Cotton has long been a cornerstone of agriculture in the Mid-South, a region known for its fertile soil, favorable climate, and rich agricultural heritage. The Mid-South, stretching across Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Missouri Bootheel, and Louisiana, has become one of the leading cotton-producing areas in the United States. This article explores the factors contributing to successful cotton production in the region, the cultivation process, and the challenges faced by farmers.

Ideal Growing Conditions

The Mid-South’s humid subtropical climate is a significant asset for cotton farmers. With warm summers and a long growing season that typically spans from late spring to early fall, the region provides optimal conditions for cotton cultivation. Rainfall patterns, though variable, generally support the water needs of cotton, particularly when supplemented with irrigation systems.

The region’s soils are another critical factor in cotton production. Well-drained, fertile soils rich in organic matter allow for robust plant growth. Farmers often enhance soil quality through crop rotation and cover cropping to help maintain nutrient levels and prevent erosion.

Cotton thrives in subtropical and tropical climates where there’s plenty of sunshine, warmth, and a well-defined dry season. There are several other regions in the world with similar climates that are also well-suited for cotton production. The United States is usually third in cotton production globally, typically behind China and India. While northern China is more temperate, the southern and western parts of the country have a semi-arid, subtropical climate well-suited to cotton production. India is known for its subtropical climate with hot temperatures and seasonal monsoons, which provide a perfect environment for cultivating cotton. Other top-tier countries are Pakistan, Brazil, and Uzbekistan.

The Cultivation Process

1. Soil Preparation: Before planting, farmers use tillage to improve aeration and mix organic matter. This process promotes healthy root development and improves moisture retention.

2. Planting: Cotton is usually planted in late April to early June, once the soil temperature reaches about 60°F (15°C). Farmers use precision planting techniques to ensure optimal seed spacing for maximizing sunlight exposure and reducing competition among plants.

3. Fertility: Optimizing fertility influences cotton yield, quality, and profitability.

• Before planting, farmers often conduct soil tests to assess the levels of macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) and micronutrients (such as zinc, boron, and sulfur). This helps determine the specific nutrient needs of the soil and avoid over- or under-fertilizing.

• Nitrogen (N) is the most critical nutrient for cotton growth and development. This is generally applied in multiple stages pre-plant, side-dress, and often in split applications.

• Phosphorus(P) is important for root development and early plant growth. Phosphorus is typically applied at planting or before planting, as it is not as mobile in the soil as nitrogen.

• Potassium (k) helps regulate water balance and is crucial for stress resistance. It is applied based on soil tests to prevent deficiencies, especially during flowering and boll development.

• Soil pH is critical for nutrient uptake. Cotton prefers slightly acidic soil, typically with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. Farmers may apply lime to raise the pH if the soil pH is too low (acidic). On the other hand, sulfur or other amendments may be used if the pH is too high (alkaline).

4. Growth Stages: After planting, cotton goes through several growth stages:

• Germination: Seeds sprout within a week under ideal conditions.

• Seedling and Vegetative Stages: Young plants develop leaves and roots, establishing a solid foundation for growth.

• Flowering and Boll Development: After about 60-90 days, cotton plants bloom. Each flower can develop into a boll, which contains the fibers.

5. Harvesting: Bolls mature in late summer to early fall, usually around 100-150 days after planting. Farmers harvest cotton using mechanical pickers that efficiently collect the open bolls while minimizing damage to the plants. Before harvest, cotton must be defoliated to kill off the leaves. Without dropping the leaves or experiencing a heavy frost, cotton would continue to grow year-round, unlike crops such as corn or soybeans, which terminate themselves.

Economic Importance

Cotton is not just a crop; it’s a significant economic driver in the Mid-South. The region contributes substantially to the national cotton market, providing raw materials for the textile industry and generating income for farmers and agricultural workers. Beyond the direct economic benefits, cotton production supports a vast network of related industries, including ginning, processing, and transportation.

Challenges Facing Cotton Farmers

Despite its many advantages, cotton production in the Mid-South has challenges. Fluctuating weather patterns, including droughts and excessive rainfall, can severely impact yields. Additionally, pests and diseases pose ongoing threats to cotton crops. Farmers employ integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to mitigate these risks, using a combination of biological, cultural, and chemical controls.

Market volatility is another challenge with cotton prices influenced by global demand, trade policies, and competition from synthetic fibers. Like other commodities, cotton over the last two years has dropped in price by 30%, eroding profit margins for producers but making it a viable option for landers in a crop rotation with crops such as corn, peanuts, and soybeans. Farmers must stay informed and adapt their strategies to remain viable in a changing economic landscape.

Meanwhile, cotton yields have improved by some 35% to 40% over the last three decades. The yield increases are directly attributed to genetic improvements, soil management, irrigation efficiency (where applicable), and pest and weed control innovation. That said, overhead and production costs for cotton come with significant economic challenges. For example, a new John Deere cotton picker alone costs over a million dollars, and production costs can exceed $800 per acre.

As farmers face today’s production challenges, innovative practices and sustainable methods will be key to ensuring the future of cotton in the Mid-South, allowing it to thrive for generations to come. We would welcome the opportunity to discuss with you how cotton can play a vital role in a farm’s crop rotation. Please contact George Baird at 901.483.0373 or gbaird@landmarkag.net.