Uniform Stage Descriptions in Upland Cotton¹

Abstract

A systematic method of defining the developmental stages of upland cotton ( Gossypium hirsutum L.) is described. The stages of growth are divided into two groups: vegetative and reproductive. The stage of growth of an individual plant is determined by the number of main stem nodes. The uppermost node immediately preceded by a 1.25‐cm internode is considered the latest developed node for staging purposes. Use of these systematic growth stages should lead to more uniform application of agronomic research treatments, cultural practices, and the like.