Nitrogen Management Experiments for Upland and Pima Cotton, 1990

Abstract

Two field experiments were conducted in Arizona in 1990 at two locations ( Maricopa and Safford). The purposes of the experiments were to validate and refine nitrogen (N) fertilization recommendations for both Upland and Pima cotton. The experiments each utilized N management tools such as pre - season soil tests for NO₃⁻-N, in-season plant tissue testing (petioles) for N fertilirystatus, and crop monitoring to ascertain crop fruiting patterns and crop N needs. Results at both locations revealed a strong relationship between the crop fruit retention levels and N needs for the crop. This pattern was further reflected in final yield analysis in response to the N fertilization regimes used. At Maricopa, fruit retention levels were low, petiole NO₃⁻-N concentrations relatively high, and yield responses to higher and later applications of fertilizerN were negative. At Safford, fruit retention levels were higher, petiole concentrations of NO₃⁻-N reflected strong crop demand, and a positive response to rates of fertilizer N up to 170 lbs. N/acre was measured.