Fiber Crops Fertilizer Solutions
Optimizing Cotton, Jute, and Sisal Nutrition for Higher Yield and Superior Fiber Quality with Terafon
Introduction to Fiber Crops
Fiber crops such as cotton, jute and sisal are grown primarily for their cellulose-rich fibres, which serve industries ranging from textiles to biocomposites. Proper nutrient management not only boosts yield but also enhances fibre quality (strength, fineness, maturity).
Nutrient Requirements
Key macro- and micro-nutrients for fiber crop development and fibre quality.
| Nutrient | Function | Deficiency Symptoms | Recommended Fertilizer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nitrogen (N) | Leaf, stalk and boll/tiller development; fibre elongation | Pale foliage, reduced boll set or fibre yield | Urea or NPK 20-10-10 |
| Phosphorus (P) | Root and early growth, energy transfer, fibre maturation | Stunted roots, delayed maturity | DAP or NPK 12-24-12 |
| Potassium (K) | Fibre strength, fineness, boll filling and stress resistance | Weak stems, poor fibre quality, shrivelled bolls | Potassium chloride (MOP) or NPK 8-12-30 |
| Boron (B) | Cell wall formation, fibre elongation and strength | Misshapen or weak fibre, poor maturation :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} | Boron-based fertilisers/foliar |
| Sulfur (S) | Protein synthesis, enzymatic function, plant health | Yellowing, weak growth | Sulphate blends or S-enriched NPK |
For example, in cotton crop nutrient guidelines are: N ~200-235 kg/ha, P₂O₅ ~80-110 kg/ha, K₂O ~200-250 kg/ha for high yields and premium fibre quality.
Fertilizer Recommendations
Efficient fertilisation for fiber crops is achieved when aligned with the crop’s growth phases and fibre development objectives. Below are practical recommendations you can modify per soil test and local conditions.
Pre-planting / Bed Preparation
Apply a balanced basal fertiliser with moderate N, elevated P and K (e.g., NPK 15-20-20) and incorporate organic matter to support root development and early vigour.
Vegetative Growth / Stem Development
Use split nitrogen applications to support canopy and fibre precursor growth. Maintain ample K to build fibre strength and boll set. In cotton, potassium plays a key role in fibre fineness and strength
Boll Development / Fibre Filling
Prioritise potassium and boron to optimise fibre quality. Foliar sprays of micronutrients may correct deficiencies early and improve fibre maturity.
Pre-Harvest / Maturation
Recommended Products
Terafon® FibreMax NPK 20-15-20
Terafon® Potassi-Fibre K40
Terafon® MicroFibre (B + S + Zn)
Terafon® SoilPrime Organic-Mineral
Application Guidelines by Growth Stage
Pre‑Planting
Vegetative Growth
Fibre Filling / Boll Development
Pre-Harvest / Maturation
Results & Benefits
- Increased fibre yield and higher tonnes per hectare
- Improved fibre quality: strength, fineness, maturity
- Better nutrient use efficiency and reduced waste
- Stronger stalks and plant resilience vs stresses (lodging, pests)
- Better uniformity, improved market grade and value
Related Food Crops
Contact & Resources
Need agronomic advice for your fiber crop fertiliser plan? Our specialists will design a customised nutrient strategy for your operation.
© Terafon Fertilizer — Fiber Crops Nutrition • Privacy
