What is meant by "boll" in cotton terminology?

In cotton terminology, "boll" refers specifically to the protective capsule that contains both the cotton fibers and the seeds. As the cotton plant matures, the bolls develop and serve as the structure that holds the fibers, which are harvested for textile production, as well as the seeds that can be replanted to grow new cotton plants. Understanding the role of the boll is crucial for comprehending the harvesting process as well as the growth cycle of cotton plants. The development of bolls is a key stage in cotton production as they influence both yield and quality of the harvested product.