Cotton terminal disease

Cotton terminal disease refers to a physiological or pathological condition affecting the terminal bud or the main growing point of the cotton plant. This issue disrupts the apical dominance of the plant, causing severe developmental abnormalities and growth cessation at the most critical stage of the crop's vegetative cycle.

The disease primarily targets Gossypium hirsutum cultivars. It is particularly destructive during the early squaring and blooming stages, when the plant relies on the integrity of the apical meristem to drive vertical growth and coordinate the development of fruiting branches.

The symptoms typically begin with the yellowing and subsequent necrosis of the terminal bud. As the infection progresses, the leaves in the immediate vicinity show distinct spotting or curling. A characteristic sign is the "broomstick" effect, where the plant stops its main vertical growth and produces multiple side branches, leading to a stunted and bushy appearance.

Environmental factors play a decisive role in the spread of the pathogen. High humidity, heavy dew, and frequent rain events favor the transmission of bacterial or fungal agents. Wind and water splashing are the primary mechanisms of dispersal, while sap-sucking insects act as mechanical vectors that wound the plant tissues, providing entry points for the infection.

The impact of this disease on harvest yield is significant, as it drastically reduces the number of boll-bearing sites. To effectively manage and mitigate the risks, growers should adopt integrated pest and disease management practices:

• Planting certified, pathogen-free seeds.
• Implementing strict control measures against sucking pests like aphids and whiteflies.
• Maintaining optimal field drainage to reduce localized humidity.
• Applying prophylactic copper-based sprays during high-risk weather conditions.