Absorption of chloride by cotton as influenced by potassium nutrition

Field studies were conducted to determine absorption of chloride ion by various organs of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) plant as influenced by potassium nutrition. The treatments consisted of (a) four cultivars (CIM-448, CIM-1100, Karishma, S-12), (b) four potassium (K) fertilizer rates (0, 63, 125, 250 kg K ha(-1)) and (c) two K-sources [sulphate of potash (K2SO4), muriate of potash (KCl)]. Plants were harvested at maturity and partitioned into leaves, stems, burs, seeds and lint. Plant material was analyzed for chloride content. Results showed that chloride concentration was significantly affected by K rates and cultivars. Cultivar CIM-448 maintained greater Cl concentration in different organs compared to other cultivars. Chloride concentration increased with concurrent increase in varying levels of K fertilizer added in the form of KCl. Cotton receiving 250 kg K ha(-1) in the form of KCl maintained the highest concentration of Cl compared to zero K rate plots. Cotton maintained Cl content in different organs in the following order: leaves > stems > burs > seed > lint. There was close relationship between K and Cl content in leaves, stems, burs, seed and lint of cotton receiving K fertilizer in the form of KCl in cotton. These studies showed synergistic effect of K and Cl on cotton.