Each year, producers face a vital decision that has a big impact on yield: variety selection.
“We recommend making agronomic decisions for each field, and that includes seed selection,” says Dr. Robert Lemon, PhytoGen cotton development specialist for the Coastal Bend of Texas. “Diversifying your seed inputs based on the characteristics and past history of each field is your best bet.”
Now is the time to review university field trial data from geographies and conditions that are similar to yours. Look at more than one source to better understand performance. And think about what performed in your fields this past year — and what didn’t.
“Seed selection comes right after harvest, when varieties are fresh on your mind and you have spent all year watching how different varieties have performed,” says Dr. Brooks Blanche, PhytoGen cotton development specialist in the lower Midsouth. “Your own fields will confirm which products work best because they are on your farm, with your soil, your irrigation capabilities, and your weed and insect control program.”
Blanche also advises growers to receive a report from the gin before measuring the profit and yield potential of a new variety.
Variety Selection
Planting two or more varieties always makes good agronomic sense. When considering varieties, look at agronomic factors such as plant height, growth potential, maturing and response to plant growth regulators.
Two of the most broadly adaptable new varieties with outstanding yield potential are PhytoGen® brand PHY 333 WRF and PHY 495 W3RF.
“PhytoGen brand PHY 333 WRF is an early maturing variety that has exceptional yield potential and superior fiber quality,” Lemon says. “With the addition of PHY 333 WRF, we have the perfect complement to the midmaturing PHY 499 WRF.”
Blanche says: “PhytoGen brand PHY 333 WRF has a very low micronaire value, an important characteristic that helps avoid costly discounts. PHY 333 WRF is a great complement to PHY 499 WRF and performs extremely well on good cotton ground. This is one for your best soils.”
PhytoGen brand PHY 499 WRF has been the No. 1 planted variety for three years running.
“The bottom line is PHY 499 WRF consistently performs under any conditions,” Lemon says.
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