Arizona Upland Cotton Advanced Strains Testing Program

Abstract

A series of experiments were conducted across three locations in Arizona to evaluate over 50 commercial cotton strains. These trials were conducted in Yuma, AZ (130 ft. above MSL); Maricopa, AZ (1170 ft. above MSL); and Safford, AZ (2900 ft. above MSL). Strains were planted in four row plots extending 38 feet in a randomized complete block design with a minimum of three replications. Each location had three commercial cotton varieties included as control treatments for comparison. Data collected on these trials included a series of plant measurements at three growth stages over the course of the season, plus yield and fiber quality data. All data was subjected to statistical analysis to test for differences among strains for yield and fiber quality. Trials conducted at both Yuma and Safford performed extremely well with yields ranging from 1200 to over 2400 lbs. lint/acre. The Maricopa test site experienced some adverse weather (high levels of heat stress) and insect related conditions that led to overall decreased yields. Ranges in yield were from approximately 400 to just over 1600 lbs. lint/acre. Significant differences among lint yield and fiber properties were experienced at every location. Plant measurement results also demonstrated interesting trends among strains and locations.