Recent research led by WANG Sijia from the College of Water Resources and Architectural Engineering at Shihezi University has made significant strides in optimizing water and nitrogen use for cotton cultivation in Northern Xinjiang. Published in the journal ‘Shuitu Baochi Xuebao’ (Journal of Water and Soil Conservation), the study explores how the AquaCrop model can help farmers manage irrigation and fertilizer more efficiently, particularly in arid regions where resources are limited.
The study focused on testing various nitrogen application levels and irrigation schedules to identify the best combinations for maximizing cotton yield while minimizing fertilizer use. The researchers conducted field trials over two years, analyzing the effects of conventional nitrogen application versus reductions of 10%, 20%, and 30%, alongside three different irrigation amounts. The findings revealed that strategic adjustments in nitrogen and water application could lead to improved crop performance.
WANG noted, “Nitrogen fertilizer reduction can be achieved by appropriately increasing the irrigation quota to stabilize cotton yield.” This suggests that farmers can maintain productivity while reducing nitrogen use, which is crucial for sustainability and cost-effectiveness. The research indicates that a 12% reduction in nitrogen combined with a 360 mm irrigation quota is optimal for cotton production in this region.
The implications of this research extend beyond just agricultural practices. For the agricultural sector, especially those involved in cotton production, adopting these optimized practices can lead to significant cost savings on fertilizers while enhancing yield. This is particularly important as global demand for cotton continues to rise and environmental regulations become stricter.
Additionally, companies involved in agricultural technology and irrigation systems may find commercial opportunities in providing solutions that align with these findings. The AquaCrop model itself could be a valuable tool for agronomists and farmers seeking to enhance their practices based on scientific data.
Overall, this study not only contributes to the body of knowledge regarding water and nitrogen management in cotton farming but also offers practical solutions that can lead to more sustainable agricultural practices in arid regions. The application of the AquaCrop model in different fertilizer and irrigation regimes can serve as a guide for improving water and nitrogen use efficiency, ultimately benefiting both farmers and the environment.
