LAHORE: In view of a severe heatwave forecast in parts of Punjab and Sindh from May 7 to May 11, the Central Cotton Research Institute (CCRI) Multan has advised cotton growers to immediately adopt precautionary measures to protect the crop from extreme temperatures likely to range between 46°C and 50°C. Director CCRI Sabahat Hussain said the early-sown cotton crop had now reached 60 to 70 days of age and required immediate management interventions to reduce heat stress and ensure healthy crop growth. She advised farmers to apply a foliar spray comprising 300 grams of Potassium Sulphate, 250 grams of Zinc Sulphate and 250 grams of Borax mixed in 100 litres of water per acre. The ingredients should first be dissolved separately and then mixed together before spraying. For improved results, the spray application should be repeated after 15 days. She further recommended light irrigation during the heatwave period, preferably during the cooler morning or evening hours, to minimise water loss and reduce stress on the crop. According to the CCRI director, the early cotton crop has entered the flowering and boll formation stage therefore farmers should apply one bag of urea per acre to support proper plant growth and development. She also warned growers to immediately destroy spindle-shaped flowers showing signs of bollworm attack to prevent the spread of infestation at the initial stage. In addition, she advised installation of recommended pheromone traps in fields at the earliest possible stage and urged farmers to conduct pest scouting at least twice a week. Sabahat Hussain emphasised that timely agronomic management and continuous crop monitoring during the ongoing heatwave could significantly help in protecting the cotton crop from potential losses. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
CCRI advises growers to adopt heatwave protection steps
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