Shedding of fruiting parts in relation to plant traits and yield in rainfed cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)

Studies conducted for four seasons (1988–92) in rainfed cotton genotypes (G. hirsutum L.) revealed that physiological shedding of fruiting parts and yield possessed positive association with leaf area, stem thickness, specific leaf area, flower production, relative water content and transpiration rate. The relationship was negative with specific leaf weight, no. of nodes and stomatal resistance. Physiological shedding of fruitting parts had positive association with yield possibly owing to its positive association with flower production. The study indicates that flower production and stomatal resistance are important plant traits in relation to physiological shedding and yield under rainfed conditions.