University of Arkansas scientists’ work has shown that high night temperatures in the Delta are particularly detrimental to yield. Among specific findings thus far are that high temperature treatment did not appear to affect total number of bolls per plant, rather boll weight. They also have evaluated techniques to screen for temperature tolerance in cotton.

Under the direction of Dr. Derrick Oosterhuis, the scientists will continue their efforts on understanding extreme and unpredictable yield variability by: 1) evaluating and quantifying high temperature and drought on the development of boll weight, yield and fiber quality; 2) determining the effect of high temperatures on pollination, fertilization and seed set as well as on motes and fiber quality; and 3) investigating methods of improving seed set and boll/fiber development under high temperatures. They also will develop management strategies to predict and alleviate crop susceptibility for yield stabilization, including a new anti-ethylene plant growth regulator to improve seed fertilization, irrigation cooling and new cotton germplasm.

Scientists are looking at how environmental conditions affect cotton yields.

Research at the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station in Lubbock is aimed at finding out how environmental components affect yield – or the amount of fiber per seed. In 2004, 19 lines were tested and eight experimental lines out yielded the check variety.

Under the direction of Dr. John Gannaway, existing breeding materials will be screened for increased weight and number of fibers per seed. Scientists will try to determine what, if any, detrimental factors are associated with increased number and weight of fibers per seed. They will conduct yield tests of promising materials to determine if increased yields occur.