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Genetic Variability for Cottonseed Germination at Favorable and Low Temperatures¹

Many plant breeders are concerned with developing cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L. and G. barbadense L.) lines that are adapted for germination and seedling emergence when soil temperatures are low. Seedlings, however, should emerge rapidly over a range of soil temperatures. Little information is available about the association between rapid seedling emergence at favorable and low temperatures. To evaluate this relationship for a broad base of genetic lines, seeds of 18 G. barbadense and 12 G. hirsutum lines of diverse genetic background were germinated in six experiments at 15 and 25 C. Significant differences in germination properties were found among the genotypes and the temperature x genotype interaction was generally significant. Correlation coefficients for germination parameters of the genotypes at the two temperatures were generally positive but small in magnitude. Germination properties of the cotton lines were associated with geographical area where developed. Generally lines developed for low elevations had better germination properties at both 15 and 25 C than did lines developed for high elevations. The results of this study suggest that potential exists for developing cotton lines with improved germination at low temperatures. Because of the poor correlation between germination at low and favorable temperatures, cotton lines should be evaluated under both conditions.

Key Words: Gossypium hirsutum • Gossypium barbadense • Rate of germination • Seedling vigor

² Associate professor and assistant in research, Dep. of Plant Sciences, The Univ. of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721.

Received for publication July 21, 1975.