Abstract
Research was conducted to determine the influence of no-tillage and other conservation tillage systems on soil properties and cotton growth in the Blackland Prairies of Texas. Bulk density, soil water content, and cone penetrometer resistance were monitored throughout the cotton season. Few differences in bulk density and soil water content were observed between tillage treatments. Penetrometer resistance was greater in the no-tillage treatment throughout most of the season in 1994 and 1995. The growth of the cotton as influenced by the various tillage systems was also monitored. In 1994 cotton heights in the no-tillage treatment were shorter than those in the reduced tillage treatment throughout most of the season. No differences in the growth of the cotton were observed in 1995, and no yield differences were observed in either year. The herbicide thiazopyr was also evaluated for its weed control spectrum, usage rates, application methods, and adaptability into a cotton production system in the Blackland Prairies. Thiazopyr at 140, 210, and 280 g ai/ha provided minimal broadleaf control but provided good early season johnsongrass control when used PPI in the study at College Station. When applied in the fall, thiazopyr provided excellent preemergence control of henbit followed by good johnsongrass control the following spring. An issue with this herbicide is its carryover injury to wheat. If thiazopyr is to be used in the Blackland Prairies, measures will have to be taken to avoid this injury.
Jost, Philip Henry (1996). Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) production and thiazopyr efficacy in reduced and no-tillage systems in the Blackland Prairies of Texas. Master's thesis, Texas A&M University. Available electronically from
https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /ETD -TAMU -1996 -THESIS -J68.