Producers consider 2012 cotton varieties




A number of farmers have finished harvesting their cotton crop for 2011 and others are not very far behind. The dry conditions during harvest have helped speed up harvest. As harvest time draws to a close, farmers are deciding what varieties will be planted in 2012.

Since the elimination of single-gene Bt seed technology from the market after the 2009 season, there has been a major shift in varieties and seed technology planted by Burke County cotton producers. The expense of cotton seed including technology fees can cost over $500 to almost $600 per bag. So, the decision on variety and technology is a major one, not only from an expense standpoint, but it also determines the herbicide and insecticide management regime for the upcoming growing season.

There are many factors that determine a producer’s decision on which seed variety and technology to plant. Among others, these factors include performance (yield and fiber quality), cost, availability, weed and insect management, and more recently, management of glyphosate-resistant Palmer Amaranth. In 2011 it is estimated that more than 90 % of the cotton acreage was planted in B2RF ( Bollgard II ® Roundup-Ready Flex®) technology, WRF ( Widestrike ® Roundup-Ready Flex®) technology or LLB2 ( Liberty- Link®) technology.

Yield, palmer amaranth management and insect management will be the three biggest factors for Burke County farmers when deciding on which cotton varieties to use. Some of the county variety trial data is in now and as we begin to compare it to other data across the state, several varieties show some outstanding yields. For more information on cotton variety trials and other related information, contact the Burke County Extension office at 706- 554-2119.



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