Flower dropping in cotton crop is a common problem faced by farmers that eventually leads to a lower yield. Temperature fluctuations, insufficient pollination, water stress, and pest infestations are some of the possible reasons for flower dropping in cotton crop. It is essential to identify the underlying cause and take appropriate measures to prevent or control the issue.
Here are some treatments for flower dropping problem in cotton crop:
1. Maintain proper soil moisture: Cotton plants require adequate soil moisture to grow and produce healthy flowers. Ensure that the soil moisture levels are maintained between 50% to 75% of field capacity. Irrigate the crop regularly during the flowering stage to prevent water stress.
2. Control pest infestations: Pests like the cotton bollworm, aphids, and whiteflies can cause flower dropping in cotton crop. Implement pest control measures like using chemical sprays or biological control methods to prevent pest damage.
3. Balanced application of fertilizers: Imbalanced application of fertilizers can lead to flower dropping in cotton crop. It is essential to supply the plants with adequate nutrients to support healthy growth. Apply fertilizers at a fixed interval in a balanced manner.
4. Maintain optimum temperature: High temperatures during the day and low temperatures at night can adversely affect the cotton crop. It is essential to maintain an optimum temperature of 22-32°C during the flowering stage. Implement shade nets or mulching to control temperature.
5. Provide proper pollination: Insufficient pollination can lead to flower dropping in cotton crop. Bees and other pollinating insects play a vital role in the pollination process. Ensure that the crop is planted in an appropriate area that supports pollinator populations. You could also opt for manual pollination if feasible.
In conclusion, timely identification of the cause of flower dropping in cotton crop and implementing appropriate measures is essential to prevent yield loss and ensure healthy crop growth. Adoption of good agricultural practices like maintenance of soil moisture, pest control, balanced application of fertilizers, temperature control, and proper pollination techniques can help farmers mitigate the impact of the flower dropping issue in cotton crop.