The Influence of Two Systemic Organophosphates on Growth, Fruiting, and Yield of Cotton in California

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Abstract
The growth and fruiting pattern of cotton plants were noticeably altered in association with the use of two systemic organophosphorus insecticides. Phorate was applied as a seed treatment, and ph orate and Di-Syston®(O,O-diethyl S-[2-(ethylthio)-ethyl] phosphorodithioate) were applied as granular formulations in the soil either at planting time or in June. Phorate treatments at planting time delayed seedling emergence and reduced the number of plants per acre at one or more locations, and resulted in greater plant height and leaf size in all tests. Fruiting was delayed or reduced for up to 3 weeks in treated plots at two locations and was earlier and greater at two others. Yield differenees between treated and untreated plots were evident in 1959 and 1960, with significant increases from treatment in some plots and decreases in other plots in 1960 for both planting time and mid season applications. Differences in uniformity of fiber length in 1959 and in fiber maturity in 1960 were evident at Shafter but not elsewhere in treated plots compared to untreated plots. Lint per cent, fiber strength, and seed viability were not affected by treatment. Insect and spider mite control obtained with these materials apparently was not a contributing cause for growth and fruiting differences.

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