EVALUATION OF COMMERCIAL COTTON VARIETIES

Knowledge Area (KA)	Subject of Investigation (SOI)	Field of Science (FOS)	Percent
204	1710	1060	100%

Progress 08/30/99 to 09/30/14

Outputs
Target Audience: Primary target audience for the cotton variety testing program is Arkansas cotton producers who should most benefit from the work by being provided unbiased information which helps the determine which cultivar to grow. Seed companies are provided information on their new products, which helps to establish marketing strategies by informing them where their products perform best. In addition, cotton producers, other public breeders, and private breeders in all states benefit from the results of this program. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Nothing Reported How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? The results of the variety test are posted on-line at www.ArkansasVarietyTesting.com and in annual research series publications, which are disseminated to cooperators of the test, the University Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service agents, consultants, producers and any other interested parties. Summaries of the results are routinely presented at county extension and other producer meetings. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? The primary goal of the Arkansas Cotton Variety Test is to provide unbiased data regarding the agronomic performance of cotton varieties and advanced breeding lines in the major cotton-growing areas of Arkansas. This information helps seed companies establish marketing strategies and assists producers in choosing varieties to plant. These annual evaluations then facilitate the inclusion of new, improved genetic material in Arkansas cotton production. Adaptation of varieties is determined by evaluating the lines at four University of Arkansas research sites (near Keiser, Judd Hill, Marianna, and Rohwer). Each year, from 30 to 60 entreise are evaluated. The 34 entries in the 2014 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test included 21 entries (8 B2RF, 8 WRF, 2 GLB2, and 3 conventional) returning from the 2013 test and 13 entries (2 B2RF, 3 WRF, 1 GLB2, 2 GLT, and 5 conventional) first-year entries. In addition, the 26 transgenic entries were evaluated in a replicated test adjacent to the Manila Airport. Reported data include lint yield, lint percentage, plant height, percent open bolls, yield component variables, fiber properties, leaf pubescence, stem pubescence, and bract trichome density. All entries experiments are evaluated for response to tarnished plant bug and bacterial blight in a separate test at Keiser.

Publications

Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Bourland, F.M., A.B. Beach, C. Kennedy, and L. Martin. 2014. Arkansas cotton variety test 2013. Arkansas Agric. Exp. Stn. Research Series 615. Bourland, Fred, Glenn Studebaker, and Tina G. Teague. 2014. Host plant resistance to tarnished plant bug in Arkansas: I. Variation among cotton genotypes in small plots. pp. 668-678. In Proc., Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., New Orleans, LA. 6-8 Jan. Natl, Cotton Counc. Am., Memphis, TN. Glenn Studebaker, Fred Bourland, and Tina G. Teague. 2014. Host plant resistance to tarnished plant bug in Arkansas: II. Confirmation of small plot data. pp. 679-684. In Proc., Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., New Orleans, LA. 6-8 Jan. Natl, Cotton Counc. Am., Memphis, TN. Tina Gray Teague, Fred M. Bourland, and Glenn Studebaker. 2014. Host plant resistance to tarnished plant bug in Arkansas: III. Laboratory evaluation. pp. 685-687. In Proc., Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., New Orleans, LA. 6-8 Jan. Natl, Cotton Counc. Am., Memphis, TN.

Progress 01/01/13 to 09/30/13

Outputs
Target Audience: Primary target audience for variety testing program is Arkansas cotton producers who should most benefit from the work done in terms of variety descriptions and performance measurements. In addition, cotton producers, other public breeders, and private breeders in all states benefit from the results of this program. Changes/Problems: No major modifications have been made. Small differences in testing procedures are made as needed What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Nothing Reported How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Results of the annual Arkansas Cotton Variety Test were made available online and were published by the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station. These results impact the determination of which cotton varieties are made available to producers and assist producers to select which cotton varieties to grow. In addition to yield and fiber quality information, data regarding maturity, yield components, morphological traits, and host plant resistance traits of the varieties are published. Presentations regarding the prospect of conventional cotton varieties and leaf hair evaluation were made at the Beltwide Cotton Production Research Conference (primary audience was cotton breeders and producers). Also, I routinely answered numerous inquiries from producers and other researchers concerning cotton varieties. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? The 2014 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test will be conducted using similar guidelines and procedures used in the past.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? In 2014, 40 varieties and commercial breeding lines were evaluated at four sites. Q-score, a cotton fiber quality index, continued to be examined and used. Q-score integrates differential values of up to six fiber quality traits into one measurement. Weighing of traits is based on market demands as perceived by cotton fiber quality experts. Publications: Bourland, F.M., A.B. Beach, D.P. Roberts, Jr., and C. Kennedy. 2013. Arkansas cotton variety test 2012. Arkansas Agric. Exp. Stn. Research Series 607. Bourland, F.M. 2013. My Turn – Another challenge for cotton. p. 22. Cotton Farming. One Grower Publishing, LLC. April 2013. Eder, Z.P., G.D. Morgan, D. Fromme, D.A. Mott, G. Collins, and F. Bourland. 2013. Cotton leaf grade as influenced by cotton defoliation and varieties. pp. 45-46. In Proc., Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., San Antonio, TX. 7-10 Jan. Nat’l, Cotton Counc. Am., Memphis, TN. Boykin, J.C., F. Bourland, and D.M. Dobbs. 2013. Relationship of leaf and bract trichomes to trash content of ginned lint. pp. 774-782. In Proc., Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., San Antonio, TX. 7-10 Jan. Nat’l, Cotton Counc. Am., Memphis, TN. Eder, Z.P., G.D. Morgan, D. Fromme, D.A. Mott, G. Collins, and F. Bourland. 2013. Cotton Variety characteristics and their impact on cotton leaf grade. P. 456. . In Proc., Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., San Antonio, TX. 7-10 Jan. Nat’l, Cotton Counc. Am., Memphis, TN.

Publications

Progress 01/01/12 to 12/31/12

Outputs
OUTPUTS: In 2012, 40 varieties and commercial breeding lines were evaluated at four sites. Q-score, a cotton fiber quality index, continued to be examined and used. Q-score integrates differential values of up to six fiber quality traits into one measurement. Weighting of traits is based on market demands as perceived by cotton fiber quality experts. Two presentations regarding the prospect of conventional cotton varieties were made at the Beltwide Cotton Production Research Conference (primary audience was cotton breeders and producers) and the Cotton and Rice Conference (primary audience was consultants, cotton producers and representatives of industry) Also, I routinely answered numerous inquires by producers and other researchers concerning cotton varieties. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Don Jones and fiber specialists at Cotton Incorporated assisted with development of Q-score, a fiber quality index for cotton. Dr. Archie Flanders worked on the determining the optimum combinations of Arkansas Cotton Variety Test data to predict relative performance of varieties. TARGET AUDIENCES: Primary target audience for variety testing program is Arkansas cotton producers who should most benefit from the work done in terms of variety descriptions and performance measurements. In addition, cotton producers, other public breeders, and private breeders in all states benefit from the results of this program. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Results of the annual Arkansas Cotton Variety Test were made available online and were published by the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station. These results impact the determination of which cotton varieties are made available to producers and assist producers to select which cotton varieties to grow. In addition to yield and fiber quality information, data regarding maturity, yield components, morphological traits, and host plant resistance traits of the varieties are published.

Publications

Bourland, F.M., A.B. Beach, and D.P. Roberts, Jr. 2012. Arkansas cotton variety test 2011. Arkansas Agric. Exp. Stn. Research Series 598.
Flanders, Archie and Fred Bourland. 2012. Cotton yield, quality, and gross returns: 2011 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test. 8 pp. Cotton Comments 03-12. University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service.

Progress 01/01/11 to 12/31/11

Outputs
OUTPUTS: In 2011, 48 varieties and commercial breeding lines were evaluated at four sites. Data for COTVAR, a variety evaluation program that integrates cotton variety test data from all states were updated in 2011. Q-score, a cotton fiber quality index, continued to be examined and used. Q-score integrates differential values of up to six fiber quality traits into one measurement. Weighing of traits is based on market demands as perceived by cotton fiber quality experts. Using fiber and spinning data from the Regional High Quality Strain Test, alternate weighting of fiber quality parameters in COTVAR were examined. These results tended to lessen the relative value of fiber length and increase the relative value of fiber strength in relation to yarn tenacity. Four presentations regarding new conventional cotton variety releases were at state and regional meetings (primary audience was consultants, cotton producers, and extension personnel), and the Technical Conference on Cotton Quality (primary audience were researchers and representatives of various industries concerned with cotton quality). Also, I made three presentations concerning cotton varieties at county meetings, and answered numerous inquires by producers and other researchers concerning cotton varieties. PARTICIPANTS: Becky Bridges (computer programmer CES), Don Jones (Cotton Incorporated): Development of the COTVAR program for integrating cotton variety test data from five states into one user-friendly program that can be used to compare varieties over states. Individuals that conduct cotton variety tests in 16 states have assisted by supplying variety test data and information for use in COTVAR. Dr. Don Jones and fiber specialists at Cotton Incorporated assisted with development of COTVAR and Q-score, a fiber quality index for cotton. Dr. Archie Flanders worked on the determining the optimum combinations of Arkansas Cotton Variety Test data to predict relative performance of varieties. TARGET AUDIENCES: Primary target audience for variety testing program is Arkansas cotton producers who should most benefit from the work done in terms of variety descriptions and performance measurements. In addition, cotton producers, other public breeders, and private breeders in all states benefit from the results of this program. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Results of the annual Arkansas Cotton Variety Test were made available online and were published by the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station. These results impact the determination of which cotton varieties are made available to producers and assist producers to select which cotton varieties to grow. In addition to yield and fiber quality information, data regarding maturity, yield components, morphological traits, and host plant resistance traits of the varieties are published. The data were also made available via the COTVAR program.

