ABSTRACT
The main objective of this research was to analyze the effects of water deficit on some phenologic and fiber characteristics of a cotton crop (Gossypium hirsutum r. latifolium Hutch). A field experiment was conducted from August to December 1992 in the municipality of Ipanguaçu-RN. Two experimental plots were subjected to two irrigation treatments. The results demonstrate that the height of the plant, fresh and dry biomass and leaf area index were higher in cotton plants under irrigated treatment as compared to treatment of water stress. The yields were 3,960kg.ha-1 and 2,690kg.ha-1 (seed cotton) for irrigated and stressed treatments. The laboratory tests of the fiber showed no significant differences among the variables studied (fiber resistance, maturity, uniformity) for the irrigated and stressed treatments.
Key words:
Gossypium hirsutum; biomass; leaf area index; cotton fiber