The Effect of Planter Parameters on Cotton Emergence, Growth, and Yield

The advent of new seed meters, planters, and planter technology have now provided the ability for both researchers and producers to become more accurate with their seed placement, singulation and seed to soil contact, thus promoting higher and more even rates of successful stand establishment.  Traditionally seed cost was seen as an incidental cost of production, however, due to the increased level of technology contained within the seeds and plant, the cost has become of major concern to many producers and replanting can come at a very high cost that will greatly reduce the opportunity for profitability. 

The main goal of this study was to begin delineating the effects of different planter parameters on cotton production and final yield.  This study focused specifically on soil moisture, planter depth, and row unit downforce.  Phytogen 333 WRF was planted on May 11, 2016 and stand counts were taken at approximately two and five weeks after planting along with growth and vigor data such as plant height, leaf area index, and number of nodes to aid in quantifying the planter effect on emergence rate and vigor.  The trial was grown to maturity by following UGA Extension Cotton production recommendations.  The trial was harvested on October 3, 2016.  Initial analysis of the yield data shows approximately a 200 lb/ac (seed cotton) yield difference between planter settings suggesting that proper planter setup is critical to ensure producers have the opportunity to maximize both yield and profitability based on proper planter settings in varying conditions.