2026 Planting Guide
Winter cropWhen to Plant Cotton in Brazil
Complete guide to growing cotton in Brazil with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from national agricultural research organizations and FAO.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the cotton growing season in Brazil.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
20°C (68°F) minimum
Growing Period
160-200 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
N/A
Tropical climate
First Fall Frost
N/A
No frost risk
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing cotton in Brazil.
January - February
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
March - May
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
June - August
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
September - November
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
December
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
Best Cotton Varieties for Brazil
These varieties have proven performance in Brazil's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | TMG 81 WS | Brazil climate |
| 2 | FM 983GLT | Brazil climate |
| 3 | IMA 8405 WS | Brazil climate |
| 4 | DP 1746 B2RF | Brazil climate |
Growing Tips for Brazil
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Brazil farmers.
Mato Grosso and Bahia are top cotton states
Second-crop (safrinha) cotton after soybeans is dominant system
Brazil is world's #2 cotton exporter
Ramularia leaf spot — major disease, apply fungicides
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Boll weevil
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Bollworm
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Whiteflies
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Aphids
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Spider mites
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside cotton, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
No Frost Risk
Brazil has a tropical or subtropical climate. Frost is generally not a concern, but altitude-dependent cold spells can occur in some areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant cotton in Brazil?
The optimal planting window for cotton in Brazil is December 1 to February 15. Soil temperature should reach at least 20°C (68°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 160-200 days.
What varieties of cotton grow best in Brazil?
The best varieties for Brazil include TMG 81 WS, FM 983GLT, IMA 8405 WS, DP 1746 B2RF. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest cotton in Brazil?
The harvest window for cotton in Brazil is typically June 1 to August 31. The crop takes 160-200 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from EMBRAPA (Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuaria), CONAB, and state extension services. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.