On July 21, 2026, the head of the Giyosiddin Dehkan Farm, located in the Sarvati Istiqlol Jamoat of Kushoniyon District, sought scientific advice on the management of cotton crops. In particular, the consultation focused on determining the optimal timing for cotton topping (terminal bud removal).
Based on scientific recommendations and the practical experience of specialists from the Vakhsh Experimental Station of Soil Science and Land Reclamation, it was recommended that cotton topping be carried out when the majority of plants have developed 12–14 sympodial (fruiting) branches and simultaneously reached the stage of 16–18 or more fruiting buds (squares). Performing topping at this stage is essential for limiting excessive vegetative growth, improving the redistribution of nutrients to the fruiting organs, accelerating boll formation and development, and creating favorable conditions for earlier crop maturity.
During the field inspection of the cotton plantation of the Giyosiddin Dehkan Farm, it was determined that the agronomic condition of the crop was satisfactory and that plant growth was good. Plant height met the recommended agronomic standards, and approximately 70–80% of the plants had developed 16–20 fruiting buds, indicating that the crop had reached the optimum stage for topping.
Based on the field observations and the actual condition of the crop, the farm manager was advised to carry out cotton topping within the next 2–3 days, before the next scheduled irrigation, while strictly observing all recommended agronomic practices. In addition, recommendations were provided to ensure proper post-topping crop management, including timely irrigation, supplementary fertilization, regular phytosanitary monitoring, and the implementation of appropriate measures to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
The timely implementation of these agronomic measures will promote the full development of cotton bolls, improve crop quality, and increase cotton yield.
