Cotton Cultivation - Cotton Fibre, Cotton Crop, Cotton Fabric, Uses with FAQs,

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 05:03 PM IST

Before going to cotton cultivation it is first needed to discuss cotton. Cotton is a seed hair fiber that requires 6 to 8 months to mature and is found in many of the subtropical areas of the world. It is a type of Kharif crop. Depending on the climatic conditions its time of sowing and harvesting differs. There are mainly three types of cotton they are; long-staple cotton, medium staple cotton, and short-staple cotton.

Cotton is a soft fiber and natural fibers have more efficiency than synthetic fibers. Cotton grows in a ball also called a protective case. And the fiber of cotton is pure cellulose. The cotton plant is a shrub type and is found commonly in India, America, Africa, and Egypt. The fiber of cotton is spun into thread or yarn and then it is used to make breathable textile. It is used in textile industries to make items of clothing. About 25 million tones of cotton is produced annually worldwide.

Figure showing picture of the cotton plant Cotton Plant

There are four species of cotton they are; Gossypium hirsutum commonly found in Central America, Southern Florida, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Gossypium barbadense is commonly found in South America. Gossypium arboreum is commonly found in Pakistan and India. And Gossypium herbaceum is commonly found in the Arabian Peninsula and South Africa.

There are mainly two types of cotton: genetically modified and organic. The need for genetically modified cotton is because of the high use of pesticides. For reducing the use of pesticides genetically modified cotton is introduced. The very common and popular Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt cotton). Bt cotton produces a chemical that is harmful to only a small fraction of insects.

Bt cotton is harmless to butterflies, beetles, larvae of moths, flies, etc. For Bt cotton, the gene coding for Bt toxin is introduced to cotton. And thereby producing natural insecticide. There are many varieties of Bt cotton as well. Organic cotton is not genetically modified, that is the seed of which came from the cotton plant. All the Bt cotton has reduced the use of insecticides but it may cause environmental problems as well but organic cotton is very good eco friendly.

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Cotton cultivation in India

As we all know we get cotton from the fruit of the plant cotton. Cotton is mainly grown in black clayey soil with a climate of warmth. Cotton is commonly cultivated in Maharashtra, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. The seeds present in the cotton are fully developed to give cotton fiber. The processes involved in cotton cultivation are; Ginning, Spinning, Weaving, and Knitting.

Ginning: The process of removing seeds from cotton pods is Ginning since the plant where cotton is picked contains seed. This process can be done with machines or by hand.
Spinning: The conversion of fiber to yarn is spinning.
Weaving: By arranging two yarns together fabric is obtained. And the process of making fabric is weaving.
Knitting: This process is also similar to knitting but this involves the use of two yarns. This can be done with the help of a hand. The sweater is knitted this way.

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Uses of cotton fibre

Cotton can be used in many ways as a textile product.
Absorbent, bath towels, blue jeans, socks, T-shirts, bedsheets, etc. are things made of cotton.
The cotton fabrics have also asked the ability to be recycled or recovered from the used one while synthetic fibers cannot do this.
It can also be blended with linen-producing fabrics. And the obtained fabric is more wrinkle-resistant and retains heat more effectively than the individual one.
In addition to the application in the textile industry, it is also used for the manufacture of fishing nets, coffee filters, cotton paper, explosives manufacture, etc.

The cottonseed that is obtained after the ginning process can also be used to produce the oil from cottonseed and after finding it can be used as vegetable oil.

Cotton crop

The cotton crop is one of the cash crops of India. It plays a very important role in the agricultural and industrial sectors of our country. Cotton cultivation is providing 6 million farmers livelihood. About 6 % of the water for irrigation is used for cotton cultivation as cotton is a plant that is water thirsty. In India cotton is grown on a large scale in states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh. Among these States Gujarat is the largest producer of cotton.

The pH range that is suitable for the production of the cotton crop is between 6 and 8. Fertile, well-drained, friable and deep soils are good for cotton cultivation. The saline water or Sandy soils are not suitable for cotton cultivation. A very popular variety of RCH 134BT is Bt cotton which has an average yield of 11.5qtl/acre. There are so many other varieties of cotton, like white gold is a hybrid that is tolerant to leaf curl disease and has a yield of 6.5qtl/acre.

The perfect time of sowing for the cotton crop is between April mid-May. The seed of cotton is covered with short fibers especially in American cotton so before solving these fibers must be removed either by chemical or by a non chemical method. In the non chemical method, the seeds that are covered with the fibers are soaked overnight in water and taken in the next day which is then rubbed with wood dash and cow dung then let dry and sow the seed.

