5 0.047–0.098 106.67–51.2 Caution Diamides (28) 4h
Steward EC indoxacarb 9.2–11.3 0.09–0.11 14–11.5 Caution Oxadiazines (22A) 12h
Lannate LV methomyl 24–36 0.45–0.68 5.5–3.5 Danger Carbamates (1A) 72h
Diamond 0.83 EC novaluron^ 6–12 0.0389–0.0778 21.33–10.67 Warning Benzoylureas (15) 12h 30
Orthene 97 acephate^ 16 0.974 8 Caution Organophosphates 24h 21
(1B)
Blackhawk spinosad 2.4–3.2 0.054–0.072 6.67–5 Caution Spinosyns (5) 4h 28
Whiteflies
Intruder Max acetamiprid^ 1.7–2.3 0.075–0.1 9.41–6.96 Caution Neonicotinoids (4A) 12h
70WP/Strafer
Max
Acephate 90 Prill acephate^ 8.9–17.6 0.5–0.99 1.8–0.9 Caution Organophosphates 24h 21
(1B)
Orthene 97 acephate 8–16 0.487–0.974 2–1 Caution Organophosphates 24h 21
(1B)
PQZ pyrifluquinazon 2.4–3.2 0.035–0.047 53.33–40 Caution Pyridine 12h
Azomethine
Derivatives (9B)
Sefina Inscalis afidopyropen 14 0.045 9.14 Caution Pyropenes (9D) 12h
Oberon 4SC spiromesifen 3–8 0.09–0.25 42.7–16 Caution Tetronic and 12h
Tetramic acid
derivatives (23)
Knack pyriproxyfen 8–10 0.054–0.067 16–13 Caution Pyriproxyfen (7C) 12h
Centric 40 WG thiamethoxam 2.0–2.5 0.05–0.0625 8–6.4 Caution Neonicotinoids (4A) 12h 21

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 Table 11. Products Labeled for Control of Arthropod Pests of Cotton

Product Name/ Formulated Rate Acres Treated Signal Insecticide Class Re-entry Pre-harvest
Pest Common Name Active Ingredient/s (fl oz or oz/A) lb AI/A per gallon/lb Word (*IRAC Groups) Interval Interval (d)

Whiteflies continued
Sivanto 200 SL flupyradifurone 10.5–14.0 0.137–0.183 12.19–9.14 Caution Butenolide (4D) 4h 14
Admire Pro imidacloprid^ 1.3–1.7 0.0467–0.0611 98.46–75.29 Caution Neonicotinoids (4A) 12h 14
Saltmarsh Caterpillar
Prevathon chlorantraniliprole 14–27 0.047–0.09 9.14–4.74 Caution Diamides (28) 4h
Vantacor chlorantraniliprole 1.2-2.5 0.047-0.098 106.67–51.2 Caution Diamides (28) 4h
Fanfare ES bifenthrin^ 2.6–6.4 0.04–0.10 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Silencer lambda-cyhalothrin^ 2.56–3.84 0.02–0.03 50–33.33 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 24h 21
Silencer VXN lambda-cyhalothrin 2.56–3.84 0.02–0.03 50–33.33 Caution Pyrethroids (3A) 24h 21
Skyraider bifenthrin + 3.8–6.4 0.0594–0.1 + 33.68–20 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) + 12h 14
imidacloprid 0.0297–0.05 Neonicotinoid (4A)
Discipline 2EC bifenthrin 2.6–6.4 0.04–0.10 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Baythroid XL beta-cyfluthrin 1.6–2.6 0.013–0.021 80–49.23 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 0
Blackhawk spinosad 1.6–3.2 0.036–0.072 80–40 Caution Spinosyns (5) 4h 28
Lock-On chlorpyrifos^ 32 0.5 4.0 Caution Organophosphates 24h 40
(1B)
Radiant SC spinetoram 4.25–8 0.0332–0.0625 30–16 Caution Spinosyns (5) 4h 28
Brigade 2EC bifenthrin 2.6–6.4 0.04–0.10 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Mustang Maxx zeta-cypermethrin 2.64–3.60 0.0165–0.0225 48.49–35.56 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Mustang zeta-cypermethrin 2.8–3.8 0.033–0.045 45.71–33.68 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 12h 14
Karate/ Warrior II lambda-cyhalothrin 1.28–1.92 0.02–0.03 100–66.67 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) 24h 21
*IRAC = Insecticide Resistance Action Committee
^Generics available
**No pyrethroids are suggested against tobacco budworms due to resistance
Insecticide groups 7, 10, 15, 18, and 23 are insect growth regulators
Make aerial or ground applications when wind velocity (approximately 3 to 10 mph) favors on-target product deposition. Do not apply when wind velocity exceeds 15 mph. See product labels for
information on toxicity to fish and other aquatic organisms and wildlife.

