A survey of Alabama cotton fields from 1989 through 1991 indicates that N and K nutrition of cotton and/or the interpretation of N and K results from plant leaf analyses may be major issues to address. During the sampling period (early to mid bloom), 61% of the fields surveyed had excessive leaf N concentrations. Low leaf K was found in 61% of leaf samples taken and low soil test ratings for K was found in 29% of the subsoils tested. Plow-layer soil tests were not a good predictor of low leaf K. secondary and micronutrient nutrition of cotton appeared adequate. No wide spread micronutrient deficiencies or toxicities were identified. There does not appear to be any concern for high metals in Alabama soils. Traffic pans in Coastal Plain cotton fields, particularly in the Upper Coastal Plain counties, and acid subsoils in Lower Coastal Plain counties may be complicating factors affecting moisture stress and K nutrition of cotton in these soils.