Australia
December 13, 2019

Cotton Seed Distributors launches a new tool to estimate the date of first flower

CSD have today launched ‘STEFF’ (Simulated Time to Estimated First Flower), a new online tool to assist growers and agronomists to estimate the date of first flower.

The algorithm that supports the STEFF model has been developed by harnessing the power of the CSD Ambassador Network dataset, with the tool available for use by the whole of industry. It’s important to note that this version of STEFF is experimental and hence subject to evaluation this season.

How this tool can help you

The aim of the model is to assist with defining the time of first flower. This should complement field observations with the aim to assist with management decisions and scheduling of operations leading up to first flower.

CSD envisage that STEFF will be used to assist growers to complement the decision making process leading up to first flower and importantly, the first irrigation. First irrigation timing is critical to ensure the crop is set up to generate strong growth during the flowering period, when most yield potential is determined. Click here for more information on timing of first irrigation.

Tips for using STEFF effectively 

As an experimental tool utilised in a crop where growth and development is heavily influenced by temperature, particularly leading up to the flowering period, it is important not to run the tool too early in the crop’s development. Accordingly, it is very important for users to understand that with the passage of time, the tool’s accuracy should increase.
 
For example, running the STEFF model a week out from imbibition is likely to offer a less accurate estimate. CSD recommends waiting approximately 30 days before using STEFF, after which time the accuracy should improve.
 
As with any model, STEFF has limitations and its accuracy will be affected by external influences (disease, insect attack, herbicide damage etc.) that impact the growth and development of the crop. The STEFF model has been designed under typical growth patterns, and changes to these circumstances may lead to inaccurate estimates.


How you can help us improve our digital offerings
 
CSD encourages users to provide us with feedback on the accuracy of the estimates, and suitability of the tool to assist with management. We have created a short, 3-question survey to help us continue to improve our digital offerings.

Click HERE to access STEFF

More information:

• Fact sheet: STEFF (Simulated Time to Estimated First Flower)
• STEFF survey 
• Fact sheet: The importance of first irrigation
• Fact sheet: Why NAWF is important at first flower 

Contact your local Extension and Development agronomist
Click here for details

Website: http://www.csd.net.au

Published: December 13, 2019