Response of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) to split application of major nutrients

A field experiment was carried out during the summer season of 2000 and 2001, to evaluate the response of summer irrigated cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) to time of application of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. The total dry-matter production at peak flowering stage and boll-bursting stage and seed-cotton yield were higher with the application of recommended level of fertilizers (60, 30 and 30 kg N, P and K/ha) by skipping basal and applying the same in 2 splits at 45 and 60 days after sowing. Extending nutrient application up to 60 days after sowing resulted in increased uptake of nutrients at peak flowering and boil-bursting stage of cotton.