In recent years, as agricultural science and technology has become more widespread, cotton farmers have increasingly adopted scientific methods in their cultivation practices. They are continuously improving in areas such as fertilization, pesticide application, and pest management. However, despite these advancements, many cotton farmers have not given sufficient attention to the use of zinc fertilizer. Only a small percentage of farmers currently apply zinc fertilizer, and it is essential that they pay more attention to its importance in the future.
Zinc deficiency in cotton can lead to several visible symptoms. Affected plants tend to be stunted, with small, clustered leaves. The leaves may develop spots on both sides, and the veins might show chlorosis. Additionally, the leaves become thick and brittle, with curled edges, shortened internodes, and delayed growth. A zinc content of less than 15 mg/kg in the leaves or an effective zinc level of less than 0.5 mg/kg in the soil indicates a deficiency. Alkaline soils are particularly prone to zinc deficiency, making it a common issue in certain regions.
Zinc plays a crucial role in the growth and development of cotton. As a highly sensitive crop, cotton benefits greatly from proper zinc nutrition. Zinc helps improve nutrient absorption, enhances the coordination of nutrient uptake, boosts photosynthesis, extends the lifespan of functional leaves, reduces flower and boll drop, increases boll weight and fiber quality, and ultimately improves yield and overall crop performance. Studies have shown that without zinc fertilizer, cotton plants produce about 14.7 bolls per plant, with a 45.4% shedding rate, 65.3% pre-frost flowers, an average boll weight of 385 g, a fiber quality score of 35.07%, and a staple length of 30.15 mm. With zinc application, these figures improve significantly: 15.2 bolls per plant, 44.5% shedding rate, 70.4% pre-frost flowers, 409 g boll weight, 35.14% fiber quality, and 30.7 mm staple length.
Zinc also enhances the stress resistance of cotton plants. For instance, under high-temperature conditions, the tissue necrosis rate is reduced by 1.6–2.2% at 40–45°C and by 9.5–10.6% at 55–60°C when zinc is applied. Furthermore, it strengthens the plant’s ability to resist diseases such as yellowing and blight, contributing to healthier crops and better yields.
The application of zinc fertilizer should be done strategically. It is recommended to apply it as a base fertilizer before planting. A typical dosage is 1–1.5 kg of zinc sulfate per acre. Alternatively, foliar spraying can be used during the flowering and boll-setting stages. Farmers can spray 60–70 kg of a 0.2% zinc sulfate solution per acre, repeating the process 2–3 times for optimal results.
By incorporating zinc fertilizer into their farming practices, cotton growers can enhance productivity, improve fiber quality, and ensure more resilient crops in the face of environmental challenges. It's time for more farmers to recognize the value of this essential micronutrient and take action to support long-term sustainable cotton production.
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