Feasibility studies on plant architecture traits influence on seed cotton yield of Gossypium hirsutum zeromonopodial genotypes and assessment of ecological suitability to machine harvesting

Mechanical harvesting has become crucial for cotton production in India due to increasing labor costs. This study aimed to identify suitable genotypes with moderate plant height and compact plant architecture for mechanization. Eight multi-location yield trials were conducted across central and southern India between 2019 and 2021. The combined ANOVA, LSD test, genotype plus genotype by environment interaction (GEE biplots) and correlation analysis was carried out using data from five genotypes for different plant architecture and yield traits. Results revealed significant variability (p ≤ 0.01) in plant height (PH) and seed cotton yield (SCY) among promising genotypes. Environmental factors had the most significant influence on PH (67.41%) and SCY (78.57%), followed by genotypes and genotype-environment interaction. Plant architecture traits and SCY were studied within the 75 to < 140 cm plant height range for mechanical harvesting. Surprisingly, a significantly negative correlation (r = - 0.42) between height and yield was found, varying with years, genotypes, and locations. The principal components PC1 and PC2 accounted for a remarkable 94.11% and 77.56% of the total variation in plant height and seed cotton yield, respectively. Utilizing GGE biplot analysis, genotype TVH 002 displayed high yield potential and short plant height with stability across multiple locations, making it the ideal choice for mechanized harvesting. Additionally, genotype RHCHD 1312 showed promise as a compact genotype. This study recommends integrating these genotypes into breeding programs for mechanical harvesting in rainfed areas of central and southern India.