But, in the Rolling Plains of Texas where boll weevils are present, producers uniformly delay planting their cotton until after mid-May. This delayed uniform planting works by delaying the appearance of cotton squares necessary for boll weevils to survive and develop. By the time the cotton squares appear, most of the overwintered boll weevils have emerged and died from starvation.

Using good cultural practices and host plant resistance helps to reduce the likelihood of pest outbreaks, but it doesn't always eliminate them.