1. Base Fertilization (Before or During Sowing)
Period: April – May
Fertilizer Type: Compound NPK (e.g. 20-10-10, 15-15-15) + sulfur
Dosage: 40–60 kg/acre
Purpose: Support rooting, initial growth, and balanced nutrition.
2. Top Dressing – First Boost (Foliage Development)
Period: Late May – June
Fertilizer Type: Ammonium nitrogen or stabilized urea
Dosage: 10–15 kg/acre
Purpose: Enhance vegetative growth and photosynthetic capacity.
3. Top Dressing – Fruiting Stage
Period: June – July
Fertilizer Type: Ammonium or nitrate nitrogen form, with sulfur and/or potassium
Dosage: 10–15 kg/acre
Purpose: Support flowering and boll formation.
4. Foliar Nutrition (Foliar Sprays)
Period: From first bolls until ripening
Recommendations:
- Water-soluble NPK (e.g. 6-12-36 or 13-40-13)
- Trace elements (Boron, Zinc, Magnesium)
Purpose: Enhance metabolic processes and fiber quality.
Useful Notes:
- Cotton responds positively to potassium (K), especially during filling stages.
- Adequate boron (B) supply contributes to proper fertilization and flower formation.
- Avoid excessive nitrogen rates to reduce boll shedding and late vegetative growth.
- Soil and leaf analysis is recommended before designing the fertilization program.