The Effects of Planter Parameters on Cotton Emergence, Growth, and Yield: Year 2

The data from year one of this study has shown correlations between planter downforce and depth settings on cotton emergence, growth, and yield.  There were up to 200 lb/ac lint yield differences between treatments from the 2016 study.  This data coupled with advent of new planter technology has provided the ability for both researchers and producers to be more accurate with seed depth and planter downforce settings, 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 producers and replanting can come at a high cost that will greatly reduce the opportunity for profitability. 

The main goal of this study was to build on the 2016 study and to better define the effects of different planter depth and downforce parameters on cotton production and final yield.  This study focused specifically on pre-plant irrigation, planter depth, and row unit downforce.  Two varieties, a small seeded low vigor variety, and a large seeded high vigor variety, were planted on May 15, 2017.  Stand counts were taken at one, three, and five weeks after planting, while growth and vigor data were collected three and five weeks after planting 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.  Harvest has not occurred at this point, but drastic differences were viewed in the emergence rate of the treatments.  The high pre-plant irrigation treatment had reductions in emergence for too high downforce and too deep depth regardless of variety.  While the high vigor variety was able to compensate for these settings in other pre-plant irrigation treatments.