Stand establishment is one of the most critical operations in cotton (Gossypium spp.) production. Planting is frequently commenced when soil temperatures are lower than optimal and the developing seed can be exposed to stressful conditions. Low quality planting seed often performs poorly with low emergence rates. Growers faced with using poor quality seed often attempt to compensate by planting at higher seeding rates. Cotton seed from high and one or more low quality seed lots were evaluated over a 5 year period at 4 locations in Arizona. Seedling emergence and yield were reduced by poor quality seed. Evidence suggested that higher planting rates will not completely compensate for yield reductions associated with poor quality seed.