Boll Rots (fungi and bacteria - caused by many parasitic and saprophytic organisms including: Colletotrichum sp. and Xanthomonas sp.): Symptoms may vary depending on the organisms involved. Generally, the first symptoms of boll rot are small, round, water-soaked spots on the bolls which may enlarge and become sunken and dark in color. Eternal symptoms may be absent but complete destruction of seed and fiber will occur. Infected bolls may be reduced by avoiding practices that promote rank growth, keeping cotton free of weeds and grasses, and skip- row planting. Heavy insect injury increases boll rot incidence. Boll rot is a problem of South and Central Texas. It is rarely seen on the High Plains.