For the chemical method, the seeds that are covered with the fibers are mixed with concentrated sulphuric acid for 2-3minutes. Some of the major fertilizers that are used for a cotton crop are urea and DAP or SSP. The cotton crop needs proper irrigation. About 4-6 of irrigation is required for a cotton plant and it depends on the intensity of rainfall of that particular place. Some of the diseases affected by cotton plant fusarium wilt, Alternaria leaf spot, Cercospora leaf spot, Anthracnose, root rot, etc.

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Characteristics of cotton fabric.

Cotton fiber has a high moisture absorption with a density of 1.54 grams per centimeter cube. The shape of the fiber is uniform. The stability of cotton fibers is often high. Cotton fibers when coming in contact with acids, alkali is that it will weaken the fibers but there are no harmful effects. Prolonged exposure of about 150 degrees Celsius will decompose the cotton fiber. Cotton fibers burn with a yellow flame and the burning smell is like the burning of paper. The Ash obtained after the burning is fluffy and light with a grey color. Compared to other crops cotton has a complex structure.

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NCERT Chemistry Notes:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is cotton used for?

It is a fiber that has much application in the industrial sector as it is used for making clothes, homewares, fishing nets, cotton paper, etc.

2. What is cotton?

Cotton is a type of staple fiber that means it is composed of different lengths of fibers.

3. Write the 5 uses of cotton?

It can be used for making clothes, cotton paper, fishing nets, homeware, and hospital wares.

4. Where do we get cotton from?

As cotton is the fruit of plant cotton, we get cotton from the cotton plant.

5. How is cotton obtained?

Cotton is present in the seed of the plant. So it is obtained from the seed of the plant cotton by certain processes.

6. What are the properties of cotton fibre?

Some of the properties of cotton fibres are durability, absorbency, and softness.

7. Write examples of cotton.

Gingham, Gauze, Gabardine are examples of cotton.

8. What is the role of pectin in cotton fibers, and how is it removed?

Pectin acts as a cementing material in cotton fibers, holding cellulose fibrils together. It is removed during the scouring process using alkaline solutions, which improves the fiber's absorbency and prepares it for dyeing.

9. How does the cultivation of cotton impact the environment?

Cotton cultivation can have significant environmental impacts, including high water usage, pesticide and fertilizer runoff, and soil degradation. However, sustainable farming practices are being developed to mitigate these effects.

10. What is the difference between organic and conventional cotton?

Organic cotton is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, relying on natural pest control and soil enrichment methods. Conventional cotton may use synthetic chemicals in its production process.

11. What role does genetic modification play in modern cotton cultivation?

Genetic modification in cotton cultivation has led to varieties resistant to pests and herbicides, potentially reducing chemical use. However, this practice is controversial due to concerns about long-term ecological impacts and seed monopolies.

12. How does the harvesting method affect cotton quality?

The harvesting method can significantly affect cotton quality. Hand-picking generally results in cleaner, higher-quality cotton, while machine harvesting is faster but may include more plant debris and can potentially damage the fibers.

13. How does cotton compare to synthetic fibers in terms of sustainability?

Cotton is generally more sustainable than synthetic fibers as it's biodegradable and renewable. However, its cultivation can be resource-intensive. Synthetic fibers often have a lower environmental impact during production but don't biodegrade.

14. What is cotton fiber made of at the molecular level?

Cotton fiber is primarily composed of cellulose, a natural polymer. Cellulose is a long chain of glucose molecules linked together, giving cotton its characteristic strength and absorbency.

15. How does the structure of cotton fiber contribute to its properties?

The structure of cotton fiber consists of twisted cellulose fibrils, which create a hollow tube-like shape. This structure contributes to cotton's ability to absorb moisture, its breathability, and its softness.

16. Why is cotton considered a natural polymer?

Cotton is considered a natural polymer because it is composed of cellulose, which is a long chain of repeating glucose units. This polymer occurs naturally in plants, unlike synthetic polymers that are manufactured.

17. What makes cotton biodegradable?

Cotton is biodegradable because it is made of cellulose, which can be broken down by microorganisms in the environment. The natural composition of cotton allows it to decompose without leaving harmful residues.

18. How does the length of cotton fiber affect its quality?

The length of cotton fiber, known as staple length, directly affects its quality. Longer fibers generally produce stronger, softer, and more durable fabrics, while shorter fibers may result in rougher, less durable textiles.

19. What chemical processes are involved in preparing raw cotton for textile production?

Raw cotton undergoes several chemical processes, including scouring (removing waxes and impurities), bleaching (whitening the fibers), and mercerization (treating with sodium hydroxide to increase strength and luster).

