Influence of planting patterns, irrigation techniques and mulches on growth, yield, water use and economics of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) under irrigated conditions of Western Maharashtra

A field experiment was conducted during the summer season of 2000 and 2001 at Rahuri, Maharashtra, to study the effects of planting patterns, irrigation techniques and mulches on growth, yield, water saving and economics of irrigated ‘NHH 44’ upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L). Planting patterns and irrigation techniques did not influence either growth, yield of seed cotton or economics. The plastic film mulch recorded significantly higher values of growth, yield attributes and yield of seed cotton and stalk. Maximum net returns and benefit: cost ratio were recorded by plastic film mulch which was closely followed by sugarcane trash (10 tonnes/ha) as organic mulch. The water-use efficiency was more in paired row planting, alternate furrow irrigation and plastic film mulch.