Boll

A boll is the rounded seed capsule of plants, particularly those in the cotton family, that splits open at maturity to release the fibers and seeds. This biological structure is crucial for the propagation of these plants, and its appearance and characteristics directly impact agricultural practices and the harvesting of valuable fibers like cotton. The boll serves as a protective vessel for the developing seeds, housing them until they are ready to be dispersed. The integrity and yield of a boll are influenced by a variety of factors, including environmental conditions, pest infestations, and the genetic makeup of the plant itself. It's a testament to the plant's life cycle.

Boll meaning with examples

• The farmer carefully examined the cotton plants, assessing the size and condition of each boll. He was looking for signs of pests or diseases that could damage the precious fiber. A healthy boll meant a good harvest and profitable yield. He noticed the bolls splitting open, revealing the fluffy white cotton fibers, signaling the harvesting season was nearing. The farmer was relieved to find no major problems affecting the bolls.
• As the cotton plants matured in the field, the bolls began to swell and ripen, their green color slowly giving way to a brown hue. The worker's daily task was to monitor the bolls, looking for any browning or damage from weather or insects. The goal was to pick the bolls at the optimal time when they were fully mature to ensure the highest fiber quality. The strength of the fiber comes from the strength of the boll.
• The cotton gin separates the cotton fibers from the seeds inside the boll. This process requires precision to avoid damaging the delicate fibers. The gin handles thousands of bolls a day, processing the crop quickly. Bolls that contain a larger percentage of lint (the cotton fiber) are highly valued in the industry. The process of ginning the boll efficiently and effectively is crucial to the industry's efficiency.
• The researchers are working to develop new cotton varieties with larger, more productive bolls. They aim to enhance the resistance to pests and diseases which may compromise the boll. These improvements will contribute to increased yields and improved fiber quality, which is crucial to the textile industry. Scientists are closely observing and making notes on the anatomy of the boll.
• The boll weevil, a notorious pest, can devastate cotton crops by damaging the bolls. These insects lay their eggs inside the bolls, where the developing larvae feed on the seeds. The boll becomes unviable and falls off the plant if attacked, significantly reducing yields. Farmers deploy various methods, including insecticide, to combat the boll weevil and protect their crops.