Effect of potassium fertilization and foliar application of water soluble-potassium on yield and nutrient uptake by Bt-cotton under rainfed condition

Abstract

In the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, cotton yields suffer due to inadequate agronomic practices, especially regarding fertilization. Focusing on critical stages such as squaring, blooming and boll development, foliar potassium application presents an opportunity to bolster nutrient supply and potentially increase yields. With view of enhancing nutrient uptake and yield of cotton crop, the present investigation was conducted at Research Farm, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra, during year 2023-24. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. The treatments comprised of soil application of conventional fertilizers and foliar application of water-soluble potassium fertilizer. Application of 100% gross recommended dose of fertilizers along with foliar sprays of water-soluble potassium fertilizer @ 2% at 60 and 80 days after sowing recorded highest nutrient uptake and yield of bt-cotton. Application of 100% gross recommended dose of fertilizers along with foliar sprays of water soluble potassium fertilizer @ 1.5% at 60 and 80 days, 100% gross recommended dose of nitrogen and phosphorus + 75% recommended dose of potassium + foliar sprays of water soluble potassium fertilizer @ 2% and 100% gross recommended dose of nitrogen and phosphorus + 75% recommended dose of potassium + foliar sprays of water soluble potassium fertilizer @ 1.5% at 60 and 80 DAS was found equally beneficial for improvement in nutrient uptake and yield of bt-cotton.