Publications

Bourland, F.M., A.B. Beach, and D.P. Roberts, Jr. 2011. Arkansas cotton variety test 2010. Arkansas Agric. Exp. Stn. Research Series 587.
Bourland, F.M. 2011. Transgenic have their uses, but are not a panacea. p. 84. Cotton International Annual 2011, COTTON247.com, A Meister Publication.
Bourland, F.M. 2011. New developments in cotton technologies. Cotton Bangladesh.
Bourland, F.M. 2011. Landscape has changed for varieties. Cotton Farming, Nov 2011 issue. Available at: http://www.cottonfarming.com/home/issues/2011-11/2011_NovCF-BourlandV iewpoint.html

Progress 01/01/10 to 12/31/10

Outputs
OUTPUTS: In 2010, 52 varieties and commercial breeding lines were evaluated at four sites. COTVAR, a variety evaluation program that integrates data from five states, AR, LA, MO, MS, & TN (Central Zone), became available on-line in Feb 2006. The Central Zone data were updated in 2010. In addition, COTVAR was expanding in 2010 to include data from Eastern Zone (VA, NC, SC, GA, & AL) and Western Zone (TX, OK, NM, AZ, & CA) states. Each zone includes about 30 test locations and about 50 varieties at each location. COTVAR facilitates the evaluation of yield, fiber quality and other parameters of varieties over locations. As part of COTVAR, Q-score continues to be developed and tested. Q-score integrates differential values of up to six fiber quality traits into one measurement. Weighing of traits is based on market demands as perceived by cotton fiber quality experts. COTVAR enables users to identify varieties with high yield potential and high fiber quality over a wide range of environments. Five presentations regarding use of Q-score and optimum data bases for selecting varieties were made at the Beltwide Cotton Production Research Conferences (primary audience was consultants, cotton producers, and extension personnel), and the Technical Conference on Cotton Quality (primary audience were researchers and representatives of various industries concerned with cotton quality. Also, I made three presentations concerning cotton varieties at county and state meetings, and answered numerous inquires by producers and other researchers concerning cotton varieties. PARTICIPANTS: Becky Bridges (computer programmer CES), Don Jones (Cotton Incorporated): Development of the COTVAR program for integrating cotton variety test data from five states into one user-friendly program that can be used to compare varieties over states. Individuals that conduct cotton variety tests in 16 states have assisted by supplying variety test data and information for use in COTVAR. Dr. Don Jones and fiber specialists at Cotton Incorporated assisted with development of COTVAR and Q-score, a fiber quality index for cotton. Dr. Robert Hogan (Agricultural Economist, Texas A&M University) worked on relationship of Q-score and loan value. Dr. Archie Flanders worked on the determining the optimum combinations of Arkansas Cotton Variety Test data to predict relative performance of varieties TARGET AUDIENCES: Primary target audience for variety testing program is Arkansas cotton producers who should most benefit from the work done in terms of variety descriptions and performance measurements. In addition, cotton producers, other public breeders, and private breeders in all states benefit from the results of this program. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: No major modifications have been made. Small differences in testing procedures are made as needed.

Impacts
Results of the annual Arkansas Cotton Variety Test were made available online and were published by the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station. These results impact the determination of which cotton varieties are made available to producers and assist producers to select which cotton varieties to grow. In addition to yield and fiber quality information, data regarding maturity, yield components, morphological traits, and host plant resistance traits of the varieties are published. The data were also made available via the COTVAR program.

Publications

Bourland, F.M., A.B. Beach, and D.P. Roberts, Jr. 2010. Arkansas cotton variety test 2009. Arkansas Agric. Exp. Stn. Research Series 577.
Bourland, F.M., R. Hogan, D.C. Jones, and E. Barnes. 2010 Development and utility of Q-score for characterizing cotton fiber quality. J. Cotton Sci. 14:`53-63. Available at http://www.cotton.org/journal/2010-14/2/upload/JCS14-53.pdf
Hogan, R., F. Bourland, E.M. Barnes, and D.C. Jones. 2010. Relationship of Q-score and loan value. p. 803. In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., Nashville, TN. 4 7 Jan. 2010. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.
Bourland, F., D. Jones, R. Hogan, and E. Barnes. 2010. Use of Q-score in a cotton breeding and variety testing program. p. 804. In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., Nashville, TN. 4 7 Jan. 2010. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.
Flanders, A. and F. Bourland. 2010. Determination of the optimum data sets to employ for choosing cotton cultivars. p. 806. In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., Nashville, TN. 4 7 Jan. 2010. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.

Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09

Outputs
OUTPUTS: The University of Arkansas Cotton Variety Testing Program has expanded significantly with the introduction of transgenic cotton varieties. In 2009, 70 varieties and commercial breeding lines were evaluated at four sites. COTVAR, a variety evaluation program that integrates data from five states (AR, LA, MO, MS, & TN), became available on-line in Feb 2007 and was updated in 2009. Work to expand the program to include cotton variety tests in all states was continued and the expanded program should be on-line in early 2010. COTVAR facilitates the evaluation of yield, fiber quality and other parameters of varieties within years over locations. As part of COTVAR, Q-score continued to be developed and tested. Q-score integrates differential values of four fiber quality traits into one measurement. Achieving optimum loan prices was shown to increase as Q-score increases. Work was initiated on evaluating years, locations, and sites from variety test data to determine which combination could be used to best predict variety performance in a specific area. Presentations on the progress on the use of Q-score were made at the Beltwide Cotton Production Research Conferences (primary audience was consultants, cotton producers, and extension personnel) ,the Technical Conference on Cotton Quality (primary audience were researchers and representatives of various industries concerned with cotton quality, and the State Farm Bureau Convention (primary audience was consultants and cotton producers). Also, I made 3 presentations concerning cotton varieties at county meetings, and answered numerous inquires by producers and other researchers concerning cotton varieties. PARTICIPANTS: Becky Bridges (computer programmer CES), Don Jones (Cotton Incorporated): Development of the COTVAR program for integrating cotton variety test data from five states into one user-friendly program that can be used to compare varieties over states. Individuals that conduct cotton variety tests in 16 states have assisted by supplying variety test data and information for use in COTVAR. Dr. Don Jones and fiber specialists at Cotton Incorporated assisted with development of COTVAR and Q-score, a fiber quality index for cotton. Dr. Robert Hogan (Agricultural Economist, Texas A&M University) worked on relationship of Q-score and loan value. Dr. Archie Flanders worked on the determining the optimum combinations of Arkansas Cotton Variety Test data to predict relative performance of varieties. TARGET AUDIENCES: Primary target audience for breeding program is Arkansas cotton producers who should most benefit from the work done in terms of variety descriptions and performance measurements. In addition, cotton producers, other public breeders, and private breeders in all states benefit from the results of this program. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: No major modifications have been made. Small differences in testing procedures are made as needed.

Impacts
Results of the annual Arkansas Cotton Variety Test were made available online and were published by the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station. These results impact the determination of which cotton varieties are made available to producers and assist producers to select which cotton varieties to grow. In addition to yield and fiber quality information, data regarding maturity, yield components, morphological traits, and host plant resistance traits of the varieties are published. The data were also made available via the COTVAR program.

Publications

Bourland, F.M., A.B. Beach, J.M. Hornbeck, and A.J. Hood. 2009. Arkansas cotton variety test 2008. Arkansas Agric. Exp. Stn. Research Series 567.

Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08

Outputs
OUTPUTS: The University of Arkansas Cotton Variety Testing Program has expanded significantly with the introduction of transgenic cotton varieties. In 2008, 70 varieties and commercial breeding lines were evaluated at four sites. COTVAR, a variety evaluation program that integrates data from five states (AR, LA, MO, MS, & TN), became available on-line in Feb 2007 and was updated in 2008. Work to expand the program to include cotton variety tests in all states was initiated. COTVAR facilitates the evaluation of yield, fiber quality and other parameters of varieties within years over locations. As part of COTVAR, Q-score continued to be developed and tested. Q-score integrates differential values of four fiber quality traits into one measurement. Preliminary data indicate that likelihood of achieving optimum loan prices increases as Q-score increases. Presentations on the development and use of COTVAR and Q-score were made at the Beltwide Cotton Production Research Conferences (primary audience was consultants and cotton producers) and the Technical Conference on Cotton Quality (primary audience were researchers and representatives of various industries concerned with cotton quality. Also, I made 3 presentations concerning cotton varieties at county meetings, and answered numerous inquires by producers and other researchers concerning cotton varieties. PARTICIPANTS: Becky Bridges (computer programmer CES), Don Jones (Cotton Incorporated): Development of the COTVAR program for integrating cotton variety test data from five states into one user-friendly program that can be used to compare varieties over states. Cotton Variety Testing individuals in region [Drs. Chris Main (University of Tennessee), Andrea Phillips (University of Missouri), Drs. Ted Wallace and Peggy Thaxton (Mississippi State University), and David Caldwell (Louisiana State University)] who assisted with development of regional data for use in COTVAR. Dr. Don Jones and fiber specialists at Cotton Incorporated assisted with development of COTVAR and Q-score, a fiber quality index for cotton. Dr. Robert Hogan (Agricultural Economist, Texas A&M University) worked on relationship of Q-score and loan value. TARGET AUDIENCES: Primary target audience for breeding program is Arkansas cotton producers who should most benefit from the work done in terms of variety descriptions and performance measurements. In addition, cotton producers, other public breeders, and private breeders in all states benefit from the results of this program. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: No major modifications have been made. Small differences in testing procedures are made as needed.

Impacts
Results of the annual Arkansas Cotton Variety Test were made available online and were published by the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station. These results impact the determination of which cotton varieties are made available to producers and assist producers to select which cotton varieties to grow. In addition to yield and fiber quality information, data regarding maturity, yield components, morphological traits, and host plant resistance traits of the varieties are published. The data were also made available via the the COTVAR program..

Publications

Bryant, K.J., J.M. Reaves, R.L. Nichols, J.K. Green, C.H. Tingle, G.E. Studebaker, F.M. Bourland, C.D. Capps, Jr., and F.E. Groves. 2008. Valuing transgenic cotton technologies using a risk/return framework. J. Agric. and Applied Economics 40:767-775.
Bourland, F.M., A.B. Beach, J.M. Hornbeck, and A.J. Hood. 2008. Arkansas cotton variety test 2007. Arkansas Agric. Exp. Stn. Research Series 556.
Bourland, F.M. 2008. New tools for choosing cotton varieties. pp. 184-188. In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., Nashville, TN. 9 11 Jan. 2008. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.
Stephenson, D.O. IV, F.M. Bourland, and S.W. Lancaster. 2008. Effects of various seeding patterns and rates on cotton growth and yield. p. 53 57. In D.M. Oosterhuis (ed.) Summaries of Cotton Research in Progress in 2007. Ark. Agric. Exp Stn. Research Series 562.
Bryant, K.J., J.M. Reeves, R.L. Nichols, J.K. Greene, C.H. Tingle, G.E. Studebaker, F.M. Bourland, C.D. Capps, Jr., and F.E. Groves 2008. Valuing transgenic cotton technologies using a risk/return framework. p. 167 170. In D.M. Oosterhuis (ed.) Summaries of Cotton Research in Progress in 2007. Ark. Agric. Exp Stn. Research Series 562.

Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07

Outputs
OUTPUTS: The University of Arkansas Cotton Variety Testing Program has expanded significantly with the introduction of transgenic cotton varieties. In 2007, 76 varieties and commercial breeding lines were evaluated at four sites. COTVAR, a variety evaluation program that integrates data from five states (AR, LA, MO, MS, & TN), became available on-line in Feb 2007. COTVAR facilitates the evaluation of yield, fiber quality and other parameters of varieties within years over locations. As part of COTVAR, Q-score continues to be developed and tested. Q-score integrates differential values of four fiber quality traits into one measurement. Weighing of traits is based on market demands as perceived by cotton fiber quality experts. COTVAR enable users to identify varieties with high yield potential and high fiber quality over a wide range of environments, and is currently being expanded to include all U.S. state cotton variety tests. Presentations on the development and use of COTVAR and Q-score were made at the Beltwide Cotton Production Research Conferences, the SCC-33 Regional Variety Testing Meeting, and the American Society of Agronomy. The primary audience at these meetings were other researchers involved with variety testing and cotton breeding. Also, I made 12 presentations concerning cotton varieties at county meetings, and answered numerous inquires by producers and other researchers concerning cotton varieties. PARTICIPANTS: Chamber Davis and Becky Bridges (computer programmersCES), Don Jones (Cotton Incorporated): Development of the COTVAR program for integrating cotton variety test data from five states into one user-friendly program that can be used to compare varieties over states. Cotton Variety Testing individuals in region [Drs. Chris Main and Owen Gwathmey (University of Tennessee), Andrea Phillips (University of Missouri), Drs. Ted Wallace and Peggy Thaxton (Mississippi State University), and David Caldwell (Louisiana State University)] who assisted with development of regional data for use in COTVAR. Dr. Don Jones and fiber specialists at Cotton Incorporated assisted with development of COTVAR and Q-score, a fiber quality index for cotton. Dr. Robert Hogan (Agricultural Economist, University of Arkansas) worked on application of economic values to cotton variety test data and other cotton economic issues. TARGET AUDIENCES: Primary target audience for breeding program is Arkansas cotton producers who should most benefit from the work done in terms of variety descriptions and performance measurements. In addition, cotton producers, other public breeders, and private breeders in all states benefit from the results of this program. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: No major modifications have been made. Small differences in testing procedures are made as needed.

Impacts
Results of the annual Arkansas Cotton Variety Test were made available online and were published by the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station. These results impact the determination of which cotton varieties are made available to producers and assist producers to select which cotton varieties to grow. In addition to yield and fiber quality information, data regarding maturity, yield components, morphological traits, and host plant resistance traits of the varieties are published. Also, the COTVAR program was released in February 2007. The COTVAR program assists producers to summarize cotton variety test data from five states - thereby increasing their ability to choose the optimum variety for their conditions.

Publications

Bourland, F.M., B.S. Brown, J.M. Hornbeck, and K. Kaufman. 2007. Arkansas cotton variety test 2006. Arkansas Agric. Exp. Stn. Research Series 547.
Bourland, F.M., and D.C. Jones 2007. Development of the COTVAR variety selection program. p. 24 26. In D.M. Oosterhuis (ed.) Summaries of Cotton Research in Progress in 2006. Ark. Agric. Exp Stn. Research Series 552.
Bourland, F.M., and D.C. Jones. 2007. Development of COTVAR, a computer program for comparing performance of cotton varieties in state variety tests. p. 662. In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., New Orleans, LA. 9 12 Jan. 2007. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.
Jones, D.C., E.M. Barnes, and F.M. Bourland. 2007. Development of a fiber quality score (QS) based of four HVI properties. p. 2011-2012. In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., New Orleans, LA. 9 12 Jan. 2007. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.

Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06

Outputs
The 2006 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test included cotton lines from seed companies and public breeders. Lines were evaluated in one of two main experiments (Round-up Ready Flex and non-Flex entries that were evaluated in previous year) or one 1st year experiment (entries not previously evaluated). All three experiments consisted 26 entries including appropriate check varieties, and were evaluated at five locations. Irrigated tests were conducted at four research stations. Additionally, one non-irrigated trial was conducted. All locations were in the Mississippi River Delta region. At each location, replications of the three experiments were random in the field. Results from the experiments can be viewed at www.ArkansasVarietyTesting.org. In the main test, the highest yields were produced by several newly released varieties. Improvements in yield and fiber quality were found. Work was initiated to develop a computer program (COTVAR) that will assist users to summarize performance of cotton varieties over five states (Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee). Cotton varieties are evaluated at approximately 30 locations over the five states each year.

Impacts
Results from the Arkansas Variety Test serve two primary functions. First, unbiased data of new and standard cotton cultivars assists Arkansas cotton producers to select cultivars that will likely perform best for them. Evaluation of at different sites provides the opportunity to better identify regional adaptability of certain cultivars and improves selection for all producers in the state. Secondly, breeders and seed companies use the data to determine marketing strategies. The information becomes an important source of information for the Arkansas cotton industry. COTVAR will provide easy access to unbiased variety test data from multiple states. By summarizing over more test environments, the broad adaptation of varieties will be more accurately assessed.

