The impact of these factors has not been measured in the mid-South growing region. Most damage to cotton by the boll weevil is caused by females laying eggs and larvae feeding. Two or more generations may occur during viable fruit set. Squares and small bolls fed on by adult boll weevils typically drop from the plant. Larger bolls may not drop but may be more susceptible to invasion by boll-rot organisms.
Adults feed on terminals of seedling cotton before squares are available.
In rare instances, this feeding causes enough injury to reduce stand or retard plant growth. Management Winter is probably the most effective killer of boll weevils each year in Missouri. Unfortunately, you can't modify the weather or wintering habitat in this area. However, you can manage boll weevil populations through a combination of cultural and chemical control strategies. An important tool for boll weevil management is the pheromone trap.