What is the range of heat units (DD60s) required for cotton from planting to harvest-ready?

The correct range of heat units, measured in degree days (DD60s), required for cotton from planting to harvest-ready is indeed 2200-2600. This range is critical to the development and maturation of the cotton plant.

Cotton is a warm-season crop that thrives in hot temperatures, which aid in its growth process, including germination, flowering, and the formation of bolls (the protective husks that contain the cotton fibers). The heat units refer to the accumulation of temperatures above 60 degrees Fahrenheit, which is a baseline for determining the growth stages of cotton.

In general, the higher heat unit accumulation facilitates the faster development of the cotton plant, allowing it to reach maturity efficiently. The 2200-2600 DD60s range reflects the optimal temperature patterns that most cotton varieties require to ensure proper growth cycles, increasing yield potential and fiber quality. Understanding and monitoring these heat units is essential for cotton growers to optimize planting schedules and manage crop development effectively.