Field studies were initiated in 1987 to evaluate the potential for production of cotton in 30-inch rows and to identify the most efficient production inputs. The six year average yield increase obtained from 30-inch rows over 40-inch rows was 7.6%, 8.4%, and 7.3% for Bosket VFSL, Dundee SCL, and Tunica SCL soils, respectively. No significant quality changes were found when going from a 40-inch row to a 30-inch row.

Beginning in 1991, research was directed toward identifying the most efficient production system for 30-inch rows. While yield varies some with variety, no single variety has shown a major yield increase in 30-inch rows compared to 40-inch rows. In general the DPL varieties have yielded slightly higher in 30-inch rows than other varieties, but varieties that have been producing well on a specific farm in 40-inch rows should also produce well on 30-inch rows. Plant populations of 40,000 to 50,000 plants/acre have produced slightly higher yields than other populations in the 20,000 to 70,000 range studied. The application of low rates of a plant growth regulator beginning at pinhead square has consistently increased yield in 30 inch rows. A total application rate about 16-20 oz/a appears to be sufficient for most soil conditions. Average yield for 30-inch skip-row (2 X 1) was 1151 lb/land acre for solid compared to 1015 lb/land acre for the skip-row.

Production of cotton on 30-inch rows is more management intense than with conventional 40-inch rows. The major difference appears to be timeliness. In general, the "window of opportunity" for a particular operation/input is shorter in 30-inch rows than in 40-inch rows. If you miss the window, then 30-inch rows will not be as forgiving as 40-inch rows. Early season insect management is more critical in 30-inch rows. The goal is to set fruit early and keep the plant in a production mode and not let it go vegetative. The only equipment problem has been keeping planters aligned on the center of the bed. The beds in 30-inch rows are smaller than in 40-inch rows and planters tend to run off the side of the bed. Commercial guidance systems have proved helpful in overcoming this problem.