Table of Contents:

1. Introduction to Cotton Farming and Cultivation Report
2. Scope and Economic Importance of Cotton Farming
3. Top Cotton Varieties for High Yield and Quality
4. Cotton Plant Characteristics and Growth Cycle
5. Best Soil and Climate Conditions for Cotton Production
6. Effective Propagation Methods for Cotton Cultivation
7. Land Preparation and Sowing Techniques for Cotton Farming
8. Organic Fertilizer Requirements for Cotton
9. Irrigation Techniques for Maximum Cotton Yield
10. Pest and Disease Management in Cotton Farming
11. Intercultural Operations for Healthy Cotton Growth
12. Harvesting Methods and Yield Estimation in Cotton Farming
13. Post-Harvest Processing and Storage of Cotton
14. Cotton Farming Cost, Profit Margin, and Investment Analysis

Introduction to Cotton Farming and Cultivation Report

Cotton is a natural fiber that grows in a protective case around the seeds of plants belonging to the Malvaceae family. This plant is a shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It is widely cultivated in countries like the United States, Africa, Egypt, and India. Wild varieties of cotton can be found in Mexico, Australia, and Africa.

Cotton plays a vital role in the textile industry, where it is used to produce various products such as terry cloth, corduroy, seersucker, yarn, and cotton twill. Beyond textiles, cotton is also used in manufacturing fishing nets, coffee filters, tents, explosives, cotton paper, and bookbinding materials.

In India, cotton is one of the most significant fiber and cash crops, contributing substantially to both the industrial and agricultural economy. The country cotton-producing regions are divided into three zones:

• North Zone: Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan
• Central Zone: Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat
• South Zone: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu

This cotton cultivation project report outlines various methods of cotton farming and provides insights into the investment required to cultivate cotton on one hectare of land, along with the expected profitability.

Scope and Economic Importance of Cotton Farming

In India, cotton is cultivated over approximately 105 lakh hectares, yielding around 351 lakh bales annually, with each bale weighing 170 kg. The cotton sector is the second most developed segment of the textile industry, making India the world second-largest cotton producer after China. This sector generates vast employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled labor, significantly strengthening the country’s economy. It is estimated that nearly 60 million people, including 4.5 million farmers, depend on cotton cultivation for their livelihood.

Indian cotton is highly regarded in the global market due to its superior-spun quality and the production of four distinct cotton species. Additionally, India is the only country producing all counts of cotton, ranging from 1s to 81s and beyond.

To address challenges faced by cotton cultivators, the Indian government launched the Technology Mission on Cotton, which focuses on improving production techniques, reducing cultivation costs, developing modern market yards, and upgrading ginning and pressing factories. Apart from this, several initiatives have been introduced for the growth of the cotton industry, including the supply of certified seeds, water management, improved processing methods, modernized facilities, farmer education, and the promotion of organic cotton farming.

To mitigate risks in cotton cultivation, Contract Farming has been gaining popularity among cotton growers. This approach involves collaboration between producers, agencies, input suppliers, technology providers, and insurance agencies, ensuring a mutually beneficial business model.

With the support of various government programs and industry initiatives, India cotton sector is striving to increase production to meet the rising demand of the textile industry while also boosting exports to strengthen the economy. The cotton industry is expected to continue growing at a steady pace, generating employment and contributing significantly to the country’s GDP.

Top Cotton Varieties for High Yield and Quality

India cultivates four distinct species of cotton: Gossypium arboreum, Gossypium herbaceum, Gossypium hirsutum, and Gossypium barbadense. The first two species, G. arboreum and G. herbaceum, are collectively known as Asiatic cotton as they are native to Asia. G. hirsutum, commonly referred to as American or Upland cotton, accounts for approximately 90% of global cotton production. Meanwhile, G. barbadense is recognized for its superior quality and is known by various names, including Egyptian cotton, Sea Island cotton, Peruvian cotton, Tanguis cotton, and quality cotton.

In addition to these species, India has developed several hybrid cotton varieties that are commercially cultivated in different regions. Some notable hybrid varieties include MCU 7, MCU 12, MCU 13, LRA 5166, MCU 5 VT, Supriya, Anjali, Surabhi, Sumangala, Sruthi, K 11, Suvin, TCHB 213, SVPR 2, SVPR 3, KC 2, KC 3, and SVPR 4. These hybrids have been developed to enhance yield, fiber quality, and resistance to pests and environmental stress.

