Water stress in cotton, particularly during the bloom stage will reduce fiber quality. Generally, water stress from bloom to about 18-22 days post-bloom will result in reduced fiber length. Drought stress from about 18 days post-bloom to just prior to boll opening may affect micronaire, strength and uniformity. Many times after the boll load adjusts due to moisture stress and subsequent substantial rainfall or irrigation occurs, micronaire can be excessively increased.