In terms of natural fiber production, Cotton (Gossypium) accounts for approximately 80% of world production. Cotton is one of the major oilseed crops and is also an important source of protein for the animals where it is grown. In this article we will see how to plant, cultivate cotton and its maintenance.

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Is it legal to grow cotton at home?
Cotton cultivation is completely legal in most countries. The cotton is produced commercially and the plant is environmentally friendly.
Even the government of many countries encourages the farmer and provides low interest loans to farmers for planting cotton. So don’t worry. You can grow cotton for commercial or personal use.
Growing cotton from seed

To obtain a good yield, cottonseed must be purchased fresh and carefully selected. Sowing should be done in the spring, once all risk of late frost has passed.
Place about three cottonseeds on the ground and cover them with an inch or two of potting soil.
Since not all seeds can germinate, it’s a good idea to put two seeds in each hole to ensure you have plants in every row.
Young cotton plants need as much warmth and light as possible to grow, so they tend to be weak when young.
Make sure the soil is moist by letting sunlight in and adding water above the soil as needed.
To speed up and ensure germination, you can soak the seeds in lukewarm water overnight and then sow them directly into the ground. You should see breakouts start to appear within seven to ten days.
Once they have successfully generated two pairs of leaves, you can transplant them into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
Cultivation and maintenance of cotton

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Farmers typically grow this product in medium to deep black clay soils, although they can also use irrigation to grow it in sandy or loamy soils.
Soils with excellent water retention are best for growing cotton. The crop does well in almost any well-drained soil.
The soils most likely to produce high yields are deep, well-drained sandy loams with ample clay, organic matter, and a moderate concentration of nitrogen and phosphorus.
Loamy soils with a high calcium carbonate content tend to provide the best yields.
solar light
During the growing season, cotton needs long, warm weather to mature properly. This crop needs a lot of sun to grow.
A cotton plant can also be grown indoors as it does well in pots. If you want it to be productive, you will need to provide it with extra light. Place it in a window where it receives plenty of sunlight.
Cotton plants grown indoors should also be rotated to grow evenly.
Irrigation
To maintain optimal maintenance of your cotton plants, be sure to water them continuously during the summer months.
The pollen will turn the creamy white flowers pink after they have been pollinated. During this period, the plants will begin to produce a boll (which is the cotton ball).
To ensure proper production and growth, water is needed throughout this process. Water your plants, but don’t overwater. They are susceptible to diseases caused by excess water. Water is especially important during capsule development.
temperature and humidity
The ideal temperature for the growth and development of cotton plants is between 20 and 32 degrees Celsius, as it is a hot climate crop.
The germination rate of cotton seeds is low if the soil temperature is below 15°C. Temperatures between 21 and 37°C are ideal for active growth.
Humidity between 60 and 80 percent is ideal for cotton plants, as they prefer warm, humid conditions.
Fertilizer
Cotton prefers nitrogen and potash and feeds abundantly. Plus, enjoy fish emulsion or organic fertilizer.
In general, gardeners should use fertilizers that contain twice as much phosphorus as potassium or nitrogen. Your cotton plants will benefit from organic fertilizers designed for tomatoes.
How is cotton harvested?

Cotton harvesting is the final stage in the production of cotton crops. Crops should be harvested in the fall. Autumn is the best time for cotton production.
You will know the cotton is ready to harvest when the bolls open and the fluffy white cotton is exposed.
Put on a pair of thick gloves before you start harvesting, as the capsules are sharp and can shred sensitive skin.
To pick up the cotton from the capsules, simply grab the cotton ball at the base and pull it out of the capsule.

As you pick up, put the cotton in a bag. Cotton isn’t ready to harvest all at once, so leave the one that isn’t ready for another day.
Once you’ve harvested all the mature cotton, lay it out in a cool, dark place with good air circulation to dry.
When the cotton is dry, separate the seeds with your hand. You are now ready to use your cotton. It can be used to stuff pillows or toys or dyed, carded and spun into fiber ready for weaving.
You can also save the seeds and sow them again the following spring for another harvest.
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