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 Table 12. Premix Insecticide Products: The following products are available as premixes of two or more insecticides.

Primary Pests
Product Formulated Acres Controlled (See product
Name/ Rate Treated label for other pests that
Common Insecticide Active (fl oz per gallon/ Signal Insecticide Class Re-entry Pre-harvest may be controlled and
Name Ingredient or oz/A) lb AI/A lb Word (*IRAC Groups) Interval Interval (d) specific rates)

Skyraider bifenthrin + 2.6–6.4 0.0406–0.1 + 49.23–20 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) + 12h 14 Plant bugs, stink bugs,
imidacloprid 0.0203–0.05 Neonicotinoids (4A) whiteflies
Brigadier bifenthrin + 3.8–7.7 0.03–0.06 + 33.68– Warning Pyrethroids (3A) + 12h 14 Plant bugs, stink bugs,
imidacloprid 0.03–0.06 16.62 Neonicotinoids (4A) whiteflies, saltmarsh
caterpiller
Hero zeta-cypermethrin 3.6–10.3 0.00875–0.025 + 35.55– Caution Pyrethroids (3A) + 12h 14 Grasshoppers, bollworm,
+ bifenthrin 0.02625–0.075 12.43 Pyrethroids (3A) stink bugs, saltmarsh
caterpillar
Besiege lambda- 6.5–12.5 0.0218–0.0407 + 19.69– Warning Pyrethroids (3A) + 24h 21 Most caterpillar pests,
cyhalothrin + 0.0424–0.0815 10.24 Diamides (28) stink bugs
chlorantraniliprole
Elevest bifenthrin + 4.8–9.6 0.084–0.167 26.67– Caution Pyrethroids (3A) + 12h Most caterpillar pests,
chlorantraniliprole 13.33 Diamides (28) stink bugs
Intrepid Edge methoxyfenozide 4–8 0.0781–0.156 + 32–16 Caution Diacylhydrazine (18) 4h 28 Most caterpillar pests,
+ spinetoram 0.156–0.0313 + Spinosyns (5) thrips
Leverage 360 imidacloprid + 2.8–3.2 0.0438–0.05 + 45.71–40 Caution Neonicotinoids (4A) 12h 14 Grasshopper, plant bugs,
beta-cyfluthrin 0.0219–0.025 + Pyrethroids (3A) stink bugs
Bidrin XPII dicrotophos + 8–12.8 0.250–0.400 + 16–10 Danger Organophosphates 6d Plant bugs and stink
bifenthrin 0.063–0.100 (1B) + Pyrethroids bugs
(3A)
Athena bifenthrin + 7–17 0.0416–0.101 + 18.29–7.53 Caution Pyrethroids (3A) + 12h 20 Spider mitess, stink
avermectin B1 0.00602–0.0146 Avermectins (6) bugs, plant bugs
Endigo ZC lambda- 4.5–6 0.0309–0.0378 + 25.6–23.27 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) + 24h 21 Plant bugs, stink bugs,
cyhalothrin + 0.0461–0.0553 Neonicotinoids (4A) whiteflies
thiamethoxam
Gladiator zeta-cypermethrin 19 0.0255 + 0.0116 6.74 Caution Pyrethroids (3A) + 12h 20 Spider mites, stink bugs
+ avermectin B1 Avermectins (6)
Fyfanon Plus malathion 8.00–16.00 0.588–0.009 + 16–8 Warning Organophosphates 2d Stink bugs, plant bugs,
ULV + gamma 1.175–0.019 (1B) + Pyrethroids bollworms
cyhalothrin (3A)
Acenthrin acephate + 6.00–21.00 0.278–0.974 + 2.66–0.76 Caution Organophosphates 24h Thrips, fleahoppers,
bifenthrin 0.0225–0.0788 (1B) + Pyrethroids plant bugs, stink bugs
(3A)
Argyle bifenthrin + 5.00–9.00 0.059–0.107 + 25.6–14.22 Warning Pyrethroids (3A) + 12h Thrips, fleahoppers,

