A trickle irrigation experiment was initiated to determine the response of cotton to this type irrigation in the rainbelt. The study was also designed to verify present irrigation recommendations. Georgia presently recommends initiating irrigation the week of first bloom. The week of first bloom apply 1 inch of water and for the next six weeks apply 1½, 2, 2, 1½, l½ and 1 inches respectively with adjustments being made for rainfall.

This study included trickle irrigation regimes of maximum irrigation initiated at planting based on daily usage rates, present recommendation and present recommendation plus 30 percent. Checks included over head sprinkler applying recommended rates and no irrigation.

Rainfall for May through September was 15.9 inches with a three week dry period in June and almost perfect distribution in July and August. There was no significant yield response due to irrigation or type of irrigation. The test averaged 1692 pounds of lint per acre. Trickle irrigation applying recommended rates produced the highest yield 1791 pounds of lint and trickle irrigation applying recommended rates plus 30 percent produced the lowest yield 1646 pounds of lint. Yield with maximum irrigation was 1648 pounds of lint.

Due to adequate rainfall, no definite conclusion can be drawn in comparing types of irrigation. However, these data adds support to the theory that cotton can withstand dry conditions prior to bloom initiation without reducing yield.