Cotton Genomics and Genetics 2025, Vol.16, No.2, 72-79 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/cgg 72 Feature Review Open Access Research on the Role of Micronutrient Management in Improving Cotton Fiber Quality Huijuan Xu, Xiaojing Yang, Yuxin Zhu Modern Agriculture Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding email: yuxin.zhu@cuixi.org Cotton Genomics and Genetics, 2025, Vol.16, No.2 doi: 10.5376/cgg.2025.16.0008 Received: 27 Jan., 2025 Accepted: 08 Mar., 2025 Published: 29 Mar., 2025 Copyright © 2025 Xu et al, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Xu H.J., Yang X.J., and Zhu Y.X., 2025, Research on the role of micronutrient management in improving cotton fiber quality, Cotton Genomics and Genetics, 16(2): 72-79 (doi: 10.5376/cgg.2025.16.0008) Abstract Cotton is an important fiber crop with significant global economic and industrial significance, and improving its fiber quality is essential to maintain competitiveness in the textile industry. This study explores the role of micronutrient management in improving cotton fiber characteristics such as length, strength, and fineness. We comprehensively study the physiological functions and agronomic importance of key micronutrients (i.e., boron, zinc, iron, and manganese) and analyze their effects on fiber development at the cellular and molecular levels. This review introduces effective soil and foliar application strategies, emphasizing an integrated nutrient management approach for optimal uptake and sustained productivity. A case study from India highlights the practical benefits and challenges of micronutrient interventions in cotton cultivation. We also discuss future directions, including nanotechnology applications, genetic advances to improve nutrient efficiency, and the integration of precision agriculture tools. This study highlights the need for micronutrient-centric agronomic practices, increased farmer awareness, and a supportive policy framework to achieve sustainable improvements in cotton fiber quality and overall crop performance. Keywords Micronutrients; Cotton fiber quality; Boron and zinc; Nutrient management strategies; Sustainable cotton production 1 Introduction Cotton is a vital global fiber crop, extensively cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. It plays a crucial role in the textile industry, providing raw material for a wide range of products. The importance of cotton extends beyond its economic value, as it also contributes significantly to the livelihoods of millions of farmers worldwide (Wahid et al., 2020; Abbas et al., 2022). However, cotton production faces challenges such as climate change and nutrient imbalances, which can adversely affect yield and fiber quality (Ul-Allah et al., 2021; Abbas et al., 2023). Micronutrients are essential for plant physiology, playing critical roles in various biochemical and physiological processes. Elements like boron, silicon, zinc, and magnesium are vital for the growth and development of cotton plants. These micronutrients are involved in processes such as photosynthesis, enzyme activation, and cell division, which are crucial for maintaining plant health and improving fiber quality (Swetha et al., 2020; De Souza Júnior et al., 2022). Despite their importance, micronutrient management in cotton cultivation has often been overlooked, leading to deficiencies that can impair plant growth and reduce fiber quality (Ahmed et al., 2020). This study explored the role of micronutrient management in improving cotton fiber quality. It explored the effects of various micronutrients on cotton growth and fiber characteristics. Drawing on recent research results, it included analyzing different micronutrient application methods, such as foliar spraying, and their effects on cotton yield and fiber quality. By synthesizing current research results, this study aims to fully understand how to optimize micronutrient management to improve cotton production results. 2 Key Micronutrients Influencing Cotton Fiber Quality Micronutrient management plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of cotton fiber. Among the essential micronutrients, boron (B), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn) are particularly significant in influencing cotton fiber quality.
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