ABSTRACT

Five Pee Dee lines selected for their superior fiber properties were crossed to five high yielding cultivars in an effort to improve fiber quality and yield. Lines were evaluated for yield and those lines with superior fiber properties were retained for a second cycle of selection. These selected lines were crossed to six high yielding cultivars. Populations from these crosses were advanced for several generations and lines were selected based on their superior fiber properties in tests in 2002. The selected lines were evaluated in replicated tests in 2003. Results indicated that fiber qualities were improved, especially fiber length, micronaire and fiber strength in many lines. Several lines showed no improvement in fiber quality, but improvements in lint yield. Two lines showed both improved fiber quality and yield. These lines will go through additional cycles of selection to continue improvements in fiber quality and yield in subsequent generations.