Growing Non-GMO Brown King Cotton Seeds

Brown King Cotton thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Start by amending the soil with compost or aged manure to improve its organic matter and nutrient content. If the soil is heavy clay, consider incorporating sand or perlite to improve drainage. Test the soil before planting to ensure proper nutrient balance and adjust with fertilizers as needed. Avoid soils prone to waterlogging, as cotton roots are sensitive to excess moisture.

In USDA zones 8-11, sow seeds directly outdoors 1-2 weeks after the last frost, when the soil temperature has reached at least 65 F. Plant seeds about a half inch deep, spaced 12-15 inches apart in rows 24-36 inches apart. For cooler zones, start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date using biodegradable pots to minimize transplant shock. Place the pots in a sunny location or under grow lights to ensure strong, healthy seedlings.

If starting indoors, transplant seedlings outdoors when 3-4 inches tall and all danger of frost has passed. Harden off the plants by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for 7-10 days before transplanting. Keep the planting area free of weeds, as cotton plants don’t compete well with aggressive weeds. Mulching around the base of plants helps suppress weeds and maintain soil moisture.

Fertilize cotton plants with a balanced fertilizer during early growth, transitioning to one higher in potassium and phosphorus once flowering begins. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can promote leafy growth at the expense of bolls. Regularly inspect and remove weeds manually or with light hoeing to avoid disturbing shallow roots. Cotton plants generally don’t require structural support but may benefit from light staking in windy areas.

Planting marigolds, garlic, or onions nearby can deter pests like aphids and whiteflies. Practice crop rotation by avoiding planting cotton in the same location as other susceptible crops like okra or hibiscus to reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases. After harvesting, avoid planting cotton in the same soil for at least two years.

Harvesting Brown King Cotton

Brown King Cotton is ready to harvest when the bolls (seed pods) fully dry, crack open, and expose the fluffy brown fiber inside, typically 160-180 days after planting. This usually occurs in late summer or early fall, depending on the climate. The fibers should feel dry and soft to the touch. Avoid harvesting if the fibers feel damp, as this can cause mold during storage.

To harvest, wear gloves to protect your hands from the sharp edges of the boll shells. Gently pull the cotton fibers from the bolls, ensuring you do not damage the seeds, as they can be saved for the next planting season. Store harvested cotton in a cool, dry place, and avoid compressing it too tightly to maintain fiber quality.

About Brown King Cotton Garden Seeds

There is evidence of naturally colored cotton being cultivated in the Americas and parts of Asia for thousands of years. It was highly valued before the Industrial Revolution, as it didn’t require chemical dyes.

Unlike white cotton, brown cotton’s fibers become richer and darker in hue when boiled, enhancing its aesthetic appeal for artisan projects. This characteristic makes it popular for creating handmade fabrics and crafts.

Brown cotton is often used in school gardens and educational programs to teach children about agricultural history, sustainability, and the textile-making process.

Cotton plants, including naturally colored varieties, are believed to have originated in the Americas, with some of the earliest domesticated cotton coming from Peru.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Self-sustainability is a big theme these days in the media. We see mini farms of families growing all or most of the food they need in a year. Take that mindset of self-sufficiency to the next level by growing and weaving your cloth for clothes, towels, and more!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Brown King Cotton Seeds Per Package:

• 5 Seed Packet Wholesale - Approximately 5 Seeds
• 10 Seed Packet Wholesale - Approximately 10 Seeds
• 25 Seed Packet Bulk Seeds - Approximately 25 Seeds
• 50 Seed Packet Bulk Seeds - Approximately 50 Seeds

Non-GMO Brown King Cotton seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.