2026 Planting Guide
Summer cropWhen to Plant Cotton in Nigeria
Complete guide to growing cotton in Nigeria 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 Nigeria.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
20°C (68°F) minimum
Growing Period
140-170 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 Nigeria.
January
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
February - May
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
June - July
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
August - October
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
November - December
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
Best Cotton Varieties for Nigeria
These varieties have proven performance in Nigeria's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | SAMCOT 8 | Nigeria climate |
| 2 | SAMCOT 9 | Nigeria climate |
| 3 | SAMCOT 10 | Nigeria climate |
| 4 | REBA B-50 | Nigeria climate |
Growing Tips for Nigeria
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Nigeria farmers.
Northern Nigeria (Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna) is cotton belt
Low-input rainfed system — yields 300-500 kg lint/ha
IPM approaches preferred as Bt cotton not yet approved
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
Nigeria 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 Nigeria?
The optimal planting window for cotton in Nigeria is June 15 to July 31. Soil temperature should reach at least 20°C (68°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 140-170 days.
What varieties of cotton grow best in Nigeria?
The best varieties for Nigeria include SAMCOT 8, SAMCOT 9, SAMCOT 10, REBA B-50. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest cotton in Nigeria?
The harvest window for cotton in Nigeria is typically November 1 to January 31. The crop takes 140-170 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), IITA, and FAO Nigeria. 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.