1 8 KNAPP METHOD OF GROWING COTTON 



The number of bolls may vary from a very 

 few to several hundred to the stalk. The num- 

 ber depends largely on the variety, soil, moist- 

 ure, and climatic conditions while growing. 

 The number of blooms appearing does not 

 signify how many bolls will reach maturity, as 

 insect pests, excessive rains, dry weather, or 

 lack of fertility may cause a large per cent, to 

 shed. An average of thirty to fifty mature 

 bolls to the stalk over a field with a good stand 

 should give a yield of three quarters to one bale 

 per acre. The size and shape of the boll varies 

 with the varieties, class of soil, and weather 

 conditions. The small boll cottons require 

 from one hundred to one hundred and twenty 

 bolls to make a pound of seed cotton, while some 

 of the large boll varieties require only forty to 

 sixty to the pound. The manner of opening of 

 bolls differs greatly with the varieties; some 

 yield their locks freely, while others open in 

 such a way as to cause the lock to adhere 

 closely. The latter kinds are preferred in a 

 windy country or where the harvesting is not 

 done promptly. 



The seed cotton produces about two thirds 

 seed and one third lint or fiber when ginned. 



