ARS | Publication request: COTTON WATER USE UNDER DRIP IRRIGATION

Submitted to: American Society of Agronomy
Publication Type: Abstract
Publication Acceptance Date: July 23, 2004
Publication Date: July 23, 2004
Citation: McMichael, B.L., Lascano, R., Wanjura, D.F., Mahan, J.R., Gitz, D.C. 2004. Cotton water use under drip irrigation [abstract]. Agronomy Abstracts, American Society of Agronomy Annual Meeting. 2004 CDROM.

Technical Abstract: In the Texas High Plains the use of sub-surface drip irrigation (SDI) for cotton production has become more widespread in recent years since it may provide for more efficient water application and utilization by plants. Management of a cropping system that includes drip irrigation not only involves timely application of the water, but in the case of cotton production, the correct selection of varieties that are best suited to take advantage of the SDI system to maximize production. Field studies were conducted to determine the impact of different water applications, based on well capacity, using SDI on seasonal water use, root distribution, growth and lint yield of two different cotton varieties commonly grown on the High Plains of Texas. Results indicated that there were differences in root distribution relative to the placement of the sub-surface drip line and the water application rates both within and between the varieties. The suitability of varieties for SDI will depend on well capacity and rainfall during the growing season.