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Pest & Disease Library · Solutions

Pink Bollworm Control in Cotton

For pink bollworm in cotton, Vegalab recommends scouting and a natural program built on **Larva Control**. Apply Larva Control at egg-hatch; combine with timely crop termination and stalk destruction to cut carry-over.

Common crops affected

  • Cotton

Why it matters

Pink bollworm larvae bore cotton bolls to feed on seeds and lint, lowering yield and staining fibre.

When it appears

At egg-hatch on bolls and tender growth; before larvae enter the protected boll.

How to identify it

  • Small entry holes in bolls, often hard to see, with internal tunnelling and damaged seeds/lint.
  • Pink-banded larvae inside bolls; 'rosetted' (failed-to-open) blooms.
  • Stained or cut lint and reduced seed set on cutting bolls open.

How to manage it

  1. Apply Larva Control at egg-hatch;
  2. combine with timely crop termination and stalk destruction to cut carry-over.
  3. Monitor early, treat at the right window above, and use cultural measures (sanitation, airflow/drainage or resistance/rotation as relevant).

Recommended Vegalab program

RoleProductUse
Primary controlSpore ControlApply Larva Control at egg-hatch;
Rotation / companionSpider Mite ControlRotation or companion product

Product claims, rates, and availability vary by jurisdiction; always follow the applicable label.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best natural control for pink bollworm in cotton?

Vegalab Larva Control, applied at the timing above with thorough coverage.

When should I treat?

At egg-hatch on bolls and tender growth; before larvae enter the protected boll.

Can it be used in IPM / low-residue programs?

Yes — it's a natural, low-residue product that fits IPM; follow the approved local label.

Is availability the same everywhere?

Claims and availability vary by jurisdiction — always follow the approved local label.