Cotton response to row pattern and plant density: Part I—Development and yield

The ability of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) to compensate for lower plant densities and 2 × 1 skip row patterns has been evaluated by numerous studies. Studies were conducted to determine if cotton yield can be maintained in a 1 × 1 skip row pattern and across plant densities to increase profit margins. Cotton growth, development, and yield were investigated in an irrigated production system in Starkville, MS, on a Leaper silty clay loam (fine, smectitic, nonacid, and thermic Vertic Epiaquepts) and in Stoneville, MS, on a Beulah very fine sandy loam (coarse-loamy, mixed, active, and thermic Typic Dystrudepts). Row patterns consisted of solid planted and 1 × 1 skip row pattern, and plant density consisted of 37,065, 74,130, 111,195, and 148,260 plants ha⁻¹. Skip row pattern and lower plant density reduced plant height. Total node and nodes above cracked boll were reduced as plant density increased. There was an interaction between location, year, and pattern, as well as year and plant density, with respect to yield. At three of four site years, solid row pattern produced greater yield in comparison to skip row pattern. However, row pattern and plant density had no effect on yield when pooled over location and year. Net returns varied by location and row pattern. Skip row produced a greater net return in Stoneville when compared to solid planting pattern; however, in Starkville, a greater net return was produced with solid planting pattern. Increased plant density did not increase profit margin due to increased seed costs.