2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Cotton in India
Complete guide to growing cotton in India 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 India.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
20°C (68°F) minimum
Growing Period
150-200 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 India.
January - February
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
March
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
April - July
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
August - September
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
October - December
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
Best Cotton Varieties for India
These varieties have proven performance in India's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bollgard II varieties | India climate |
| 2 | BGII + RRF | India climate |
| 3 | Suraj | India climate |
| 4 | Namdhari | India climate |
Growing Tips for India
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced India farmers.
India is world's #1 cotton producer by acreage
Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Telangana are top states
Bt cotton covers 90%+ of area — pink bollworm resistance emerging
Irrigated cotton in Gujarat, rainfed in Maharashtra
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
India 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 India?
The optimal planting window for cotton in India is April 15 to July 31. Soil temperature should reach at least 20°C (68°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 150-200 days.
What varieties of cotton grow best in India?
The best varieties for India include Bollgard II varieties, BGII + RRF, Suraj, Namdhari. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest cotton in India?
The harvest window for cotton in India is typically October 1 to February 28. The crop takes 150-200 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research), state agricultural universities, and FAO India. 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.