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Yield gap is one of the main challenges in crop production. Estimating the yield gap and the reasons for its creation in crops such as cotton is of interest to researchers. In this study, the method of comparative performance analysis and boundary line analysis was used to investigate the management factors limiting cotton yield and estimate its yield gap in Golestan province. The statistical population was cotton farmers in Kordkoy, Aqh Qala, Ali Abad and Gonbad counties, who were randomly selected during the years 2021and 2022. All information relevant to crop management from planting to harvest, (variables quantitative and qualitative) was gathered through interviews with cotton farmers. Finally, using the obtained production equation and the values of the model components, the contribution of each limiting factor in creating the yield gap was determined. The potential yield and yield gap calculated based on the difference between the average actual yield of the fields and the potential yield of the counties of Kordkoy (5540 and 3555), AqQala (4262 and 2273), AliAbad (5012 and 3208) and Gonbad (6166 and 3248) Kg per hactar were estimated, respectively. Planting date, pure nitrogen consumption, foliar spraying with nutrients, irrigation and pest damage had the highest contribution to the yield gap. According to the results of the performance assessment of the studied area, there is about 3072 Kg per hactar of yield gap, and by applying proper farm management and controlling the main factors limiting cotton yield, the gap (59%) created in these areas can be reduced and the cotton yield can be significantly improved to 5250 Kg per hactar.
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