The main points of sowing and raising seedlings of cotton

First, the preparation of seedbeds should be done on a leeward, sunny slope with good drainage, convenient irrigation, and a low water table. This ensures optimal conditions for seedling growth and minimizes the risk of waterlogging.

Second, when applying fertilizer to the seedbed, it is best to use organic fertilizer as the main component, supplemented with appropriate amounts of phosphorus and potassium to achieve a scientifically balanced formula. If using a compound fertilizer, it should be used in moderation. The fertilizer must be thoroughly mixed to ensure even distribution and maximum nutrient availability. Avoid using large quantities of urea or ammonium bicarbonate, as this can lead to seedling death, weakened disease resistance, underdeveloped root systems, and prolonged transplanting periods, ultimately resulting in poor plant establishment.

Proper Seed Drying and Selection

Before sowing, select high-quality seeds and expose them to sunlight to break dormancy and improve germination rates. Proper drying enhances seed viability, ensuring better emergence and uniform growth.

Effective Soil Disinfection

After preparing the seedbed, disinfect the soil before planting. One day prior to planting, mix the bed soil with water, level it, and apply a 250- to 300-fold dilution of methyl isothiocyanate or a 300-fold dilution of chloronitrobenzene. Alternatively, spray 150–200 grams of dextrox per acre onto the surface. To control pests like wireworms, apply carbofuran and cover with agricultural film to protect against rain. A second disinfection should be done at the time of sowing, using the same method. After sowing, cover the bed with soil and perform a third disinfection. Avoid using topsoil from cotton fields, as it may contain harmful pathogens. Monitor for diseases such as damping-off and blight, and keep the bed dry to encourage deep root development and disease resistance.

Timely Sowing is Essential

As the saying goes, "Early spring sowing is early, but late spring sowing is too late." It is best to sow when temperatures remain above 15°C, typically between the 8th and 20th of April. Avoid sowing in March, as the ground is still cold, and frequent temperature fluctuations increase the risk of seedling death and disease.

Focusing on Sowing Quality

First, farmers should check the weather forecast and choose sunny days that last for more than three days. During sowing, the soil should be covered with a plastic sheet while disinfecting to maintain warmth. Avoid sowing on rainy days or after 4 p.m., when temperatures drop. Studies show that sowing in the morning leads to better germination rates compared to sowing later in the day.

Second, follow the "two wet and dry" sowing method: wet seeds and dry soil coverage. Planting should be done evenly, avoiding uneven watering and temperature variations that can cause inconsistent emergence and weak, uneven seedlings.

Scientific Management of the Seedbed

First, promptly open ditches to maintain proper drainage, prevent soil from drying out, and encourage deep root development. This helps build strong root systems and improves disease resistance, promoting early seedling establishment.

Second, regulate the temperature under the plastic film to avoid burning seedlings. Before the seedlings emerge, maintain warmth and moisture without removing the film. Use double-layer covering, and remove one layer when the emergence rate reaches 70%, ideally around 8 a.m. on a sunny day. After the Qimiao stage, remove the film on a sunny day, dry the bed, and spray a half-strength Bordeaux mixture to prevent disease. Once the seedlings have one true leaf, ensure the temperature inside the film stays between 20°C and 30°C, and gradually remove the second layer to prevent overheating.

Third, if seedlings cannot be transplanted immediately, move them to promote root growth and shorten the seedling-reduction period.

Transplanting Strong Seedlings

When the seedlings are 10–12 cm tall with 3–4 true leaves and the white roots are fully developed, they are ready for transplanting. Apply the appropriate treatment before moving them to the field for optimal growth.

Fire Safety Water Barrier

Fire Safety Water Barrier,Water Barrier,Water Filled Barriers,Garage Water Barrier

Denilco Environmental technology(Suzhou)Co., Ltd. , https://www.wflood.com