Planting geometry of cotton under rain fed condition in the dry land areas of western Tigray

The yield f cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) in Tigray is very low because of the lack of improved agronomic practices. Cotton producing farmers (if in row) adopt 90 × 20 cm. However, it is too wide for rain-fed cotton, which means more empty space left in-between the rows, which affect the yield negatively. Objective of this study was to estimate the optimum inter-row and intra-row spacing of cotton under rain fed condition. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design having three replications. The different levels of inter- and intra-row spacing have affected the agronomic traits and the seed cotton yield significantly. The narrow inter row and closer intra row have a higher plant population. The 90 cm inter row have taller (~90 cm) plant than the 60 cm inter row. The wider intra row (25 cm) scored higher (11-13) opened bolls in all the inter rows. The wider plant geometry recorded a higher number of unopened bolls (6). Heavier bolls (11 g) were recorded on the narrow inter-row spacing under all levels of intra-row spacing. Lighter boll weight was in 90 cm row spacing irrespective of the intra rows. Normally, boll weight was reduced as the inter-row spacing increased. Maximum seed cotton yield was recorded on 60 × 10 cm. Lower seed cotton yield was found on 90 × 25 cm. Generally, seed cotton yield was reduced as inter- and intra-row spacing increased. Therefore, the 60 × 10 cm inter and intra row should be recommended for maximum seed cotton yield under rain fed condition.