Yield and fiber quality comparison of cotton planted in ultra narrow row and conventional row

Management practices can affect the yield, maturity, and fiber quality of cotton. One practice used to increase yield has been to adjust the spacing between cotton rows. Typically cotton is planted in row spaced 70-100 cm apart. Ultra narrow row cotton production has been proposed as an economical means to increase yields and reduce production costs. A field study was conducted to assess the effects of ultra narrow row (20 cm-UNR) and conventional row (80 cm-CR) production systems on canopy closure, yield, and fiber quality at three commercial cotton cultivars (Golestan, Sahel, and Sepid) at Gorgan in 2011. Results showed that cotton canopy closure more occurred rapidly in 20 cm rows compared to 80 cm rows (about 18 to 36 days earlier). Cotton in 20 cm rows was produced more yield than cotton in 80 cm rows. The yield increase in 20 cm rows was a result of increase in the number of boll production per unit area and increase radiation interception by canopy. No conclusive differences for fiber quality could be ascertained between in 20 cm and 80 cm rows. A higher yield in UNR compared to CR indicated that UNR system is an agronomic feasible option for farmers.