Evaluation of Glandless Cotton Cultivar in New Mexico

Evaluation of a glandless cotton cultivar (Acala-GLS) has continued for the second season. Results from the 2010 cropping season showed that Acala-GLS yielded on the average 15% percent less fiber and seed, compared to the traditional cultivars (Acala 1517-99 and Acala 1517-08). The extent of yield reductions was, however, dependent on site, varying from 5 – 22%. Fiber quality parameters of the 3 cultivars did not differ significantly. The current season’s evaluation included closer pest monitoring to assess the potential damage that the glandless cotton may be facing from pest pressure. Two trials were established each at the Leyendecker Plant Science Center in Las Cruces and at the Agricultural Science Center near Artesia both belonging to the New Mexico State University. The first trial at each of the sites focused on the agronomic evaluation of three cultivars (Acala-GLS; Acala 1517-99; Acala 1517-08). The second trial at both sites focused on comparing pest pressure between two cultivars (Acala-GLS and Acala 1517-99). Experimental design for each of the trials was a randomized complete block design with treatments replicated four times. Agronomic parameters measured in the field included plant height and number of nodes, fruiting branches, squares and bolls. Early season thrips injury was evaluated at both locations shortly after planting until plants were no longer susceptible to injury.  Samples consisted of 25 whole plant samples per plot.  Cotton bollworm and beet armyworm injury was sampled on fruiting structures from July until plants reached maturity.  Populations of other pests and beneficial species were sampled season long with a sweep net. Full yield, fiber quality and pest pressure results will be determined at the end of the season.