Cotton Plant Characteristics and Growth Cycle

Plant Structure

• The cotton plant typically has a single main stem with 12 to 16 fruiting branches.
• Each node bears one leaf, totaling approximately 16 to 22 nodes.
• Vegetative branches, which aid in propagation, emerge from the lower part of the plant.
• Reproductive branches grow higher up or on vegetative branches. These are short and end with a flower bud.
• The leaves are large, hairy, and palmately lobed.

Flowers and Pollination

• Cotton flowers are showy, with five sepals fused into a cuplike calyx.
• Each flower has five petals, which are initially yellow or white and turn pink with age.
• Pollination generally occurs in the afternoon.
• The flower buds, known as squares, increase in size as the fruit develops and extend beyond the bracts.

Root System

• The cotton plant has a taproot system.
• Roots can grow up to 9 inches deep within three weeks.
• Roots expand rapidly and can reach twice the length of the plant in early growth stages.
• Once the plant begins setting bolls, root growth slows down.

Characteristics of Cotton Species

Best Soil and Climate Conditions for Cotton Production

Cotton plants thrive in deep, fertile, sandy loam soils with good drainage to ensure optimal growth and development. Pure sandy or clay soils are unsuitable for cotton cultivation due to poor seed germination. The soil should be at least one meter deep, without impenetrable layers, as restricted root development can lead to lower yields. For successful cotton cultivation, the soil should not be alkaline, saline, or prone to waterlogging. While soil pH is not a critical factor, an ideal range of 5.5 to 7.5 is considered optimal. Additionally, a high aluminum concentration in the soil can be harmful to cotton growth. Besides sandy loam, other suitable soil types for cotton cultivation include red soil, light red soil, ashy soil, and brackish soil.It is already known that cotton is a tropical and day-long crop.

This crop can also be cultivated at an altitude of 1000 m above sea level. During the seed germination, the minimum expected temperature of the soil is around 18" C. The optimum temperature range for crop growth is found to be above 25 C, Temperatures below 20 C during flowering and boll phases would result in slow growth. The seedling should be protected from cold weather conditions otherwise this would affect the fiber quality and yield The minimum annual rainfall in the cotton cultivation area should be around 5O cm with heavy showers during boll formation.

Effective Propagation Methods for Cotton Cultivation

Cotton plants are propagated through seeds, which must undergo proper treatment before sowing to enhance germination and vigor. The seed treatment process involves the following steps:

1. Acid Delinting:
• Place the required quantity of seeds in a bucket containing commercial sulfuric acid at a rate of 100 ml per kg of seeds.
• Stir vigorously with a wooden stick for two minutes until the fuzz is completely removed and the seeds turn coffee brown.
2. Washing & Drying:
• Drain the acid solution by diluting it with water and thoroughly wash the seeds.
• Remove diseased and floating seeds, retaining only healthy, delinted seeds.
• Dry the delinted seeds in the shade to prevent damage from direct sunlight.
3. Fungicide & Bio-Treatment:
• Treat the dried seeds with suitable fungicides to protect against soil-borne diseases.
• Alternatively, use bio-control agents and bio-fertilizers for eco-friendly protection.
4. Pungam Leaf Extract Treatment:
• Soak the treated seeds in Pungam (Pongamia) leaf extract for about eight hours.
• Dry them again before sowing to improve vigour and germination rates.

Land Preparation and Sowing Techniques for Cotton Farming

Before planting seeds or seedlings, the land must be properly ploughed and harrowed to aerate the seedbed, improve soil saturation, and incorporate plant residues into the soil. Since cotton is a deep-rooted crop, it requires a fine soil structure for proper germination and growth. During land preparation, all stubbles and crop residues from previous harvests should be removed.

For optimal cotton cultivation, the soil should have a low water status to prevent waterlogging. The timing of planting is crucial, as planting too early or too late can negatively affect fiber quality.

• In Southern India, cotton seeds are sown in April.
• In Northern India, sowing takes place in May.

Planting Process

• Seed Depth: 3 to 6 seeds are sown in a hole at a depth of 0.25 cm.
• Drainage Management: Ridges are created around the farm for proper drainage and water conservation.
• Spacing Requirements:
• Each cultivar has different spacing needs, but a common spacing is 20 to 100 cm between plants.
• Planting Density:
• Irrigated Land: ~70,000 plants per hectare.
• Dry Land: ~30,000 plants per hectare.
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Organic Fertilizer Requirements for Cotton

Fertilizer application plays a crucial role in improving cotton yield and crop development. Among all nutrients, nitrogen has the greatest impact on yield. It is initially incorporated into the soil at the time of planting and then applied in split doses throughout the growing period.

