ARS | Publication request: COTTON PRODUCTION UNDER LONG-TERM CONSERVATION TILLAGE IN A COASTAL PLAIN SOIL

Submitted to: National Cotton Council Beltwide Cotton Conference
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: January 30, 1997
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: Conservation tillage can conserve natural resources and optimize crop productivity. It has been shown to be superior over conventional tillage for production of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) in a wheat (Triticum vulgare) double cropping system in South Carolina. However, late planting in June frequently resulted in low yields. Consequently, early planting of a full season cotton cultivar may be required to optimize yield. A 2-yr study was conducted to investigate the influence of long-term conservation tillage on a 2-yr rotation with corn (Zea mays), barley (winter cover crop), and cotton grown on a Norfolk loamy sand when cotton was planted in May. Four cotton cultivars (ChemBreed 232 and 407; Delta and Pine Land 90 and 5415) were planted in May 1995 and 1996. Mean cotton lint yield was 833 kg/ha. There were no significant differences for tillage, cultivar, or interactions between cotton cultivars and tillage systems for lint or seed yield. Neither tillage nor cultivars had a significant effect on plant dry matter or nitrogen accumulation. These studies showed that cotton production with conservation tillage in a 2-yr rotation with corn is a feasible cropping system in the southeastern Coastal Plain. Additionally, use of conservation tillage with cotton production will conserve the soil through controlled soil erosion and increased soil organic matter.