When and What Should Be the First Spray on Cotton?
.png)
Cotton is a key cash crop. If proper spraying is done during its early growth stage, it can improve yield and help in pest and disease control. However, many farmers rush to spray at the 2 to 3 leaf stage, which is often unnecessary. In this article, we will learn when and why the “first spray” should be applied.
Why to Avoid Early Spraying?
-
Pests and diseases are usually minimal at the early stage.
-
Beneficial insects like Chrysopa , which feed on harmful pests, are killed.
-
Leads to unnecessary cost and labor.
-
If the economic damage threshold is not crossed, avoid spraying.
Understanding Beneficial vs. Harmful Insects
-
Chrysopa are natural predators of harmful insects.
-
Premature spraying destroys these beneficial insects.
-
This disrupts the natural pest control system in the crop.
If Spraying is Necessary – What Should Be the First Spray?
If pest pressure has crossed the economic threshold, use the following combination:
| Component | Dose (Per 15 L pump) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Rihansh (Thiamethoxam 30% FS) | 20 ml | Controls sucking pests |
| Refresh | 40–50 ml | Promotes healthy growth and greening |
| 19:19:19 Soluble Fertilizer | 75 gm | Provides balanced nutrition |
Tip: Spray early in the morning or late in the evening. Use clean water. Spray only where needed, not across the entire field.
Conclusion
Making informed decisions during cotton’s early growth stage can lead to higher yields and reduced costs. Avoid unnecessary spraying, protect beneficial insects, and spray only when required using the right combination.