Arizona Upland Cotton Variety Testing Program, 2000

Abstract

Each year the University of Arizona conducts variety trials across the state to evaluate the performance of upland cotton varieties. These tests provide unbiased data on the performance of varieties when tested side-by-side under typical production practices. In 2000, we planted a total of ten trials, one in the southwestern region (Yuma county), six in the central region (MoHave, La Paz, Maricopa, and Pinal counties), one in the southern region (Pima county), and two in the eastern region (Graham and Cochise counties). We tested six to ten commercially available varieties in each test. The purpose of this report is to present the results of our 2000 tests conducted in southwestern, central and southern Arizona. Lee Clark presents results from eastern Arizona in two companion reports in this publication. The results show that many varieties performed well at several locations, indicating good adaptation to Arizona conditions. The highest yielding varieties did not always produce the most value per acre, clearly demonstrating the importance of both yield and fiber quality in determining the value of the crop. Growers should carefully weigh the costs and benefits of yield, quality, and transgenic technology when selecting varieties.