2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Cotton in Pakistan
Complete guide to growing cotton in Pakistan 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 Pakistan.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
20°C (68°F) minimum
Growing Period
150-180 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 Pakistan.
January - March
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
April - June
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
July - August
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
September - December
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
Best Cotton Varieties for Pakistan
These varieties have proven performance in Pakistan's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | NIAB-878 | Pakistan climate |
| 2 | FH-142 | Pakistan climate |
| 3 | MNH-886 | Pakistan climate |
| 4 | IUB-222 | Pakistan climate |
| 5 | CIM-616 | Pakistan climate |
Growing Tips for Pakistan
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Pakistan farmers.
Pakistan is world's #4 cotton producer
Punjab and Sindh are primary cotton zones
Pink bollworm is #1 pest — use Bt varieties + IPM
Sow April 1-May 15 for best fiber quality
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
Pakistan 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 Pakistan?
The optimal planting window for cotton in Pakistan is April 1 to June 15. Soil temperature should reach at least 20°C (68°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 150-180 days.
What varieties of cotton grow best in Pakistan?
The best varieties for Pakistan include NIAB-878, FH-142, MNH-886, IUB-222, CIM-616. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest cotton in Pakistan?
The harvest window for cotton in Pakistan is typically September 15 to December 31. The crop takes 150-180 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), Punjab Agriculture Department, and FAO Pakistan. 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.