Effects of Goëmar® BM86 and Mepiquat Chloride on DPL 449BR/DPL 494R Cotton

A field experiment compared several rates of mepiquat chloride and Goëmar® BM86 on Upland cotton in the Palo Verde Valley during 2005 for their effects on cotton growth and yields. Leaf chlorophyll levels were significantly increased in DPL 449BR by usage of mepiquat chloride on initial samples dates after applications, and these treatments also effected cotton heights. Retention percentages and numbers of fruiting structures per plant were initially increased by treatments which contained Goëmar® BM86, although late in the season significant differences existed between Goëmar® BM86 treatments as a result of interaction with mepiquat chloride. All treatments resulted in a slight (0.01 inch) increase in fiber length as well as staple, resulting in increased lint value. The combination treatment of Goëmar® BM86 plus 12 oz./acre of mepiquat chloride had highest cotton value ($1,035/ acre), and was worth $178/acre more than the untreated check