*2.1. Genotypes and Experimental Design*

This experiment was performed in the field area of the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad located at 31.4504◦ N, 73.1350◦ E, Pakistan. Thirteen genotypes of cotton were collected from the germplasm units of the Central Cotton Research Institute (CCRI), Multan; Cotton Research Institute (CRI), Multan; Cotton Research Station (CRS), Faisalabad; and other institutes in Pakistan listed in Table 1. These genotypes have different genetic backgrounds, have genetic variability, and grow well in the ecological niche present in the field area for this experiment. Cotton genotypes were sown on 16 May 2019 in three replications under a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Plots were single rows, 10 feet (3.1 m) long with a plant-to-plant distance of 12 inches (30 cm). Distance between rows was 30 inches (76 cm). All agronomic practices, including thinning, irrigation, weeding, and plant protection measures were performed at the appropriate crop growth stage according to cotton production technology
