Row Spacing and Plant Population Effects on Cotton Produced With or Without Irrigation

Abstract

Field studies were conducted from 2006 through 2008 to evaluate the effects of twin-row spacings, plant populations, and irrigation on cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) lint yields. Twin-row systems, consisting of twin 18-, 25- and 38-cm rows spaced equidistant from the top center on a 1-m bed at populations of 111,000 and 148,000 plants/ha, were compared to conventional single-row systems at equivalent populations. The experiments were performed under irrigated and non-irrigated conditions. Under irrigated conditions, there were no differences in lint yields between single- and twin-row systems regardless of plant population in 2007 and 2008. In 2006, lint yields of 25-cm and 38-cm cotton exceeded that of single rows. Under non-irrigated conditions, lint yield of 18-cm twin-row cotton was greater than other row spacings in 2008, and greater than 38-cm twin-row cotton in 2006 (P > F 0.08 Yr*Rs), regardless of population. The results indicated that 18-cm twin-row systems at populations typically used in single-row systems could increase lint yields under non-irrigated conditions depending on the year and rainfall.