Improvement of cotton crop performance by estimating optimum sowing and picking time

Abstract

Performance of seed is determined by interactive component effect of genetics, physiological quality and the environment. Climate change and introduction of Bt genotypes uncertain the conventional sowing time of cotton responsible for low emergence that proceeds to delayed emergence and stand failure. To predict the emergence potential of cotton, Bt (FH-142) and non-Bt (FH-942) genotypes were sown in field with 15 days interval from 15 March to 15 June, 2013. Post planting observations recorded during crop production were morphological and phenological characteristics along with seed cotton picking during September, October and November. Early sowing delayed time to start emergence and sowing of FH-142 at 15 April and FH-942 at 1 June exposed the seed to optimum temperature finally with the quick and maximum emergence percentage. Cotton plants emerged during 15 March to 15 April compensated their delayed emergence by achieving maximum height, more number of bolls, monopodial and sympodial branches as well as early blooming and with higher economic returns for October picking. Thus, sowing from 15 March to 15 April assures high cotton production through good morphological development and subsequently picking during October provide good quality cottonseed.