Publications

Bourland, F.M., B. S. Brown, J.M. Hornbeck, K. Kaufman, and W.C. Robertson. 2006. Arkansas Cotton Variety Test 2005. Ark. Agric. Exp. Stn. Research Series 538.

Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05

Outputs
The 2005 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test included cotton lines from seed companies and public breeders. Lines were evaluated in either the main test (those having been tested in previous years) or one of two 1st year tests (those not previously entered in this test). The 1st year entries were separated into two tests because of the large number of Roundup Ready Flex entries. The main test included 27 lines, the 1st year non-Flex test had 23 lines (plus three check cultivars), and the 1st year Flex test had 37 lines (plus five check cultivars). Irrigated tests were conducted at four research stations and one off-station location (area in northeast Arkansas with high infestation of root knot nematode). Additionally, one non-irrigated trial was conducted. All locations were in the Mississippi River Delta region. At each location, replications of the main and 1st year non-Flex tests were random in the field. The 1st year Flex test was adjacent to the other tests and arranged so that harvested seedcotton could be maintained separately. Results from the tests can be viewed at www.ArkansasVarietyTesting.org. In the main test, the highest yields were produced by several newly released varieties. Three lines in the 1st year non-Flex test yielded more over all locations than the all three check cultivars, and nine yielded more than the lowest yielding check. Six lines in the 1st year Flex test yield more than all check cultivars, and 20 yielded more that the lowest yielding check.

Impacts
Results from the Arkansas Variety Test serve two primary functions. First, unbiased data of new and standard cotton cultivars assists Arkansas cotton producers to select cultivars that will likely perform best for them. Evaluation of at different sites provides the opportunity to better identify regional adaptability of certain cultivars and improves selection for all producers in the state. Secondly, breeders and seed companies use the data to determine marketing strategies. The information becomes an important source of information for the Arkansas cotton industry.

Publications

Bourland, F. M., B. S. Brown, J. M. Hornbeck, R. C. Doherty, and W. C. Robertson. 2005. Arkansas Cotton Variety Test 2004. Ark. Agric. Exp. Stn. Research Series 526.
Bourland, Fred, and Brandon Brown. 2005. Cotton varieties planted in Arkansas, 1995-2004. pp. 988-994. In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., New Orleans, LA. 4 7 Jan. 2005. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.
Bourland, Fred. 2005. Yield and fiber quality of transgenic vs. conventional cotton varieties in the Arkansas cotton variety tests, 1995-2004. pp. 1002-1006. In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., New Orleans, LA. 4 7 Jan. 2005. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.
Bourland, F. M. 2005. Cotton varieties planted in Arkansas - 2005. Cotton Newsletter no. 16, p. 5-6. Sep 21, 2005. University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service.
McNew, Ron, Owen Gwathmey, Chism Craig, Bobby Phipps, and Fred Bourland. 2005. Stability of yield and fiber quality in the north Delta: I. Evaluation of methods. pp. 981-986. In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., New Orleans, LA. 4 7 Jan. 2005. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.

Progress 01/01/04 to 12/30/04

Outputs
The 2004 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test included cotton lines from seed companies and public breeders which were evaluated in either the main test (those having been tested in previous years) or a 1st year test (those not previously entered in this test). The main test included 25 lines, while 26 lines (plus three check cultivars) were tested in the 1st year test. The tests were conducted at four research stations in the Mississippi River delta, with both irrigated and non-irrigated trials at two of the locations. A seventh location, which is in an area of northeast Arkansas having high infestation of root knot nematode, was planted in 2004 but was damaged by glyphosate drift. At each location, replications of the main and 1st year tests were random in the field, so that adjustment could be made if yield of the common entries varied between the tests. Results from the tests can be viewed at www.ArkansasVarietyTesting.org. In the main test, the highest yields were produced by several relatively recently released lines. Only two lines in the 1st year test yielded more over all locations than the all three check cultivars, but eight yielded more than the lowest yielding check

Impacts
Results from the Arkansas Variety Test serve two primary functions. First, unbiased data of new and standard cotton cultivars assists Arkansas cotton producers to select cultivars that will likely perform best for them. Evaluation of at different sites provides the opportunity to better identify regional adaptability of certain cultivars and improves selection for all producers in the state. Secondly, breeders and seed companies use the data to determine marketing strategies. The information becomes an important source of information for the Arkansas cotton industry.

Publications

Bourland, F. M., S. B. Jackson, J. M. Hornbeck, and F. E. Groves. 2004. Arkansas Cotton Variety Test 2003. Ark. Agric. Exp. Stn. Research Series 513.
Bryant, K, J. Greene, C. Capps, F. Groves, C. Tingle, G. Studebaker, F. Bourland, B. Nichols, and J. Reeves. 2004. An economic comparison of transgenic and non-transgenic cotton production systems in Arkansas. pp. 543-548. In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., San Antonio, TX. 5 9 Jan. 2004. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.
Bryant, K.J., J. K. Greene, C. D. Capps, F. E. Groves, C. Tingle, G. Studebaker, F. M. Bourland, B. Nichols, and J. Reeves. 2004. An economic comparison of transgenic and non-transgenic cotton production systems in Arkansas. pp. 252-260 In D.M. Oosterhuis (ed.) Summaries of Cotton Research in Progress in 2003. Ark. Agric. Exp Stn. Research Series 521.

Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03

Outputs
The 2003 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test included cotton lines from seed companies and public breeders which were evaluated in either the main test (those having been tested in previous years) or a 1st year test (those not previously entered in this test). The main test included 33 lines, while 21 lines (plus two check cultivars) were tested in the 1st year test. The tests were conducted at four research stations in the Mississippi River delta, with both irrigated and non-irrigated trials at two of the locations. A seventh location, which is in an area of northeast Arkansas having high infestation of root knot nematode, was added in 2003. At each location, replications of the main and 1st year tests were random in the field, so that adjustment could be made if yield of the common entries varied between the tests. Results from the tests can be viewed at www.ArkansasVarietyTesting.org. In the main test, the highest yields were obtained from several relatively recently released lines. Only one line in the 1st year test yielded more than the both check cultivars, but 10 yielded more than the lowest yielding check.

Impacts
Results from the Arkansas Variety Test serve two primary functions. First, unbiased data of new and standard cotton cultivars assists Arkansas cotton producers to select cultivars that will likely perform best for them. Evaluation of at different sites provides the opportunity to better identify "regional adaptability" of certain cultivars and improves selection for all producers in the state. Secondly, breeders and seed companies use the data to determine marketing strategies. The information becomes an important source of information for the Arkansas cotton industry.

Publications

Bourland, F. M., J. T. Johnson, S. B. Jackson, M. W. Duren, J. M. Hornbeck, F. E. Groves, and W. C. Robertson. 2003. Arkansas Cotton Variety Test 2002. Ark. Agric. Exp. Stn. Research Series 501.
Nichols, Robert, Lloyd May, and Fred Bourland. 2003. Preamble, Special Symposium - 2001 CSSA Meeting (Charlotte). Crop Sci. 43:1582-1583.
May, O. L., F. M. Bourland, and R. L. Nichols. 2003. Challenges in testing transgenic and nontransgenic cotton cultivars. Crop Sci. 43:1594-1601.
Bryant, K.J., R. L. Nichols, C. T. Allen, N. R. Benson, F. M. Bourland, L. D. Earnest, M. S. Kharboutli, K. L. Smith, and E. P. Webster. 2003. Transgenic cotton cultivars: An economic comparison in Arkansas. J. Cotton Sci. 7:194-204.
Bourland, F. M. and J. T. Johnson. 2003. Transgenic vs. conventional varieties in Arkansas Cotton Variety Tests, 1996-2002. p. 846. In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., Nashville, TN. 6-10 Jan. 2003. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.
Robertson, W. C., Brian Weatherford, and F. M. Bourland. 2003. County-based early warning program for micronaire estimation utilizing the Hal Lewis procedures for predicting field micronaire. pp. 309-310. In D.M. Oosterhuis (ed.) Summaries of Cotton Research in Progress in 2002. Ark. Agric. Exp Stn. Research Series 507.

Progress 01/01/02 to 12/31/02

Outputs
The 2002 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test included cotton lines from seed companies and public breeders which were evaluated in either the main test (those having been tested in previous years) or a 1st year test (those not previously entered in this test). The main test included 37 lines, while 25 lines (plus four check cultivars) were tested in the 1st year test. The tests were conducted at four research stations in the Mississippi River delta, with both irrigated and non-irrigated trials at two of the locations. At each location, replications of the main and 1st year tests were random in the field, so that adjustment could be made if yield of the common entries varied between the tests. Results from the tests can be viewed at www.ArkansasVarietyTesting.org. In the main test, the highest yields were obtained from several relatively recently released lines. However, very few of the lines in the 1st year test yielded more than the check cultivars

Impacts
Results from the Arkansas Variety Test serve two primary functions. First, unbiased data of new and standard cotton cultivars assist Arkansas cotton producers to select cultivars that will likely perform best for them. Evaluation of at different sites provides the opportunity to better identify "regional adaptability" of certain cultivars and improves selection for all producers in the state. Secondly, breeders and seed companies use the data to determine marketing strategies. The information becomes an important source of information for the Arkansas cotton industry.

