Sure, here’s an article on fertilizer doses for cotton at sowing time:
Cotton is a vital crop in the agricultural industry of many countries and requires careful attention when it comes to fertilization. Using fertilizer at sowing time is an excellent method of enhancing cotton yields and improving the quality of the fiber. The right fertilizer dose during the sowing time will help the cotton plants to establish themselves and develop vigorous roots.
Cotton is a heavy feeder when it comes to nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Therefore, the fertilizer applied during the sowing time should have these essential nutrients in the right proportion. A typical fertilization program for cotton cultivation is recommended as 80 kg per hectare nitrogen, 40 kg per hectare phosphorus, and 40 kg per hectare potassium. Let us look at each of these fertilizers and their role in cotton growth.
Nitrogen: Nitrogen is an essential nutrient that promotes healthy plant growth, and cotton requires large amounts of the nutrient. Nitrogen improves the overall health of the plants and contributes significantly to the growth of leaves, stems, and roots. The fertilizer dose should take care of the right amount of nitrogen required by cotton while avoiding nitrogen burn, which can lead to leaf scorching and plant death. Hence, a light application of nitrogen is recommended during the initial stage of cotton growth.
Phosphorus: Phosphorus is another essential nutrient required by cotton for root development, energy storage and transfer. This nutrient helps the plants to establish themselves and start growing vigorously. A well-balanced phosphorus dose during the sowing time will help the plants to develop deep and healthy roots, which will provide a stable base for the cotton plant.
Potassium: Potassium is essential for cotton plants because it helps increase cotton boll size and improve fiber strength. It also plays a significant role in the plant’s resistance to diseases and pests. Potassium deficiency can cause cotton leaves to yellow and the bolls to become smaller in size. Hence, a well-balanced potassium dose during the sowing period will ensure the cotton plants grow robustly, with healthy bolls and high-quality fiber.
In conclusion, using the right fertilizer dose is critical to ensure that cotton plants grow vigorously with healthy roots, leaves, and bolls. The right nutrients in the right proportion will help the cotton plants establish themselves and grow without any deficiencies. It is essential to consult a professional or use soil testing to determine the correct fertilization program for each field. By applying the correct fertilizer dose during the sowing time, farmers can expect a bountiful cotton harvest with high-quality fiber.