Cotton growth and development

Cotton is a unique crop plant, and its innate growth pattern makes it challenging to grow. However, the plant develops in a somewhat predictable pattern. Initially, leaf area and vegetative structures are developed that will then support future reproductive growth. If this initial vegetative growth is compromised, subsequent reproductive growth also suffers. Unlike many other crops, the cotton plant continues vegetative growth after flowering begins. The development of fruiting structures ultimately reduces vegetative growth as the plant matures. The environment regulates every developmental process of the cotton plant, both vegetative and reproductive. Heat unit accumulation dictates development as much as time. Due to increasing production costs and decreasing or stagnate commodity prices, cotton producers must be able to critically evaluate every input. An understanding of the development of the cotton plant is crucial for making management decisions and maintaining profitable production.