The invention relates to methods and combinations of Fluopyram, optionally in combination with at least one insecticide, in particular a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) agonist for improving earliness in cotton, wherein Fluopyram, optionally in combination with at least one insecticide, in particular at least one nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) agonist is applied to the cotton plants, plant parts thereof, plant propagation material or the soil which the plants are grown or intended to be grown in an effective amount.
