ABSTRACT
Cotton root system development is under genetic control and continuously influenced by the environment. Root architectural diversity can influence the overall productivity of the plant since both uptake and distribution of water and nutrients are impacted by the size and distribution of the root system. The impact of various environmental factors on the phenotypic expression of exotic accessions and modern cotton cultivar root systems was evaluated. Plants were grown in aeroponic, hydroponic, and soil systems and the development of root mass, root length, root extension rates and root architecture were measured. Significant differences in root length development and root architecture were observed among the cotton lines evaluated. Genetic diversity in the rooting response to pruning and temperature were also observed. These findings should aid in developing germplasm for improved response to adverse environments and increased plant productivity.

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