Optimization of Nitrogen Fertilization in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)

The cotton variety NIAB-78 showed the highest seed cotton yield of 2.96 t ha -1 when applied with 150 kg nitrogen while the higher weight per 100 seed and large boll size was observed in 180 kg N ha -1. Maximum number of monopidial and sympodial branches were observed in 150 kg N ha -1. Treatments differed significantly from one another in their growth behaviour. Maximum plant height and internodal length were recorded in 180 kg N ha -1. Among quality components of cotton, ginning out turn was significantly affected by different levels of N and found to be maximum at 150 kg N ha -1 while staple length was found to be non-significant. It is inferred that nitrogen application in the range of 150 to 180 kg ha -1 along with 60 kg P2O5 ha -1 is an optimum dose. Nitrogen application beyond 180 kg ha -1 will not be profitable.