• The total nitrogen requirement per hectare:
• Rain-fed conditions: 140 kg
• Irrigated conditions: 200 kg

Role of Phosphorus & Potassium

• Phosphorus promotes uniform boll development and enhances soil quality.
• The minimum phosphorus and potassium requirements per hectare are half of the nitrogen requirement.
• Potassium supports respiration, photosynthesis, and carbohydrate metabolism. However, poor soil aeration can reduce potassium absorption.

Micronutrient Requirements

• An additional 12.5 kg of a micronutrient mixture per hectare is recommended for better crop quality.
• Zinc deficiency can be corrected by applying 50 kg/ha of zinc sulfate (ZnSO₄) as a basal dose.

Foliar Spray for Nutrient Deficiency

• If leaf redness appears, a foliar spray containing magnesium, zinc, and urea should be applied 50 to 80 days after planting.
• During the boll formation stage, an additional foliar spray of magnesium and urea may be applied if needed.

Irrigation Techniques for Maximum Cotton Yield

Cotton plants are naturally drought-tolerant and can produce a good yield even in areas with low annual rainfall (below 500 mm). However, they grow best in regions where rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year.

• Optimal annual rainfall range: 500–1250 mm
• If cultivated as an irrigated crop, cotton requires 35–45 inches of water per growing cycle.

Irrigation Management

• Critical irrigation periods:
• Flowering stage
• Boll development and maturity stage
• Irrigation should be scheduled so that soil moisture depletion remains between 50–70%.

Irrigation Requirements by Soil Type

• Sandy loam soils: 3–4 irrigation cycles
• Red sandy loam soils: 4–13 light irrigation cycles

It is essential to monitor water usage carefully:

• Low water requirement: During the first 60–70 days of plant growth.
• Highest water demand: During the flowering and boll development stages.

Pest and Disease Management in Cotton Farming

Insect Pests & Control Measures

Cotton crops are vulnerable to several insect pests, including Helicoverpa, spider mites, aphids, whiteflies, thrips, and bollworms. To minimize infestation, the following control measures should be implemented:

• Regular monitoring of plants for early detection.
• Weed removal along field boundaries to reduce pest habitats.
• Avoid excessive use of broad-spectrum insecticides, which can harm beneficial insects.
• Spray insecticides only when pest populations reach the economic threshold level to minimize chemical exposure.
• Implement area-wide pest management strategies to prevent whiteflies from migrating to new plantings.
• Encourage natural enemies (biological control agents) to help manage pest populations.
• In cases of severe infestation, chemical pesticides such as methyl demeton, endosulfan, and triazophos should be applied in recommended quantities.

Common Cotton Diseases & Control Measures

Cotton plants are susceptible to various diseases, including bacterial blight, fungal leaf spot, boll rot, grey mildew, root rot, leaf curl, and leaf reddening. Preventive and control strategies include:

• Using disease-resistant cotton varieties to minimize susceptibility.
• Deep burial of crop residues after harvest to reduce disease carryover.
• Sowing certified, disease-free seeds to prevent infection at the initial stage.
• Maintaining proper humidity in the plant canopy and allowing foliage to dry after irrigation to prevent fungal growth.
• Practicing good field sanitation to reduce disease outbreaks.
• Adopting crop rotation (3–4 years) to break disease cycles.
• Cultivating early-maturing varieties to reduce exposure to disease-prone conditions.
• Implementing effective weed control to prevent disease spread.
• Applying the recommended quantity of fungicides for effective disease management.

Intercultural Operations for Healthy Cotton Growth

Weed control is a crucial activity in cotton cultivation and is carried out through hand hoeing or ploughing. Weeds compete directly with cotton plants for nutrients, light, and moisture, so they should be controlled within the first 70 days of sowing. If unchecked, weeds can cause a yield loss of 50 to 85%.

• Cap filling is done on the 10th day after sowing to support seedlings.
• Seedlings are raised separately in polyethylene bags with the appropriate amount of Farmyard Manure (FYM) and are transplanted into the field on the 10th day.
• Planting methods:
• Direct seeding: 3 to 4 seeds are sown per hole, then covered with soil and watered.
• Transplanting: One seedling per hole is transplanted.

Thinning Process (15th Day After Sowing):

• Fertile soil: Retain one seedling per hole.
• Poor soil conditions: Retain two seedlings per hole.

