As one of the most widely cultivated crops in the world, cotton is crucial in the textile industry. To obtain high yields, proper management practices, including the use of fertilizers, are necessary.
Fertilizer dose at sowing is critical in ensuring that cotton plants have sufficient nutrients for proper growth and development from the start. The amount and type of fertilizer to be applied depend on several factors, including soil fertility status, expected yield, and the variety of cotton grown.
In general, cotton requires nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) for optimal growth. N is the most critical nutrient, necessary for vegetative growth and the production of leaves, stems, and roots. P and K are essential for reproductive growth, flower and boll production, and seed development. Secondary nutrients and micronutrients such as sulfur (S), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and iron (Fe) are also necessary in smaller amounts.
The recommended fertilizer dose for cotton typically ranges from 60-120 kg N, 30-60 kg P2O5, and 30-60 kg K2O per hectare. These values may vary depending on the soil fertility status and crop yield expectations. Soil testing is crucial to determine the precise amount of fertilizer to apply.
The application of fertilizers at sowing usually involves placing the nutrients below the seed, alongside or beneath the drill row or as a side dress. Foliar application of nutrients is also an option, typically achieved by spraying the leaves with liquid fertilizers or a solution that contains a suitable mixture of macro and micronutrients.
Best management practices suggest that nitrogen should be split-applied, with a portion added at planting and the remaining amount added in two to three applications throughout the growing season. Splitting the nitrogen application ensures that the plant receives the nutrients when it is needed, reducing the risk of leaching and volatilization losses.
In summary, the proper application of fertilizer is crucial during the sowing stage of cotton growth. Providing the right amounts of N, P, K, and other essential nutrients will result in healthy vegetative and reproductive growth, boll formation, and higher yields, which will translate to higher profits for the farmer. Finally, determining the right fertilizer dose requires soil testing and paying close attention to the nutrient demands of the Cotton crop.