Conventional cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) production systems are not always profitable and compatible with other row crop systems in the Missouri "Bootheel" Early season hazards often prevent establishment of healthy crops. Research (1980-82) with delayed plantings in 30" rows indicated a 16-24% increased yield potential. Conversion of a spindle picker (IH616) to 30" rows in 1983 began investigation of a short-season production system comparing conventional methods with mid-May plantings, 30" and 38" rows, irrigation, a full- and a short-season variety and a growth regulator. In 1984, mid-May plantings, irrigated, 30" Delcot 311 (full-season), no PIX, produced 20% more spindle picked lint per acre (1165 lbs vs. 969) than conventional non-irrigated 38" rows. In 1985 mid-May plantings, irrigated 30" rows of Stoneville 506 (short-season) with split applications of PIX, produced 23% more cotton (1520 lbs vs. 1234) than nonirrigated, 38" Stoneville 506 with no PIX. Most fullseason varieties should be planted in early may (yet, warm soil) while short-season varieties fit well in mid-May plantings. Ultra short-season cottons (TAMCOT -type) generally yield less than the better Delta types. Combining irrigation, intermediate or shortseason varieties grown in 30" rows, appropriate use of growth regulators (like PIX) and boll openers (like PREP) shows real short-season production potential for southeast Missouri cotton.