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Organic farmers use biologically-based rather
than chemically-dependent growing systems to raise crops.
The BASIC program (Biological Agriculture Systems In Cotton)
works with farmers who want to make the transition to organic
growing practices. Some of our BASIC programs include organic
field research trials, step-by-step growing assistance and
mentor farmer outreach.
SOIL
Organic farming starts with the soil. Compost, frequent crop
rotations and cover crop strategies replace synthetic fertilizers
to keep the soil healthy and productive. Fields must be free
of synthetically-derived chemicals for three years to achieve
organic certification.
WEED
CONTROL
Weeds are controlled by innovative farm machinery, hand labor
or flame devices rather than herbicide applications.
INSECT
PESTS
Rather than attempting to eradicate all insects with chemicals,
organic farmers cultivate a diversity of natural enemies which
prey on insect pests, and lure pests away from cotton by planting
trap crops. Insect pests can be effectively kept in balance
with well-timed introduction of beneficial insects to fields.
HARVEST
In warmer growing regions, where the cotton plants must be
killed or defoliated to pick a quality crop before the onset
of winter rains, organic growers shut off water early, and
apply certified materials to promote cotton boll opening and
leaf dropping, readying the fibers for harvest. In the U.S.,
both conventional and organic cotton are machine-picked; in
some developing countries, cotton is still harvested by hand.
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