Growing Non-GMO Mississippi Green Cotton Seeds

Begin growing Mississippi Green Cotton by selecting a site with full sun and well-draining soil. Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage. Cotton prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH. In cooler climates, start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date; in warm climates, sow seeds directly into the ground after the soil temperature reaches at least 60 F. Plant seeds about 1 inch deep, spacing them 12-18 inches apart. Maintain rows at least 36-42 inches apart for adequate air circulation and to accommodate the plant’s bushy growth.

For indoor-started plants, transplant seedlings outdoors once they have 2-3 sets of true leaves and nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 50 F. When transplanting, handle roots gently to avoid stress. Side-dress plants with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formulation, at the time of transplanting. Once the plants are established, apply additional fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to encourage growth and pod production.

Keep the planting area weed-free, especially during the first 6 weeks when seedlings are established. Mulching around the base of the plants can suppress weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature. Cotton plants generally do not require pruning or pinching, but removing weak or overcrowded stems can improve airflow and reduce the risk of disease. Support structures are typically unnecessary unless plants are exposed to strong winds or heavy rainfall, which could benefit from staking.

Good companion plants for cotton include marigolds, which deter nematodes, and basil, which helps repel whiteflies and aphids. Avoid planting cotton near other members of the mallow family to reduce the risk of shared pests and diseases. Rotate cotton crops annually to avoid soil depletion and break pest and disease cycles. Follow cotton with nitrogen-fixing crops like beans or peas in the rotation to replenish soil nutrients.

Harvesting Mississippi Green Cotton

Cotton is ready to harvest approximately 150-180 days after sowing when the bolls (seed pods) open and reveal the fluffy green fibers inside. Wait for dry weather to harvest to prevent moisture from damaging the fibers. Wear gloves to avoid pricks from the plant’s bracts. Snap open bolls from the plants by hand and collect the fibers along with the seeds.

Once harvested, the cotton must be dried thoroughly before storing. Lay the fibers in a single layer in a warm, dry area away from direct sunlight. To use the fibers, remove the seeds by hand or with a small cotton gin. Properly dried cotton can be stored in breathable containers for crafting or spinning.

About Mississippi Green Cotton Garden Seeds

Indigenous peoples have cultivated naturally pigmented cotton for centuries, valuing its eco-friendliness and beauty. Green and brown cotton varieties were widely used before the Industrial Revolution introduced synthetic dyes.

Although not disease-resistant by breeding, Mississippi Green Cotton’s tolerance to heat and ability to grow in sandy, well-drained soils make it a hardy choice for gardeners in challenging climates.

The unique green cotton bolls add an ornamental value to gardens, making it a dual-purpose plant for fiber production and decorative use. It is popular for use in dried flower arrangements and other dried decor.

The natural pigmentation of the fibers eliminates the need for chemical dyeing, making it an excellent choice for sustainable textile production. This characteristic is gaining renewed interest in eco-conscious crafting communities.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"As more and more people in the world are questioning the impacts of dyes on our bodies and on the environment, it is nice to have some options for colored cloth that don’t require any extra processing. Mississippi Green Cotton is likely to be increasingly more prominent in agriculture."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Mississippi Green 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 Mississippi Green Cotton seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.