Cotton produces only a small amount of its total dry matter from emergence to flowering, but it must have a continuous and balanced supply of nutrients during that time in order to form the vegetative and reproductive structures that are necessary for high yields. Most soils in Arkansas' cotton producing areas contain enough available nutrients to produce one bale per acre; however, fertilizer must be applied for higher yields. The stable elements, phosphorus, potassium, and lime should always be applied as indicated by soil tests. They may be applied at any convenient time prior to planting. Application of the mobile nutrients, nitrogen, sulfur, and micronutrients, is guided by more diverse criteria including soil tests, plant analyses, soil type, and yield potential. Nitrogen is the most needed element of this group. At least 10 parts per million of N should be available in the root zone of cotton plants from emergence to first flower for proper morphological development. About 140 pounds of N per acre is required to produce two bales of cotton, and proportionately higher rates are needed for higher yields.