Published online by Cambridge University Press: 03 October 2008
Trials to determine the optimal rate and time of nitrogen application to cotton were conducted at three sites for three seasons. The results indicate that nitrogen is used most efficiently when applied at relatively low rates, with at least half the application delayed until flowering. Early application leads to the incorporation of a greater proportion of the nitrogen into the vegetative structures which, at lower rates, may leave insufficient for fruit development. With late application a greater proportion of the nitrogen is utilized in reproductive growth, although full utilization may not be achieved at higher rates.