How to Apply Mepiquat Chloride on Plants

Mepiquat chloride is a growth regulator that is only approved for application on cotton plants. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, it works by inhibiting the development of gibberellic acid in the plants, which results in more cotton production. Growers apply mepiquat chloride in a similar way as fertilizers and pesticides, but they must use only the recommended amounts. If too much Mepiquat chloride is applied to cotton, it can stunt the growth and reduce cotton production.

Chemical resistant gloves
Long sleeves and pants
Dust mask and safety glasses
Fertilizer sprayer or irrigation system
Liquid mepiquat chloride
Water

Instructions

- 1
  Wait until the cotton plants reach 20 to 30 inches high to apply the first application of mepiquat chloride to them.
- 2
  Don the appropriate clothing and safety gear prior to application, which includes long sleeves, pants, chemical resistant gloves, safety glasses and a mask.
- 3
  Fill an irrigation system or large-sized liquid fertilizer sprayer with 2 to 4 oz. of liquid mepiquat chloride for every acre of cotton that you are spraying. Then add 2 gallons of water for every acre of land. If you live in the state of California, you must use 5 gallons of water for every acre of cotton.
- 4
  Spray the cotton plants with the solution until all surfaces of the plant including stems and leaves are saturated. Keep the sprayers no more than 10 feet above the cotton at all times.
- 5
  Repeat the application process with the same amount of mepiquat chloride an additional four or five times during the growing season. Space each application at least 7 to 14 days apart.

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