Explore key facts about cotton cultivation seasons, climate preferences, and growth cycles. Assess your understanding of how timing and environmental factors influence successful cotton farming.
Which is the most suitable season for sowing cotton in most parts of India?
Explanation: Kharif season, which corresponds to the monsoon period, is ideal for sowing cotton in most Indian regions due to favorable rainfall and temperature. The Rabi season is marked by cooler weather unsuitable for cotton. Summer and Winter are less common and typically not recommended for cotton planting.
At what temperature range does cotton generally germinate best?
Explanation: Cotton seeds germinate well at temperatures between 25–35°C, ensuring strong growth. Temperatures below 20°C delay or inhibit germination, and above 40°C can stress or damage seeds. The 5–15°C range is much too cool for reliable cotton emergence.
Why do farmers in different regions choose specific cotton varieties for sowing?
Explanation: Farmers select cotton varieties adapted to local climate and soil to improve yield and crop resilience. Seed color is unrelated to performance. Market price and tradition play minor roles but are not the main deciding factors for variety selection.
What is the recommended depth for sowing cotton seeds?
Explanation: A depth of 3–5 cm helps cotton seeds establish good contact with moist soil while allowing for proper emergence. Shallower depths (0.5–1 cm) may expose seeds to drying, while deeper sowing (10–18 cm) can hinder seedling growth.
During which stage is timely irrigation most important for cotton yield?
Explanation: Irrigation during flowering and boll formation significantly affects cotton yield because water stress at these stages can reduce boll number and size. Land preparation and harvesting do not require irrigation, and seed storage takes place after harvest.