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July Management Points for Cotton
July is the most critical and fastest-growing month for cotton, marking the peak of both vegetative and reproductive growth. During this time, the weather tends to be harsh, with frequent disasters, pests, and diseases posing significant threats. By early July, most cotton fields have entered the flowering stage, and by the end of the month, 90% of the plant’s vegetative and reproductive structures are fully developed. The root system also reaches its peak in nutrient and water absorption during this period. Mid-July marks the most active growth phase, making July a crucial period for effective cotton management.
(a) Soil Cultivation
Proper soil cultivation is essential for maintaining good water and drainage conditions, helping to prevent droughts and floods. It also improves air circulation in the lower parts of the field, reduces humidity, increases the temperature difference between day and night, and enhances the microclimate. This practice helps prevent issues like root rot, lodging, and promotes stronger root development. After the cotton has been uncovered, it's important to loosen the soil through cultivation. This can be done using machinery or animal power, with manual assistance as needed. In low-lying areas, drainage systems must be cleared to avoid waterlogging.
(b) Pruning and Topping
Pruning is vital for regulating nutrient distribution, improving plant structure, and maximizing the use of available resources such as light, water, and nutrients. Leafy shoots should not be removed completely; instead, one or two strong ones per plant should be left, especially in sparse areas. In dense fields, leafy shoots may be omitted. However, in weaker areas, retaining 1–2 strong leaf shoots per plant can increase boll production. All leaf branches should be removed if they are not contributing positively. Fruit branches with small buds should be pruned early to prevent overgrowth. For example, excessive fruiting at the top can lead to problems like premature aging, dead nodes, and rotten bolls. Removing open flowers in early July helps save nutrients for more bolls. In some regions, 13–14 bolls per plant are maintained to ensure a good yield, while avoiding overproduction that leads to poor quality.
(c) Growth Regulation
Many northern regions have faced droughts, leading farmers to hesitate in applying chemical controls. Some fields have not received their first treatment yet, and many are delaying applications or using low doses. Due to high temperatures in May and June, some cotton plants show signs of weak root development and excessive vegetative growth. After sunny days, some plants wilt due to rapid above-ground growth and limited root water uptake. To manage this, the principle of "seeing the seedlings" should guide control efforts. If plants are growing normally, timely control is essential—this is called "active control." Delaying it leads to "passive control." In general, 2–3 rounds of chemical control are recommended in July. The first application occurs during early flowering (1–1.5 grams of dildodomamine), the second during full bloom (1–2 grams), and the third after topping (3–5 grams). Each acre requires 20–25 kg of water, with sprays targeting the upper and middle fruit branches.
(d) Timely Fertilization
Fertilization is one of the most complex aspects of cotton management. Over-fertilizing does not always mean higher yields, and improper practices can even reduce productivity. A balanced approach is key, as each nutrient plays a specific role. For example, producing 600 kg of seed cotton per mu doesn’t require excessive nutrients, but a proper balance is essential. Before flowering, additional nitrogen should be avoided to prevent excessive vegetative growth. Topdressing should occur at peak flowering (when the fourth fruit branch blooms), depending on soil fertility and plant health. Urea at 10–15 kg per mu is typically sufficient. If potassium was not applied adequately in the base fertilizer, it should be added promptly. Fertilizer should be applied along the wide rows to avoid damaging the roots. Spraying urea solution can help revive lagging plants, and gibberellic acid can be used afterward. For weak plants due to drought or excess phosphorus, a urea spray can stimulate growth. After topping, nutrients are directed to the bolls, so timely fertilization is crucial. Foliar sprays are efficient, cost-effective, and safe. Using urea and potassium sulfate at 2% concentration is ideal. Spraying should be done in the morning or evening, avoiding midday heat. Two quick-acting potassium sprays in late summer are essential for developing bolls and improving fiber quality. Potassium is particularly important in waterlogged fields.
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July Management Points for Cotton