Controlling Cotton's Insect Pests: A New System

Cotton is more heavily treated with insecticides than any other crop in the United States. In southern Texas, this heavy treatment resulted in insecticide- resistant strains of major pests which almost destroyed the industry in the late 19609s and early 19709s. An integrated insect control program based on new short-season cotton varieties and traditional cultural practices has restored production in the area. The new system has been widely implemented because it produces greater net returns by reducing the use of insecticides, fertilizer, and irrigation.