ABSTRACT

Starter fertilizer on cotton has the potential to economically increase cotton yields. Eleven on-farm replicated studies were initiated in 1990-92 in Louisiana to determine if starter fertilizer could increase cotton yields on soils testing high or very high in-extractable P. Rates and application methods included: 12 gallons per acre of 11-37-0 applied in a 3-inch wide surface band at planting, and 1.5 and 2.5 gallons per acre of 11-37-0 sprayed in-furrow with the seed at planting. The 1.5 gallon in-furrow rate statistically increased yields in 50% of the locations tested, with an average yield increase of 70 lbs. lint per acre. The 25 gallon in-furrow rate did not increase yields, and in some instances decreased stands. The 12 gallons of 11-37-0 surface banded increased yields in 57% of the locations tested, with an average yield increase of 106 lbs. lint per acre.