Effects of sowing dates and phosphorus levels on cotton growth and yield: soil analysis and implications

Abstract

This study assessed the effects of sowing dates and phosphorus levels on cotton performance in Chato-Msilale village in Chato District, Tanzania. The soil analysis revealed that field exhibited slightly acidic soil with normal electrical conductivity but suffered from severe deficiencies in total nitrogen and organic carbon. The same field presents common issue of low cation exchange capacity, indicating limited nutrient-holding capacity. Furthermore, both fields displayed very low levels of total nitrogen (<0.1%), signaling a nitrogen deficiency. Available phosphorus was rated as medium (16.8 mg kg−1 soil). Trace elements fluctuated and could be managed based on specific crop requirements. The factors at different levels were: (1) sowing dates – (i) 25th November 2022, (ii) 15th December 2022, and (iii) 4th January 2023; and (2) Phosphorus levels – (i) control, (ii) 20 kg P ha−1, (iii) 40 kg P ha−1, and (iv) 60 kg P ha−1. Regarding cotton growth and yield, sowing dates significantly (p < 0.001) influenced plant height, gin turnout, lint yield, number of bolls per plant, and boll weight while phosphorus levels did not exhibit significant effects. Earlier sowing dates resulted in higher yields, albeit with variations in yield components. Interactions showed that growth and yields were only numerically higher in the middle sowing date at higher levels of phosphorus applied. Overall, these insights offer valuable guidance for optimizing cotton cultivation in Chato District, emphasizing the importance of selecting appropriate sowing dates for improved yields.

Impact of sowing date and level of phosphorus application on economic returns in cotton

“…Positioned between latitudes 02 0 15’ and 03 0 15’ S, and longitudes 31 0 and 32 0 E, this locale exudes a geographical allure. Its elevation, ranging from 1135 meters to 1141 meters above mean sea level, adds a dimension to its captivating profile ( Tlatlaa et al., 2023 ). Msilale experiences the rhythmic dance of rainfall in a bimodal pattern, with short showers gracing the land from September to December, while the long rainy season stretches its benevolent embrace from February to May.…”

“…Conversely, the Muungano-Kahumo soil showcased elevated levels of organic matter and available P, illuminating prospects for fostering advantageous effects on cotton growth. The intricacies of these findings are encapsulated in the work of Tlatlaa et al (2023). The discerning decision to anoint Chato-Msilale as the focal point of study sprouted from a meticulous scrutiny of soil conditions, on ameliorating constraints tied to available P levels.…”

“…In addition, the selection of Chato District, among many in the country, as the epicentre for this groundbreaking field trial was a judicious confluence of factors. Insightful gleanings from a feasibility study, expounded upon by Tlatlaa et al (2023), provided a guiding compass. The presence of water for supplementary irrigation, harmonized with the counsel of local agricultural authorities, played pivotal roles in shaping this strategic choice.…”

“…A rich history of cotton production and the undulating topography were also the crucial factors considered in site selection. This endeavour stands as a pioneering foray in the national arena, as it pioneers the application of fertilizers and manipulation of sowing dates to gauge cotton performance under local idiosyncrasies, with the detailed chronicles of the field experiment documented in Tlatlaa et al (2023). This initiative sows the seeds for potential future scalability of cotton production, positioning itself as a catalyst for transformative growth in the agricultural landscape.…”

“…The market value of cotton harvested from each experimental plot was calculated using the formula specified in Equation 1. Information regarding cotton growth, fibre yield, and gin turnout percentage has been detailed in a prior study conducted by Tlatlaa et al (2023). This earlier research serves as a foundation and background for the current study.…”