Differential Growth of Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) Biotypes in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum)

Abstract

Field experiments were conducted in 1983, 1984, and 1985 at Stoneville, MS, to evaluate the differential growth of 17 biotypes of bermudagrass in two cotton planting patterns. Growth comparisons (parallel = along the row, perpendicular = across the row, and height) were made among biotypes and between solid and skip-row cotton planting patterns, 1- and 2-m row widths, respectively. Biotype growth parameters differed significantly regardless of cotton planting patterns. Bermudagrass growth, perpendicular and parallel to rows, was greater in skip-row than in solid planted cotton by ≥5 and ≥7 wk after planting, respectively. Bermudagrass was taller in skip-row vs. solid planted cotton at ≥18 wk after planting. When averaged over biotypes, growth of bermudagrass was 3 to 4 times greater in skip-row than in solid cotton planting patterns by 18 wk after planting.