Studies on the effect of foliar-applied KNO₃ on cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) yields, lint quality, and distribution in the plant have been documented, but genotypic effects are not well understood. A field study was conducted in 1991 and 1992 at two locations in Arkansas to determine the effect of foliar-applied KNO₃ on yield and K distribution in plants of six genotypes with widely differing maturities. KNO₃ was foliarly applied at 10 lb/acre at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks after first white flower and compared to untreated checks for each cultivar in a randomized complete block design with 5 replications. Foliar fertilization increased K uptake and the petiole had the highest concentration of K. The seed cotton yield response to foliar-applied KNO₃ was variable with one cultivar showing a positive increase (P=0.05). Foliar fertilization with KNO₃ appeared to reduce Verticillium wilt but the reduction was not significant.