Effect of foliar application of chelated copper and manganese on yield components and fibre properties of Egyptian cotton (Gossypium barbadense)

Abstract

SUMMARYA decline in supplies of organic manures and the increased use of chemical fertilizers has led to a decrease in the micronutrient content of the soil, with attendant effects on yield.Field studies were conducted in 1986 and 1987 at the Giza Agricultural Research Centre, Egypt, to determine the effect of Cu-EDTA and Mn-EDTA foliar sprays on growth, mineral content, yield components and fibre properties of the Egyptian cotton cultivar Giza 75 (Gossypium barbadense L.).All combinations used significantly increased the uptake of Cu and Mn and the dry matter yield. The earliness of harvest and the value of yield components were all increased by the application of Cu or Mn; 25 mg/1 of both Cu and Mn gave the highest values. Lint percentage and fibre properties were not significantly affected.This study indicated that the yield of cotton, grown under otherwise standard conditions, may be increased by foliar sprays of Cu-EDTA and Mn-EDTA combined.