Publications

Phipps, B. J., N. R. Benson, F. M. Bourland, and C. Tingle. 2002. Are Roundup applications necessary for evaluation of Roundup Ready cultivars. In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., Atlanta, GA. 8-12 Jan. 2002. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.
Benson, N.R., F.M. Bourland, A.B. McFall, J.M. Hornbeck, and F.E. Groves. 2002. Arkansas Cotton Variety Test 2001. Ark. Agric. Exp. Stn. Research Series 491.

Progress 01/01/01 to 12/31/01

Outputs
In 2001, seed companies and public breeders entered cotton lines into a north Arkansas test (Keiser and Clarkedale), a south Arkansas test (Marianna and Rohwer), or both. Within both north and south tests, entries were separated into Official Variety Test "OVT" entries (those having been tested in previous years) and First-Year entries (those having never been tested in Arkansas). The OVT had 31 and 33 entries in the north and south test, respectively. First-year tests had 28 and 34 entries in the north and south test, respectively (each test also included two "check" cultivars from the OVT test). The tests were conducted at four research stations in the Mississippi River delta, with both irrigated and non-irrigated trials at two of the locations. At each location, replications of the OVT and First-Year tests were random in the field, so that adjustment could be made if yield of the common entries varied between the tests. Results from the tests can be viewed at www.ArkansasVarietyTesting.org. Results from the tests indicate that competitive new genotypes are becoming available.

Impacts
Results from the Arkansas Variety Test serve two primary functions. First, unbiased data of new and standard cotton cultivars assist Arkansas cotton producers to select cultivars that will likely perform best for them. Dividing the Arkansas Cotton Variety Test into north and south tests provides the opportunity to better identify "regional adaptability" of certain cultivars and improves selection for all producers in the state. Secondly, breeders and seed companies use the data to determine marketing strategies. The information becomes an important source of information for the Arkansas cotton industry.

Publications

Benson, N.R., F.M. Bourland, W.C. Robertson, J.M. Hornbeck, and F.E. Groves. 2001. Arkansas cotton variety tests, 2000. Ark. Agric. Exp. Stn. Research Series 481.
Bourland, F. M., O. L. May, and R. L. Nichols. 2001. Challenges in cotton cultivar testing. Agronomy Abstracts TS No. C01-093714-O.
Vories, E.D., N.R. Benson, and F.M. Bourland 2001. An alternative system for determining small-plot harvest weights. p. 392. In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., Anaheim, CA. 9-13 Jan. 2001. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.

Progress 01/01/00 to 12/31/00

Outputs
In 2000, seed companies and public breeders could enter cotton lines into a north Arkansas test (Keiser and Clarkedale), a south Arkansas test (Marianna and Rohwer), or both. Within both north and south tests, entries were separated into Official Variety Test "OVT" entries (those having been tested in previous years) and First-Year entries (those having never been tested in Arkansas). The OVT had 29 and 32 entries in the north and south test, respectively. First-year tests had 28 and 30 entries in the north south test, respectively (each test also included two "check" cultivars from the OVT test). The tests were conducted at four research stations in the Mississippi River delta, with both irrigated and non-irrigated trials at two of the locations. At each location, replications of the OVT and First-Year tests alternated in the field, so that adjustment could be made if yield of the common entries varied between the tests. With few exceptions, transgenic lines placed in the bottom third of both the north and south tests. Recently released conventional lines yielded in the top five of both north and south tests. In the First-Year Variety Test, the two check varieties ranked 5rd and 13th in lint yield over all northern locations and 7th and 8th in lint yield over all southern locations. Thus, competitive new genotypes are becoming available.

Impacts
Results from the Arkansas Variety Test serve two primary functions. First, unbiased data from new and standard cotton cultivars assist Arkansas cotton producers in selecting cultivars that will likely perform best for them. Dividing the Arkansas Cotton Variety Test into north and south tests provides the opportunity to better identify "regional adaptability" of certain cultivars and improves selection for all producers in the state. Secondly, breeders and seed companies use the data to determine marketing strategies. The information becomes an important tool for the Arkansas cotton industry.

Publications

Bourland, F.M., N.R. Benson, and W.C. Robertson. 2000. Inherent biases in the Arkansas cotton variety testing program. pp. 547-549., In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., San Antonio, TX. 4-8 Jan. 2000. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.
Bourland, F.M., N.R. Benson, J.M. Hornbeck, and C.D. Capps, Jr. 2000. Arkansas cotton variety tests,1999. Ark. Agric. Exp. Stn. Research Series 473.

Progress 01/01/99 to 12/31/99

Outputs
In 1999, entries in the Arkansas Cotton Variety Test were separated into two tests. Returning entries (those in the 1998 test) were entered in the 1999 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test (32 entries); new entries were entered in the 1999 Arkansas First-year Variety Test (35 entries plus two varieties from the main test) The tests were conducted at 4 branch stations in the Mississippi River delta, with both irrigated and non-irrigated trials at two of the locations. At each location, replications of the two tests alternated in the field, so that adjustment could be made if yield of the common entries varied between the tests. Three closely related, Roundup Ready varieties were among the top 8 varieties in the main test. All three possess a genetic background that is vulnerable to bronze wilt. Over both tests, nine other Roundup Ready varieties yielded in the bottom third of all entries. Although several are competitive, the overall performance of transgenic varieties tend to lag behind the best conventional varieties. In the First-year Variety Test, the two check varieties ranked 3rd and 25th in lint yield over all locations. Thus, competitive new genotypes are becoming available.

Impacts
Results from the Arkansas Variety Test serve two primary functions. First, unbiased data of new and standard cotton cultivars assists Arkansas cotton producers to pick cultivars that will likely perform best for them. Secondly, breeders and seed companies use the data to determine marketing strategies. The information becomes an important source of information for the Arkansas cotton industry.

Publications

Bourland, F.M., G.M. Palmer, J.M. Hornbeck, and C.D. Capps, Jr. 1999. Arkansas cotton variety and strain tests, 1998. Ark. Agric. Exp Stn. Research Series 465.
Bourland, F.M. 1999. Picking a winning cotton variety. pp. 75-78. In D.M. Oosterhuis (ed.) Proc. 1999 Cotton Res. Mtg. and Summaries of Cotton Res. in Progress. Ark. Agric. Exp Stn. Special Report 193.
Bryant, K.J., C. T. Allen, F. M. Bourland, and L.D. Earnest. 1999. Cost and return comparisons of Roundup Ready and Bollgard cotton varieties. p 236-238. In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., Orlando, FL. 3-7 Jan. 1999. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.
Allen, C.T., M.S. Kharboutli, K.J. Bryant, F.M. Bourland, L. Earnest, C. Capps, Jr., and G. Palmer. 1999. Transgenic and conventional insect and weed control systems. pp. 232-235. In D.M. Oosterhuis (ed.) Proc. 1999 Cotton Res. Mtg. and Summaries of Cotton Res. in Progress. Ark. Agric. Exp Stn. Special Report 193.
Allen, C. T., M. S. Karboutli, K.J. Bryant, F.M. Bourland, L.D. Earnest, C. Capps, and G. Palmer. 1999. Transgenic and conventional insect and weed control systems. p 1065-1068. In Proc. Beltwide Cotton Prod. Res. Conf., Orlando, FL. 3-7 Jan. 1999. National Cotton Council, Memphis, TN.

Progress 01/01/98 to 12/31/98

Outputs
Cotton genotypes from public and private sources were evaluated in the 1998 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test and the 1998 Commercial Strain Test. The Arkansas Variety Test consisted of 58 entries, which included 19 transgenic genotypes and 21 first-year entries. The test were conducted at 4 branch stations in the Mississippi River delta, with both irrigated and non-irrigated trials at two of the locations. Four transgenic and five first-year entries were among the top 10 yielding entries. Performance of transgenic genotypes varied greatly among themselves and in comparison to their recurrent parent. These results continue to indicate that transgenic genotypes must be tested as new genotypes. Performance of first-year entries suggests that higher yielding genotypes are being achieved in breeding programs. The Commercial Strain Test included 18 strains and 2 check cultivars and were evaluated at two locations. This test helps to determine the adaptability to Arkansas of new strains from public and private breeders. The two check cultivars ranked 4nd and 8th in lint yield over the two locations, which further indicates that progress is being achieved in new breeding lines.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Robertson, W. C. and Bourland, F. 1998. 1997 Variety yield results. University of Ark. Cooperative Extension Service. Cotton Comments 1-98.
Bourland, F.M., Palmer, G.M., Hornbeck, J.M. and Capps, Jr., C.D. 1998. Arkansas cotton variety and strain tests, 1997. Ark. Agric. Exp Stn. Special Report 185.

