Abstract

Choice of suitable cultivar and nutrient management practices are foremost important to tap the yield potential of summer irrigated cotton which shows upward trend in the Southern districts of Tamil Nadu, India. Studies conducted at Agricultural Research station, Paramakudi for two years (summer 2001 and 2002) indicated that among the varieties tested (MCU 7, SVPR 2 and SVPR 3), SVPR 2 was found to give higher kapas yield (12.6 and 8.1 Q/ha). Recommended NPK + foliar spray of DAP 2% and KC1 1% on 60 and 75 days after sowing enhanced the yield to the tune of 32% and 13% as compared to recommended dose of NPK alone (60: 30: 30 kg ha"). Treatment combination of SVPR 2 with recommended NPK and foliar nutrition gave higher net return and benefit: cost ratio.

Keywords: Summer irrigated cotton, Foliar nutrition