Certainly, here is an article providing information on fertilizer doses in cotton at sowing time.
Cotton is an essential cash crop grown worldwide for its valuable fiber which is further used in making clothes, fabrics, and other important materials. For higher yields and enhanced production, the utilization of proper fertilizers is necessary. One of the key times for providing a fertilizer application is at the sowing stage, as this can set the tone for the entire growing season and impact the final yield. In this article, we will discuss the fertilizer dose for cotton at sowing time.
Before deciding on the fertilizer dose, it is crucial to conduct a soil test to determine the soil’s nutrient status. The soil test report will provide information on nutrient values, pH, organic matter content, and any nutrient deficiencies. This can help the grower to decide on the right fertilizer formula and dose based on their particular soil’s requirements.
Recommended Fertilizer Dose
To give cotton plants the best start at germination and seedling establishment, the following recommended fertilizer doses should be followed:
1. Nitrogen (N) – Nitrogen is critical to cotton plant growth and development. At sowing time, cotton needs an adequate amount of N. Results from research investigations recommend 20 – 30 kgs of nitrogen per hectare for soil with low organic matter content. A higher dose could be suggested for soils with high organic matter content ranging from 40- 50 kgs of nitrogen per hectare.
2. Phosphorus (P) – Phosphorus is another essential nutrient for cotton. It promotes root development and growth, thus contributing to early plant sustenance. The suggested rate for phosphorus is around 20- 30 kgs per hectare.
3. Potassium (K) – Potassium is an essential nutrient that helps the plant to regulate water pressure, promote photosynthesis, and maintain turgidity. At sowing time, cotton plants need greater potash amounts. Recommended rates range from 20-30 kgs per hectare.
Other Important Fertilizer Nutrients
Apart from Nitrogen N, phosphorus P, and Potassium K, cotton necessitates other plant nutrients like Boron and Zinc during sowing to encourage better root development, stronger shoot, and leaf growth. The application can be 1 kg of Boron and Zinc of 0.5 – 1.0 kg per hectare.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the quantity and frequency of fertilizers to be applied are reliant on particular soil nutrient contribution and environmental conditions. Following nutrient recommendations from soil test reports at the sowing stage can help the grower to optimize yields and avoid imbalanced fertilization. The proper usage of fertilizers during sowing time can help in obtaining excellent crop establishment, maximum crop growth, and higher yield with better quality fibres.