Progress 01/01/97 to 12/31/97

Outputs
Cotton genotypes from public and private sources were evaluated in the 1997 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test and the 1997 Commercial Strain Test. The Arkansas Variety Test consisted of 48 entries, which included 17 transgenic cultivars. The test were conducted at 4 branch stations in the Mississippi River delta, with both irrigated and non-irrigated trials at two of the locations. Significant entry by location interactions were found for lint yield, open bolls, and fiber micronaire. Within each test, entries varied significantly for all variables measured. The Commercial Strain Test included 35 strains and 2 check cultivars and were evaluated at Clarkedale and Marianna. This test helps to determine the adaptability to Arkansas of new strains from public and private breeders. Over the two locations, the two check cultivars ranked 2nd and 6th in lint yield. Many of the new strain possess improved fiber quality.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

BOURLAND, F.M. B.S. FRIZZELL, J.M. HORNBECK, AND G.M. PALMER. 1997. ARKANSAS COTTON VARIETY AND STRAIN TESTS, 1996. ARK. AGRIC. EXP STN. RESEARCH SERIES 454.

Progress 01/01/96 to 12/30/96

Outputs
Cotton genotypes from public and private sources were evaluated in the 1996 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test and the 1996 Commercial Strain Test. The Arkansas Variety Test consisted of 30 entries, which included six transgenic cultivars. The test were conducted at 4 branch stations in the Mississippi River delta, with both irrigated and non-irrigated trials at two of the locations. Sig- nificant entry by location interactions were found for lint yield, open bolls, leaf pubescence rating, and fiber elongation. Within each test, entries varied significantly for all variables measured. Over all locations, lint yields of the transgenic cultivars ranked 3rd, 5th, 6th, 10th, 16th, and 28th among the 30 entries. The Commercial Strain Test included 28 strains and 2 check cultivars and were evaluated at Clarkedale and Marianna. This test helps to determine the adaptability to Arkansas of new strains from public and private breeders. Over the two locations, the two check cultivars ranked 2nd and 6th in lint yield. The three highest yielding strains were entries from Australia. Fiber quality of most of the new cultivars and strains are superior to the older standard cultivars.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

BOURLAND, F.M.. PALMER, G.M., HORNBECK, J.M. AND FRIZZELL, B.S. 1996. ARKANSAS COTTON VARIETY AND STRAIN TESTS 1995. ARK. AGRIC. EXP. STA. RESEARCH SERIES 451.
BOURLAND, F.M. 1996. EVALUATION OF COTTON VARIETIES IN ARKANSAS. PP. 81-85. ARK.AGRIC. EXP. STATION. SPECIAL REPORT 172.

Progress 01/01/95 to 12/30/95

Outputs
Five germplasm lines of cotton were submitted and approved for release. Each of these lines possess unique combinations of host plant resistance, fiber quality, and yield adaptation. Performance of 41 advanced and 95 preliminary cotton strains were evaluated in replicated tests. Since ginning of fiber samples has not been completed, yield and fiber data are not available. Also, about 1500 progenies were evaluated in observation rows at Rohwer and Keiser. Based on resistance to bacterial blight and visual perfor-mance, 159 progenies were harvested. After screening for fiber quality, selected progenies will be evaluated as preliminary lines in 1995. Approximate-ly 500 individual plant selections were made from progeny rows and more than 500 selected plants from transplants. After fiber analysis, seed from selected plants will be planted to progeny rows in 1994 with goals of advanced strain maintenance and development of additional genetic types.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/94 to 12/30/94

Outputs
Cotton genotypes from public and private sources were evaluated in the 1994 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test and the 1994 Commercial Strain Test. The Arkansas Variety Test included 44 entries, which is similar to the number in 1993 but twice as many as entered in 1983. Eleven of the 44 entries were entered for the first time in 1994. Only 15 of the 44 entries have been in the test since 1991. Thus, number of new cotton cultivars had drastically increased. The test were conducted at 4 branch stations in the Mississippi River delta, with both irrigated and non- irrigated trials at two of the locations. Significant entry by location and entry by irrigation treatment interactions were found for lint yield. Within each test, entries varied significantly for yield. Recently developed lines from Hartz, Chembred, Stoneville, and Sure-Grow had the highest yields in the tests. The Commercial Strain Test included 24 strains and 2 check cultivars and were evaluated at Clarkedale and Marianna. This test helps to determine the adaptability to Arkansas of new strains from public and private breeders. Over the two locations, 5 strains yielded more than the highest check cultivar and 10 yielded less than the lowest check cultivar. Fiber properties for entries in both the variety and commercial strain tests are now being determined.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/93 to 12/30/93

Outputs
Cotton genotypes from public and private sources were evaluated in the 1993 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test and the 1993 Commercial Strain Test. Due to the large number (47) of entries, the variety test was separated into two groups of 26 entries with 5 common check cultivars in each groups. The test included 4 regional, and 4 delta standards and were tested at 4 branch stations in the Mississippi River delta. At two of the locations, Keiser and Marianna, the entries were evaluated in both irrigated and non-irrigated tests. Significant entry by location and entry by irrigation treatment interactions were found for lint yield. Within each test, entries varied significantly for yield. Recently developed lines from Hartz, Chembred, Stoneville, and Sure-Grow had the highest yields in the tests. The Commercial Strain Test included 21 strains and the same 5 check cultivars and were evaluated at Clarkedale and Marianna. This test helps to determine the adaptability to Arkansas of new strains from public and private breeders. Over the two locations, four strains yielded more than the highest check cultivars and five yielded less than the lowest check cultivar. Fiber properties for entries in both the variety and commercial strain tests are now being determined.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/92 to 12/30/92

Outputs
Cotton genotypes from public and private sources were evaluated in the 1992 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test and the 1992 Commercial Strain Test. The 34 entries in the variety test included 2 national, 2 regional, and 4 delta standards and were tested at 4 branch stations in the Mississippi River delta. At two of the locations, Keiser and Marianna, the entries were evaluated in both irrigated and non-irrigated tests. Significant entry by location and entry by irrigation treatment interactions were found for lint yield. Within each test, entries varied significantly for yield. Due to the lateness of the crop, high yield was highly related to early maturity. Commercial strains were separated into two tests with each including 18 entries plus 2 standards and were evaluated at Clarkedale and Marianna. This test helps to determine the adaptability to Arkansas of new strains from public and private breeders. Only one strain yielded more than the highest standard while 14 strains yielded more than the other standard cultivar. Fiber properties for entries in both the variety and commercial strain tests are now being determined.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/91 to 12/30/91

Outputs
Cotton genotypes from public and private sources were evaluated in the 1991 Arkansas Cotton Variety Test and the 1991 Commercial Strain Test. The 32 entries in the variety test included 2 national, 3 regional, and 4 delta standards and were tested at 4 branch stations in the Mississippi River delta. At two of the locations, Keiser and Marianna, the entries were evaluated in both irrigated and non-irrigated tests. Maturity of the entries were determined by weekly counts of nodes above highest, first position white flower at Keiser, Clarkedale, and Rohwer. Significant entry by location and entry by irrigation treatment interactions were found for maturity and lint yield. Within each test, entries varied significantly for earliness and yield. Lint yields were highest at Rohwer and lowest in the two non-irrigated tests. The strain test included 26 entries plus 2 standards and was evaluated at Clarkedale and Marianna. This test helps to determine the adaptability to Arkansas of new strains from public and private breeders. One of the standard cultivars yielded more than any of the strains while 12 strains yielded more than the other standard cultivar. Fiber properties for entries in both the variety and commercial strain tests are now being determined.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/90 to 12/30/90

Outputs
Cotton genotypes from public and private sources were evaluated in either the commercial variety or strain tests in 1990. The 29 entries in the variety test included 1 national, 3 regional, and 4 delta standards and were tested at 4 branch stations in the Mississippi River delta. At two of the locations, Keiser and Marianna, the entries were evaluated in both irrigated and non- irrigated tests. Maturity of the entries were determined by weekly counts of nodes above highest, first position white flower at Keiser, Clarkedale, and Rohwer. Significant entry by location and entry by irrigation treatment interactions were found for maturity and seedcotton yield. Within each test, entries varied significantly for earliness and yield. The strain test included 24 entries plus 2 standards and was evaluated at Clarkedale and Marianna. This test helps to determine the adaptability to Arkansas of new strains from public and private breeders. Only one strain had higher seedcotton yield than the best standard and 14 were lower than either standard. Lint fraction, lint yield, and fiber properties for entries in both the variety and commercial strain tests are now being determined.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/89 to 12/30/89

