Cotton Seeds بذور القطن

Cotton Seeds: Detailed Care Guide

Cotton is a warm-weather crop known for its soft fibers and historical significance. Here’s a detailed guide to growing cotton from seeds:

1. Seeding:

   • Cotton seeds can be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost or sown directly outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.
   • Plant the seeds ½ inch deep in well-drained, fertile soil. Space the seeds about 3-4 inches apart, with rows 24-36 inches apart.
   • Cotton seeds usually germinate within 7-14 days in warm conditions.
   • If planting indoors, use small pots or seed-starting trays and transplant the seedlings outdoors once they have 4-5 leaves and the weather has warmed.

2. Growing:

   • Cotton plants need full sun to thrive, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
   • Thin the seedlings to 12-18 inches apart when they are a few inches tall to give them enough room to grow.
   • Cotton grows into a bushy plant, reaching heights of 3-6 feet, depending on the variety.
   • They prefer fertile, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (between 5.8 and 8.0). Adding compost or organic matter can improve the soil’s fertility and drainage.

3. Care:

   • Fertilize cotton plants every 3-4 weeks with a balanced fertilizer, especially during the growing season, to ensure healthy growth.
   • Weed regularly to prevent competition for nutrients and moisture, especially during the early stages of growth.
   • Cotton can be susceptible to pests like aphids, boll weevils, and caterpillars. Monitor for pests and treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.
   • Cotton takes about 5-6 months to mature, and the cotton bolls will burst open to reveal the fluffy fibers. Harvest the cotton when the bolls are fully open.

4. Temperature:

   • Cotton is a warm-weather plant and thrives in temperatures between 70°F and 95°F (21°C to 35°C).
   • It is sensitive to frost, so wait until the soil temperature is consistently above 60°F (16°C) before planting outdoors.
   • Cotton needs a long growing season, ideally 150-180 frost-free days, to mature fully.

5. Watering:

   • Cotton plants need regular watering, especially during the early stages of growth and flowering.
   • Water deeply but infrequently, ensuring the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. A good rule of thumb is to provide about 1 inch of water per week, adjusting for rainfall.
   • Once established, cotton plants are somewhat drought-tolerant, but consistent moisture during the growing season will result in higher yields.
   • Avoid overhead watering, as wet foliage can encourage diseases like leaf spot or fungal infections.

If you looking for a affordable range of Seeds. Please visit our online store