Nutrient Management & Top Dressing

• 50% of the required nitrogen and potassium should be applied as top dressing.
• For hybrid varieties, apply one-third of the recommended nitrogen dose as top dressing.

Soil & Structural Support

• After the first top dressing, ridges and furrows should be reformed so that the plant is at the top and well-supported by the soil.

Growth Regulation & Bud Retention

• Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) spray is recommended when the plant is 60 to 90 days old to prevent early shedding of buds and squares.

Topping (Pinching the Terminal Portion)

• For crops with a duration of 160 days: Remove the terminal portion beyond the 15th node.
• For crops with a duration of more than 160 days: Remove the terminal portion beyond the 20th node to control excessive vegetative growth and encourage better yield.

Harvesting Methods and Yield Estimation in Cotton Farming

The cotton crop is ready for harvest approximately six months after planting. Harvesting is a labor-intensive process and is considered the most expensive part of cotton cultivation.

Harvesting Process

• Harvesting should be done at frequent intervals, ideally every 7 days.
• The best time to harvest is in the morning before 10 AM to ensure optimal conditions.
• Cotton should be manually picked from bolls that have completely burst open, leaving the bracts on the plant.
• Lower bolls should be picked first to prevent contamination.

Post-Harvest Handling

• Before storage, cotton must be thoroughly dried to prevent moisture-related damage.
• Cotton should be sorted immediately based on quality—bad cotton and good cotton should not be mixed to maintain purity.

Yield Expectations

• The average cotton yield per acre is approximately:
• 400 to 500 kgs of lint
• 1400 to 1600 kgs of seed cotton

Post-Harvest Processing and Storage of Cotton

Drying Process

• Cotton should be dried in the shade immediately after picking to prevent color changes.
• Direct sunlight drying should be avoided, as excessive heat can weaken fiber strength and reduce luster.
• During sorting, cotton is placed over a thin layer of sand spread on the ground.

Spinning and Quality Assessment

• Cotton spinning utilizes modern technologies to enhance fiber quality and grade.
• The grade of cotton is determined by three key factors:
• Color
• Leaf residue
• Preparation after ginning
• A specialized instrument called a High Volume Instrument (HVI) is used to measure fiber quality in raw cotton.

Storage

• Cotton should always be stored in an open, well-ventilated area after being thoroughly dried.
• Plastic bags are commonly used as containers for storing cotton and are often supported by a light metal framework to maintain structure and airflow.

Loans and subsidies for cotton cultivation project report

 Technology Mission on Cotton (TMC)

The Government of India has launched a centrally sponsored scheme called the Technology Mission on Cotton (TMC) to enhance cotton production and productivity.

• Initially implemented in 13 states, this scheme follows a 75:25 funding pattern between the central and state governments.
• Under TMC, farmers receive assistance in:
• Technology transfer
• Training on the use of certified seeds and bio-agents
• Efficient water management through various irrigation systems

National Food Security Mission (NFSM) – Commercial Crops

The National Food Security Mission (NFSM) for Commercial Crops was introduced to support cotton-producing states in increasing their production.

• The funding pattern is:
• 60:40 for regular states
• 90:10 for hilly and northeastern states

Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY)

Another cotton development scheme is implemented under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) to provide financial and technical support to cotton farmers.

• Fund allocation varies across different states based on regional requirements.

Advisory

These government programs have been implemented in recent years, and the funding structures or eligibility criteria may change. It is advisable to consult the relevant government agencies for the most up-to-date details before formulating a business strategy.

Cotton Farming Cost, Profit Margin, and Investment Analysis

The estimation of investment for an acre of land is detailed here. The original values may differ from the values mentioned here, depending on the area of cultivation and the cost ofthe material. The report also does not mention charges related to transport, electricity, land and building costs, etc. because they are highly unreliable and are subject to change at any moment. The basic things required for farming and the costs related to them are listed here for reference.

Assumptions of Cotton Cultivation Project Report;

Cost of cotton seeds: Rs 740 per 45O g.

The charge Of labor: 300 per man-day.

Cost of animal labor: Rs 250 Per Pair

Cost of machine power: Rs 600 per hour

Cost of manure per kg: Rs 15.

Cost of fertilizers per kg: Rs 100

The yield of cotton from the farm (1 acre): 1184 kgs (32 maunds).

The sale price of cotton per kg: Rs 160.

Income from the farm: Rs 1,89,440

Profit from the farm is Rs.39,795

Edited by Gayathri