Optimization of Sowing Intervals for Growth and Yield of Cotton (<i>Gossypium hirsutum</i>) in Uthal Balochistan

Cotton is a major fiber and cash crop that is referred to as the "Queen of Fiber Plants" globally. It is also a significant crop in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan, and there is enormous potential to increase cotton production. Hence, this study was conducted to evaluate the response of different cotton varieties against diverse sowing interval at agro-ecological conditions of Uthal, District Lasbela, Balochistan. Experiments were designed in randomized complete block design (RCBD) in factorial arrangements with 3 replications. The treatments were comprised of two factors such as factor-A Sowing interval (1st April, 15th April and 25th April) and Factor-B cotton varieties (CRIS-CRIS-543 and CRIS-CRIS-585). Best performing cotton varieties were identified for different morphological traits at lasbela Uthal region. Based on these studied results, variety (CRIS-543) performed better for yield and growth parameters. Sowing on 15th April date significantly increased the plant height by (2.5%), ginning out turn (5%), staple length (2%) and seed cotton yield (8%), bolls plant-1 (17%), monopodial branches plant-1(19%), and germination (2%) as compared to sowing on 1st April. Variety CRIS-543 produced 15% higher seed cotton yield compared to CRIS-585 sowing at 15th April. While, sowing at 1st April date also improved sympodial branches, boll weight, days to flowering and number of bolls of cotton as compared to 25th April. These findings provide Uthal cotton growers with a clear, region-specific sowing period to maximize yield and input efficiency under local climate and soil conditions.