Systematic bibliometric review on understanding the agro-ecological impact of high-density planting system in cotton (Gossypium spp.)

High Density Planting System (HDPS) in cotton is one of the ways to increase productivity under certain assured management conditions. The present manuscript focuses on the present global research trend through the bibliometric analysis on high density planting system in cotton through the 923 relevant articles available in ‘Scopus' database using the keywords "High density planting system," "Mechanical harvesting," "Plant density," "Compact genotype," and "Mechanization," along with the terms "Cotton" or " Gossypium .". We analyzed these articles to identify emerging trends and key research areas, specifically focusing on advancements in high-density planting, mechanization and the development of compact genotypes in cotton cultivation. The manuscript also discussed the influence of HDPS on cotton ecology viz . effect on yield and fibre quality, impact on growth and cotton physiology, influence on pest and disease pressure under HDPS and how the machine picking is impacting the cotton under closer planting. The significant points are HDPS positivity influenced the seed cotton yield; although fibre quality is generally not significantly affected. On the other hand, the HDPS increased the sucking pest incidence in some cases; however, the disease incidence was not highly impacted under HDPS. Lower efficiency and higher trash content may be the reason behind low adoption of machine picking in India. Through integrating quantitative bibliometric methods with qualitative insights, this research aspires to provide a holistic view of the advancements in high-density planting, emphasizing the integration of mechanization, precision agriculture, and genetic improvements in sustainable cotton production.