The amount of nitrogen recommended for irrigated cotton varies from state to state across the U.S. In fact, the recommendations can vary within states as well due to differences in soil texture, growing environments, variety selection, and other factors. For example, an article from the University of Arizona indicates that historical nitrogen rates for irrigated cotton approach 200 pounds per acre Arizona Guides. However, results from their trials indicated that there is potential for reducing rates to an average of 100 to 150 pounds per acre. In Mississippi, the rate of nitrogen recommended for irrigated cotton ranges from 120 to 140 pounds per planted acre on medium-textured soil with high yield potential Mississippi Guidelines . In Texas, nitrogen recommendations are more difficult to make on a broad basis since residual soil N levels are considered Texas Guidelines. In the High Plains area of Texas, a nitrogen-fertilizer calculator has been developed to guide producers in determining the rate necessary in dryland and irrigated conditions Texas Calculator . Some states, like Georgia, utilize yield goals to determine initial nitrogen rate and then use soil texture, irrigation, etc. to fine tune the final recommendation.

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