Question

Explain different stages observed during growth of cotton plant

Answer 1

Dear student,

The developmental phases for cotton can be divided into five main growth stages:
(1)Germination and emergence:- The best temperature zone for germination is 28 ºC to 30 ºC. As temperature decreases from the optimal zone, the rate of germination also decreases. But germination percentages is significantly lower only below 200c.Under favourable cotton seed germination conditions, the root emerges within two to three days.

(2)Seedling establishment:- Seeding rate can also effect the cotton stand establishment. Cotton seed size may vary due to growing conditions and variety. It takes about four to 14 days for seedlings to seem after seeds are planted, depending on temperature and moisture levels. Ideal establishing rate may be affected by soil type, water availability, tillage system. The first two leaves that are visible on the young cotton plant are seedling leaves called cotyledons. The root develops the taproot that grows downward into the soil. The taproot enters the soil quickly after germination and reach a depth of up to 10 inches.

(3)Leaf area and canopy development:- The fully expanded cotyledons are 1 to 2 inches above the soil surface and are arranged directly opposite the main stem. The main stem contains of a series of nodes and internodes. Leaves formed from the main stem are called main stem leaves and leaves located on fruiting branches are called subtending leaves. Cotton plants develop 2 types of branches are vegetative branches and fruiting branches.

(4)Flowering and boll development:-When a bloom first opens, the flower is white and fertilization happens quickly after opening. The next day the flower will have a pink tint and turn red. The flower will have dehydrated and drop the plant between Days 5-7 to expose a fertilized boll. During early-bloom, the main stem will continue to grow and add new leaves, nodes, and squares. As more bolls are set, the plant’s energy is unfocused from vegetative growth to the boll formation. The boll grows rapidly after fertilization and reaches its full size within three weeks. An additional four to five weeks are required for boll maturation.

(5)Maturation:-This phase starts when the boll reaches full size and maximum weight. This phase continues for 2 weeks. During this phase the fibre and seeds is matured and boll dehiscence happens. The capsule walls of the boll to dry and split, the ball opens.

Regards,