Outputs
Cotton genotypes from public and private sources were evaluated in either the commercial variety or strain tests in 1989. The 28 entries in the variety tests included 2 national, 3 regional, and 4 delta standards and were tested at 4 branch stations in the Mississippi River delta. At two of the locations, Keiser and Marianna, the entries were evaluated in both irrigated and non-irrigated tests. Significant entry by location and entry by irrigation treatment interactions were found for earliness and seedcotton yield. The strain test included 29 entries plus 2 standards and was evaluated at Clarkedale and Marianna. The main objective of this test was to evaluate the adaptability of strains which represent advanced breeding lines from public and private breeders. Over both locations, only one strain had higher seedcotton yield than the best standard and 15 were lower than either standard. Lint fraction, lint yield, and fiber properties for entries in both the variety and commercial strain tests are in the process of being determined.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/88 to 12/30/88

Outputs
Cotton genotypes from public and private sources were evaluated in either commercial variety or commercial strains tests in 1988. The 31 entries in the variety test included 2 national, 3 regional, and 4 delta standards and were tested at 4 delta locations. The test at Rohwer was abandoned because of poor stands in each of two plantings. Significant variation among the cultivars for earliness and yield was found at other locations. At Keiser, a significant cultivar by test interaction was found for cultivars evaluated in both irrigated and non-irrigated tests. The strains test included 26 entries plus 3 standards which were evaluated at Clarkedale and Marianna. The main objective of this test was to evaluate the adaptability of strains which represent advanced breeding lines from public and private breeders. In addition to earliness and yield data, variation in plant bug damage was evaluated in the Clarkedale test by using the square cut method. Fiber properties for entries in both the variety and commercial strains are in the process of being determined.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/87 to 12/30/87

Outputs
The fourth year of twin-row soybean production systems was evaluated at one location. The experiment featured 94 varietal comparisons planted in conventional wide rows to the new twin row systems. Results were inconclusive for Maturity Group V because of numerous stand failures. Within Maturity Group VI, twin rows, across the entire group, produced a 4% yield increase that was significant at the 5% level of probability. These results plus additional research findings on twin-row water use efficiency and biomass development were reported in the doctoral dissertation of D.W. Albers. Population density and row width studies were conducted in soybeans to determine what effect, if any, these management factors had on seed size and protein deposition. These factors were then associated with germination and emergence results by regression analysis. Evidence from three years of experimentation leads to the conclusion that soybean plant populations higher than those recommended for maximum yield result in seed having a significantly higher amount of protein. This higher protein level is apparently associated with improved seed germination and seedling emergence. These results have been summarized in the doctoral dissertation of S.H. Moore.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/86 to 12/30/86

Outputs
A total of 512 plots were harvested from four locations consisting of a total of32 variety entries. All locations were irrigated except for Keiser which was a dryland test. There were nonsignificant differences between varieties at the Rohwer location probably due to insect pressure. The cotton variety 'Arkot-518' was released this year based on 2 to 3 years of data. Lint quality data from the Cotton Classing Office in Little Rock will be included in the yield data to be published in an Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station Research Series in 1987.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/85 to 12/30/85

Outputs
Twenty-five cotton cultivars available to Arkansas cotton producers were compared in 1985 in order to evaluate their potential performance. These trials were conducted at four locations in Eastern Arkansas: Rohwer, Marianna, Clarkedale, and Keiser. All sites were irrigated excepdt Keiser. Soil types were Desha silt loam at Rohwer, Calloway s.l. at Marianna, Dundee s.l. at Clarkedale, and Sharkey clay at Keiser. Excellent lint yields were obtained at each location; with cultivars adapted to the Mid-South averaging 1052 pounds of lint/acre at Rohwer, 1155 lbs./a at Marianna, 1039 lbs./a at Clarkedale, and 983 lbs./a at Keiser. Complete results of the 1985 trials will be published by the University of Arkansas and will be available upon request. In addition to the cotton cultivar trials, the University of Arkansas also compares the agronomic performance of new strains submitted by cotton breeders from across the U.S. In 1985, 42 new strains were compared and tested for their adaptability to Arkansas growing conditions. The entries were submitted by 14 companies/institutions from South Carolina to Arizona. The Regional High Quality, Regional Short Season, and Regional Boll/Budworm were continued in 1985. These trials were conducted cooperatively with several states in the U.S. to evaluate adaptability, fiber quality, and/or resistance to Heliothis spp.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/84 to 12/30/84

Outputs
Standard performance tests of commercially available cotton cultivars were planted at four locatIons in 1984: Northeast Research and Extension Center, Keiser; Delta Branch Station, Clarkedale; Cotton Branch Station, Marianna; and Southeast Branch Station, Rohwer. Yield potentials in 1984 were very high but excessive and extended rains, beginning early in October, delayed all harvests until after a killing frost and after variable weather damage had occurred in all tests. Results from the standard performance tests in 1984 are considered to represent a very unusual season. Other cultivar tests in 1984 included a late planted cultivar performance test designed to simulate cotton being used as a double crop after wheat as planted at SEBS, Rohwer. Harvested yields were only about 70% of those in the standard test at this location with essentially the same relative standing among cultivars in 1984.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/82 to 12/30/82

Outputs
This report covers only special tests involving commercial cultivars and hybridsin 1982. Between six and ten commercial hybrids were compared with standard cultivars at two locations. Standard cultivars yielded as much or more than any commercial hybrid at each location.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/81 to 12/30/81

Outputs
An array of cotton varieties was subjected to a series of special evaluatons in 1983 apart from standard yield tests as reported under project 1065. Cottons from Yugoslavia are earlier than US varieties because they have a shorter period from planting to first square, shorter periods from square to bloom and bloom to open ball and have shorter vertical and horizontal flowering intervals. Camd-E and Rex 713 are early US varieties but are early because of different pathways. Camd-E is early primarily because of reduced flowering intervals and ball maturation periods. Rex 7l3 is early primarily because of rate of squaring in the third and fourth week of squaring. In 1983, an array of varieties planted after a June 10 wheat harvest all matured normally under an abnormally extended growing season. It was significant, however, that the Yogoslav varieties, Camd-E, and selected others were ready to harvest within seven days of the regularly planted commercial variety test and their yields were comparable.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/80 to 12/30/80

Outputs
A 25-entry cotton variety test was planted at five locations in 1980. One was lost outright, one was replanted three times with the last planting emerging at least 30 days after the latest acceptable planting date for cotton, two were exposed to the most severe drought in 25 years, and one was irrigated to give maximum yields. Two new cultivars were distinctly superior to standards. They were Deltapine 41 and Stoneville 825. McNair 235 also performed well as a new cultivar. Yield, boll size, and lint percentage were determined for each of the four surviving sites, even that with the delayed emergence. Fiber length, length uniformity, strength, and fineness were determined by an impartial testing laboratory of samples from one location. A new strains test, also having 25 entries was planted at five sites in 1980, but only one survived for yield and agronomic property assessments. Tests will be continued in 1981.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/79 to 12/30/79

Outputs
Arrangements were made for five cotton cultivar tests in 1979. One was delayed in planting because of wet fields and one was lost after planting because of inadequate weed control. Each test included 25 cultivars which are offered for sale to Arkansas' cotton growers. Complete fiber properties of each cultivar was determined for two test sites. Agronomic properties of yield, boll size, and lint percentage was determined for all entries at each of the four surviving test sites. One site, the Delta Branch Station (Clarkedale) was included because of a high natural infestation of the Verticillium Wilt disease. Several new cultivars exhibited promise in 1979. These were "DES 56, " "McNair 235, " "Deltapine 41, " and "Stoneville 805". These were slightly earlier in maturity than standard cultivars and possessed essentially the same fiber properties. In the DBS Verticillium Wilt test, "Delcott 277" and "Acala SJ-5" were the most resistant entries. A new strains test of 25 entries was also planted at four locations in 1979. One was lost due to weed control failure. Yield, boll size and lint percentage were determined for each entry at each test site. These tests will be repeated in 1980.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/78 to 12/30/78

