Major measures for cotton seedling cultivation and management

The key to effective cotton seedling management is ensuring uniform growth of the plants, promoting healthy root and above-ground development, and achieving strong, vigorous seedlings that can produce early flowering. This sets the stage for timely bud formation and multiple bolls, which are essential for high yield. The main aspects of seedling stage management include: First, checking and replacing weak or missing seedlings. After sowing, it's crucial to inspect the field regularly and replant any areas where seedlings have failed to emerge or have been damaged. Early intervention helps prevent issues like heat stress and weed competition, especially after May 1st, when replanting becomes less effective. Replanting should be done promptly after transplanting to ensure a full, uniform stand of healthy, strong seedlings. This is the foundation for a successful harvest. Second, thinning and spacing the seedlings at the right time. In northern cotton-growing regions, after the seedlings emerge, they need to be thinned to avoid overcrowding. Proper thinning reduces competition for nutrients and water, promotes better individual growth, and prevents tall, weak seedlings. The ideal time for thinning is when the plants have 2–3 true leaves. On saline-alkali soils or in areas with severe disease, this process may be delayed slightly. The recommended plant density varies depending on soil fertility and variety—typically 2000–2500 plants per mu in high-yield fields, 2500–3000 in medium-quality fields, and 3000–3500 in dry, poor soils. In southern regions, thinner stands have become more common, which may affect yields. The optimal density should be adjusted based on local conditions, variety, and soil quality. Third, cultivating the soil to keep it loose. Regular tilling helps break up compacted soil, improves air circulation, increases soil temperature, regulates moisture levels, and controls weeds. It also enhances microbial activity and accelerates nutrient breakdown, which supports strong root development. Tilling frequency should be adapted to local conditions—after each rain, the soil should be loosened, and the surface kept free of crusting. The depth of cultivation should start shallow (2–3 cm) and increase as the plants grow, reaching 6–9 cm before budding. Fourth, applying light top-dressing if needed. If the soil is not fertile, a small amount of fertilizer can be applied to support seedling growth. A typical application includes 2.5 kg of urea per acre, along with appropriate amounts of phosphorus and potassium. This ensures the plants receive enough nutrients without overloading them. Fifth, managing irrigation carefully. Cotton seedlings generally require little water during the early stage. In the north, some fields are watered before planting to ensure sufficient moisture. During the seedling phase, watering is usually avoided unless the soil is extremely dry or the field has a history of salinity or previous wheat crops. Watering should be done in furrows, using small amounts to prevent lowering the soil temperature and causing diseases. Sixth, preventing pests and diseases. Diseases such as blight, anthracnose, and damping-off often occur within the first two weeks after emergence. Early wilt disease peaks in late May and is a major cause of seedling death. Affected areas should be treated quickly through practices like soil drying, compaction removal, and the removal of diseased plants. Foliar sprays and growth regulators can also help. Common pests like ground beetles are most active in mid to late May. Control measures include using insecticides like ethidium or acephate, and for older beetles, baiting between rows. Seedling stink bugs are also a concern, and a combination of pesticides like malathion, acetamiprid, and avermectin can be used to manage multiple pests simultaneously. By focusing on these key management practices, farmers can ensure healthy, vigorous cotton seedlings that lay the foundation for a productive growing season.

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