Upland Cotton

gossypium hirsutum

Also known as: ["American Cotton","Upland Cotton"]

Family: Malvaceae Genus: Gossypium Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A widely cultivated shrub in the mallow family, known for its seed bolls containing fibers used to produce cotton textiles.

Benefits & Perks

["edible fruits","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Malvales
Family: Malvaceae
Genus: Gossypium
Botanical Name: Gossypium hirsutum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun or large container in sunny location
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Edible Gardeners
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"20–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning as needed year-round.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); adjust to partial shade in extreme heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from scorching midday rays; provide shade during heatwaves.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, stunted growth, or mold on soil surface indicate poor soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even light, use sheer curtains to filter intense sun, avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in dormancy

Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite, avoid heavy clay soils, ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Warm conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures, sensitive to frost.

Protect from frost, avoid drafts, maintain consistent warmth, adjust care for seasonal shifts.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn, use a balanced formula, flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (75–85°F/24–29°C), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss

Hormone

Recommended to promote root development.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks, establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy parent stems, keep soil consistently moist, provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective cutting of stems, pinch back tips for bushier growth.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead/damaged growth, shape plant, encourage bushier growth and better flowering.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape plant, clean up debris, disinfect tools after use.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot)

Method

Use fresh well-draining soil, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with drainage holes.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and root space.

Checklist

Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, bud abortion.

Cold Stress

Growth cessation, leaf yellowing, potential frost damage, reduced flowering.

Solution: Move to a warmer location, use a heat mat, cover during cold snaps, avoid overwatering.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced photosynthesis, flower drop.

Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, use mulch to retain moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during active growth, avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; cease in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Gossypium hirsutum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, or stress from pests, diseases, or environmental factors, affecting overall plant health and productivity.

Wilting in Gossypium hirsutum is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root damage from pests or diseases, which can lead to reduced growth and yield.

Leaf spots on Gossypium hirsutum are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, such as Alternaria or Xanthomonas, which can reduce photosynthetic efficiency and lead to premature leaf drop.

Rotting in Gossypium hirsutum, particularly root or stem rot, is commonly caused by fungal pathogens like Fusarium or Rhizoctonia, leading to plant decline and potential death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are also susceptible to gossypol toxicity, which can lead to gastrointestinal distress and potential liver damage. The effects are similar to those in dogs but may be more pronounced due to differences in metabolism.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy anorexia jaundice
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing cotton plants. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Dogs are sensitive to gossypol, which can cause gastrointestinal upset and, in severe cases, liver damage. The toxicity is dose-dependent, with higher amounts leading to more severe effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite liver dysfunction
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from cotton plants, especially seeds. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian promptly.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Gossypium hirsutum, commonly known as cotton, contains gossypol, a polyphenol that can be toxic in high concentrations. Gossypol affects the liver and kidneys, leading to impaired function and potential organ damage. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small amounts, but excessive intake can be harmful.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain liver damage kidney damage
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consuming large quantities of cotton seeds or leaves. Ensure proper processing of cotton products to reduce gossypol content.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is cotton plant toxic to pets?

A: No, the Gossypium hirsutum plant is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: What are the primary uses of Upland Cotton?

A: The plant is primarily cultivated for its fibers, which are used to produce cotton textiles, and its seeds, which yield cottonseed oil.

Q: How does Upland Cotton grow?

A: It is a shrub that thrives in warm climates with well-drained soil and requires full sun for optimal growth.

Quick Reference
Family: Malvaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","edible gardeners"]
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