Don’t spray too early. Spraying when bug numbers are too low wastes money. Before cotton blooms, the threshold is:

• More than 8 plant bugs in 100 sweeps, and

• Less than 80% square retention

If square retention is over 80%, there’s usually no benefit from spraying.

Once cotton blooms, switch to using a drop cloth for checking bugs. Only spray if you find 2–3 plant bugs per sample. Even cotton varieties like ThryvOn need to be checked and sprayed if they go over the threshold.

It’s smart to plan your sprays ahead of time. We have comprehensive insecticide recommendations for different spray scenarios. Start the season with insecticides that work well on plant bugs but are softer on beneficial insects. These helpful bugs eat pests later in the season, like stink bugs.

Hold off on strong insecticides like pyrethroids and organophosphates until late in the season when you really need them. Examples include:

• Organophosphates: Bidrin, Orthene

• Pyrethroids: Bifenthrin, Warrior II

Avoid using pre-mixed products (like Endigo or Brigadier) early on. They often contain pyrethroids. Unfortunately, we have documented pyrethroid resistance in North Carolina tarnished plant bug. Plus, they kill the beneficial insects we want to keep around.

The bottom line for growers is to have a plan. Scout every week. Stick to thresholds. Use softer insecticides early. Save the strong stuff for later. That’s the best way to protect your cotton and your bottom line.