Author
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Bauer, Philip |
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Submitted to: Cotton
Publication Type: Book / Chapter Publication Acceptance Date: 4/23/2015 Publication Date: 8/6/2015 Citation: Bauer, P.J. 2015. Crop growing practices. In: Fang, D.D., Percy, R.G. editors. Cotton. 2nd edition, ASA, CSSA, and SSSA, Madison, Wisconsin: p. 419-437. doi: 10.2134/agronmonogr57.2013.0029. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: This chapter reviews the literature on two specific aspects of cotton growing practices; tillage management and nutrient management. Conservation tillage systems were developed to reduce soil erosion from agricultural fields. Besides this function, conservation tillage systems can improve the water status of plants by increasing rainfall/irrigation infiltration and decreasing water evaporation from the soil surface. Since cotton residues left after harvest are insufficient for soil cover and protection, conservation systems can be improved with the use of cover crops or rotation with high residue cash crops. Cotton nutrient requirements are dependent on yield potential. More nutrients are required for higher yielding crops. A significant change over the last 30 years has been the use of animal manures as a fertilizer source in modern cotton production systems. In the Southeast US, poultry litter is abundant and considerable research has been conducted to develop recommendations for its use in cotton. Another significant change is the use of precision nutrient management. Soil sampling procedures include grid and zone sampling for broadcast applied nutrients. Use of remote sensing to apply sidedress nitrogen (N) fertilizer is just beginning to be used by growers. This technology provides promise to increase nitrogen use efficiency. |
