Evaluating Water Use Efficiency Among D&PL Cotton Varieties

In order to understand varietal responses to limited irrigation, a total of six commercial and experimental D&PL cotton varieties were evaluated in response to various irrigation parameters.  All trials were established and managed using agronomic practices within given testing areas.  Irrigation treatments included 100%, 80%, 60%, and 40% soil moisture profiles, respectively.  Timing of irrigation was determined using evapotranspiration rate and AquaSpy water sensor probes.  End of season plant mapping was conducted to measure physiological response to varying irrigation amounts.  Final yields and fiber quality also were collected.  Overall irrigation costs associated with respective treatments were coupled with final yields and fiber quality to calculate overall system efficiency as it relates to cotton varieties.  Understanding varietal responses to limited irrigation allows for better positioning of varieties in areas of limited irrigation or rainfall, thus maximizing varietal potential within a given production system.