Breeding for High Strength Cotton1

Abstract

Fiber strength is only one of several quality measures of cotton fiber. All of the quality factors influence spinning performance as exhibited by the effect each has on the end product. Fiber strength is more important for open-end than ring spinning. The development of agronomically acceptable cotton cultivars possessing high tensile strength will be a slow and deliberate process. Certain genetic associations exist which will slow the developmental process. Data indicate that the combination of high fiber strength with other favorable agronomic characteristics is being achieved.