- **Geographical Conditions for Cotton Cultivation**
- **Climate:**
Cotton cultivation requires a warm and humid climate with temperatures ranging between 21°C to 30°C. The ideal temperature for cotton growth is around 24°C to 27°C. Adequate sunlight is essential for the growth of cotton plants.
- **Soil:**
Cotton plants grow well in well-drained, deep, and fertile soil. The soil should have good water-holding capacity and be rich in organic matter. Sandy loam or loamy soils are considered ideal for cotton cultivation.
- **Water:**
Cotton plants require a sufficient amount of water for proper growth and development. Adequate irrigation is necessary, especially during the flowering and boll development stages. However, excessive water can lead to waterlogging, which is harmful to cotton plants.
- **Altitude:**
Cotton cultivation is typically done at altitudes ranging from sea level to 500 meters. Higher altitudes can affect the growth and yield of cotton plants due to lower temperatures and reduced sunlight.
- **Wind:**
Cotton plants are sensitive to strong winds as they can damage the plants and reduce the yield. Therefore, it is important to have windbreaks such as trees or hedges to protect the cotton plants from strong winds.
- **Relative Humidity:**
Cotton cultivation requires a moderate to high relative humidity level, ideally between 60% to 80%. High humidity levels help in the proper development of cotton bolls and reduce the incidence of pests and diseases.
- **Season:**
Cotton is typically grown in the summer season, as it requires a long growing season of about 150 to 180 days. The planting of cotton should be done after the last frost date to ensure optimal growth and yield.