Follow soil test recommendations where possible. For varieties, apply 50% of N and K and the full dose of P2O5 as basal, and the remaining N and K at 40–45 days after sowing. For hybrids, apply N in three splits: basal, 45 and 65 days after sowing. If basal application could not be done, apply on the 25th day after sowing.
Pending expert review
Source
Crop Production Guide – Agriculture 2020 (Directorate of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu & Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU)), Cotton (irrigated) – Application of inorganic fertilizers, p. 258
Region
Tamil Nadu
Last updated
2026-11-04
Foliar nutrition and moisture conservation (rainfed)
Spray 0.5% urea and 1% KCl on the 45th and 65th day of sowing if there is sufficient moisture. In black soils, a broad bed and furrow (BBF) system with coir pith at 5 t/ha improves soil moisture retention and seed cotton yield.
Pending expert review
Source
Crop Production Guide – Agriculture 2020 (Directorate of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu & Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU)), Rainfed cotton – Foliar fertilization & in-situ water harvesting, p. 271
Region
Tamil Nadu
Last updated
2026-11-04
Weeding and intercultivation (rainfed)
If there is not enough soil moisture for a herbicide, give a hand weeding 10–20 days after crop emergence. Work a dhanthulu (blade harrow) on the 30th and 45th day of sowing.
Pending expert review
Source
Crop Production Guide – Agriculture 2020 (Directorate of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu & Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU)), Rainfed cotton – Weed management & intercultivation, pp. 270–271
Region
Tamil Nadu
Last updated
2026-11-04
Pre-emergence herbicide (rainfed)
Apply pendimethalin (38.7% CS) at 650 ml/ha as pre-emergence, followed by one hand weeding 40 days after crop emergence. There must be sufficient soil moisture when the herbicide is applied.
Follow the instructions on the product label. Consult your local Agriculture Officer before use.
Pending expert review
Source
Crop Production Guide – Agriculture 2020 (Directorate of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu & Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU)), Rainfed cotton – Weed management, p. 270
