The likelihood of a response to starter fertilizer would increase, if the applied nutrients stimulated cotton (Gossypium hirsurum L.) root growth. In this study, root samples were collected from five positions - in the row and at four positions out to the midrow. Treatments consisted of a check, 12 gal. 1137-0/A applied in a four inch band on the soil surface, and 1.5 and 2.5 gal. 11-37-0/A applied in the furrow. In 1990, significant differences in root length density (RLD) among the starter treatments and sampling positions were detected. At 77 days after planting, the highest RLD was found in the 0 to 4 inch layer of the in-furrow, low rate treatment. In general, RLD was highest in the row and decreased with distance from the row for all treatments. In 1991, treatment effects were less evident - possibly due to heavy rainfall during the 30 to 40 day period after planting. From the data collected thus far, no conclusions can be drawn as to whether or not the effect of starter fertilizer application on cotton root growth translates into a positive effect on yield.