A widespread problem of premature defoliation and physiological cut out of cotton has occurred in the Emerald Irrigation Area since the early 1980s. The problem was particularly severe in 1988 and 1989.

The performance of CSIRO varieties and new lines are evaluated each year in a series of regional trials, known as the Australian Cotton Cultivar Trial (ACCT).

A problem involving leaf death and fall before all bolls are adequately developed, has occurred in cotton growing areas for some years. Early reports of this date back to at least 1981.

You are all aware that currently there are three varieties available commercially: Siokra 1-2, Sicala 3-1 and DP90 (Deltapine - Acala) .