Project Number: 6657-21000-006-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Jan 13, 2009
End Date: Jan 12, 2014

Objective:
1) Develop genetic resources and cropping practices that increase cotton water-use efficiency. 2) Develop new cotton genetic resources with improved fiber quality, lint yield stability, and adaptation. 3) Develop management techniques for cotton grown with conservation tillage after a winter biofuel crop.

Approach:
Basic genomic and applied research will be conducted on improving cotton water use efficiency. In this research, molecular techniques will be used to search for genes that may provide more tolerance to water-deficit stress. Field studies will be conducted to screen cotton germplasm for water-deficit stress tolerance and to determine how agronomic practices affect plant water status. Contemporary plant breeding methods will be used to develop and release high yielding germplasm lines with improved fiber quality. Germplasm combining ability studies as well as studies determining genetic mechanisms for improved fiber quality will be conducted to accelerate the germplasm development program. We will evaluate cotton production potential when double cropped with winter crops harvested for biofuels. Winter crop biomass and energy content, cotton seedling establishment, and cotton fertility needs will be assessed.