Deltapine Highlights Cotton Varietal Options for Growers in 2026
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Deltapine is offering cotton growers a wide range of varietal options heading into the 2026 season, with a strong focus on adaptability, yield potential, and early-season performance. We caught up with Vint Hicks, Technical Agronomist with Bayer, to learn more about what producers in the lower Southeast can expect.
According to Hicks, success begins well before planting. “We always like to think about getting off to a good start. Probably the most important thing is selecting the appropriate variety.” That philosophy is driving Deltapine’s approach to product development, particularly in regions that face variable growing conditions.
Hicks noted that Deltapine’s portfolio is well-suited for a wide range of environments. “Fortunately at Deltapine we’ve got a significant number of varieties that happen to fit in the lower southeast.” Many of these varieties perform across diverse conditions, from tough acres to high-yield environments, whether dryland or irrigated. “I think we’ve got a variety that will fit pretty well with everybody,” he added.
One standout is Deltapine 2333, introduced in 2024 as part of the class of 23. Hicks described it as “an outstanding variety that’s got really good yield potential.” Initially thought to be best suited for top-end acres, the variety has shown broader adaptability as more data becomes available. “The more we see it, the broader that footprint looks.”
Traditionally, Deltapine 1840 has been the go-to option for tougher acres, but Hicks said 2333 is challenging that reputation. “2333 seems to be giving it a run for its money.” He added that it may have “the largest footprint in our geography.”
Emergence, vigor, and pest management are also key considerations in the lower Southeast. Hicks highlighted the importance of ThryvOn technology, saying, “We actually think it’s pretty close to bulletproof from a thrift standpoint.” The trait helps simplify plant bug management by slowing insect development. “It acts like an insect growth regulator if you want to look at it that way.”
Looking ahead, Hicks said Deltapine plans to introduce “at least three new varieties for the class of 26 in the lower southeast,” all featuring ThryvOn technology. While not every grower needs traits like nematode or blight resistance, he emphasized one universal priority: “what everybody does need is yield and quality.”
With a diverse lineup, Deltapine aims to give cotton growers the flexibility to select varieties that best fit their individual operations and production goals.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.