ABSTRACT

The selection of a variety or varieties for maximum economic return is the first and most critical decision a cotton producer makes each season. To ensure that Louisiana cotton growers remain competitive in the U.S. and global textile markets, cotton varieties are tested and evaluated annually at test locations that represent the soil and climatic conditions of the state. These locations are Dean Lee Research Station, Alexandria; Red River Research Station, Bossier City; Northeast Research Station, St. Joseph; and Northeast Research Station (Macon Ridge), Winnsboro. In 2003, a total of 58 varieties from private seed companies were evaluated for lint yield, agronomic and fiber traits. Varieties submitted for testing were divided into two groups based on maturity classification (early or medium) determined by the company submitting the variety. Deltapine DP 451 BG/RR, Stoneville 4892 BR, Deltapine DP 555 BG/RR, and Stoneville ST 5599 BR were used as check varieties in both maturity groups. The medium maturing varieties produced higher lint yields than the early maturing varieties.