ICAR-CICR, Nagpur standardized 'High density Planting System' (HDPS) for cotton that has potential to realize high yields in rainfed farming systems. Under rainfed conditions for contemporary compact BG II hybrids, HDPS at 90 cm x 15 cm is better suited to shallow black soils and red soils. Canopy management is essential in HDPS method. Plant growth regulator sprays with mepiquat choride (PGR) reduced the internode distance and regulates plant height. Number of sprays generally range between 1-2 sprays and the third spray is need based depending on crop and environmental conditions. A complete package for HDPS method has been described in the HDPS brochure in different languages. More information is available in the HDPS Q & A manual which can be downloaded.

Cotton seedlings under HDPS

HDPS field after earthing up at 55 days

Machine planting of cotton at higher seed rate using pneumatic planter

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Sowing under HDPS with the aid of a) plastic pipe, b) nylon rope c) metallic chain

Spray of mepiquat chloride for growth regulation