The core of cotton seedling management lies in ensuring uniform growth of seedlings, promoting healthy root and above-ground development, and ultimately achieving strong, vigorous seedlings that can develop early flowering. This sets the foundation for timely bud formation and multiple buds, which are crucial for a good yield. The main aspects of seedling stage management include:
First, early inspection and replanting. After sowing, it's essential to check the seedlings promptly. Any missing or damaged seedlings should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent issues like scalding or weed competition. Especially after May 1st, it's too late to replant. Once the seedlings are established, weak or diseased ones should be removed and replaced to ensure a full, uniform stand, which is the basis for a successful harvest.
Second, thinning at the right time. In northern regions, after the seedlings emerge, proper thinning must be done to reduce competition for nutrients and water, promote individual growth, and avoid tall, weak plants. The ideal time for thinning is when the seedlings have 2-3 true leaves. In saline-alkali soils or areas with severe disease, thinning can be delayed slightly. The density depends on soil fertility and variety. High-yield fields usually maintain 2000–2500 plants per mu, while medium and poor lands may require higher densities. In the south, thinning has become more common, but this can affect yields. The ideal density varies by region, variety, and environmental conditions.
Third, soil cultivation. Regular tilling helps loosen the soil, break up compaction, improve air circulation, raise soil temperature, regulate moisture, and control weeds. It also enhances microbial activity and nutrient availability, supporting healthy root development. Tilling frequency should be adjusted based on local conditions—after every rain, the soil should be loosened. The depth starts shallow (2–3 cm) and increases to 6–9 cm before budding.
Fourth, applying seedling fertilizer. If the base fertilizer is sufficient, additional top-dressing may not be needed. However, in infertile soils, a light application of urea (about 2.5 kg per acre) along with phosphorus and potassium fertilizers is recommended to support seedling growth.
Fifth, managing irrigation. Cotton seedlings generally require little water. In the north, a pre-sowing irrigation is often used to ensure adequate moisture. During the seedling stage, watering should be limited to avoid lowering soil temperature and causing diseases. In dry or saline areas, careful irrigation is necessary, especially before and after wheat harvest, to maintain early growth.
Sixth, pest and disease prevention. Diseases such as damping-off, anthracnose, and wilt are common in the first few weeks after emergence. Early wilt peaks in late May and can cause significant seedling loss. Affected areas should be monitored closely, and practices like soil loosening, drainage, and removal of infected plants should be implemented. Chemical control can be used when necessary. Ground beetles are a major threat during mid-to-late May. Pesticides like ethidium or acephate can be applied, and baits can be used for older pests. For aphids, thrips, and stink bugs, a combination of pesticides like malathion + acetamiprid + avermectin is effective. Proactive measures are key to protecting young cotton plants.
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