20. What is the significance of cotton in the global textile industry?

Cotton is one of the most important fibers in the global textile industry, accounting for a significant portion of all textile production. Its versatility, comfort, and widespread availability make it a staple in clothing and home textiles worldwide.

21. How does cotton absorb dye, and why is this property important?

Cotton absorbs dye well due to its cellulose structure, which has many hydroxyl groups that can bond with dye molecules. This property is important as it allows for vibrant, long-lasting colors in cotton fabrics.

22. What are the main challenges in sustainable cotton production?

The main challenges in sustainable cotton production include reducing water usage, minimizing pesticide and fertilizer use, improving soil health, ensuring fair labor practices, and developing more efficient processing methods.

23. How does cotton's chemical structure contribute to its strength?

Cotton's strength comes from the long chains of cellulose molecules and the hydrogen bonds between these chains. The alignment of cellulose fibrils also contributes to the overall strength of the cotton fiber.

24. What is the role of gossypol in cotton plants, and why is it significant?

Gossypol is a natural toxin produced by cotton plants as a defense against pests. It's significant because it makes cotton seeds inedible for humans and many animals, limiting their use as a food source.

25. How does the climate affect cotton growth and fiber quality?

Cotton thrives in warm, humid climates with long growing seasons. Temperature, rainfall, and sunlight exposure all affect fiber development. Optimal conditions lead to longer, stronger fibers, while stress can result in shorter, weaker fibers.

26. What is mercerized cotton, and how does the process change the fiber?

Mercerized cotton is treated with sodium hydroxide under tension. This process swells the fibers, increases their strength and luster, and improves their dye uptake. It also makes the cotton more resistant to mildew.

27. How does the chemical composition of cotton compare to other natural fibers like wool or silk?

Cotton is primarily cellulose, a carbohydrate polymer. Wool contains keratin, a protein polymer, while silk is made of fibroin, another protein. These different chemical compositions result in distinct properties for each fiber.

28. What role do surfactants play in cotton processing?

Surfactants are used in various stages of cotton processing, including scouring and dyeing. They help to remove impurities, enhance wetting of the fibers, and improve the uniformity of dye application.

29. How does the cross-sectional shape of cotton fibers influence its properties?

Cotton fibers have a kidney bean-shaped cross-section with a central lumen (hollow core). This shape contributes to cotton's ability to absorb moisture, its breathability, and its thermal insulation properties.

30. What is the difference between staple and extra-long staple cotton?

Staple cotton has fibers typically ranging from 1 to 1 1/4 inches in length, while extra-long staple cotton has fibers longer than 1 3/8 inches. Extra-long staple cotton produces softer, stronger, and more luxurious fabrics.

31. How does cotton's ability to conduct heat affect its use in clothing?

Cotton is a good conductor of heat, which makes it excellent for summer clothing as it allows body heat to escape. This property, combined with its moisture-wicking ability, helps keep the wearer cool and comfortable.

32. What is the role of cellulose in cotton's ability to absorb water?

Cellulose contains numerous hydroxyl groups that can form hydrogen bonds with water molecules. This chemical structure allows cotton to absorb large amounts of water, up to 27 times its own weight.

33. How does the pH of soil affect cotton growth and fiber quality?

Cotton prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.8-7.0). Soil pH affects nutrient availability and uptake, which in turn influences plant growth and fiber development. Extreme pH levels can lead to nutrient deficiencies or toxicities.

34. What is the significance of the micronaire value in cotton quality assessment?

Micronaire is a measure of cotton fiber fineness and maturity. It affects the fiber's ability to be spun into yarn and the fabric's appearance and feel. Optimal micronaire values typically range from 3.8 to 4.5.

35. How does cotton's chemical structure make it prone to wrinkling?

Cotton's tendency to wrinkle is due to the hydrogen bonds between cellulose chains. When the fabric is bent or compressed, these bonds break and reform in new positions, holding the wrinkle in place.

36. What is the purpose of singeing in cotton fabric production?

Singeing is the process of burning off protruding fibers from the surface of cotton fabric. This improves the fabric's appearance, reduces pilling, and prepares the surface for further treatments like dyeing or printing.

37. How does the use of growth regulators affect cotton production?

Growth regulators are used in cotton cultivation to control plant height, promote boll retention, and synchronize boll opening for easier harvesting. They can improve yield and quality but must be used carefully to avoid negative effects.

38. What is the difference between carded and combed cotton?

Carded cotton undergoes a basic cleaning process to align fibers, while combed cotton goes through an additional step that removes short fibers and impurities. Combed cotton is generally softer, stronger, and more uniform than carded cotton.

39. How does the twist in cotton fibers affect yarn and fabric properties?

The natural twist in cotton fibers (called convolutions) helps them interlock when spun into yarn. This contributes to the strength of cotton yarn and fabrics. The degree of twist also affects fabric texture and appearance.