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acetamiprid 0.039–0.070 Neonicotinoids (4A) plant bugs, stink bugs

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PHOTO CREDITS
Max Badgley, University of California: pink bollworm Steven Roberson, North Carolina State University: green
adult stink bug adult
Jim Baker, North Carolina State University, Bugwood.org: Winfield Sterling, Texas A&M University: big-eyed bug,
green peach aphid adult boll weevil adult, braconid wasp, brown lacewing,
Apurba Barman, Texas A&M University: tobacco cotton fleahopper nymph, cotton square borer larva,
budworm moth damsel bug, ground beetle, lygus bug nymph, minute
Mike Blanton, Texas A&M University: boll weevil larva pirate bug, pink bollworm damage, pink bollworm
Lyle Buss, University of Florida: cotton stainer adult larvae, spined soldier bug, whitefly nymph
James Castner, University of Florida: cotton stainer Scott Stewart, University of Tennessee: fall armyworm
nymph egg hatch, cutworm larva
Andrew Jensen, BugGuide.net: cowpea aphids feeding Michael Toews, University of Georgia: boll wall warts
on weedy kochia Jeff Trahan, BugGuide.net: cutworm moth
David Kerns, Texas A&M University: adult thrips, beet Salvador Vitanza, Texas A&M University: cotton
armyworm, beet armyworm damage, Christmas tree- fleahopper adult, cotton square borer adult, lady
like growth from wireworm feeding on plant terminal, beetle adult, twospotted spider mite infestation
false wireworm larva, immature thrips, map of major underside of cotton leaf
cotton growing regions in Texas, stand loss due to Suhas Vyavhare, Texas A&M University: aphid colony
wireworms, wireworm stem girdling on the plant terminal, beat bucket sampling, beet
Xandra Morris, Texas A&M University: cotton aphid, armyworm, blasted square, Conchuela stink bug
cotton aphid colony on the underside of a cotton leaf, adult, Conchuela stink bug nymph, cotton bollworm,
cotton fleahopper nymph cotton bollworm damage, cotton bollworm egg,
Pat Porter, Texas A&M University: beet armyworm, beet cotton field, cotton plant, differential grasshopper
armyworm moth, collops beetle, cotton boll, cotton adult, drop cloth sampling, external signs of stink bug
bollworm larval colors, cotton bollworm moth, cotton feeding, grasshopper damage, grasshopper nymph,
spraying, cotton square borer adult, cotton stripper green lacewing, honeydew accumulation on leaves,
in field, crab spider, fall armyworm, fall armyworm leaf curling from cotton aphid infestation, lint staining
egg mass, ichneumonid wasp, syrphid fly larva, plant caused by stink bug feeding, lygus bug adult, lynx
terminal inspection for cotton fleahoppers, prominent spider, saltmarsh caterpillar, sweep net sampling,
inverted Y on the head of fall armyworm, saltmarsh lygus bug nymph, tachinid fly, young cotton leaves
caterpillar, sampling for thrips, twospotted spider damaged by thrips
mite, whitefly adult Mo Way, Texas A&M University: Southern green stink
Mike Quinn, TexasEntoNet: adult darkling beetle, click bug adult S219 Regional Project: brown stink bug adult
beetle, verde plant bug adult

The information given herein is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names is made with
the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is implied.

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

AgriLifeExtension.tamu.edu

More Extension publications can be found at AgriLifeLearn.tamu.edu

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension provides equal opportunities in its programs and employment to all persons, regardless of race,
color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.

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