Evaluation of Foliar Fertilization In Nutrient Deficient Cotton

Supplying adequate nutrition is a key to maximizing yield and profit in cotton. Pre-season application of fertilizer, in the quantity determined by soil analysis, is the preferred method for assuring nutrient sufficiency, primarily due to lower costs of broad-cast vs. foliar fertilizer materials. However, the post-fertilizer treatment environment may affect the availability of plant nutrients. If nutrient deficiencies are detected in season, foliar application may be the only way to address them. Field experiments were done at two sites in Kansas on soils that were measured to be low in potassium (K). Treatments evaluated the effects of supplemental foliar fertilization with nitrogen (N) and/or K on the leaf N and K contents, yield, fiber properties, gross returns, and profit. In 2012 cotton growth and yields were adversely impacted by drought. One location was abandoned due to very low yields. Effects of foliar treatment on leaf N and K levels and yields at the second location will be presented.