40. How does the presence of immature fibers affect cotton quality?

Immature fibers have thin, underdeveloped cell walls. They don't absorb dye well, leading to a phenomenon called "white specks" in dyed fabrics. They also contribute to increased short fiber content, which can affect yarn and fabric quality.

41. What is the purpose of slack mercerization in cotton processing?

Slack mercerization is a treatment with sodium hydroxide without tension. It increases the fiber's luster and dye uptake but doesn't significantly increase strength. It's often used for producing crêpe effects in fabrics.

42. How does the crystallinity of cotton cellulose affect its properties?

The crystallinity of cotton cellulose affects its strength, chemical reactivity, and water absorption. Higher crystallinity increases strength but decreases reactivity and water absorption. The balance of crystalline and amorphous regions gives cotton its unique properties.

43. What is the role of waxes in raw cotton, and why are they removed?

Natural waxes on cotton fibers protect the plant during growth. However, they are hydrophobic and must be removed (through scouring) to improve the fiber's absorbency and prepare it for dyeing and finishing processes.

44. How does the use of defoliants in cotton harvesting affect fiber quality?

Defoliants are used to remove leaves before mechanical harvesting. While they can improve harvesting efficiency, improper use can lead to immature fiber development or fiber damage, affecting overall quality.

45. What is the difference between ring-spun and open-end spun cotton yarn?

Ring-spun yarn is produced by twisting and winding fibers together, resulting in a stronger, softer yarn. Open-end spinning is faster but produces a bulkier, less smooth yarn. The choice affects fabric quality and properties.

46. How does cotton's chemical structure make it vulnerable to acid damage?

The glycosidic bonds in cellulose are susceptible to acid hydrolysis. Strong acids can break these bonds, weakening the fiber structure. This is why acidic substances can damage cotton fabrics.

47. What is the purpose of textile sizing in cotton fabric production?

Sizing involves applying a protective coating to yarn before weaving. It reduces friction and breakage during weaving, improving efficiency. The size is typically removed after weaving to prepare the fabric for further processing.

48. How does the presence of neps affect cotton quality and processing?

Neps are small knots of tangled fibers that can occur during processing. They don't absorb dye well, creating specks in finished fabrics. Neps can also affect yarn strength and uniformity, reducing overall fabric quality.

49. What is the role of cotton linters in the paper and chemical industries?

Cotton linters, the short fibers adhering to seeds after ginning, are used in high-quality paper production and as a source of cellulose for various chemical processes, including the production of cellulose acetate and other cellulose derivatives.

50. How does the maturity ratio of cotton fibers affect dyeing results?

The maturity ratio indicates the degree of cell wall thickening in cotton fibers. Mature fibers have thicker cell walls and absorb dye more evenly, while immature fibers may lead to uneven dyeing and a phenomenon called "barré" in fabrics.

51. What is the significance of the microfibril angle in cotton fibers?

The microfibril angle is the orientation of cellulose fibrils relative to the fiber axis. A smaller angle generally results in stronger fibers, while a larger angle can contribute to greater elasticity.

52. How does the use of bioengineered cotton varieties impact fiber quality and yield?

Bioengineered cotton varieties, such as those resistant to pests or herbicides, can improve yield and reduce chemical use. Some varieties are also designed to enhance fiber quality traits like length or strength.

53. What is the role of hydrogen bonding in cotton's absorbency and strength?

Hydrogen bonding between cellulose chains contributes to cotton's strength. When exposed to water, some of these bonds break, allowing water molecules to bond with cellulose, which explains cotton's high absorbency.

54. How does the presence of metal ions affect cotton during processing and use?

Metal ions can catalyze oxidation reactions in cotton, leading to fiber degradation. They can also affect dyeing results and the effectiveness of certain finishes. Chelating agents are often used to remove metal ions during processing.

55. What is the purpose of mercerization without tension in cotton processing?

Mercerization without tension, also known as slack mercerization, increases the luster and dye affinity of cotton without significantly increasing strength. It's often used to create special effects in fabrics, such as crepe textures.

56. How does the degree of polymerization in cotton cellulose affect fiber properties?

The degree of polymerization (DP) refers to the number of glucose units in a cellulose chain. A higher DP generally results in stronger fibers. Processing and use can reduce DP over time, affecting the durability of cotton products.

57. What is the significance of the contact angle in assessing cotton's wettability?

The contact angle between a water droplet and the cotton surface indicates the fiber's wettability. A lower contact angle means better wettability, which is important for processes like dyeing and finishing, as well as for the comfort and performance of cotton products.