ABSTRACT

Due to an increase in interest in the twin-row system of production in other crops along the upper Texas Gulf Coast, a study was initiated at the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station research site near Yoakum,TX during the 2003 growing season to compare a conventional (36-inch) row spacing with a twin-row system (spaced 4 to 6-inch apart) on a single bed under rain-fed conditions for cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) development and yield. Seeding rates were 3.4 (49,400 seed/A), 5.2 (75,500 seed/A), and 6.9 (100,100 seed/A) seed per foot based on the planted area. Rainfall during the early part of the growing season was below normal; however, rainfall during July and August was above normal. A comparison of the conventional and twin-row system showed no difference in cotton plant height, total main stem nodes, percent fruit retention at first position, cotton yield, or percent cotton turnout between the two systems. Actual plant populations were 3.6, 4.2, and 5.3 plants per foot. No significant difference in plant height, total main stem nodes, percent fruit retention at first position, cotton yield, or percent cotton turnout was noted between plant populations.