Effects of Phosphorus Fertilization on Growth, Yield and Economic Efficiency of Cotton (Gossypium hirustum L.) under Northeast climate of Afghanistan

Abstract

A Cotton experiment was laid out at the agronomic research farm of agriculture faculty of Kunduz University in spring season of 2023 to investigate effects of phosphorus fertilization of growth and yield parameters of cotton crop (Gossypium hirustum L.) under Northeast climate of Afghanistan. The experiment conducted in Randomized complete block design with 3 replications. The treatment consists: control without phosphorus fertilizer application, application of 30, 60 and 90 kg P2O5/ha. Result showed that the highest plant height (98.44 cm), Leave area index (2.78), Sympodial Branches/plant (12.88), Bolls/plant (27.66), cotton lint yield (1750 kg/ha), cotton seed yield (3979 kg/ha), cotton lint yield (182742 AFN/ha), cotton seed yield (77964 AFN/ha), gross return (260707 AFN/ha), net return (209867 AFN/ha) and benefit Cost of ratio (6) were recorded from treatment with 90 kg p2o5/ha following with application 60, 30 and Control treatments respectively. It can be possible to conclude that proper phosphorus fertilization is crucial for optimizing cotton production in this region. The study highlights the potential for improved cotton cultivation practices and increased economic returns for farmers in the Kunduz province of Afghanistan through the implementation of optimal P fertilizer application rates.