Evaluation of Cotton Yield, Quality, and Plant Growth Response to Soil-Applied Potassium

Potassium (K) plays a key role in several critical cotton plant processes, including photosynthesis, activation of protein enzymes, disease and drought stress mitigation, and fiber development. Across the United States Cotton Belt, K deficiency symptoms in cotton have increased over the past decade, which may be reducing lint yield and fiber quality in these areas.

The frequency and severity of potassium (K) deficiency symptoms in cotton have been increasing in some areas of the U. S. Cotton Belt. A recent state level study (TX-56, reported in Better Crops, No. 3, 2016) investigated the impact of multiple rates of broadcast or banded K fertilizer on lint yield, quality, and return on investment (ROI). In 2015, this study was extended across 11 Cotton Belt states with support from multiple sources (Cotton Inc. , IPNI, and Fluid Fertilizer Foundation).