Regional Extra Long Staple (ELS) Cotton Evaluation in Southeastern Arizona

Abstract

A single field trial was conducted in 2005 at the University of Arizona Safford Agricultural Center as part of the regional Extra Long Staple (ELS) cotton variety testing program. This trial was conducted to evaluate nine different ELS varieties under growing conditions of the Upper Gila River Valley. These nine varieties were planted in a randomized complete block design with four replications on 26 April 2005. All plots were managed in an optimum fashion with respect to general agronomic practices. Plot size was four rows 36” wide and 40’ in length. Lint yield was determined on 10 November by harvesting the center two rows of each plot and weighing the resultant seed cotton. Sub-samples were collected for percent lint determination and fiber quality analysis at the time of harvest. Lint yield averaged 1375 lbs/acre with a range of just over 1150 to nearly 1570 lbs lint/acre. Several experimental CPCSD varieties performed extremely well with E503 and E105 placing in the top three. The standard DP340 also placed in the top three. By comparison to the Pima S-7 variety significant advances in terms of yield are being made with the newer varieties being developed. Significant advances in fiber quality were also observed. Phytogen PHY800 performed very well with respect to fiber quality properties, particularly in comparison to the Pima S-7 standard of exceptional quality.