Impact of Phosphorus Levels and Application Techniques on Cotton Growth and Yield in Sahiwal, Pakistan

Author(s) : Liaqat Ali, Ashiq Hussain, Mushtaq Ali, Muhammad Shahid,Sabiha Abbas, Sidra Batool, Amna Batool, Muhammad Tariq, Ishtiaq Hussain, and Ijaz -ul-Hassan

Digital object identifier:

https://doi.org/10.52587/JAF050205

Abstract:

Phosphorus (P) application plays a crucial role in cotton growth by enhancing reproductive development and seed cotton yield. This study, conducted at the Adaptive Research Station in Sahiwal from 2021 to 2022, examined the effects of various phosphorus application methods on the productivity of cotton cultivar MNH-1020. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications was employed, incorporating seven phosphorus treatments, including control (T1, no P) and different combinations of band placement, broadcast, and fertigation at 57 kg and 85 kg P₂O₅/ha. Results from Kharif 2022 indicated that the highest seed cotton yield (3119 kg/ha) was recorded in T7 (85 kg P₂O₅/ha, with half broadcast at sowing and half fertigated 60 days after sowing). The second highest yield (3022 kg/ha) was observed in T5 (85 kg P₂O₅/ha applied fully at sowing). In contrast, the lowest yield (2106 kg/ha) was obtained from T1 (control). A significant positive correlation (R² = 0.95 and 0.87) was observed between boll density, boll mass, and seed cotton yield. The findings suggest that applying 85 kg P₂O₅/ha, with a split application between sowing and 60 days post-sowing, optimizes phosphorus availability and improves cotton yield.