Outputs
Five commercial cultivar tests were completed in 1978. One was at Rohwer in thelower Arkansas Delta, one was at Marianna in the central terrace area, and three were in the Upper Delta of Arkansas. Of these, one was on a silt loam soil at Clarkedale, one was on heavy clay at Keiser, and one was on a sandy loam soil at Manila. Seasonal conditions varied considerably from site to site. The Keiser test was planted abnormally late, emergence being the first of June, but a late fall permitted full maturation of all entries. The tests in 1978 included 25 entries at each location and these included all that were sold in Arkansas. No one entry excelled at all locations. Dramatic rank changes among entries from test site to test site were without pattern. In summary, anyone of the six or eight commonly grown cultivar exhibited full yield potential in 1978. At the Marianna site, the yield of all entries were more than double that of fields grown by adjacent farmers, largely because of timely irrigation. In 1978, the so-called "short season" cultivars included in these tests did not yield as well as those commonly grown in Arkansas. This was confirmed in two special cultivar tests also conducted under this project in 1978.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/77 to 12/30/77

Outputs
Sixteen commercial cultivars were compared in standardized tests at five locations in 1977. Three test sites were included as National Cotton Cultivar tests: Rohwer, Marianna, and Clarkedale. The Clarkedale test site also serves as one of the regional test sites for the Verticillium Wilt disease susceptibility ratings. A National (Regional) high quality test was planted at one location (Rohwer). A New Strain Test of 25 entries was planted at four locations. Insect susceptibility ratings were made on the New Strains Test at two locations. In addition to these strain and cultivar tests, population and dates of planting contrasts for selected cultivar's were completed in 1977. One new cultivar was tested for the first time in 1977. It was "Gumbo", an okra-leaf type, and it performed well at all locations. In the New Strains test, DES-024, DES-056, and COKER 304 exhibited both an earliness advance and a yield advance over Delta standards, but none were earlier than New Rex. The 1977 season was abnormally warm ito October and this permitted cotton planted to mature fully before frost. Extreme heat and an extended drought in July drastically reduced yields of cultivars earlier than New Rex.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/76 to 12/30/76

Outputs
Standard Commercial Cotton Variety Tests were planted with 17 entries at five locations in 1976. One site was abandoned. Two of the six sites were designated also as National Variety tests for the Mid-South Region. A Regional High Quality Variety test was completed at one location. New Strains tests, each with 36 entries, were planted at four locations with one site being abandoned. Yield, maturity, boll size, lint percentage, fiber properties and spinning performance have been or will be determined for each entry in the Commercial Variety test and the high Quality Variety test. Seedling vigor, dateof first bloom, yield, boll, seed, and fiber properties were recorded for all entries in the New Strains test. New varietal developments in 1976 were 'New Rex,' 'Coker 304' and 'Deltapine 55' which were released as earlier maturing varieties; Daltapine 61 as having higher yields, and Stoneville 731 N as having no extra-floral nectaries and, thereby, having a degree of insect resistance. Of these, 'New Rex' was earlier than standard varieties and Stoneville 731 N didhave fewer plant bugs. Other wise, in 1976, there was no evidence to support a varietal change in Arkansas.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/75 to 12/30/75

Outputs
Commercial cotton varieties available to growers in Arkansas were tested on fivemajor soil types in 1975. Seven other site comparisons were made using selected varieties in 1975. New strains were compared at three locations in 1975. A special test involving strains yielding cotton of a high quality was planted at one location. Several points can be made even though all data have not been tabulated. 1. A maturity earlier than current delta standards is met with New Rex and some growers can use this advance effectively and some cannot. Varietiessuch as Arkugo 4, however, are too early for Arkansas if planted at a normal date. 2. Netariless cotton (Stoneville 713N) exhibits resistance to specific insects and gives normal yields in the absence of insects. 3. Considerable progress has been made by cotton breeders in developing new varieties (PeeDee group, for example) having very good quality of fiber and an acceptable yield level.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/74 to 12/30/74

Outputs
Comparative plantings of 16 commercial cotton varieties were made at five locations in 1974. One of these was lost due to adverse weather. New strains tests involving thirty-two experimental lines and four check varieties were planted at three locations but two were lost. A regional high quality strains test was also planted. Two new varieties performed well in 1974, New Rex and Deltapine 652, except that both were susceptible to Verticillium wilt. Earliness of maturity gave a yield advantage in all four surviving variety tests. This was even more significant in the new strains tests. A separate planting of five varieties having diverse maturities gave primacy to genetic earliness when late plantings are necessary. All will continue in 1975.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/73 to 12/30/73

Outputs
The Commercial cotton variety testing program was continued with tests conductedat five locations. Seven tests were planned, however two of these tests were lost in the spring due to weather conditions. A high quality test is conducted at one location. Ten varieties perform comparatively and are recommended in thestate. The study to determine the effect of the time of boll set on fiber quality was continued at six locations in Southeast Arkansas. A test to study the effect of irrigation on two varieties and two planting dates was initiated.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/72 to 12/30/72

Outputs
The commercial cotton variety tests were conducted at seven locations in 1971. The Bradley test site was not harvested due to extremely low yields because of heavy insect damage and excessive rainfall in mid- season. A high quality test was conducted at one location. Deltapine 16 and Stoneville 213 continued to be production leaders. Other varieties showing promise are Coker 310, Deltapine 25, Stoneville 603 for the state and Delcot 277 for the northern and wilt areas.The study to determine the effect of time of boll set on fiber quality was continued at three locations. Tests were repeated in six locations in 1972. A new location in the Arkansas River Valley was added. The 1972 data have not been processed at this time. Varieties were also compared in 1972 when grown atvarious row spacings and dates of planting. A preliminary analyses of 1972 tests indicate relatively small varietal interactions.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/71 to 12/30/71

Outputs
The commercial cotton variety testing program was continued with tests conductedat seven locations. A high quality test was conducted at one location. Weatherconditions following planting of two new strain tests prevented adequate stands for determining yields. Four varieties continued to dominate the testing program. Three new varieties which have performed comparably are Delcott 277 for NE Arkansas, Brycot 4 and Stoneville 603. The study to determine the effectof the time of boll set on fiber quality was continued at three locations.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/70 to 12/30/70

Outputs
The commercial cotton variety testing program was contined with tests conducted at seven locations. New strain tests were conducted at two locations and a highquality test at one location. Yields and fiber property determinations were made. The relative performance of the ten major cotton varieties in Arkansas remains unchanged with only one new variety worthy of special mention, Delcot 277 out of Missouri. A study to determine the effect of the time of boll set onfiber quality was initiated at three locations.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/69 to 12/30/69

Outputs
A standard variety test, 16 entries, was planted in replicated trials at 8 locations in 1969. Three of these locations were a part of the National Varietal Testing Project with two as sites in the Delta Regional Tests and one in the Central Regional Tests. The top varieties in 1969, based on yield per acre, were Deltapine 16, Stoneville 213, Mo-63-277D, Deltapine 45A, and Stoneville 7A. Of these Mo-63-277D is a new variety of high fiber quality whilethe others were repeats of superior performance from previous years. New data were collected in 1969 to determine the node at which the first fruiting branch and hence the earliest fruiting potential arose. According to these counts, there were no differences among the top yielding varieties. Both the lowest andhighest nodal position of the 1st fruiting branch were measured on relatively low yielding varieties in 1969.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/68 to 12/30/68

Outputs
Eight standard state-wide variety tests were conducted in 1968, including two regional tests, in six distinct regions of Arkansas. Two special high quality variety tests were conducted in two additional locations. Two new strain tests and one regional high quality strain test were completed in 1968. Yield and fiber properties were recorded in each test. Seedling vigor was recorded in each test for the first time in 1968. Top yields in 1968 were recorded for Stoneville 213, Deltapine 45A, Deltapine 16, and Stoneville 7A. The first name excelled in the lower delta and the last named excelled in the upper delta. New and exotic or high quality varieties from California and South Carolina were more than 15% lower in yields and only the California variety exceeded Delta types in quality. Seedling vigor ratings were highest for Stoneville 213, Hancock, Acala 1517D, and Stoneville 7A. The poorest vigor ratings were for Deltapine Smooth Leaf, Deltapine 16, and Paymaster 54B. Yield rankings of all varieties were essentially the same for all of the locations in 1968. This was not the case in 1967 when unseasonably low summer and fall temperatures gave unusual yield rankings, so unusual, in fact, that no variety test results from 1967 were published.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/67 to 01/30/68

Outputs
Eight standard commercial Variety tests, one new strain test, and four stripper variety tests were conducted as in previous years. These tests were at sites that included the major cotton producing areas of the state. Two of the Standard tests were designated to represent two different regions of the National Variety tests for 1967. Seasonal conditions in 1967 will limit the usefulness of the data collected; in fact, yields at five of the sites of the standard tests were the lowest recorded since the early twenties. Even though an abnormal season was experienced, no marked change in the variety picture was evident. A new type of Variety test was initiated in 1967. This was a large scale replicated test with plots more than an acre in size so that the harvestedcotton could be ginned at a standard gin and subsequent spinning tests could be run on the ginned and baled cotton. Weather restricted yields but a preliminaryview of the data confirms the value of such a test.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications