Effects of planting dates on performance of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) varieties under Adana conditions

The objective of the study was to evaluate the planting date effects on yield, yield parameters and fiber quality of cotton. Eight cultivars were sown in three different dates viz., 15th April, 10th May and 5th June in split plot design with three replications by allotting planting dates in main plot and varieties in sub-plots. The results indicated that crop sown on 15th April produced more seed cotton yield (4962 kg ha-1) than sown on 10th May with (35699 kg ha-1). Comparing the average varietal performance in all planting dates, BA 1010 produced maximum yield, higher number of bolls, lint percentage, lint yield, uniformity values. Later plantings led to lower yields and decreases in some quality traits. Fiber length, elongation, fiber fineness (micronaire) and yellowness were affected significantly due to sowing dates effects. In addition to yield, fiber quality of BA 1010 in terms of higher uniformity lower micronaire was better in all sowing dates. The results showed that late planting produced less yield and significant reductions in fiber length, elongation and fiber fineness.