Certain alkaline soils containing high levels of calcium carbonate in this region have marginal levels of Zn and Fe and have shown a need for micronutrient fertilization in production of major grain crops. Research was conducted to determine the effects of there nutrients on lint yields and fiber properties of short-season cotton. Chelated Zn and inorganic ZnSO₃ sources were used in banded, preplant soil applications. FE-EDDHA and in acidified mining residue were included as Fe sources. Lint yields were highly variable with season.

Plant response to micronutrient fertilization in terms of lint yields was variable and primarily limited to Zn. Fiber properties were largely unaffected by micronutrient fertilization with the exception of fiber strength which appeared to be influenced in some seasons by Zn additions.